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How long does it typically take for the visa status to change from 'Pending Approval' and is an interview likely?

Visa Interview Visa Processing Time Immigration in Laos NON-O Visa Laos Visa Status

Mar 3, 2025

6 days ago

MD ***************

ORIGINAL POSTER

[Update: They called for an interview this morning, but I am currently out of Laos. If I don’t attend the interview, will it cause any issues? (Just asking.)

For the requested documents, I had submitted my Laos visa and entry stamp.]

At 12:30 PM today, the status changed to 'Processing - Pending Approval,' but now, at 8:30 PM, it is still the same. 

My question is, how long does it normally take for the status to change? And at this stage, do they usually call for an interview?

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TLDR : Answer Summary

A user inquired about the implications of not attending a visa interview while they were outside Laos, after receiving a 'Processing - Pending Approval' status for their visa application. The community provided mixed responses regarding the necessity of attending the interview, with some suggesting that missing it could lead to application rejection, while others downplayed the consequences. Additionally, various comments shared experiences regarding the typical duration of the 'pending approval' status, indicating it can range from a few days to weeks.

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Way ******

If you don't show up, they will reject your application.

5 days ago

Paul *******

Apparently in Laos they're using a hybrid system where you everyone is interviewed meaning just staying in Laos isn't enough - you actually need to be in Vientiane (or Savannakhet) so they can see you in person.

The hybrid part is that you apply online, pay in person and will be interviewed as well but then you receive your visa via email.

5 days ago

Winston ************

"If I don’t attend the interview, will it cause any issues?"

Nah, don't worry about it. Don't attend. It'll be fine. You're the boss.

5 days ago

John *******

Um, yes, if they want to interview you and you are not allowing them to interview you, 100% likely you will be rejected. This is why you are supposed to stay in Laos while visa is being processed.

5 days ago

Sean *******

No interview no visa.

5 days ago

There *****

I‘m pretty sure it will cause issues. They wanna see you and your passport. So they‘ll see your stamps…

5 days ago

MJ *******

i applied on a tuesday. the next week had an interview request for wednesday. after interview was approved in 5 mins. total 9 days