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What do I need to know for my first visa run to Vientiane, Laos?

Mar 22, 2025
12 days ago
Martín ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Im planning my first visa run to vientiane, what would be the things i need to consider?

Do i need to make an appointment in advance, do i just go to the consulate in Vientiane, or how does it work? what are the documents i need to apply for a tourist visa?

Quick note, i cannot get thai visa on arrival so please consider that

Thank you very much!
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TLDR : Answer Summary
When planning your first visa run to Vientiane for a Thai tourist visa, consider that all visa applications must now be done online. While you will need to pay in person at the consulate, ensure you gather all required documents beforehand. Also, since you cannot obtain a visa on arrival in Thailand, it's essential to prepare your application well in advance. Additionally, it is recommended to check for the latest guidelines from the Thai embassy in Vientiane and secure accommodations close to the city center, especially near attractions like the night food market.
Hans *********
Vientiane is pretty safe from my perspective, never thought twice, more for dog packs than people
Farang *********
Nothing to do with the Thai visa but get a e-visa for Loas and a hotel near the night food market!
Eriq *******
@Farang ********
Helllo.How safe is it for families?
Farang *********
@Eriq ******
I am a solo traveller and was walking down back alleys at night. Felt totally safe. I was walking every where but it was hot. Not sure there was a lot for kids to do.
Eriq *******
@Farang ********
Ok. I'm thinking about going there for my viss run
Jan ******************
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3
Martín ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Jan *****************
i see that it requires a document to clarify where i am, and im currently in thailand. Do i need to wait until im in Laos to apply?
Brandon ************
@Martín *******
yes. You must show that your are in Laos. You do that by uploading your Laos entry stamp in your passport which you won't have until you enter
Martín ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Brandon ***********
so i need to be in Laos, get the entry stamp and then apply? how long does it take to get an appointment after you apply?
Brandon ************
@Martín *******
there is no appointment. Please read the link that Jan provided. It tells you what you need to do after you apply. You go and pay in person during specific hours.
Martín ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Brandon ***********
thank you, i read it but i couldnt understand how it works. So as soon as im in Laos, i apply online and then i can go immediately to pay?
Brandon ************
@Martín *******
You can pay once your application is submitted. You can only go to pay during the specific times they have assigned for that.
Jan ******************
@Martín *******
yes, you can only apply for a visa at your current location even if it’s done online and you’ll have to be in Laos to apply for a tourist visa. You might risk they’ll ask you to upload all your passport pages including blank ones to confirm your location. Anyway visa process or processing time first start when payment is done in cash in Laos.
Stuart *********
All visa applications are now done online. Laos consulates require you to pay in person.
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