Update on Vientiane SETV process
I arrived in Vientiane last night and got to the Embassy/Consulate at 08.30. There was a queue of around 30 people (Wednesday 26-06-19). The gates opened at 09.05 and I expected a number to be called as reported here but instead there was a lot of scuffling and pushing to get inside the gate before they ask the number of your application (mine was 19).
Once inside, a lady checks queue number again, then another girl checks your application (Photos actually need be glued to the application form and all copied passport pages are to be signed), then straight to the front where two young guys check your application form and ask what type of visa you are applying for (SETV in my case).
Now, I have 2 new UK passports and I left Thailand on one and used the second one to enter Laos (I always rotate them). He asked if I had been to Thailand as he was thumbing looking for a stamp and I explained I had two passports. He asked why I have two so I explained I work in oil and gas and travel frequently so this is normal. He asked to see my second passport in which I hve a 30 Day Visa exempt on arival with a 30 day extension in it. He seemed satisfied and gave me my passport back. He then asked me if I already have plans in Thailand. I said yes, my Girlfriend is Japanese and works in Bangkok and we may travel a bit. Again he seemed satisfied.
I was out by 09.25 with a handfull of blank application forms That I grabbed from the guard who opens the gate when you exit.
In summary, the new process is indeed smoother but would be better if they called the numbers rather than waiting for you to get in the gate.
A lot more questions than I expected maybe due to the guy being confused by 2 passports.
It seems that the two passport benefit is not as significant as it was in the past especially due to the finger print scanning at immigration.
Hopefully pick up tomorrow is nice and smooth.
TLDR : Answer Summary
The user shared their experience at the Vientiane Embassy while applying for a Special Tourist Visa (SETV). They arrived early to find a long queue but noted that the application process has improved, despite some confusion regarding the submission of two passports. After successfully submitting their application with the required materials, they found the officers inquisitive but ultimately satisfied with their explanations. The user suggested that the process could benefit from a numbering system instead of relying on physical entry to the gate.
