What should I know before applying for my DTV in Laos as a New Zealand passport holder?

Visa application process DTV visa Laos visa rules New Zealand passport Accommodation proof E-visa Visa on arrival Travel recommendations Expat advice

Jan 27, 2025

3 days ago

Paul *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Going to be applying for my DTV in Laos at Vientiane in May so planning ahead now so we can book travel and hotels.

I'm on a New Zealand passport ( Citizen). Currently in Bkk till Saturday on 60 day exemption. Was here 6 months last year ( April - Sept 2024) on METV and have had 2 other entry for one week before METV in february 24 and Nov 24 for two weeks. I will be back late march until i go to laos for DTV before 60 days again is up. This years entry Dec 30 till Feb 1st 25 , I was asked if i have someone here and i said yes my Gf.

questions.

1. I will apply as soon as i arrive in Vientiane and i understand the 10k B fee in cash has to be paid directly. Does this need an appointment or is this a walk in.

  2. As far as accommodation proof, is it ok to show several areas of hotel bookings or does it all need to be in the one place I apply. EG i am thinking of going to LP and VV after paying the fee.

3. Will getting a Laos visa before i travel be problematic as opposed to getting one on arrival at the border.

4. Is an appointment always scheduled or is it completely online only of all my docs are good.

5. If anyone here has applied via E visa this year what on average has been your application approval time.

Lastly if anyone has any hotel recommendations whilst waiting would appreciate some, seems to be a varying standard in laos. prefer midrange.

Thank you in advance

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The user plans to apply for a DTV visa in Vientiane, Laos, and has several questions regarding the application process, payment, and travel logistics. They seek clarification on whether an appointment is needed for the visa application, the proof of accommodation requirements, the option of getting a Laos visa in advance versus on arrival, the necessity of an appointment, and average approval times for e-visas. Additionally, they request hotel recommendations for their stay in Laos.

DTV VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES

Take the basic DTV Qualification Test to see if you're eligible for the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV).
For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
Explore recent discussions by using the DTV Visa tag in the search box at the top of the page.
Join the Thai Visa Advice Facebook Group to ask your questions, and get advice from others.

Paul *******

2. No. 3. Up to you. You can apply for one online, at the border or in person at the embassy in Bangkok or consulate in Khon Kaen. Not many people who aren't traveling to a remote border (where visa on arrival facilities aren't available) and who don't have a car would apply for a visa in advance, though it is an option.

For entry via the Friendship Bridge, there's little point in doing so. However, an e-visa can help you save time at the border and space in your passport.

3 days ago

Tod *********

1 - walk up to pay after you applied and have the confirmation of application the consulate is open 9 - 11 M-F

2 - they don't care

3 - nope buy a Lao visa on arrival when you land there if you fly OR at the border when you cross

4 - they do not always ask for an interview BUT that is a consulate that does ask you to open your mobile phone banking app and show them the balance

5 - they have a FAST turn around time IF you get all the docs uploaded correctly, reports are two or three business days for approval

3 days ago

Joel *********

Kiwi here also. Applying in Vietnam next week. Keep you posted how it goes

3 days ago

Paul *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

FYI - Workation

3 days ago

Reply to

Paul *********

What is the process for obtaining a DTV visa in Vientiane, Laos?

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