New Arrival Procedure in Laos: The Arrival Card Must Now Be Completed Online
- 10 hours ago
- 4 min read
Since September 1st, 2025, Laos has launched the pilot phase of a new online registration system for entry and exit from the country, a significant step toward modernizing its immigration procedures.
With this initiative, the Lao Department of Immigration, following the recent digital transition of neighboring countries such as Thailand and Cambodia, is gradually moving toward a paperless system: less paperwork, smoother processes, and the opportunity for foreign travelers to prepare their arrival online before setting foot in Laos.
Where Does This System Apply?
For now, this pilot phase applies only to four international entry points:
Wattay International Airport (Vientiane)
Luang Prabang International Airport
Paksé International Airport
Lao–Thai Friendship Bridge No. 1 (Vientiane – Nong Khai)
All other border checkpoints continue to operate under the traditional procedure, meaning the paper arrival card is still distributed on the plane or at the immigration counter.
A 100% Online Procedure Before Your Departure
To prepare for your arrival in Laos, you now simply need to complete the online arrival form. The process is straightforward, free of charge, and quick, via the official Lao immigration website:
Steps to Follow:
Click on “Register Arrival” to access the form.
Provide the required information:
Your personal details (full name, nationality, passport number)
Your flight number or the border checkpoint through which you will enter Laos
The duration and purpose of your stay
Your accommodation details (hotel, guesthouse, or private residence address)
Upload any required documents (photo, scanned passport, etc.).
Submit the form to finalize your registration.
Important Deadline: Within 3 Days Before Arrival
This procedure can only be completed within the three days preceding your arrival in Laos.
👉 Best practice: complete it between 24 and 72 hours before arrival, once your flight schedule is confirmed.
This ensures that the information provided to Lao authorities is accurate and up to date at the time of border control.
How Does the Digital Arrival Card Work?
Once the form is successfully submitted, a QR code valid for three days is immediately generated on the website, along with a confirmation code. Both must be presented at immigration upon entry and exit from Laos.
Be sure to keep them carefully:
In digital format (screenshot or photo on your phone)
In printed color format, in case of connectivity or battery issues
Travelers using this system no longer need to complete the traditional paper arrival card.
Important Points to Remember
This system does not replace the visa. Depending on your nationality, a traditional visa or an e-visa is still required.
Lao citizens, permanent residents, and Thai Border Pass holders are currently excluded from the system.
The service is free and available in Lao, English, and Chinese.
The pilot phase is expected to continue until the end of 2025, before a possible expansion to additional international entry points.
Why This Change?
Laos is gradually transitioning toward digital administrative procedures. Following the success of the e-Visa system, this online arrival card forms part of a broader strategy to:
Reduce paperwork and waiting times
Improve data security
Facilitate international travel
Modernize visitor reception infrastructure
This development aligns Laos with regional standards while contributing to more sustainable tourism management.
A Step Toward a Smoother Welcome
With this digital initiative, Laos aims to simplify entry procedures while reducing waiting times at airports and border crossings.
It is a welcome evolution for a country that remains deeply rooted in its legendary hospitality while steadily moving toward more modern and responsible tourism management.
For assistance in preparing your trip to Laos or for further guidance regarding entry formalities, our local experts at ORLA Tours are at your disposal.
In Summary
Since September 1st, 2025, the Laos arrival card must be completed exclusively online as part of a pilot phase.
The system currently applies to 4 entry points: Wattay (Vientiane), Luang Prabang, Paksé and the Lao–Thai Friendship Bridge No.1.
The form must be completed within the 3 days prior to your arrival.
A QR code and confirmation code are generated immediately after validation.
Official website: https://immigration.gov.la/en/registration/arrival/arrival-info
Objective: to make entry procedures simpler, faster and more environmentally friendly.
ORLA Tours: Your Trusted Partner for a Stress-Free Trip to Laos
At ORLA Tours, we support French-speaking travelers in designing tailor-made journeys across Laos. Based in Luang Prabang, our local team assists you with every detail: entry formalities, accommodations, French-speaking Lao guides, curated itineraries and authentic off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Would you like to discover Laos differently?
Fill in our tailor-made travel form now to tell us about your travel wishes. It’s simple, quick and without obligation. A member of our team will then contact you to arrange a first personalized consultation and build together the journey that truly reflects you.
FAQ – Laos Online Arrival Card
1. Does the arrival card replace the visa? No. The arrival form is separate from the visa. You must still hold a valid visa or benefit from a visa exemption depending on your nationality.
2. When should I complete the arrival card? Only within the 3 days prior to your arrival in Laos.
3. What should I do if I cannot generate my QR code? Make sure you have completed and validated all required steps. The QR code and confirmation code appear immediately at the end of the registration process.
4. Can I correct a mistake after validation? No. You will need to submit a new form with the correct information.
5. Do I need to print the QR code? Yes, it is strongly recommended. A printed color copy helps avoid any issues in case of phone failure or unexpected checks.
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