Laos
Laos travel guide for Britons
Britons need a visa for Laos; obtain an e‑visa or visa on arrival (30 days, fee £30) before travel, unless holding a valid multiple‑entry visa for a neighboring country. Change if a visa‑free agreement is announced.
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Key facts
- Visa required
- e‑visa or visa on arrival, 30 days, £30
- Currencycheck
- Lao kip (LAK), approx £1 = 22,000 LAK
- Plug types
- A, B, C, E, F – 230 V 50 Hz
- Tipping
- Round up, tip guides/drivers
Quick answer
Yes, Britons must have a visa for Laos. Get an e‑visa online (30 days, £30) or a visa on arrival at international airports and border crossings (same fee).
Entry requirements for UK passport holders
A valid UK passport (at least 6 months beyond stay) is needed. Apply for an e‑visa at the Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or obtain a visa on arrival at Wattay Airport (Vientiane) and major border points. The visa costs about £30 and is valid for a single entry of up to 30 days. Extensions can be arranged in Vientiane for an additional fee.
| Method | Cost (GBP) | Processing time |
|---|---|---|
| e‑visa (online) | £30 | 24–48 h |
| Visa on arrival | £30 | Immediate |
British embassy contact
The British Embassy is in Vientiane. Address: Rue Setthathirath, Vientiane. Phone: +856 21 214 800. Email: [email protected]. Opening hours: Mon‑Fri 09:00‑17:00 local time.
Travel costs in GBP
A typical budget for a mid‑range trip (3 weeks) is £800‑£1,200, covering accommodation, meals, transport and entry fees. Daily average: £30‑£40.
| Item | Average cost (GBP) |
|---|---|
| Budget guesthouse | £8‑£12 per night |
| Mid‑range hotel | £20‑£35 per night |
| Meal (local restaurant) | £3‑£6 |
| Transport (bus/train) | £5‑£15 per leg |
Flights from the UK
Direct flights are not available. Typical routes: London → Bangkok (≈ 11 h) then Bangkok → Vientiane (≈ 1 h 15 min). Total travel time about 15‑18 hours including layover.
Electric plugs and voltage
Laos uses plug types A, B, C, E and F with 230 V, 50 Hz. Bring a universal adapter and a voltage‑compatible charger.
Tipping etiquette
Tipping is not expected but appreciated. Round up restaurant bills, give £1‑£2 to guides and drivers per day.
Emergency numbers
Police: 191, Fire: 190, Ambulance: 195 (all local).
FAQ
- Do Britons need a visa for Laos? Yes, an e‑visa or visa on arrival is required for stays up to 30 days.
- How much does a trip to Laos cost in GBP? Roughly £800‑£1,200 for three weeks; about £30‑£40 per day.
- Where is the nearest United Kingdom embassy in Laos? In Vientiane, Rue Setthathirath, phone +856 21 214 800.
Questions people ask
Do Britons need a visa for Laos?
Yes, you must obtain an e‑visa online or a visa on arrival (30 days, £30).
How much does a trip to Laos cost in GBP?
A comfortable three‑week itinerary averages £800‑£1,200, about £30‑£40 per day for accommodation, food and transport.
Where is the nearest United Kingdom embassy in Laos?
The British Embassy is in Vientiane, Rue Setthathirath, phone +856 21 214 800, open Mon‑Fri 09:00‑17:00 local time.
What plug types are used in Laos?
Types A, B, C, E and F; voltage 230 V, frequency 50 Hz. Bring a universal adapter.
Is tipping expected in Laos?
Not required, but rounding up bills and giving £1‑£2 to guides or drivers is appreciated.
Verify with the official source
Draft, not field-verified
- officialgov.uk – Laos travel advice
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
- officialgov.uk – Laos travel advice
Ask about Laos
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