If you're an Italian traveler dreaming of peaceful temples, misty mountains, river sunsets, and charming old towns, then Laos should definitely be on your list. And the good news? Visiting Laos eVisa for Italian Citizens has become much easier in recent years, thanks to the Laos eVisa, a convenient online visa that many Italian travelers now use.
In this friendly, simple guide, we’ll walk you through everything Italian citizens need to know about the Laos eVisa, from requirements to entry points, processing times, and helpful tips. Think of this as advice from one traveler to another—easy to understand, stress-free, and made to help your trip go smoothly.
Do Italian Citizens Need a Visa to Enter Laos?
Yes. Italian citizens do need a visa to enter Laos, whether they plan to visit for vacation, visit friends, or for a short stay. The most convenient option for tourists is the Laos eVisa, which allows Italians to apply online and avoid paperwork on arrival.
You can also still use a visa on arrival, but most travelers prefer the eVisa because it saves time, avoids queues, and makes entering Laos smooth and predictable.
What Documents Are Required for the Laos eVisa for Italian Citizens?
Applying for the Laos eVisa is simple, and the list of required documents is short. Here’s what Italian applicants need:
Valid Passport:
A passport with 6 months of validity remaining from your intended date of entry into Laos.
Ensure it has 1-2 blank pages for visa stamps.
Digital Passport-Sized Photo:
A recent photo meeting the eVisa requirements (e.g., plain background, clear visibility of the face).
The photo should be in digital format and ready for upload.
Scanned Copy of Passport Bio Page:
A clear, colored scan of the passport's information page showing personal details and photo.
Travel Itinerary (Optional):
While not always required, having a tentative itinerary with flight and accommodation details can be helpful.
Valid Email Address:
A working email address to receive the eVisa confirmation and approval document.
Credit or Debit Card:
A valid payment method to pay the eVisa processing fee securely online.
Ensuring these documents are complete and meet the required standards will help avoid delays or rejections during the eVisa application process.
How to Apply for the Laos eVisa for Italian Citizens
The eVisa application is designed to be easy and beginner-friendly. You don’t need experience with visas or special technical skills.
Here’s the step-by-step process:
Step 1: Gather the Required Documents
Make sure you have:
A scanned copy of the biographical page of your valid Italian passport (with at least six months of validity from your intended arrival date).
A recent passport-style photo in digital format.
Proof of onward or return travel, such as a flight ticket.
A valid payment method (credit or debit card).
Step 2: Access the lao-evisa.com Website
Visit the lao-evisa.com Website and fill out the online application form.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Upload all required documents, review your details carefully, and pay the applicable visa fee.
Step 4: Await Approval
Processing usually takes 5–7 working days. Once approved, your eVisa will be sent directly to your email.
How Much Does the Laos eVisa Cost for Italian Citizens?
The Laos eVisa Fees vary depending on processing time and the service used. Since prices may change, and since you asked not to list fees, just know that the payment is done online, and you’ll see the exact cost displayed clearly at checkout.
What is the Processing Time for the Laos eVisa for Italians?
Most Italian travelers receive their eVisa in 5 - 7 working days. However, processing time can vary depending on the number of applications received.
Here’s a general guideline:
Standard processing: 5 - 7 Working Days.
Urgent processing: 1 - 3 Hours, sometimes even same day, depending on availability
To avoid stress, it’s best to apply at least 1 to 2 weeks before your trip.
Can I Apply for the Laos Urgent eVisa?
Yes. Many travelers choose the Laos urgent eVisa option when they need faster approval.
This is ideal for Italians who:
Planned a last-minute trip
Have a flight coming up soon
Need their eVisa quickly
Just keep in mind that even with urgent processing, accuracy is crucial. Any mistakes may slow things down.
How Long Is the Laos eVisa Valid For?
The Laos eVisa is usually valid for 60 days from the date it is issued.
This means you must enter Laos before the validity expires. Once you enter, the duration of your stay begins.
Where Can I Enter Laos Using the eVisa?
Not all border points in Laos accept eVisas, but several popular ones do. These typically include:
International airports
Major land crossings used by tourists
When applying, you’ll see a list of accepted entry points. Be sure to choose one of them—your eVisa is only valid at those specific locations.
Can I Extend My Laos eVisa Once I’m in Laos?
Yes, in many cases, travelers can extend their stay once they are already in Laos.
Italian citizens can extend their stay if they want to stay longer than the initial 30 days. To extend, visit the Department of Immigration in Vientiane or other designated offices with your passport, eVisa copy, photos, proof of accommodation, and the extension fee.
However:
You must apply in person inside Laos
It’s best to inquire as soon as you know you want to stay longer
Is the Laos eVisa Single Entry or Multiple Entry?
The Laos eVisa is single-entry.
This means:
You can enter Laos once using your eVisa
If you leave the country, even briefly, the eVisa cannot be used again
A new eVisa is required for re-entry
Keep this in mind if you are planning a multi-country trip through Southeast Asia.
Do Children (Italian Minors) Need a Separate eVisa?
Yes. Every traveler, including children and infants, needs their own individual eVisa.
Even if a child is included in their parents’ passport, a separate application must be submitted.
Can I enter Laos with an eVisa if I Change My Travel Date?
Yes—you can still enter Laos as long as:
You enter within the eVisa’s validity period
Your passport details remain the same
If your original travel date changes but is still within the approval window, there is usually no need to reapply.
If your new travel date is outside the validity period, a new application will be required.
Do Italians Need to Print the eVisa Approval Letter?
Yes. Printing your eVisa approval letter is strongly recommended.
While showing a digital copy on your phone may sometimes work, immigration officers may ask for a paper copy. Carrying a printout avoids delays and makes everything faster.
Pro traveler tip:
Print two copies and keep them separate.
Is the Visa Fee Refundable If My Application Is Rejected?
Refunds are allowed only if the application has not started processing.
No refunds once processing begins or after a visa is issued.
Refunds may be considered for health/emergency reasons, technical issues, or wrong visa type, but only before processing starts.
If a visa is refused, the fee is non-refundable.
Refunds go back to the same payment method.
Processing time depends on your bank (4–17 business days).
A $20+ refund processing fee applies.
Exchange rate differences may affect the final refund amount.
Refunds may be cancelled if customer-side issues occur.
Is Visa on Arrival Still Available for Italians?
Yes, Italian citizens can still apply for a visa on arrival (VOA) at selected entry points.
However, keep in mind:
Queues can be long, especially during busy tourist seasons
The process takes more time on arrival
You still need photos and required documents
Some land borders do not offer visa on arrival
This is why many Italian travelers prefer applying for the eVisa, which lets you skip all the waiting.
How Does the Process Differ Between the Agent and the Government’s Official Visa?
Downsides of Using the Government Website
User Experience Issues
Many government e‑visa websites are not very user-friendly; the interface might be clunky, or instructions unclear.
Limited Help / Customer Support
If you run into problems (uploading documents, payment issues, technical bugs), support might be slow or not very responsive.
No Refunds
If your application is rejected or there is an error, you might not get a refund of the visa‑fee component (depends on the country) — and there’s no “agent guarantee.”
Pros of Using an Agent / Travel Agency
Convenience / Time Saving
Agents can handle the entire process: filling out forms, formatting photo/passport scans, tracking status.
Higher Success Rate (Sometimes)
Experienced agents may make fewer mistakes and understand common pitfalls, reducing the chances of rejection.
Better Support
Agents often provide 24/7 customer support throughout — helpful if you're not confident with the visa process or paperwork.
Can Italians Use the Laos eVisa for Business Visits?
Yes—Italian citizens can use the Laos eVisa for certain types of business-related visits, such as short meetings or events.
However, the eVisa is mainly designed for tourism and short stays. If your visit involves extended business activities, longer stays, or work-related duties, you may need a different type of visa.
Always make sure your purpose of travel matches the visa you choose.
Travel Tips for Italians Visiting Laos
Here are some friendly, practical tips to make your Laos trip smoother:
1. Apply for Your eVisa Early
Give yourself enough time—ideally at least 7–10 days before your trip.
2. Keep Your Approval Letter Safe
Print it and save a digital copy on your phone and email.
3. Check Your Passport Validity
Make sure it’s valid for at least six months from the day you arrive.
4. Know Your Entry Point
Your eVisa is only valid at certain airports and borders.
5. Carry Some Cash When You Arrive
Although ATMs are available, they’re not everywhere—especially outside the main cities.
6. Respect Local Culture
Laos is peaceful and spiritual. Dressing modestly and behaving respectfully goes a long way.
7. Learn a Few Local Phrases
Even simple words like “Sabaidee” (hello) make interactions warm and friendly.
Laos eVisa FAQs for Italian Travelers
Do I need to apply again if my passport expires?
Yes—your eVisa is linked to your passport. A new passport requires a new visa.
Can I stay longer than 30 days?
Extensions are possible inside Laos, depending on the current rules.
Can I apply when already traveling in Southeast Asia?
Yes, you can submit the online application from anywhere.
Can I enter Laos before the date I wrote in my application?
You can enter any time within the eVisa validity period.
Is the Laos eVisa safe for Italian citizens?
Yes, the official eVisa system is widely used and secure.
Do I need travel insurance?
It’s not required but highly recommended—especially for medical emergencies.
