The initial tourist visa for Indians is valid for 30 days, and you can opt for a single extension of up to 15 days is possible, enabling a total stay of up to 45 days.
Suggested Read: Laos Visa Photo Requirements for Indian
Types of Laos Visa Extensions
Laos provides a single-entry visa extension for Indian tourists:
Tourist visas, initially valid for 30 days on arrival, can be extended once within Laos for an additional 15 days. This extension allows visitors to enjoy a total stay of up to 45 days in the country.
Laos Visa Extension Fees
Here are the Laos visa extension fees for Indians:
| Extension | Fees |
| Tourist Visa | Approximately 20,000 kip/day ($2 USD per day) Service fee: 25,000 Lao Kip (about $1.25 USD) per application. |
For a typical 15-day extension, the total cost would be around $31.25 USD.
Are You Eligible for Laos Visa Extension?
Here are the Laos visa extension requirements for Indians:
- Your current visa must be valid at the time of application
- You must have a legitimate reason for extending your stay (e.g., continued tourism, unexpected travel disruptions)
- Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the requested extension period
- You must have sufficient funds to cover your extended stay
- You must have complied with Laos laws and regulations during your current stay
- You must not have exceeded the maximum allowable stay in Laos (30 days for initial tourist visas)
- You must apply for the extension before your current visa expires to avoid overstay penalties
Suggested Read: Laos Visa Rejection for Indian
Documents Required for Laos Visa Extensions
Here are the Laos visa extension documents for Indians:
- Original passport with at least one blank page
- One passport-sized photograph (3×4 cm size)
- Completed visa extension application form (available at the immigration office)
- Proof of accommodation for the extended period (hotel reservations or rental agreement)
- Evidence of sufficient financial means to support your stay (bank statements or traveler’s checks)
- Copy of your entry stamp and visa
- Letter explaining the reason for your extension request (if required)
How to Apply for a Laos Visa Extension?
Laos requires in-person applications at the immigration office. Here’s is the Laos visa extension process for Indians:
Step 1: Locate the nearest immigration office. In Vientiane, visit the Immigration Department on Hatsady Road. Other major cities like Luang Prabang and Pakse also have immigration offices.
Step 2: Visit the office during official working hours (Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM).
Step 3: Collect the visa extension application form from the counter and fill it out completely.
Step 4: Submit your completed form along with your passport and photograph (3X4) to the immigration officer.
Step 5: Pay the required fees at the designated counter. Be prepared to pay in US dollars or Lao Kip.
Step 6: Receive a receipt for your application. The processing typically takes 1 day during official hours.
Step 7: Return to the immigration office the next working day to collect your passport with the extended visa stamp.
Laos Visa Extension Processing Time & Next Steps
The visa extension process in Laos is relatively quick, typically taking one working day. To ensure a smooth experience:
Step 1: Apply for the extension at least 2-3 days before your current visa expires to allow for any unforeseen delays.
Step 2: While waiting, ensure you have not exceeded your current authorized stay.
Step 3: Once approved, carefully check the new visa stamp in your passport for accuracy, including the extended validity date.
Step 4: Update your accommodation provider with your new visa expiration date.
Step 5: Plan your activities and departure from Laos within the new visa validity period.
Step 6: If you need to stay beyond the extended period, consider a “visa run” to a neighboring country to obtain a new visa upon re-entry, as consecutive extensions are not typically granted.
FAQs
How can an Indian apply for a Laos visa extension?
Indians can apply for a Laos visa extension by visiting the Immigration Department in Vientiane or an Immigration Office Division in their province during official hours.
The process involves submitting required documents, including your passport and a completed application form, and paying the necessary fees.
What are the reasons for granting a Laos visa extension to Indians?
Common reasons include extended tourism, business activities, or unexpected circumstances requiring a longer stay.
Each case is evaluated individually, and you may need to provide a valid explanation for your extension request.
How long before expiration should Indians apply for a Laos visa extension?
It’s recommended to apply for a Laos visa extension at least 2-3 days before your current visa expires.
The process typically takes one day during official hours.
Can an Indian extend a Laos visa beyond its standard validity?
Yes, Indians can typically extend their Laos tourist visa once, usually for up to 15 days beyond the initial 30-day period.
This allows for a maximum stay of 45 days in total.
How long does a Laos Visa Extension take?
The visa extension process in Laos typically takes one day during official working hours.
You can usually collect your passport with the extended visa stamp the next working day after submitting your application.
How much does a Laos Visa Extension Cost?
The cost includes an extension fee of approximately $2 USD per day and a service fee of 25,000 Lao Kip (about $1.25 USD) per application.
For a typical 15-day extension, the total cost would be around $31.25 USD.
What happens if my Laos Visa Extension is Denied?
If your extension is denied, you must leave Laos before your current visa expires to avoid overstay penalties.
How many days can I stay in Laos after my visa expires?
There is no grace period for staying in Laos after your visa expires. It’s crucial to either extend your visa or leave the country before it expires.
What documents are needed for a Laos visa extension for Indians?
Key documents include your original passport, a passport-sized photograph (3×4 cm), a completed visa extension application form, proof of accommodation, and evidence of sufficient funds for your extended stay.
