Laos is a gem of Southeast Asia, known for its stunning waterfalls, gilded temples, and incredibly relaxed pace of life. For citizens of Burkina Faso, the introduction of the electronic visa (eVisa) has simplified travel significantly. You no longer need to visit a distant embassy; instead, you can secure your travel authorization from your smartphone or computer. Read our blog to find full information regarding the Laos eVisa Burkina Faso Citizens.
Yes, citizens of Burkina Faso are required to obtain a visa to enter the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. Fortunately, Burkina Faso is on the list of eligible countries for the Laos eVisa. This digital system allows you to skip the paperwork at embassies and apply entirely online before you even pack your bags.
What Types of Laos eVisas Can I Apply For Online?
When applying for Lao eVisa, you can choose from two main categories based on your trip:
Travel Visa: Designed for tourists who want to explore the natural and cultural sites of Laos.
Visit Visa: Ideal for those traveling specifically to visit friends or family members currently living in the country.
How Long Can I Stay in Laos with an eVisa?
The Laos eVisa is a single-entry permit. It is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance, giving you a two-month window to enter the country. Once you arrive at the border, you are granted a maximum stay of 30 days. If you find yourself falling in love with the scenery, you can apply for an extension at the immigration office in Vientiane.
What Documents Do I Need for a Laos eVisa Application?
The digital application is simple, but you must have these two documents ready to upload:
Passport Bio Page: A clear, high-resolution scan of the page containing your photo and personal details. Your passport must have at least six months of validity remaining from your arrival date.
Applicant Photograph: A recent, color passport-sized photo (4×6 cm) with a plain white background. Ensure your face is clear, without glasses or headwear (unless for religious reasons).
Is a Confirmed Flight Ticket Necessary for the Application?
While you do not necessarily need to upload a flight ticket during the initial application process on lao-evisa.com, it is highly recommended to have a confirmed return or onward ticket. Immigration officers at the border may ask to see proof of your departure from Laos to ensure you do not intend to overstay your 30-day limit.
How Long Does it Take to Process a Laos eVisa?
Processing times are flexible to suit your travel schedule. We offer three speeds:
Normal Processing: 5 – 7 Working Days (Best for those planning in advance).
Rush Processing: 3 – 5 Working Days (Perfect for mid-term trips).
Super Rush Processing: 1 – 3 Hours (The fastest solution available for last-minute travelers).
What is the Total Cost of a Laos eVisa for Burkinabé Travelers?
The total Lao Visa fee you pay is transparent and consists of three parts: Total Payable = Government Fee + Service Fee + Rush Fee (if applicable) The Government Fee goes directly to the state for processing, while the Service Fee covers the professional verification of your documents to ensure your application is not rejected due to errors.
What are the Refund Conditions for the Application?
Because processing begins immediately, certain fees are non-refundable:
Government Fees: Non-refundable once the application is submitted to the visa authority.
Service Fees: Non-refundable once document examination begins.
Rush/Super Rush Upgrades: Non-refundable once the prioritization service is activated. These conditions apply in all scenarios, including if you choose to withdraw your application or if it is rejected by the government.
Which Entry Points in Laos Accept the eVisa?
You cannot use the eVisa at every border crossing. Burkina Faso citizens must enter through one of these designated ports:
Airports: Wattay (Vientiane), Luang Prabang, or Pakse International Airports.
Land Borders: Lao-Thai Friendship Bridges (I, II, and IV) or the Boten International Checkpoint (from China).
Can I Change My Entry Airport After the eVisa is Approved?
Yes! One of the most convenient features of the Laos eVisa is that you are not strictly tied to the airport you listed on your application. As long as you arrive at one of the authorized ports of entry (listed in the previous section), your eVisa will remain valid for use.
What are the Hotel Stay Rules for Tourists in Laos?
Under Lao law, all foreign tourists must be registered at their place of accommodation. When you check into a hotel, guesthouse, or hostel, the staff will ask for your passport and eVisa to report your stay to the local authorities. If you are staying with friends or family, your host should technically report your presence to the village headman or local police station.
Can I Use a Tourist eVisa for Business Activities?
The tourist eVisa is strictly for leisure, sightseeing, and visiting family. If you intend to engage in formal business activities, such as signing contracts, working, or setting up a company, you should apply for a specific Business Visa (NI-B2). Engaging in unauthorized work on a travel visa can lead to fines or deportation.
How Do I Apply for a Laos eVisa for Minors?
Children and infants from Burkina Faso also require their own visa to enter Laos. Parents or legal guardians can complete the application on behalf of the minor. You will need a digital copy of the child’s passport and a recent photo. It is also wise to carry a copy of the child’s birth certificate or a notarized consent letter if they are traveling with only one parent.
How Many Times Per Year Can I Enter Laos?
There is currently no official limit on how many times a Burkina Faso citizen can enter Laos in a year, provided each entry is supported by a valid visa. However, since the eVisa is single-entry, you must apply for a new one every time you leave and wish to return. Repeated “visa runs” may eventually be questioned by immigration officials.
Are ATMs Readily Available for Travelers in Laos?
Yes, ATMs are widely available in major cities like Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and Vang Vieng. Most machines accept international Visa and Mastercard. However, in rural areas, cash (Lao Kip) is king. It is a good idea to carry some US Dollars or Thai Baht as a backup, as these are often accepted for larger transactions or easily exchanged.
What Should I Carry When Traveling to Laos?
Aside from your personal belongings, ensure you have:
Printed eVisa Approval Letter: Essential for immigration.
Passport: Must be the physical original (not a copy).
Vaccination Records: Though requirements change, it’s good to have a digital copy of your health records.
Small Cash: For the “Entry Stamp” processing if applicable or for local transport.
Is Agent Support Available at 2:00 AM?
Yes! Travel emergencies don’t stick to a 9-to-5 schedule. One of the reasons travelers choose lao-evisa.com is the 24/7 availability. Whether it’s 2 AM in Ouagadougou or 2 AM in Vientiane, the support team is available to handle “Super Rush” requests and answer urgent questions regarding your application.
Why Should I Use lao-evisa.com Instead of Doing it Myself?
Navigating government portals can be confusing, especially with language barriers or payment processing issues common with international cards. lao-evisa.com offers a “Super Rush” 1-3 hour service that the official government site does not provide. With expert document review and around-the-clock support, you ensure your trip starts without a single hitch.
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