Thailand Visa Application
Do Laotians Need a Visa?
Are you a citizen of Laos planning a trip to Thailand? Understanding the visa requirements is essential for a seamless entry into the country. This guide, brought to you by Siam Legal, aims to provide Laotian citizens with all the necessary information regarding visa applications for Thailand, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.
Short Visits to Thailand
Under the bilateral agreement between Thailand and Laos, Laotian ordinary passport holders, as well as diplomatic/official passport holders, are visa-exempt for stays in Thailand for up to 30 days. This exemption facilitates easy travel for tourism, short visits, and certain types of business activities without the need for a visa application prior to arrival.
Key Points for Laotian Nationals:
- Laotian citizens are allowed to enter Thailand without a visa for up to 30 days, whether arriving by air or through land borders.
- To ensure a hassle-free visit to Thailand, citizens of Laos must:
- Possess a passport valid for at least 6 months upon entry.
- Show proof of onward or return travel within 30 days.
- Provide evidence of accommodations and sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay.
Thailand Visas for Extended Stays
For Laotian citizens wishing to stay in Thailand beyond the 30-day exemption period, it is necessary to apply for a tourist visa at a Thai Embassy or Consulate prior to departure.
Additional Information:
The issuance of visas falls under the jurisdiction of Royal Thai Embassies and Consulates. However, the final authority for entry into Thailand is with immigration officers at the point of entry. It's important to note that entry may be denied if the immigration officer has concerns regarding the traveler's eligibility based on the Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (1979).
Siam Legal offers comprehensive services to ensure compliance with Thailand's regulations for a smooth entry. Partnering with Siam Legal provides access to expert guidance and assistance throughout the visa application process, ensuring a seamless travel experience.
Siam Legal International offers services on the following types of visa to citizens of Laos:
90-day Non-Immigrant Visa Thailand VisaLaotian citizens planning to enter Thailand for purposes such as education (ED), business (B), visiting family (O), official duties (F), or religious activities (R) can apply for this single-entry visa, allowing a stay of up to 90 days. This visa also facilitates the application for a work permit and opening a bank account during the stay.
1-Year Non-Immigrant Thailand VisaIdeal for Laotian citizens planning an extended stay, this multiple-entry visa allows stays of up to 90 days per entry, with the necessity for a border run every 90 days for a new entry stamp. It supports various purposes, including (ED), business (B), visiting family (O), official duties (F), or religious activities (R), and allows for the application of a work permit and bank account opening.
Thailand Business VisaFor Laotian citizens entering Thailand for business or employment, the Non-Immigrant B visa is the initial step toward professional endeavors in Thailand. Starting with a 90-day single-entry visa, it can be extended to a 1-year multiple-entry visa upon obtaining a work permit.
Thailand Marriage VisaLaotian citizens married to Thai nationals can apply for this visa, offering a pathway to residency in Thailand. It allows for an initial 90-day stay, extendable to a full year and renewable annually, facilitating bank account opening and work permit acquisition.
Thailand Retirement VisaDesigned for Laotian citizens aged 50 and above, this visa requires proof of financial stability and grants an initial 90-day stay, extendable to one year, intended for retirees without employment intentions in Thailand.
Thailand Elite VisaThailand Elite Visa is a long-term residency option, ranging from 5 to 20 years, and is available for affluent foreigners, including Laotian citizens. It offers multiple entry privileges and access to luxury perks, managed by the Thailand Privilege Card Company Limited.
Understanding the visa options and preparing the necessary documents in advance can ensure a smooth entry into Thailand for Laotian citizens. Siam Legal is dedicated to providing guidance and assistance throughout the visa application process. For reliable and up-to-date information, contacting Siam Legal directly is recommended.
Embassy Information:
For inquiries regarding the requirements for other types of non-immigrant visas and for purposes not listed above, please reach out to the Royal Thai embassy or consulate in Laos.
Address:
Royal Thai Consulate-General in Savannakhet Province
No.9 Road Ban Huameuang N, Kaysone Phomvihane City,
Savannakhet Province, Lao PDR
Phone:
(856-41) 212-373
Email Address:
thaiconsulate.svk@mfa.go.th
Website:
https://savannakhet.thaiembassy.org/th/index
Address:
Royal Thai Embassy, Vientiane, Lao PDR
Kaysone Phomvihane Avenue, Sibounheuang Village,
Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital
Phone:
(+856-21) 214581-3
Email:
thaiembassy.vte@mfa.go.th
Website:
https://vientiane.thaiembassy.org/en/
Call Us:
Local Office Numbers: | |
Bangkok: | 02-254-8900 |
Phuket: | 084-021-9800 |
Chiang Mai: | 053-818-306 |
Pattaya: | 084-021-9800 |
International Numbers: | |
US: | 1 (877) 252-8831 |
Thailand: | +66 2254-8900 |