Although Laos is situated closeby to Vietnam, there are significant differences between the two countries. Both Vietnam and Laos have a lot to offer, but both very different things. So, it is not surprising to hear that many people from Laos are visiting Vietnam as tourists.
In every country you will find unique places and sights that cannot be found anywhere else. Vietnam is no exception. In the north you have the majestic rice terraces where you can meet the Hmong people. You can trek across the mountains and see the border between Vietnam and China. When you want more pulse, head to the country’s capital Hanoi and immerse yourself in the city that never sleeps. There are plenty of things to do in the capital and you can find yourself stuck here for a longer period of time than you thought.
People walking on the streets of old town Hoi An, Vietnam
Vietnam is more than big cities though – head to charming Hoi An, the historic city that people fall in love with. The ancient town has UNESCO World Heritage status. Not only is it beautiful to look at, there are also plenty of good food to divulge in and colorful souvenirs to buy. When you are ready to head to the beach, head along the beautiful coastline of Vietnam and choose from plenty of sand beaches. The island of Phu Quoc is especially becoming more popular amongst both foreigners and locals.
A Family on swing at a beach of Phu Quoc Island
So if this sparks your interest, don’t hesitate to book your ticket! But first, always make sure if you need a visa or not. If you are a Laos citizen, you do not need a visa if you are only intending to stay in Vietnam for 30 days or less. If you are, however, planning on staying for longer than that, you will need to apply for a Vietnam Visa.
I heard about Vietnam e-visa. Can I apply for Vietnam e-visa if I am citizens of Laos? (No, Lao citizens are not eligible for Vietnam e-visa)
From 01 Feb 2019, under Decision 17/2019/NĐ-CP of the Government of Vietnam, there are 80 countries which citizens of it are eligible to apply online for an e-visa of Vietnam online (e-visa is a single entry valid for staying 30 days). We check but not found Laos national in this list, therefore, Lao citizens should choose two options below to get a visa for Vietnam
There are two options:
1. If you go for option number 1 – Visa On Arrival, you will only need your computer (or phone) and internet. You can apply for this from everywhere in the world – Laos, Cambodia, New Zealand… You name it! It is easy, fast, effective and you don’t have to send any important documents anywhere. What you need to do is fill out an Online Application Form, wait for your confirmation letter and you will normally receive an Approval Letter within 2 working days. When everything is done, don’t forget to print out the finalized document, bring it to the airport in Vietnam and get it stamped by one of the immigration officers.
This visa will help you get a multi-entry visa, so you can visit other countries and still be able to come back to Vietnam without having to apply for a visa again. However, be noted that if you do apply for a VOA, you can only enter Vietnam by air. So, if you are planning on coming with car, bus, train, et cetera, this visa will not be a good option for you.
Vietnamese-visa-sticker-in-a-passport
2. If you go for option number 2, which is to apply for a visa through a Vietnamese Embassy in Laos, you will be instructed step by step on how to apply for a visa there. You will need to come to the embassy at least two times. The first time, you will submit the required documents, and the second time you have to pick up your Vietnam visa. This can be a bit more inconvenient if you don’t live close by for example, and it also takes a bit longer to apply for and receive the visa. However, it is one of the options so if this fits you better, you will be glad to know that it’s one of the choices.
No matter where you come from, Vietnam will satisfy your needs – whether you are looking for a budget friendly trip or is seeking luxury, there is some.
A tourist performing yoga exercises on the beach of Vietnam (Mui Ne Beach)
