A visa run to Laos means crossing into Laos over land and re-entering Vietnam. From Hue, Da Nang or Quang Tri use Lao Bao – Dansavanh; from Vinh or Ha Tinh use Cau Treo – Nam Phao. A Lao visa on arrival costs about 40–50 USD depending on nationality and is available at major gates; the Lao e-visa is generally not accepted at land borders with Vietnam. You must already hold a document to re-enter Vietnam.
Which border gate?
| Gate | Lao side | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Lao Bao | Dansavanh (Savannakhet) | Hue, Da Nang, Dong Ha; visa on arrival |
| Cau Treo | Nam Phao (Bolikhamxay) | Vinh, Ha Tinh, going to Vientiane |
| Tay Trang | Sop Hun (Phongsaly) | Dien Bien, the northwest; get a visa first |
| Bo Y | Phou Keua (Attapeu) | Central Highlands; ask about visas first |
Other gates with Laos: Na Meo, Nam Can, Cha Lo, La Lay, Long Sap, Nam Giang; see the full list.
Lao visa
The Lao visa on arrival costs about 40–50 USD cash plus 1–2 photos; the fee varies by nationality. ASEAN citizens and some nationalities such as Japan, South Korea, Russia and Switzerland are exempt for short stays. For small gates, get a visa beforehand at the Lao consulate in Hanoi, Da Nang or Ho Chi Minh City.
Documents
- Passport valid for at least 6 months.
- A document to re-enter Vietnam: an e-visa naming Lao Bao or Cau Treo, a residence card, a 5-year exemption certificate or visa exemption.
- USD cash and passport photos.
Steps
- Get your Vietnam e-visa first and select the gate you will return through.
- Travel to the gate (Hue – Lao Bao about 3–4 hours; Vinh – Cau Treo about 2 hours).
- Exit Vietnam, get the Lao visa and enter Laos.
- Exit Laos and re-enter Vietnam.
Time and costs
| Item | Guide |
|---|---|
| Lao visa on arrival | About 40–50 USD |
| Vietnam e-visa | 25 USD single, 50 USD multiple entry |
| From Hue via Lao Bao | A full day; leave early |
Tips
- Mountain roads and bad weather can slow you down; start early.
- Small unofficial “overtime” fees are sometimes asked; carry small notes and ask for a receipt.
- Do not overstay your Vietnam visa before exiting.
- See risks of repeated visa runs.
FAQ
Is the Lao e-visa accepted at Lao Bao?
Usually not. Use the visa on arrival or a visa obtained in advance.
Can a Laos visa run be done in one day?
Yes at Lao Bao and Cau Treo with an early start; allow more time at Tay Trang and Bo Y.
Does Lao Bao accept the Vietnam e-visa?
Yes, under Resolution 127/NQ-CP.
Need help?
Info Travel handles fast e-visas, visa extensions, residence cards and free visa run advice at Zalo/WhatsApp: +84327828822 / Hotline: +84903782118.
