How to Apply for Visas for Thailand, Cambodia and Laos Tour?

Before you travel to Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos, knowing the visa requirements for each country is necessary. The great news is, many nationalities enjoy visa-free entry, and even if you do need a visa, the process is usually quick and easy.

The easiest option we recommend is the e-visa, which all three countries now offer. Just visit the official website, check the requirements, prepare your documents, fill out the online form, pay the fee, and you’re all set!

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to apply for a visa for Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos, along with some helpful tips to make everything go smoothly!

Thailand, Cambodia and Laos Visa Requirements: Who Needs a Visa?

The tourist visa requirements for Thailand, Cambodia and Laos are different. Before applying, you need to confirm whether you meet the visa exemption conditions.

Thailand

Travelers from 93 countries and regions can enter Thailand visa-free for up to 60 days. The rule makes many trips easier, but citizens of these countries still need a valid passport for at least six months and proof of onward travel. This list includes:

Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bahrain, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, South Africa, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, United States, Peru, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Saudi Arabia, Bhutan, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Fiji, Georgia, India, Kazakhstan, Malta, Mexico, Papua New Guinea, Romania, Uzbekistan, Taiwan, China, Laos, Macau, Mongolia, Russia, Cambodia, Albania, Colombia, Croatia, Cuba, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guatemala, Jamaica, Jordan, Kosovo, Morocco, Panama, Sri Lanka, Trinidad and Tobago, Tonga, Uruguay.

Thailand has introduced an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for all visitors entering the country visa-free, to simplify entrance processes and improve border security. This means that a new electronic form will need to be filled out by all international visitors to Thailand. It must be done online via the Thailand Digital Arrival Card Portal (TDAC) at least three days before arrival.

Travelers from other eligible countries can stay in Thailand for up to 15 days with an on-arrival Thailand visa. It is the perfect option for your short trip to apply at major Thai airports and certain border crossings. If you want to stay for more than 60 days or if you are from a country without a visa-exempt, you must apply for an e-visa.

Example of a paper visa for Thailand.

Cambodia

For Cambodia visa, some passport holders from Southeast Asia being granted visa-free entry for up to 30 days, here are some details:

Brunei, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Barbados, Dominica, Ecuador, Gambia, Haiti, Micronesia, Panama, Seychelles, Maldives, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Palestine.

Travelers from other countries must obtain a visa, an e-visa online before you travel is the most useful method, which can save you time at the airport. Or apply the visa on arrival at international airports, and land border crossings is also a good choice. This means that you just arrive in Cambodia, and then apply for a visa there.

Laos

Laos allows citizens of the following 15 countries visa-free entry, usually up to 30 days. This means citizens of the following can enter Laos without a visa:

Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Japan, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, Philippines, Denmark, Norway, Finland, Sweden, Austria, Belgium, Spain, and Greece.

If you are citizens from other countries, you just arrive in Laos, and then apply for a Laos visa on arrival at international airports like Wattay International Airport, Luang Prabang International Airport, Pakse International Airport, and land border crossings. Or apply for an e-visa online before you travel, which can save you time at the airport.

Visa on Arrival in Thailand.

E-Visa is Highly Recommended for Thailand, Cambodia and Laos Tour

E-visas are available in all three countries and are highly recommended for tourists. Instead of standing in line at the airport or going to an embassy in person, you can apply online at home with comfort to get an e-visa, it’s an especially convenient option for those planning a Thailand tour, Cambodia tour, or Laos tour.

The e-visa platform for Thailand is quick and simple to use. To get your visa by email, just fill out the online form. Laos and Cambodia also have official e-visa systems. You can apply on the official websites by filling out forms and attaching scans of your passport and photo.

Using an e-visa not only saves time, but also allows you to avoid paperwork at the border, and ensures everything is prepared before you depart. Also, make sure to check the entry points on the official websites, as e-visas are only accepted at certain airports and checkpoints.

15 Days Thailand Laos and Cambodia Classic Tour

Bangkok - Chiang Rai - Pak Beng - Luang Prabang - Siem Reap - Phnom Penh - Kep

Example of a paper visa for Cambodia.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Thailand, Cambodia and Laos Visas

Since we decided to use an e-visa to travel to Thailand and Laos, you can refer to the following application process:

Step 1: Go to the official website

Begin at the official website of each country’s embassy or consulate. The most current and reliable information can be obtained here.

Step 2: Prepare the needed documents

When you apply, have all of the necessary papers available. Your passport (valid for at least six months), a digital passport photo, a copy of your travel schedule, and proof of accommodation (a hotel reservation) are sometimes required for that.

Step 3: Fill out the online application

Fill out an application form with your personal information, passport number, trip itinerary, and so on. And you must do everything carefully and precisely. Make sure to double-check everything before turning in!

Step 4: Pay for the visa

To find out the exact price, visit the official website as visa fees vary. Usually, you must use a credit or debit card to pay the cost online.

Step 5: Complete the application

Create a successful application and submit it once the necessary payment has been made, and the application has been completed. You will frequently receive a confirmation email with your application number on it.

Step 6: Hold off on processing

Depending on the nation and season, the duration varies. It is better to apply in advance, as the processing period for an e-visa typically takes three to five business days.

Step 7: Get a visa

Once the application has been approved, you will get an email with the e-visa. Just print it off, then take it with you.

Visa on Arrival in Cambodia.

Costs of Thailand, Cambodia and Laos Visas

Visa fees may vary depending on the type of visa, the applicant’s nationality, and the application location. The general rules listed below are applicable:

Thailand

Thailand arrival visas must be paid for in cash at the border and cost approximately $60 for a maximum of 15 days, though this could change at any time. The cost of a tourist e-visa for a single entry costs between $30 and $50, and longer stays could cost more, such as planning a longer Thailand honeymoon tour with several stops.

Cambodia

Arrival visas and e-visas are cheap in Cambodia, only costing $30 for a 30-day tourist visa. Upon arrival at airports or land border crossings, visas typically cost $30 plus a $5 service charge. It’s an easy and affordable process if you’re planning an Angkor Wat tour.

Laos

The price of a Laos visa varies by nationality; the government charges $30 to $50 for an e-visa, and depending on the provider, there may be additional service fees. The cost of obtaining a visa at the embassy ranges from $50 to $70, while the cost of obtaining one on arrival is between $30 and $45.

There is a one-dollar processing fee, though, if you enter Laos on weekends, after 4:00 pm, or on a public holiday. It’s best to budget for these visa fees and costs in advance if you intend to visit popular destinations like Kuang Si Waterfalls.

20 Days Thailand Cambodia Laos with Beach Relaxing

Siem Reap – Luang Prabang – Vientiane – Bangkok – Chiang Mai – Khao Sok National Park – Koh Phangan – Koh Samui – Phuket – Koh Phi Phi – Phuket

Example of a paper visa for Laos.

Useful Tips for a Smooth Visa Application for Thailand, Cambodia and Laos

Some useful visa advice is beneficial for first-time travelers to visit Thailand, Cambodia and Laos:

Be ready: Since visa regulations and costs are subject to change, make sure to visit a government website before your trip to inquire about any updates or new requirements.

Apply early: You will have more time to gather all the necessary documentation, complete your application, and wait for it to be processed if you begin the visa application process early.

Double-check: Verify your documents, photo, and all the requirements for the kind of visa you are applying for.

Fill out the forms accurately: Fill out the forms completely and honestly; errors may impact how your application is processed.

Get copies: Obtain copies of all pertinent documents, including your passport. This is helpful in case you misplace the original paperwork or need to provide proof of your visa status.

Visa on Arrival in Laos.

Conclusion

The tourist visa process for Thailand and Laos is easy to get if you prepare early, check if you need a visa, apply through the official channels, and carry the required documents and fees.

Once you have your visas in order, whether as stamps in your passport or approved e-visa printouts, you can be ready to enjoy this memorable and exciting Thailand, Cambodia and Laos tour! If you have any other questions or information you want to know, just contact us.