Laos offers 4 visa and residency pathways for foreign nationals. This page compares all available routes side by side with current requirements.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Visa Programme | Min. Income | Savings | Processing | Difficulty | Family |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Visa (B2) | — | — | 30-60d | 5.0/10 | Yes |
| Labor Visa (LA-B2) | — | — | 35-75d | 5.0/10 | Yes |
| Investment Visa (NI-B2) | — | — | 40-70d | 6.0/10 | Yes |
| Expert Visa | — | — | 21-45d | 5.0/10 | Yes |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many visa pathways does Laos offer?
Laos offers 4 distinct visa and residency pathways for foreign nationals, including skilled worker, family, investor, and other categories.
What is the easiest visa to get for Laos?
The easiest pathway depends on your profile. Working holiday visas (if available) have the lowest barriers. For professionals, employer-sponsored visas are the most common route.
How long does it take to get permanent residency in Laos?
The path to permanent residency in Laos typically takes 2-5 years depending on the visa category. Some skilled worker pathways offer faster PR routes.
Can I bring my family to Laos?
Most long-term visa categories in Laos allow family reunification for spouses and dependent children, though specific requirements vary by pathway.
Do I need a job offer to move to Laos?
Not all pathways require a job offer. Laos may offer self-employment, investment, digital nomad, or points-based pathways that don't require employer sponsorship.
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