Diplomatic and official passport holders of Laos and Kazakhstan can now move freely between each other’s countries after the latter agreed on the exemption of visa requirements for these categories.
Following the new rules, Laos and Kazakhstani citizens with a diplomatic or official passport, when entering, passing through, staying in and leaving each other’s territory will be exempt from visas for a maximum of 90 days within 180 days from the date of entry, VisaGuide.World reports.
The agreement came during a meeting between Lao Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Bounleua Phandanouvong and Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Laos Kanat Tumysh. They highlighted that the decision aims to enhance relations between the two countries, especially through reciprocal visits by government delegations at all levels.
At the same time, it is also focused on cooperation in areas of mutual interest and strength, such as trade, investment and energy.
Laos Govt Eases Tourist Visa Restrictions for Several Countries
Recently, the Laos government has approved visa-free entry for tourists from certain countries while increasing the number of days that visitors from these countries can remain in Laos.
The move aimed to attract more tourists during the remainder of Visit Laos Year 2024, with the new rules introduced from July 1 to December 31.
In this regard, Chinese tourists, including those holding passports issued in Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan and who are part of a package tour, will not be required to pay for a tourist visa if their stay in Laos does not exceed 15 days and do not need a visa sticker.
On the other hand, those with Taiwanese passports will be issued with a visa confirmation as before and do not need a visa sticker.
Tourists holding passports from countries as follows can apply for a multiple entry visa at the Lao embassy or consulate in their home country:
- Australia
- New Zealand
- United States
- Austria
- Belgium
- Denmark
- Canada
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Ireland
- Italy
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Russia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- United Kingdom
Visitors from these countries who apply for a visa at a land border crossing or obtain a visa online (e-visa) may enter Laos only once but can stay there for up to 60 days.
Moreover, to promote tourism in the second half of this year, Laos said it will introduce a visa-free policy for some groups of Chinese visitors. Such a policy is available only to tourist groups accompanied by travel agents and was expected to occur last month.