Laos is one of the most isolated countries in Southeast Asia and has finally reopened its borders this week after two years of the pandemic. International travelers are once again welcome to visit the landlocked country, which borders Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia and China. In fact, it was one of the last countries in the region to welcome international travelers back.

Laos reopens to the world

Prior to reopening borders in Laos, foreigners could only visit for essential reasons. However, the Asian country did cautiously reopen to travelers from select countries in January 2022.

However, this week, the popular backpacking destination has taken the final step of reopening its borders to all international travelers. However, there are still some restrictions in place.

Entry rules for vaccinated travelers

Fully vaccinated travelers will be required to present a vaccination certificate on arrival in Laos. However, those who have received the required recommended dose of a primary vaccine schedule will not need a booster jab.

This usually means travelers who have received two doses of the vaccine, or in the case of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, only one dose is required. However, the final dose must have been administered at least two weeks prior to departure.

Unvaccinated travelers

Travelers who are unvaccinated, or only partially vaccinated will be required to undergo a pre-departure PCR or antigen COVID-19 test within two days of departure. They will be required to present a negative test result on arrival in Laos.

All test results and vaccination certificates should be uploaded to the mobile application while completing the health declaration form prior to departure.

Children under the age of 12 are exempt from vaccination and testing requirements.

Medical insurance requirement

When traveling to Laos, travelers must take out medical insurance that covers COVID-19 treatment, in case they contract the virus during their trip. This is necessary to cover the costs of medical treatment.

Visa applications

Electronic visa applications are now open and available for travelers to Laos and eligible visitors can apply online. According to the Laos tourism board, approval normally takes around one business day. It is, however, recommended to apply for the visa well in advance of travel.

Exploring Laos

Up until this week, travelers were only permitted on pre-booked tours and were required to stay in certified hotels. However, these rules have been dropped and travelers can freely roam destinations like the capital Vientiane. Here, they can explore the riverside markets and visit the street food vendors.

Meanwhile, the ancient city of Luang Prabang in the north of Laos, as well as the popular backpacker resort of Vang Vieng can pretty much be explored as in pre-pandemic days.

Meanwhile, travelers are still required to wear face masks in certain places where there is a higher virus activity.

ABC News quotes the state-run Vientiane Times, saying the decision to reopen the borders of Laos is based on falling virus case numbers. According to Deputy Health Minister Snong Thongsna, the average daily number of new cases is now less than 200. This marks a fall in number from 2,000 cases in February.

Make a plan to visit Laos this year, taking in the lush green scenery, quaint towns and cities and ancient temples.