Laos Retirement and Long-Stay Visa Options (2026)
Planning to retire in Laos or stay for months at a time? This checklist sets out the long-stay routes the VisaGov.la desk at Harmony Hotel, Vientiane files every week, so you can pick one before you lodge your passport.
Step 1: Is there a Laos retirement visa?
Our desk does not sell a separate “retirement visa”. People who retire here usually choose one of the options below, depending on how long they want to stay and whether they own a business.
Step 2: Compare the options
| Option | Price | Processing |
|---|---|---|
| 1-month tourist extension (to try Laos first) | $90 all-in (Express 2-day $140 / 1-day $190) | Standard or Express |
| 3-Month Package | $290 (India / Nepal passports $590) | 4–5 weeks; Express +$150 (about 2 weeks) |
| Investor visa (if you run a Lao business) | $640 / 1 year or $1,500 / 3 years | 4–5 weeks; Express +$150 (about 2 weeks) |
| Company registration (for the investor route) | from $1,200 | Confirmed when you file |
Step 3: Filing order
- Send your passport photo page on WhatsApp (+856 20 9999 7573) so we can check your entry stamp.
- If you need an invitation letter, allow about 1 week. There is no express option for invitation letters.
- Lodge your passport at the desk in Harmony Hotel, Asean Road, Vientiane (daily 9:00–20:00).
- Collect it when your file is done: about 4–5 weeks, or about 2 weeks with Express.
More detail: residence permit packages, the LA-B2 filing checklist, and the tourist visa extension procedure.
Long-stay FAQ
Is there a retirement visa in Laos?
The VisaGov.la desk does not sell a separate retirement visa. Retirees usually choose a 3-Month Package ($290) or an investor visa ($640 for 1 year, $1,500 for 3 years).
How long does a long-stay file take?
About 4–5 weeks after passport lodge, or about 2 weeks with Express (+$150). Invitation letters take about 1 week, with no express option.
Do India and Nepal passports pay more?
Yes. The 3-Month Package is $590 for India and Nepal passports instead of $290.