Laos Launches LDIF: A Digital Immigration Form for Foreign Travelers
Laos introduces the Lao Digital Immigration Form (LDIF), a new online system replacing paper-based immigration procedures for foreign travelers. All arrivals and departures must now be registered digitally within three days of entry or exit.
Laos is set to significantly modernize its border procedures by launching a trial version of its new digital arrival and departure recording system, which took effect on September 1. This initiative marks a major shift, replacing traditional paper-based immigration forms with an online platform for all foreign passport holders.
Lao Digital Immigration Form (LDIF)
The Lao Digital Immigration Form is designed to simplify border procedures by requiring travelers to submit their information online within three days before arrival and departure. Through this digital platform, visitors must provide essential details such as passport information, visa data, travel plans, and intended address(es) during their stay in Laos.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bolNSbY8Pi0
How to Obtain the LDIF
The new system applies to all foreign nationals entering the country by air or land. Simply visit the platform at https://www.immigration.gov.la/en/home and select the form corresponding to your request (arrival in Laos or departure from Laos). There is no fee for submitting the form. Once completed on your end, a QR code will be generated, which you must present to immigration officials.
The digital registration system will be available in Lao, English, and Chinese. Its initial rollout will cover four key international entry points:
Wattay International Airport, Vientiane
Luang Prabang International Airport
Paksé International Airport
The First Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge, connecting Vientiane to Nong Khai Province, Thailand
Exceptions to the LDIF
However, exemptions are in place: Thai citizens using a border pass rather than a passport will be exempt from the online registration requirement during the trial period. Similarly, Lao citizens and foreign nationals holding permanent residency in Laos are not required to use this new platform and may continue with existing procedures at immigration checkpoints.
The Lao government plans to monitor and evaluate the system during a two-year trial period, with full nationwide implementation targeted for 2026.
