Living in Laos
Asia — Expat guide for moving and living abroad
Country overview
Capital
Vientiane
Currency
LAK
Continent
Asia
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Entry requirements
Check if your passport needs a visa for Laos.
Check visa requirementsPopular passport access to Laos
| Passport | Status | Max Stay |
|---|---|---|
| Thailand | Visa Free | 30 days |
| Vietnam | Visa Free | 30 days |
| Philippines | Visa Free | 30 days |
| Malaysia | Visa Free | 30 days |
| Singapore | Visa Free | 30 days |
| Indonesia | Visa Free | 30 days |
| Myanmar | Visa Free | 30 days |
| Cambodia | Visa Free | 30 days |
| Brunei | Visa Free | 30 days |
| Israel | Evisa | 30 days |
Detailed visa guides for Laos
Monthly costs
Vientiane
Rent (center)
350 USD/mo
Groceries
160 USD/mo
Transport
40 USD/mo
Est. Monthly Total
600 USD/mo
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Work permits
-
Business/Work Visa (B2)
Duration: 1 year, renewable
Employer-sponsored
Salary & tax
Income Tax Range
0% – 25%
Social Security (Employee)
0.055%
Monthly thresholds in LAK. Very low cost of living.
Calculate your net salaryUseful services
Insurance
SafetyWing
Nomad health insurance for your stay in Laos. Monthly subscription, cancel anytime.
Get a SafetyWing quote →Connectivity
Airalo
Laos eSIM data plans from $4.50. Activate before you land — no SIM swap.
Get an Airalo eSIM →Language
iTalki
Book 1-on-1 video lessons with native tutors before you move. 150+ languages.
Find a tutor →