In March 2022, Laos began to ease its international travel restrictions, permitting fully vaccinated travelers from a select group of countries to enter the nation. This reopening was structured under the 'Lao Travel Green Zone Plan', which outlined specific requirements and designated areas for visitors. The policy aimed to facilitate tourism while maintaining public health safeguards, evolving through distinct phases.
The initial phase of this plan, which commenced in January 2022 and concluded on March 31, 2022, had particular conditions for entry. Subsequently, a second phase began on April 1, 2022, introducing some modifications to entry points and approved travel regions. Travelers considering a visit to Laos during this period needed to be aware of the specific documentation, testing protocols, and designated 'Green Zone' areas.
Laos's Phased Reopening Strategy: The 'Lao Travel Green Zone Plan'
Laos initiated its border reopening in January 2022, following a two-year suspension of international tourism due to the global pandemic. This gradual resumption was guided by the 'Lao Travel Green Zone Plan', structured into three distinct stages. Initially, the first phase, from January 1 to March 31, 2022, permitted entry for visitors from 30 specified countries, primarily from the European Union, the United States, and various Asian nations. Entry during this period was exclusively by air, landing in Vientiane, and came with several conditions.
Key requirements for travelers in the first phase included being fully vaccinated, presenting a negative RT-PCR COVID-19 test result obtained no more than 72 hours before arrival, and having a pre-booked tour through a local travel agency. Additionally, visitors were required to install the 'LaoStaySafe' mobile application and undergo another PCR test upon arrival at the airport. Following this, they would transfer to a 'LaoSafe' certified hotel and await test results for up to 48 hours. Children under six years old were exempt from vaccination and on-arrival PCR testing requirements. From April 1, 2022, the second phase expanded entry points and approved 'Green Zone' and 'Green Trail' destinations, while largely retaining the core requirements for fully immunized travelers with a negative pre-departure RT-PCR test.
Entry Requirements for Laos (March 2022 Update)
For individuals planning to enter Laos during March 2022 and the subsequent second phase, several specific documents and conditions were mandated. Adherence to these guidelines was essential for a smooth entry process under the 'Lao Travel Green Zone Plan'.
- Passport: A valid passport was required for all international arrivals.
- Vaccination Status: Travelers needed to be fully vaccinated, with the final dose administered at least 14 days and no more than one year prior to their arrival date in Laos.
- Health/Travel Insurance: A health or travel insurance policy was compulsory, providing coverage of at least USD $50,000. This insurance had to specifically cover potential treatment costs in the event of a COVID-19 infection while in Laos.
- Negative COVID-19 Test: A negative RT-PCR test result was required, issued no more than 72 hours before the traveler's arrival in Laos.
- Tour Package Voucher: Proof of a pre-booked tour package through a registered local travel agency was necessary for entry.
Travel Procedures Upon Arrival in Laos (March 2022)
Upon arrival in Laos, travelers were subject to specific testing and accommodation protocols, depending on their pre-departure COVID-19 status and the phase of the reopening plan. These procedures were designed to manage potential health risks.
| Condition | Registered Tour | Testing | Quarantine | Vaccination | Medical Insurance | COVID-19 Test Result Before Departure |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Travelers Negative with Covid-19 | Book a tour via a travel agency | PCR test on arrival at airport: $65/person (current as of March 2022) | Quarantine at 'LaoSafe' certified hotel and wait up to 48 hours for results from the PCR test | Fully vaccinated with the last dose no less than 14 days before arrival | Health/Travel insurance of no less than USD $50,000 | Negative RT-PCR test result issued within 72 hours before traveling |
| Travelers Positive with Covid-19 | Book a tour via a travel agency | PCR test on arrival at airport: $65/person (current as of March 2022) | Quarantine and treatment at Health Facilities | Fully vaccinated with the last dose no less than 14 days before arrival | Health/Travel insurance of no less than USD $50,000 | Negative RT-PCR test result issued within 72 hours before traveling |
Once a negative on-arrival PCR test result was confirmed, travelers were permitted to explore the designated 'Green Zones' and 'Green Trail' destinations. The cost for the on-arrival PCR test was specified as $65 per person, as of March 2022. These measures underscored Laos's careful approach to resuming tourism, prioritizing the safety of both its residents and international visitors.
Eligible Countries and Entry Points Under the 'Lao Travel Green Zone Plan' (Early 2022)
The 'Lao Travel Green Zone Plan' delineated specific countries whose citizens were eligible for entry and outlined the permitted entry points and travel areas for each phase. This structured approach aimed to manage tourist flows and public health considerations.
| Phase | Period | Countries Eligible | Entry Points | Green Zone Areas | Green Trail Areas |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | 1 Jan 2022 – 31 Mar 2022 | France, United Kingdom, Germany, Holland, Norway, Poland, Switzerland, Finland, Israel, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, New Zealand, Denmark, Belgium, Spain, Italy, USA, Canada, Australia, Brunei, Indonesia, Philippines, China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Japan | Vientiane | Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, Oudomxay, Xayaboury, Xieng Khouang, Khammouane, Champasak | Not specified for Phase 1 |
| Phase 2 | 1 Apr 2022 – 30 Jun 2022 | To be determined (expanded from Phase 1 list) | Wattay International Airport, Luang Prabang Airport, Friendship Bridge 1 (Nongkhai – Vientiane), Friendship Bridge 2 (Mukdahan – Savannakhet), Friendship Bridge 3 (Nakhone Phanom – Thakek), Borhan – Borten (Lao-China), Lao Bao – Lao Vietnam (Savannakhet), Chongmek – Pakse – Oubon Rasathany, Lack Sao – Khammouane (Vietnam) | Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, Oudomxay, Xayaboury, Xieng Khouang, Khammouane, Champasak, Savannakhet | Houay Xay district of Bokeo Province, Luang Namtha, Sekong, Salavanh |
| Phase 3 | 1 Jul 2022 – Onwards | Forthcoming information | Forthcoming information | Forthcoming information | Forthcoming information |
During Phase 1, entry was limited to Vientiane, with designated 'Green Zone' areas including Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and several other provinces. Phase 2, starting April 1, 2022, broadened the entry options to include additional international airports and land border crossings, such as the Friendship Bridges connecting with Thailand and various crossings with Vietnam and China. This expansion also introduced new 'Green Trail' areas, offering travelers more destinations to explore. Travelers interested in regional experiences might also consider unique purchases from a trip to Vietnam or exploring culinary options in neighboring countries like Cambodia, detailed in a dining guide to Phnom Penh.
Important Considerations for Travelers
The travel landscape, particularly concerning international entry regulations, is subject to frequent adjustments. Policies can change rapidly based on global health situations and national decisions. Therefore, it is crucial for all prospective visitors to Laos to verify the most current entry requirements directly with official Lao government sources or their chosen travel agency prior to making any travel arrangements.
While the 'Lao Travel Green Zone Plan' represented a significant step towards resuming tourism in early 2022, the specifics of its implementation and subsequent phases were always presented as dynamic. Travelers were advised to stay informed about any modifications to vaccination requirements, testing protocols, designated travel areas, and insurance mandates to ensure compliance and a smooth travel experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the 'Lao Travel Green Zone Plan' in March 2022?
The 'Lao Travel Green Zone Plan' was Laos's strategy for gradually reopening its borders to international tourists starting in January 2022. In March 2022, it was in its first phase, allowing fully vaccinated travelers from 30 specific countries to enter under strict conditions, including pre-booked tours and on-arrival testing.
Which countries were eligible to enter Laos in March 2022?
In March 2022 (Phase 1), eligible countries included France, United Kingdom, Germany, Holland, Norway, Poland, Switzerland, Finland, Israel, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, New Zealand, Denmark, Belgium, Spain, Italy, USA, Canada, Australia, Brunei, Indonesia, Philippines, China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, and Japan.
What were the vaccination requirements for entering Laos in March 2022?
Travelers needed to be fully vaccinated, with the last dose administered at least 14 days and no more than one year before their arrival in Laos. Children under six years old were exempt from this requirement.
Was a COVID-19 test required to enter Laos in March 2022?
Yes, a negative RT-PCR COVID-19 test result was required, obtained no more than 72 hours before arrival. An additional PCR test was administered upon arrival at the airport, costing $65 per person (as of March 2022).
Did travelers need to book a tour package to visit Laos in March 2022?
Yes, a pre-booked tour package through a local travel agency was a mandatory requirement for all foreign tourists entering Laos under the 'Lao Travel Green Zone Plan' during March 2022.
