Laos: Payment methods & tips

All continents Asia Laos

Travel money:

Prepaid Travel credit card

in Swiss francs (CHF)

For ATM cash withdrawals
For cashless payments in shops, restaurants, hotels, and online

ATM Search

Banknotes

in US Dollar (USD)

Change cash in local currency

Local currency / ISO Code

New kip LAK

Further Information

Import local currency
prohibited

Import foreign currency
unlimited; USD 2'000.00 or more must de declared

Export local currency
prohibited

Export foreign currency
unlimited; USD 2'000.00 or more must de declared

Credit cards

Die gängigen Kreditkarten werden in begrenztem Umfang akzeptiert. Für detaillierte Informationen wenden Sie sich bitte an den Aussteller der betreffenden Karte.

ATM Search

Find out more about Travel

Useful tips from our experts:

Travelers are advised not to proceed beyond major cities without sufficient cash.
The Travel Mastercard card is occasionally accepted at major hotels and restaurants.
Cashless payments are rarely possible in this country.
Acceptance of credit cards is limited. For more detailed information, please contact the credit card issuer.
US Dollars are preferred when using foreign currency to exchange for local currency (especially outside the cities).
Severe penalties for violations of currency laws.
Keep exchange and transaction receipts.
US dollars or Thai baht are accepted as payment by many shops, hotels, restaurants, etc.

Practical Information:

Other information

Security

Visitors are advised to observe elementary safety precautions and to inquire at local police stations about risks related to itinerary and time of travel.
It is recommended to drive only along asphalted roads (risk of landmines).
Do not carry valuables (watches, jewelry, expensive cameras, etc.) on you.
Avoid demonstrations and large crowds.
Avoid nighttime driving.

Special legal regulations

Photographing persons wearing an uniform, military installations and public buildings (airports, bridges etc.) is prohibited.
Severe penalties for violations of drug laws (up to life imprisonment/death penalty).

Time difference with Switzerland

+ 6 h / + 5 h during our summer time

National language

Official language

Laotian

Language capabilities

English and French

Capital

Viangchan (Vientiane)

Voltage

220 volt / adapter recommended

Travel documents for Swiss citizens

Passport still valid 6 months or more with visa, return or onward travel ticket and proof of sufficient funds for stays up to 15 days. Individual visa available on arrival for stays up to 14 days. Return or onward travel ticket, proof of sufficient funds (at least USD 400.00), confirmed hotel reservation, 2 passport photos or an address of a contact person in Laos required. Visas are available at the international airports Vientiane, Luang Prabang and Pakse. Extension available on site.

Swiss Embassy / Consulate

Vientiane, Diethelm Travel Laos Building, 2nd Floor, Setthathirath Road, Namphu Square
Tel. +856 21 264 160

Opening hours

Banks

8.00 - 12.00 h and 13.30 - 17.30 h (Mon - Fri)

Stores

8.00/9.00 - 16.00/21.00 h (Mon - Sat)

Driving

International driver's license required.
Car rental with driver recommended.

Health situation

Do not drink tap water.
Mosquito protection advised.
Risk of dengue fever.
Year-round risk of malaria in all parts of the country, except Vientiane.
Vaccination against diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A, polio and measles recommended.

Cultural characteristics

Please observe local customs for dress code and conduct.

Country code for calling Switzerland

00 41 (disregard '0' preceding Swiss area codes)

Travel advice for Laos.