Immigration in Vietnam, Thailand and Laos: The Key Changes to Know in 2026

Immigration regulations are evolving rapidly across Southeast Asia. In 2026, Vietnam, Thailand, and, to a lesser extent, Laos have updated their procedures to better regulate international travel, strengthen border security, and modernize administrative processes.

For companies, investors, expatriates, and business travelers, these changes require more thorough preparation to ensure compliance and avoid any travel disruptions.

Vietnam: Increasingly Digitalized Procedures

Since July 1, 2026, Vietnam has implemented new legislation aimed at modernizing its immigration management system. This reform strengthens the monitoring of foreign nationals, clarifies residency rules, and improves data sharing between government agencies. For companies employing international staff, these developments require greater attention to administrative formalities throughout the employee's stay.

One of the main changes is the introduction of an online pre-arrival declaration at certain international entry points. Travelers concerned must now complete their information before arriving and present a QR code during immigration control. This measure is intended to streamline procedures while improving the efficiency of border checks.

Vietnam is also continuing its strategy of attracting international talent by introducing new visa categories for highly qualified professionals, including international experts, technology specialists, researchers, and investors. At the same time, the e-Visa system continues to simplify entry procedures and could eventually be complemented by an expansion of short-term visa exemptions.

At this stage, no major new reforms have been announced for August. The measures introduced in July will therefore remain in force over the coming months. However, travelers are advised to check before departure whether their chosen entry point requires the online pre-arrival declaration with a QR code.

Entry requirements remain unchanged: passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry, travelers must hold a valid visa or qualify for a visa exemption, and they must strictly comply with the authorized length of stay. Vietnamese authorities now apply a stricter policy toward overstays, with penalties that may include fines or difficulties when applying for future visas.

Thailand: Stronger Border Controls and a Planned Return to 30-Day Stays

Thailand is also continuing to strengthen its immigration system. Since the beginning of 2026, border controls have become more rigorous, with nearly 29,500 entry refusals recorded between January and the end of May, illustrating the stricter enforcement of admission requirements.

Another significant development is that the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is now mandatory for all foreign travelers, whether they are tourists, business travelers, or long-term residents. This digital declaration must be completed before arrival to facilitate border control procedures.

In addition, Thai authorities have announced the upcoming return of the 30-day visa exemption for many nationalities, including French citizens, replacing the previous 60-day exemption. This measure will take effect once it is officially published. Travelers planning longer stays will therefore need to anticipate their arrangements and apply for the appropriate visa before departure.

Laos: The Digitalization of Entry Procedures

Although Laos has not introduced reforms on the same scale as Vietnam or Thailand, several important developments are now making travel procedures easier.

The main change is the introduction of the Lao Digital Immigration Form (LDIF), which became mandatory from August 2026. All travelers must now complete this digital form within the three days preceding their arrival and again within the three days preceding their departure. This free procedure is gradually replacing the former paper arrival card and currently applies at the country's main international entry points, including Vientiane Wattay International Airport, Luang Prabang International Airport, Pakse International Airport, and the First Lao–Thai Friendship Bridge.

At the same time, the Visa on Arrival remains available for many nationalities and continues to be issued upon arrival, at a cost ranging from USD 30 to USD 42 depending on the traveler's nationality. Those wishing to complete their formalities in advance may also apply for an e-Visa online for USD 50, with an average processing time of three working days.

Travelers planning a longer stay should also be aware of the rules regarding visa extensions. A tourist visa extension can be requested from the immigration authorities, particularly in Vientiane, for a fee of USD 2 per additional day. However, overstaying the authorized period is subject to a penalty of USD 10 per day, highlighting the importance of complying with the conditions of the visa.