Important Note: As of April 1, 2020, the United States has discontinued issuance of all nonimmigrant visas (NIVs) for Lao citizens and nationals applying in Laos, except for A1, A2, C2, G1, G2, G3, G4, NATO1, NATO2, NATO3, NATO4, NATO5, and NATO6 visas, and others whose travel is covered by Section 11 of the UN Headquarters Agreement, subject to limited exceptions. This action was taken pursuant to section 243(d) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).  For more information, please open this link (PDF 149 KB).

As of July 21, the United States Embassy Vientiane in Laos is resuming certain nonimmigrant visa services, including visa types F, M, and J, for foreign nationals applying in Laos.  Before scheduling a visa appointment, all Lao citizens and nationals applying in Laos should read further information regarding discontinuation of visa issuance to Lao nationals here.  While the Embassy aims to process cases as soon as practicable, there may be increased wait times due to substantial backlogs.  The MRV fee is valid and may be used to schedule an interview appointment in the country where it was purchased within one year of the date of payment.  If you have an urgent matter and need to travel immediately, please follow the guidance provided here to request an emergency appointment.  Please read more information about multiple Presidential Proclamations here; you are encouraged to consider your eligibility for a visa before you make any payments as applicants do not receive refunds for refused visas.

Applicants for H1B, H2B, H4, L and certain J categories covered by Presidential Proclamation 10052 should request an appointment only if you have reason to believe you may qualify for one of the exceptions listed in the Proclamation here: https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/proclamation-suspending-entry-aliens-present-risk-u-s-labor-market-following-coronavirus-outbreak/.

The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Vientiane is responsible for providing visa services to those seeking to enter the United States for a temporary period and for those wishing to take up indefinite or permanent residence in the United States.

Please visit our Global Support Services (GSS) website for complete information on applying for a nonimmigrant U.S. visa, including a directory of nonimmigrant visa categories.

If your travel is urgent, please request an expedited appointment through the GSS system.