Visas in SE Asia
KEEP IN MIND THAT THIS APPLIES TO CANADIAN TRAVELLERS AND MAY CHANGE IF YOU ARE NOT A CANADIAN
In preparation for my trip out to SE Asia, i've been researching which countries I'll need a Visa for and how long can you travel around those countries before requiring a visa if possible.
Thailand
If you plan on staying in Thailand less than 30 days and are doing so for tourism purposes, then you don't have to apply for a Visa. If you plan on staying longer, then it's best to apply for a tourists visa ($50) which allows you to stay for a period of 60 days. You can also apply for a multiple entry visa if you plan on using Thailand as a home base and coming and going from there as a central location. Since I plan on coming and going from Thailand, I’ll probably choose the option of multi entry so I can stay flexible.
Vietnam
Vietnam has a few options for the average traveller. They have a 1 month, 3 month, 1 month with re-entry and 3 month with re-entry. That gives you a ton of options as to what we want to do and how you want to spend your time. If you wanted to use Vietnam as a home base and travel to Cambodia and Laos and even Thailand in and around. I plan on spending a month there, but I can always re-apply for an extension. The only deterrent is waiting in line to get the extension stamped, and the additional cost.
To apply, you have to go here and fill out this application. It takes 4-5 days, or if you are in a major hurry (for extra cost), you can get it done in a days time. You then have to bring the signed letter that you are emailed to customs in Vietnam and bring a passport sized photo for the Visa.
Cambodia
Cambodia has an easy to fill out E-Visa (click here) that allows you to apply from the comfort of your own home and then have it completed by the time you get to the airport. You can even upload your own photo from home to avoid having to print off another copy in your hometown.
Laos
In Laos you can obtain a visa upon arrival (VOA) for 30 days at one of the main airports in Laos or main ports of entry. It’s easy to do and just requires a passport photo and $30-40 USD. As most will need, you should have your hotel booked so they know where your destination is once you enter the country.
Bali
I’ve added this on post-trip as I can’t believe I didn’t add this in before! I stopped in Bali twice on my trip, and I managed to just get away with two VOA 30 day Visa’s. Sometimes it’s hard to understand how long you are going to be somewhere, but I did it in two trips, and so I was able to get away with two (2) 30 Day Visas. You can however extend your VOA for another 30 days when in Bali, so there is that option, There is obviously also a Tourist Visa should you want to apply for that if you know ahead of time if you want to stay that long. Keep in mind, your day of arrival counts as Day 1, and day of departure counts as a full day as well!
As a quick note, don’t forget if you’re traveling to please check your government’s travel advisories to make sure there is no danger in your area. I wouldn’t recommend avoiding somewhere unless there is a high advisory, but the decision is always up to you! Here is a link to the Government of Canada’s website.
Happy traveling!
Love, E