A trip to the serene and landlocked beauty of Laos then to the wide and rich wildness of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is an adventure of its own. Be it a business trip to Kinshasa, or you are planning to go and see the eastern lowland gorillas, the initial thing is to ensure that you have your Ordinary Flying eVisa.
To the citizens of Laotian people, the entry of the digital visa system no longer required them to travel long distances to an embassy. This guide gives you all the information you need to know about the DRC eVisa for Laotian Citizens and be successful when making your application and entering the DRC.
Do Laotian Citizens Need a Visa for the Democratic Republic of Congo?
This is the case because before traveling to the DRC, citizens of Laos have to secure a valid visa. Ordinary Flying eVisa is the most convenient and modern means of getting authorization by the citizens of Laotian passports. This computerized system will enable you to do the whole process online so that by the time you are in the flight, you will already have your travel permits ready at Vientiane or Luang Prabang.
Can I Use a Diplomatic Passport for the eVisa?
Ordinary Flying eVisa is one which is specifically targeted at the holders of Ordinary Passports. Provided you have a Diplomatic or Service passport of Laos you will generally take a different procedure, and in most cases, direct communication between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Embassy in Congo. To the average tourist or business traveler, the Ordinary Passport is the one that is needed.
Which Documents Must I Upload for the DRC eVisa?
In the case of Laotian applicants, the documentation is not complicated but it has to be of high quality:
- Passport Bio Page: An easy to read colour scan of the page with your personal information.
- Applicant Photo: A digital passport-style photo meeting the criteria above.
- Application Letter: An application letter is a formal letter that is written to the DRC authorities to inform them about your intended purpose of travel, targeted dates and itinerary.
How Do I Write the Required Application Letter?
The application letter is a mandatory document. You should address it to the “Immigration Authorities of the Democratic Republic of Congo.” In the letter, clearly state where you are staying (hotel or host address) and what you plan to do. A clear and professional letter significantly increases the speed of your approval.
Can We Submit a Group Application for Families?
While each traveler (including children) must have their own individual eVisa, you can manage a Group Application through congo-evisa.com. This allows a single person to coordinate the documents and payments for a family or business delegation, ensuring that everyone’s processing times and details are synchronized.
What are the Processing Times for Laotian Citizens?
Depending on your travel schedule, you can choose one of three processing speeds:
- Standard Processing: 11 – 13 Working Days
- Urgent Processing: 8 – 11 Working Days
- Super Urgent Processing: 5 – 8 Working Days
Is the DRC eVisa a Single or Multiple Entry Permit?
The Ordinary Flying eVisa is typically issued for Single Entry. This means it allows you to enter the DRC once. If you plan to leave the country (for example, to visit a neighboring African nation) and then return, you will generally need to apply for a new eVisa for the second entry.
What Should I Prepare for My Arrival in the DRC?
When you land at the airport (usually N’djili International in Kinshasa), you will need to present:
- Your valid Laotian passport.
- A printed copy of your Ordinary Flying eVisa.
- Your Yellow Fever vaccination certificate (this is mandatory for entry).
- Proof of your return flight and hotel booking.
Are There Specific Hotel Stay Rules for Tourists?
Yes. When applying, you must provide proof of accommodation. Your Application Letter should include the name and address of the hotel where you will be staying. DRC authorities use this information to verify your itinerary. It is recommended to have a confirmed booking before you submit your visa application.
Can I Convert My Entry Type Upon Arrival?
No. You cannot Convert your Entry at the airport. If you enter on an Ordinary Flying eVisa, you cannot change it to a work permit or a different visa category once you land. Any changes to your status must be handled through the Direction Générale de Migration (DGM) in Kinshasa after arrival, but this is a complex process.
Is the eVisa Accepted for Land Border Entries?
It is important to note that the Ordinary Flying eVisa is specifically for those entering by air. If you are planning to enter the DRC by land from a neighboring country, this specific eVisa may not be valid. It is designed for arrival at major hubs like N’djili International Airport in Kinshasa.
Can I Use Gpay or Digital Wallets for Payment?
Yes. When using the services of congo-evisa.com, the payment process is modern and flexible. In addition to standard credit cards, various digital payment methods, including Google Pay (Gpay) and other secure gateways, are often accepted to make the transaction easy for Laotian travelers.
Why Use congo-evisa.com for 24/7 Support?
Navigating Congolese immigration rules can be tricky. Using a dedicated agent provides:
- Document Review: Experts ensure your application letter is formatted correctly to avoid rejection.
- 24/7 Support: Connect via Live Chat, WhatsApp, or Phone at any time. This is especially helpful given the time difference between Vientiane and Kinshasa.
- Smooth Delivery: Your approved visa is sent directly to your email, ready for printing.
What if I Have a Previously Issued but Unused Visa?
If you were issued a visa in the past but did not use it, you cannot simply “reactivate” it for a new trip. Once the validity period of an eVisa passes, it expires regardless of whether it was used. If you are planning to travel now, you must submit a fresh application with updated travel dates and a new application letter.