Southeast Asia is one of the most popular regions for travelers, offering a mix of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and affordable costs. However, visa requirements vary from country to country, and it’s essential to plan ahead to avoid any travel disruptions. This complete visa guide will help you navigate entry requirements, visa exemptions, and visa-on-arrival options for each country in Southeast Asia.

1. Thailand

Thailand is one of the most visited countries in Southeast Asia, and its visa policies are tourist-friendly.

• Visa Exemption: Citizens from 60+ countries (including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and most of Europe) can enter visa-free for up to 30 days (if arriving by air) and 15 days (if arriving by land).
• Visa on Arrival: Available for citizens of certain countries, allowing a 15-day stay (cost: 2,000 THB).
• Tourist Visa: If you plan to stay longer, you can apply for a 60-day tourist visa from a Thai embassy, extendable for an additional 30 days.
• Extension: If you enter visa-free, you can extend your stay by 30 days at an immigration office (1,900 THB fee).

2. Vietnam

Vietnam has strict visa rules, but it offers several options for travelers.

• Visa Exemption: Citizens from a few countries (like Japan, South Korea, and some EU nations) can enter visa-free for 15-45 days (depending on nationality).
• E-Visa: Most travelers (including US, UK, EU, Canada, and Australia) can apply for a 30-day e-visa online for $25 USD before arrival.
• Visa on Arrival: No longer available for most tourists. You must apply for an e-visa in advance.
• Extensions: E-visas cannot be extended inside Vietnam. You must leave and apply for a new visa.

3. Cambodia

Cambodia has one of the easiest visa policies in Southeast Asia.

• Visa Exemption: Citizens from a few Southeast Asian countries (like Malaysia, Singapore, and the Philippines) can enter visa-free for 14-30 days.
• Visa on Arrival: Available for most nationalities for $30 USD, allowing a 30-day stay.
• E-Visa: You can also apply online for a 30-day e-visa for $36 USD before arrival.
• Extensions: You can extend your visa for 30 more days at an immigration office for a fee.

4. Laos

Laos is a great destination for travelers, and its visa process is simple.

• Visa Exemption: Some ASEAN countries can enter visa-free for 14-30 days.
• Visa on Arrival: Available for most nationalities for $30–$42 USD (depending on nationality), allowing a 30-day stay.
• E-Visa: Available for $50 USD, but only valid at selected border crossings.
• Extensions: You can extend your visa for 30 more days at an immigration office.

5. Malaysia

Malaysia has one of the most relaxed visa policies in the region.

• Visa Exemption: Many nationalities (including the US, UK, EU, Canada, and Australia) can enter visa-free for 30-90 days.
• Visa on Arrival: Available for some countries but not commonly used.
• Extensions: Generally not allowed for visa-exempt visitors; you must leave and return for a new entry.

6. Indonesia

Indonesia, including Bali, is a top destination for travelers, with straightforward visa policies.

• Visa Exemption: Citizens from ASEAN countries can enter visa-free for 30 days.
• Visa on Arrival: Available for many nationalities, allowing a 30-day stay for $35 USD (extendable for another 30 days).
• E-Visa: You can apply for an e-visa in advance if preferred.
• Extensions: Visa-on-arrival holders can extend for another 30 days at an immigration office.