Money and duty free for Laos

Currency and Money

Currency information

Lao Kip (LAK; symbol ₭) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of ₭50,000, 20,000, 10,000, 5,000, 2,000, 1,000, 500, 100, 50, 10, 5 and 1. Most transactions are conducted in cash, with Lao Kip, Thai Baht and US Dollars all commonly accepted.

Credit cards

Credit cards are accepted at most upscale hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies in major tourist centres such as Vientiane, Luang Prabang and Pakse. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely used, while American Express is less common. However, smaller guesthouses, rural shops and markets typically operate on a cash-only basis, so it is wise to carry sufficient Lao Kip or small-denomination US dollars for daily expenses.

ATM

ATMs are widely available in cities and larger towns, dispensing Lao Kip and occasionally Thai Baht. Withdrawal limits are usually around ₭1,500,000 to ₭2,000,000 per transaction, with additional bank fees. Machines from major banks such as BCEL, Lao Development Bank and ANZ Vientiane have English-language instructions. In rural areas, ATMs can be scarce, so travellers should plan ahead and withdraw cash before leaving urban centres.

Banking hours

Mon-Fri 08:30 to 15:30.

Currency restrictions

Travellers entering or leaving Laos may bring in or take out up to US$10,000 (or its equivalent) without declaration. Amounts above this limit must be declared to customs authorities upon arrival or departure. The export of Lao Kip is restricted, and visitors should exchange or spend any remaining currency before leaving the country.

Laos duty free

Overview

Travellers aged 18 or over may import the following goods into Laos without paying customs duty, provided the items are for personal use and not for resale:

• Alcoholic beverages (any type): up to 2 litres
• Beer: up to 5 litres
• Wine: up to 3 litres
• Cigarettes: up to 1 carton (200 cigarettes)
• Cigars: up to 50 cigars
• Tobacco leaves: up to 250g
• One item of perfume or fragrant oil

Personal belongings that do not exceed these limits may also be brought into Laos duty free. Travellers carrying goods above these amounts, or items that are restricted or prohibited, must declare them to customs upon arrival.

Banned Imports

Prohibited imports include weapons, narcotics and psychotropic substances, as well as hazardous chemicals and other materials that may endanger people, animals or plants. This list is not exhaustive. Travellers should seek official guidance for the most up-to-date information.