Payment Methods and Currency Exchange in Laos: Cash, Cards, ATMs, and Regulations

Laos uses a cash-based economy, with limited acceptance of cards and mobile payments outside major cities. Currency exchange and ATM access are available in urban centers, but rural areas may have limited services.

• Official currency: Lao Kip (LAK)
• Payment methods: Cash is widely used. Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard) are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops in Vientiane and Luang Prabang. Mobile payments (e.g., Alipay, WeChat Pay) are accepted in select locations, mainly serving Chinese tourists. Apple Pay and Google Pay are not widely supported.
• Contactless payments: Limited availability; not common outside major hotels or international chains.
• ATMs: Available in cities and tourist areas; most accept international cards (Visa, MasterCard). Daily withdrawal limits typically range from 1,000,000 to 2,000,000 LAK. Transaction fees for foreign cards are usually 20,000–40,000 LAK per withdrawal.
• Currency exchange: Available at banks, licensed exchange offices, and airports. Exchange rates may vary; official ID is required for transactions.
• Foreign currency restrictions: Import/export of local currency is limited to 2,500,000 LAK. Foreign currency above USD 10,000 (or equivalent) must be declared on arrival or departure.
• Large cash transactions: May be subject to reporting requirements under anti-money laundering regulations.
• Major banks: Banque pour le Commerce Extérieur Lao (BCEL), Lao Development Bank, ANZ Laos.
• Tips: Carry sufficient cash for rural travel. Notify your bank before using cards in Laos. Retain ATM receipts for reference.
• Government advisories: Check for updates on currency regulations and payment restrictions before travel.