I went to Savannakhet on Monday 20th, here are the facts, as has been some nonsense floating about..
I have been to Sav. Consulate probably 10/12 times over the years, (both venues), below is what "I" always take for a hassle free one minute with the officer, NOTHING HAS CHANGED for me.
I can tell you that every time I have been to Sav. Consulate, nothing has ever been said to me except "Five Thousand Baht", because I have everything perfect and more.
They always give me back one copy of marriage certificate and Kor Ror 2, they keep my pink ID card and yellow book copies.
What I take....
1. Completed form in block capitals, with 2 resent photos glued to the form.
2. Applicant's Passport, plus copy of main page.
3. Wife I.D. card copy. (front and back on one page).
4. Wife Blue house book, copy of 2 main pages (on one sheet).
5. Original marriage certificates (must have), for inspection, one copy of marriage certificate.
6. Kor Ror 2 , (one)
7. My Yellow house book copy of main pages. (If you haven't got one, it doesn't matter, I include it for that positive 'feel').????
Copy of my pink I.D. card. (Same as above).
Everything above signed by whom it concerns.
I take all the books and cards in my bag, just in case, I have seen folk turned away in the past, on Monday some were.
(There is a print shop opposite the Consulate).
No copy of wife's passport needed or asked for.
No copy of Laos Visa or my eVisa needed or asked for.
No financials asked for, the original marriage certificates are the key.
I usually go there on a Wednesday, the best day, but this time I had to go on Monday, it was a nightmare, they were queueing out in the street and beyond, I got to see the immigration officer after 2.5 hours standing out in the sun, lucky I took an umbrella, the place was full of Russians buying Tourist visas.....
We had a chat with the tuk tuk driver, he said the best days are Tuesday and Wednesday...So be warned, the Russians are coming...............????
If I have to go again, I will stay in Sav. the night before and get to the Consulate gate around 8/8.30, it opens at 9am and closes sharp at 11am, if you are late, or went for a quick beer, you will be told, tomorrow, I heard and saw that on Monday....The delay getting to Laos immigration is waiting for the bus to take you over the bridge, I got to the Thai Consulate at 9.30. ????