Hello,

My family and I are on the first leg of a triple entry tourist visa. We have not extended and don't want to. Can we go to Huay Xai, Laos to trigger the second entry of our visa without paying for a Laos entry permit? How will this work for us?

Thanks!

You can use the Chiang Kong crossing to Houy Xai to use the 2nd entry of your visa.

You will have get a Lao visa on arrival and enter Laos. Thai immigration will not stamp you back into the country without stamps for entry/departure for Laos.

The Lao visa will cost $30 to $42 dependent upon the country you are from or 1500 baht. See: mhttp://www.laos-guide-999.com/visa-on-arrival.html

Thanks very much!

How is the border there now ?

Is there a bridge and is it a big border crossing place as Nong Khai ?

There is a bridge.

It is not a busy crossing like Nong Kai is. Not ever sure there is even duty free on the Lao side.