Friendship Bridge
Friendship Bridge, in full as (First) Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge (or Mittaphab Bridge in Laos) was built in 1994, jointly by the governments of Thailand, Laos and Australia. Coneecting between Nong Khai province in Thailand and Vientiane in Laos, it marks the change of Laos government’s policy to be more open to trade and tourism.
Friendship Bridge, in full as (First) Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge (or Mittaphab Bridge in Laos) was built in 1994, jointly by the governments of Thailand, Laos and Australia. Connecting between Nong Khai province in Thailand and Vientiane in Laos, it marks the change of Laos government’s policy to be more open to trade and tourism.
What to know
The Bridge stretches over 1.17 kilometres across the Mekong River. From Nong Khai center, it takes 10 minutes to arrive the bridge and then it is about 20km from the bridge to the city of Vientiane. With the border post at the foot of each end and shuttle bus running in between, it has became the most crossed bridge between Laos and Thailand. In fact, more Friendship Bridge connecting different part of Laos & Thailand borders has been built, giving this Bridge the full, official name as First Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge.
Friendship Bridge Map
Questions & Answers (2)
Hi there, Can you please share working hours of border officers? That would be great!
Hi! Usually, the bridge opens from 7 a.m to 8 p.m. However, if you travel by bus or need to process visa/immigration document, you should arrive here before 4 p.m.
Is it possible to apply for Tourist visa on arrival? I am going to cross the bridge from Nong Khai to Vintieanne Which currency is required how much does it cost? Do I need Covid Vaccination certificate? I am German Passportholder Thanks a lot and have a good day Mr. Frank Lichtenstein
Hi! At present, Laos only accepts Evisa for tourists enter from Friendship Bridge I (Vientiane), the fee is USD 50 and you have to apply for the visa and pay online. For more information and apply for Evisa, you can check this website: https://laoevisa.gov.la/index
In addition, you will need to bring along your Covid Vaccination certificate when come to Laos. If you don't have, you must provide rapid antigen tests taken within 48 hours of travel.
