Capital city in Vientiane Prefecture, Laos
Is Vientiane LGBTQ+ friendly?
Is Vientiane LGBTQ+ friendly?
Same-sex relations are legal and local attitudes are tolerant but private. No partnership laws; there are only a handful of low-key venues.
LGBTQ+ laws in Laos
Quietly tolerant, with a small scene in Vientiane and a local advocacy group, Proud To Be Us Laos. Keep public affection low-key.
| Status | |
|---|---|
| Same-sex relationships legal | Yes |
| Same-sex marriage | No |
| Civil unions or partnerships | No |
| Legal gender change | No |
| Anti-discrimination law | No |
LGBTQ+ friendliness across Laos
| Place | Rating |
|---|---|
| Luang Prabang | 3/5 · Tolerant, but be discreet |
| Vang Vieng | 3/5 · Tolerant, but be discreet |
| Vientiane | 3/5 · Tolerant, but be discreet |
| 4000 Islands | 3/5 · Tolerant, but be discreet |
| Pakse | 3/5 · Tolerant, but be discreet |
| Nong Khiaw | 3/5 · Tolerant, but be discreet |
| Thakhek | 3/5 · Tolerant, but be discreet |
| Phonsavan | 3/5 · Tolerant, but be discreet |
Quick answers
Is Vientiane safe for LGBTQ+ travelers?
Same-sex relations are legal and local attitudes are tolerant but private. No partnership laws; there are only a handful of low-key venues.
Is same-sex marriage legal in Laos?
No.
More about Vientiane
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Sources
- ILGA World: legal frameworks
- Lao e-Visa (Department of Immigration)
- UK FCDO travel advice: Laos
- Laos Tourism
Ratings combine national law with local attitudes and the scene. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.