On 11 June 2026, Decree on International Non-Governmental Organizations No. 126/GOV, dated 25 May 2026 (“INGO Decree“) was officially published in the Lao Official Gazette. It came into effect on 15 July 2026, fully replacing the 2010 INGO Decree.
The INGO Decree sets out the principles, regulations, and measures regarding the management, monitoring, and inspection of the operations of international non-governmental organisations (“INGOs“) in Lao PDR. It aims to (i) ensure that such operations are effective and efficient; (ii) guarantee the promotion and facilitation of development and humanitarian assistance in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, and (iii) contribute to national socio-economic development.
While the overall regulatory framework for INGOs remains largely unchanged, the INGO Decree introduces several practical improvements and clarifies a number of procedures that were previously addressed only in the 2014 implementation guidelines.
Key Changes
- Streamlined administration: Review timelines for Operational Permits (POs“) have been reduced from 60 to 10 working days, and PO validity has doubled from one to two years. New formal amendment pathways are established with a 15-working day review period. Additionally, project implementation approval timelines are cut from 60 to 15 working days.
- Civil society cooperation: INGOs must obtain prior Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) approval before providing assistance to or cooperating with local Lao associations or foundations.
- Project office and personnel mandates: Establishing a project office requires (i) a valid project permit and (ii) proof of lawful office premises usage. Foreign staff work permits remain valid for one year but face a five-renewal cap. Project coordinator permits are limited to three months (renewable), while country representative permits are valid for either one year or concurrent with contract duration. The execution of formal employment agreements are now mandatory, and the official visa for employees’ category shifts from B2 to E-B2;
- Imports and fundraising: The tax-exempt engine capacity ceiling for imported operational vehicles has risen from 2,500 cubic centimeters (“cc“) to 2,800 cc. However, INGOs and their personnel are strictly prohibited from public fundraising within Lao PDR.
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