Laos Mobile Network Providers

One of the major concerns when moving to a foreign country is reliable mobile and home internet connectivity. Fortunately, as of 2024, Laos boasts credible internet service providers offering 5G connections in many populous urban areas and 4G/3G coverage across most of the country.

The country code for Laos is 856. To call Laos from abroad, dial +856 followed by the Lao number without the leading zero.

When calling within Laos, dial 020 before the number to call from a fixed line to a mobile, or 021 before the number to call from a mobile to a fixed-line.

To make international calls from Laos, dial 00 (or “+” on mobile phones) followed by the country code and then the number without the leading zero. Lao mobile operators charge approximately Kip 2,000 as a starting rate, depending on the destination.

While mobile operators initially had the freedom to offer promotions, the government subsequently intervened to regulate call and data rates. These rates are now standardized and aligned with agreed-upon criteria to ensure a fair distribution of revenue among network providers.

The current rates are as follows:

• In-network calls: 800 kip/minute
• Out-of-network calls: 800 kip/minute
• In-network SMS: 100 kip/message
• Out-of-network SMS: 200 kip/message
• International SMS: 500 kip/message

In 2024, the Lao government implemented a SIM card registration policy for all mobile users, including locals and expatriates. As a result, SIM cards are no longer widely available for purchase. To obtain a SIM card, you must visit a telecom office or official pop-up store where you will be required to register it immediately upon purchase. Identification is necessary for the registration process.

Nano SIM cards are readily available, and electronic SIM (eSIM) options have also been introduced recently.

Here are the Mobile Phone SIM Card Providers you may choose from. They offer local and international messaging and internet access (and home internet services).

• Lao Telecom
• Unitel
• T-plus (also operated by Lao Telecom)
• Lao Satellite (home internet service only)
• ETL
• Best Telecom 

Each provider has different coverage areas and service priorities. However, Lao Telecom and Unitel generally offer the broadest coverage across the country. Since some areas may only have service from one or the other provider, we recommend using SIM cards from two networks of your choice.

For travelers around Laos, all networks offer a travel sim that connects you to the internet for social media and map use, with packages that start from 20,000kip (proximately 5GB/3 days up to a month of connection with 90GB).

Additional note: If you are a traveler subscribed to streaming media services, inform your provider of your upcoming travel to Laos. Some platforms, such as HBO Go, Disney+, Paramount, Viu, and others, might not be available in the country.