How to Register a Business Online in Laos

8月 21, 202513 mins read

Step-by-step guide to setting up your business digitally in Laos.

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Starting a business in Laos has never been easier thanks to the government's ongoing efforts to digitalize business registration processes. With the rise of e-government services, entrepreneurs and investors can now register their companies online, reducing paperwork, wait times, and improving transparency. This article provides an updated step-by-step guide for registering your business online in Laos as of 2025.

Overview of Business Registration in Laos

The Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MoIC), along with the Department of Enterprise Registration (DER), manages business registration in Laos. The introduction of the Lao Business Registration System (BRS) in recent years offers an online platform where businesses can submit applications, access permits, and track approval status.

Who Can Register a Business Online?

  • Lao nationals and residents

  • Foreign investors holding valid visas and work permits

  • Joint ventures and partnerships, both local and international

Step-by-Step Guide to Registering Your Business Online

Step 1: Prepare Required Documents

Gather the necessary documents including:

  • Business name reservation confirmation

  • Articles of Incorporation or company charter

  • Identification documents for shareholders and directors (passport or national ID)

  • Valid visa and work permit for foreign investors

  • Proof of address and contact details

Step 2: Access the Online Business Registration System

Visit the official Lao Business Registration Portal: https://brs.gov.la (or the updated government platform as per 2025 digital hub). Create an account to start your application.

Step 3: Complete the Online Application Form

Fill out the company information, including business type (LLC, joint-stock, sole proprietorship), capital amount, shareholders, and directors. Upload scanned copies of the required documents.

Step 4: Submit Your Application and Pay Fees

The online system allows you to submit your application electronically. Fees for registration depend on business type and capital but generally range from 50,000 to 500,000 LAK. Payment can be completed online using local bank cards or digital wallets.

Step 5: Application Review and Approval

The Department of Enterprise Registration reviews your application. Thanks to digital systems, approvals can take between 3 to 10 business days depending on the business complexity. Status updates are available through the portal.

Step 6: Receive Your Business Registration Certificate (BRC)

Once approved, download and print your Business Registration Certificate online. This document is critical for opening bank accounts, applying for licenses, and legal operations.

Benefits of Online Business Registration

  • Reduced paperwork and administrative delays

  • Transparent application tracking and status updates

  • Easier compliance with Lao regulations and tax authorities

  • Integration with other e-government services, such as tax registration and social security

Additional Tips

  • Choose your business name carefully; conduct a name search on the portal before applying.

  • Consult local legal or business experts to ensure all licensing and sector-specific requirements are met.

  • Keep digital copies of all submitted documents for your records.

  • Use genuine government websites only; beware of scams or unofficial intermediaries.

Conclusion

The digital business registration system in Laos is a major step forward in fostering entrepreneurship and investment. By following the updated 2025 procedures, you can efficiently register your business and begin operations with confidence. 

About CITS Laos

Looking to start or grow your business in Laos? CITS Laos offers expert guidance and digital solutions to simplify business registration, licensing, and compliance. Visit cits.la for up-to-date resources and personalized support tailored to entrepreneurs in Laos.