Previous studies on internal migration in Laos have neither considered the relationship between rural-rural migration and rural–urban migration nor sufficiently examined the processes involved in permanent migration to cities. Accordingly, this study explored the characteristics of rural–urban migration in Laos by connecting rural population dynamics with migrants’ life courses. Interviews were conducted with 42 households and 22 migrants who migrated from a lowland village on the northern fringe of Laos to Vientiane. The analysis results revealed that rural-rural migration from the highlands to lowlands has been promoted as a national policy in Laos, which has significantly impacted rural population dynamics. Consequently, there appears to be active migration to cities. Those migrating to cities have entered the urban labor market in Vientiane as much-needed low-skilled workers. However, after settling in cities, they have improved their living and labor conditions by changing their jobs. Although these migrants have attempted to maintain their relationships with their villages of origin, thereby mitigating the risks associated with migration, their ties with their villages have become weaker, eventually leading to permanent departure from the village as their working and living conditions in Vientiane enhanced. Triggers for migrants to settle in urban areas are not only related to the labor market but also closely tied to their children’s education.