Configurations for an edge-generated vertical emission laser that vertically emits light and fabrication methods of the edge-generated vertical emission laser are disclosed. The edge-generated vertical emission laser may include a distributed feedback (DFB) laser structure, a grating coupler, and contact layers. Light may propagate through the DFB laser structure, approximately parallel to the top surface of the edge-generated vertical emission laser and be directed by the grating coupler toward the top surface of the edge-generated vertical emission laser. The light may vertically emit from the edge-generated vertical emission laser approximately perpendicular to the top surface of the edge-generated vertical emission laser. Additionally, the contact layers may be n-metal and p-metal, which may be located on the same side of the edge-generated vertical emission laser. These features of the edge-generated vertical emission laser may facilitate ease of testing and increased options for packaging.