Planning a trip to Cambodia in 2026? One of the most important things to understand before booking your flight is the visa process. The good news: Cambodia’s visa system is straightforward, affordable, and increasingly digital. In 2025, the Cambodian government has introduced significant improvements including reduced visa fees, streamlined procedures, and new digital systems to make entry smooth and hassle-free.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Cambodia visas in 2026, including the differences between eVisas and on-arrival visas, tourist versus business visas, requirements, costs, and step-by-step application instructions.
Cambodia Visa Overview 2025-2026
Cambodia welcomes visitors from around the world with accessible visa options. Most travelers require a visa, though some ASEAN nationals enjoy visa exemptions. The Cambodian government has modernized its visa system to make travel easier and more convenient than ever.
Key 2025 Updates:
Starting January 1, 2025, Cambodia reduced electronic visa fees, making travel more affordable. The tourist eVisa (Type T) dropped from $36 to $30, while the business eVisa (Type E) decreased from $42 to $35. Simultaneously, the government launched the new Cambodia e-Arrival system, a mandatory digital form all travelers must complete at least seven days before arrival.
These changes reflect Cambodia’s commitment to welcoming more international visitors while streamlining administrative procedures.
Visa-Exempt Countries: Do You Need a Visa?
Some travelers don’t need a visa for Cambodia at all. Check if your country qualifies for visa exemption.
ASEAN Countries (Visa Exempt for 14-30 Days):
Citizens of ASEAN member states enjoy visa exemptions for short stays:
- Brunei
- Indonesia
- Laos
- Malaysia
- Philippines
- Singapore
- Thailand
- Vietnam
The length of stay varies by citizenship and passport type. Always verify with the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs website before travel, as exemptions can change.
Other Visa-Exempt Countries:
A select number of countries outside ASEAN also have visa exemption agreements with Cambodia. The complete list is maintained by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and is updated regularly.
If you’re not from an exempt country (which includes citizens of most Western nations), you’ll need either an eVisa or a visa on arrival.
Passport Requirements: Essential Information
Before applying for any Cambodia visa, ensure your passport meets these requirements:
- Valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival in Cambodia
- Contains at least one blank page (to accommodate the visa stamp)
- In good condition (not damaged, torn, or written on)
Keep a photocopy of your passport’s biographical page (the page with your name and photo) as well as digital scans. Having multiple copies and digital versions can save time if you encounter any issues.
Cambodia Visa Types Explained
Tourist Visa (Type T)
The Tourist Visa is designed for leisure travel and short-term visits.
Key Features:
- Duration: 30-day single-entry visa
- Validity: Valid for 3 months from issue date (apply up to 3 months before travel)
- Cost: $30 (reduced from $36 in January 2025)
- Extension: Can be extended once for an additional 30 days at a cost of $30-50
- Work: Not permitted on tourist visa
Best For: Tourists visiting Cambodia for up to 30 days (or 60 days with one extension)
Business Visa (Type E / Ordinary Visa)
The Business or Ordinary Visa is designed for longer stays, business travel, and those planning to remain in Cambodia for extended periods.
Key Features:
- Duration: 30-day initial visa
- Validity: Valid for 3 months from issue date
- Cost: $35 (reduced from $42 in January 2025)
- Extension: Can be extended indefinitely for various purposes (business, retirement, employment, education)
- Work: Permitted with additional work permit
- Requirements: May require letter of invitation from company in Cambodia for some applicants
Best For: Business travelers, expats, digital nomads, retirees, and anyone planning to stay longer than 60 days
Available E-Class Extensions: Once you have an ordinary visa, you can extend it as:
- EB (Business): For business owners, employees, volunteers, and contractors
- EG (Job-Seeking): For those seeking employment
- ER (Retirement): For retirees (typically requires being 55+ and proving financial self-sufficiency; costs approximately $290-300 for 12-month extension)
- ES (Student): For full-time students enrolled at Cambodian institutions
Diplomatic & Official Visas
These visas are available only through diplomatic channels for government officials and embassy staff.
eVisa (Online Electronic Visa) Complete Guide
The Cambodia eVisa allows you to apply for your visa online before traveling, avoiding queues at the airport.
How to Apply for eVisa: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Visit the Official Website Go to the official Cambodia eVisa portal at https://www.evisa.gov.kh. This is the only legitimate government website. Avoid third-party visa websites that charge extra fees.
Step 2: Choose Your Visa Type Select between:
- Tourist (Type T): $30 for leisure travel
- Business (Type E): $35 for business/longer stays
Step 3: Complete the Application Form Fill in the secure online application with accurate information:
- Full name (as it appears in passport)
- Passport number
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- Passport issue and expiration dates
- Occupation
- Purpose of visit
- Arrival date and port of entry
- Accommodation details (hotel/address where you’re staying)
Triple-check all information for accuracy. Errors can delay processing or cause problems at immigration.
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
- Passport photo: Recent passport-style photo (digital image)
- Requirements: 4×6 cm, head centered, white or light background, clear face visible
- Accepted formats: JPG, PNG
- File size: Typically under 5MB
- Passport biodata page: Digital copy of your passport’s first page (optional but recommended)
Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee The platform accepts multiple payment methods:
- Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard)
- JCB Card
- Diners Club Card
- UnionPay
- Alipay
- WeChat Pay
The fee for tourist eVisa is $30 (USD). Some payment gateways may charge small processing fees.
Step 6: Wait for Approval
- Standard processing: 3 business days
- Urgent processing: Available for additional fees
- 24-hour processing: +$79 USD
- 5-hour express processing: +$99 USD
Processing may be faster during off-season periods.
Step 7: Receive & Print Your Approval You’ll receive an email containing your eVisa approval certificate with an approval code. Print this document or save it on your phone. You must present this along with your passport at immigration.
eVisa Accepted Entry Points
eVisas are only valid at specific entry points:
International Airports:
- Techo International Airport (Phnom Penh) – replacing Phnom Penh International Airport from September 2025
- Siem Reap Angkor International Airport
- Sihanoukville International Airport
Selected Land Border Crossings:
- Bavet (Svay Rieng Province, Thailand border)
- Kaam Samnor (Kandal Province, Vietnam border)
- Additional checkpoints available (verify current list on evisa.gov.kh)
Sea Ports: eVisas are NOT valid for cruise ship arrivals. See the “Visa on Arrival” section for cruise passengers.
eVisa Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages:
- Apply from home before travel
- No queues at immigration (if everyone ahead has completed e-Arrival)
- Quick processing (3 days standard)
- Multiple payment options
- Convenient for planned trips
- Digital tracking of application status
Disadvantages:
- Not valid for cruise ship arrivals
- Limited to specific entry points
- Requires email access and digital photos
- Processing takes 3 days minimum (standard)
- Cannot be used at land borders except specific crossings
Visa on Arrival Complete Guide
Visa on arrival offers flexibility for spontaneous travelers or those who prefer not to apply in advance.
How to Get Visa on Arrival: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prepare Required Documents Before arriving in Cambodia, gather:
- Valid passport with 6+ months validity
- Recent passport-size photo (4×6 cm) – bring 2-3 copies
- USD $30 cash (tourist visa) or USD $35 (business visa)
- Immigration form (usually provided on arrival but can pre-download from some airport websites)
- Proof of onward/return travel (flight booking)
- Accommodation details (hotel address or address where staying)
Step 2: Complete Immigration Form
- Ask for an immigration form at the airport/border checkpoint, or pre-download it
- Fill in all required information:
- Full name
- Passport number and information
- Date of birth and nationality
- Occupation and purpose of visit
- Accommodation address
- Expected departure date
- Have your passport and photo ready
Step 3: Proceed to Visa Counter At international airports, look for the “Visa on Arrival” or immigration counter. Queues move relatively quickly. Have all documents organized and easily accessible.
Step 4: Submit Documents
- Passport
- Completed immigration form
- Passport photo
- USD $30 (tourist) or $35 (business)
Some borders may accept payments in other currencies, but USD is strongly preferred and has better exchange rates.
Step 5: Receive Your Visa
- Immigration officer will process your application (typically 10-30 minutes)
- Your visa will be stamped in your passport
- You’ll receive a 30-day single-entry visa
- Keep the receipt for your records
Step 6: Proceed to Customs & Exit With your visa stamp, proceed through customs and immigration exit gates.
Visa on Arrival Available Entry Points
International Airports:
- Techo International Airport (Phnom Penh)
- Siem Reap Angkor International Airport
- Sihanoukville International Airport
Land Border Crossings:
- Poipet (Thailand border) – some travelers report it can be busy and occasionally challenged
- Cham Yeam (Thailand border)
- Bavet (Vietnam border)
- Kaam Samnor (Vietnam border)
- Banteay Prieur (Thailand border)
- Ha Tien (Vietnam border)
- Moc Bai (Vietnam border)
Seaports:
- Sihanoukville Port (for cruise arrivals and private boats)
- Phnom Penh Port
Visa on Arrival Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages:
- No advance planning required
- Maximum flexibility
- Works at all major entry points
- No photos needed (can use digital)
- Simple process that takes 10-30 minutes
- Can leave decision until travel date
Disadvantages:
- Must have USD cash on hand
- Requires queuing at immigration
- Wait times can be 15-60 minutes depending on time of day
- Crowds in peak season
- Language barriers possible
- Less information predictability
Visa on Arrival Not Available at Some Borders
Citizens of a small number of countries cannot get visa on arrival and must apply for eVisa beforehand. These countries include: Algeria, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Iran, Pakistan, Nigeria, Sudan, and Sri Lanka.
eVisa vs Visa on Arrival: Which Should You Choose?
| Feature | eVisa | Visa on Arrival |
|---|---|---|
| Application | Online from home | At immigration upon arrival |
| Cost | $30 (tourist) / $35 (business) | $30 (tourist) / $35 (business) |
| Processing Time | 3 days standard | 10-30 minutes |
| Entry Points | Major airports + selected borders | All major airports & borders |
| Valid for Cruise | No | Yes |
| Flexibility | Requires planning 3+ days ahead | Maximum flexibility |
| Advance Arrangement | Best for planned trips | Best for spontaneous travel |
| Queue Length | Often shorter | Can be long in peak season |
Making Your Choice
Choose eVisa if:
- You’re organizing travel in advance
- You want to avoid queues at immigration
- You’re arriving at a major airport
- You prefer digital transactions
- You want certainty before arriving
- You’re arriving during peak season
Choose Visa on Arrival if:
- You’re making last-minute travel plans
- You’re arriving by cruise or boat
- You’re crossing at land borders not accepting eVisas
- You prefer maximum flexibility
- You have cash available
- You’re arriving during off-peak season (shorter queues)
The New e-Arrival Card System (Mandatory for 2025)
Separate from your visa, all travelers must now complete the Cambodia e-Arrival Card, a digital system launched January 1, 2025.
What is the e-Arrival Card?
The e-Arrival Card is not a visa. Rather, it’s a unified digital form that combines:
- Electronic visa on arrival application
- Immigration form
- Health declaration
- Customs declaration
This replaces the paper forms previously distributed on planes or at immigration counters.
When to Complete e-Arrival Card
Complete the form at least 7 days before your arrival in Cambodia. The government recommends submitting within the 7-day window, though you can submit earlier.
How to Complete e-Arrival Card
Official Platforms:
- Official Website: https://www.evisa.gov.kh
- Mobile Apps: Available on iOS and Android (search “Cambodia e-Arrival”)
- Alternative Portal: https://arrival.gov.kh
Steps to Complete:
- Visit the platform 7 days before arrival
- Enter personal information (name, date of birth, nationality, passport details)
- Specify your arrival date, port, and accommodation
- Answer health and customs questions
- Submit the form
The process typically takes 10-15 minutes.
Is e-Arrival Required?
Yes, it’s now mandatory for all travelers entering Cambodia. Submitting in advance ensures smooth immigration processing and dramatically reduces wait times.
e-Arrival Card Benefits
- Faster processing: Pre-filled information speeds up immigration procedures
- Digital efficiency: No paper forms on arrival
- Required information: Ensures all necessary details collected in advance
- QR code systems: Some immigration checkpoints use QR scanning for rapid verification
- Mobile convenience: Can be completed on any device with internet
Visa Extensions: Staying Longer in Cambodia
Tourist Visa Extension
If you arrive on a 30-day tourist visa and want to stay longer, you have one extension option:
Single 30-Day Extension:
- Cost: $30-50 (varies by location and agency)
- Total Maximum Stay: 60 days
- Process: Apply through travel agencies or directly at Department of Immigration (opposite Phnom Penh Airport)
- Time Required: 3-10 business days through agency; same-day possible through immigration office
After First Extension: Once you’ve extended your tourist visa once (reaching 60 days total), you must leave Cambodia and re-apply for a new visa if you wish to stay longer.
Business Visa Extension (Indefinite)
If you arrive on a business/ordinary visa (Type E), you can extend indefinitely, making this visa suitable for long-term stays.
Extension Options:
1-Month Extension (Renewable):
- Cost: ~$30-40
- Processing time: 3-10 days (through agency)
- Available through travel agencies and immigration
3-Month Extension:
- Cost: ~$80-100
- Allows multiple entries/exits
- Available through travel agencies
6-Month Extension:
- Cost: ~$180-200
- Multiple entries/exits permitted
- Good for longer mid-term stays
12-Month Extension:
- Cost: ~$285-300
- Multiple entries/exits allowed
- Popular for expats and long-term residents
Specialized Extensions (ER/EB/EG/ES):
- Retirement (ER): ~$290-300 for 12 months (requires age 55+, proof of income)
- Business (EB): Variable cost depending on circumstances
- Job-seeking (EG): For those seeking employment
- Student (ES): For enrolled students
How to Extend Your Visa
Option 1: Travel Agency
- Easiest method
- Available throughout Cambodia (especially in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville)
- Cost: Visa fee + agency service charge ($10-20)
- Processing time: 3-10 business days
- No need to visit immigration office
Option 2: Department of Immigration
- Direct from government (opposite Phnom Penh Airport)
- Lower total cost (just government fee)
- Requires two trips to immigration office
- Processing time: 1-3 days
- May encounter language barriers
Option 3: Mobile Apps & Online Services
- Some new digital services emerging in 2025
- Check official evisa.gov.kh for latest options
Visa Requirements Checklist
For eVisa Application
- [ ] Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- [ ] Passport number and expiration date
- [ ] Digital passport photo (4×6 cm)
- [ ] Valid email address
- [ ] Credit/debit card or alternative payment method
- [ ] Arrival date and port information
- [ ] Accommodation address
- [ ] Occupation and visit purpose
For Visa on Arrival
- [ ] Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- [ ] USD $30-35 cash (small bills preferred)
- [ ] Passport photo (4×6 cm) – 2-3 copies
- [ ] Completed immigration form (or blank form to fill onsite)
- [ ] Proof of onward/return travel
- [ ] Accommodation details
- [ ] Valid email address (increasingly requested)
For e-Arrival Card
- [ ] Full name exactly as it appears in passport
- [ ] Passport number
- [ ] Date of birth and nationality
- [ ] Arrival date and port
- [ ] Accommodation address
- [ ] Email address
- [ ] Phone number
- [ ] Health information (basic declarations)
Cambodia Visa Fraud Prevention: Stay Safe
The Cambodian government warns against unauthorized visa websites. Many third-party visa agents charge inflated fees ($60-150) for services available directly from the government for $30-35.
How to Identify Legitimate Services
Official Government Portal:
- Website: https://www.evisa.gov.kh
- Secure payment processing
- Standard government fees ($30-35)
- Email confirmation with “evisa.gov.kh” address
- Direct to immigration ministry
Legitimate Services:
- Look for “government,” “official,” “kingdom of Cambodia”
- Check for HTTPS (secure) connection
- Verify costs match official rates ($30 tourist, $35 business)
- Research company on official embassy websites
- Read recent user reviews
Warning Signs:
- Prices significantly higher than official rates
- Unclear company origins
- Website domains that don’t match official government domains
- Pressure to use wire transfers or cryptocurrency
- Requests for unusual documentation
- Guarantee of “100% approval”
What to Do If You’re Scammed
If you’re charged by an unauthorized service or believe you’ve been defrauded:
- Contact your credit card company immediately
- Report the fraud to the Royal Embassy of Cambodia in your country
- File a report with your country’s consumer protection agency
- Document all communication and payments
Health & Vaccination Requirements
As of 2025, Cambodia has lifted all COVID-19 travel restrictions. No vaccine proof or testing is required.
Current Health Protocols:
- Temperature checks may still occur at entry points
- No quarantine requirements
- No vaccination documentation needed
- No negative test requirements
Recommended Vaccinations (Not Required):
- Hepatitis A
- Typhoid
- Japanese Encephalitis (if spending time in rural areas)
- Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, etc.)
- Malaria prophylaxis (if visiting certain areas, especially in wet season)
Consult your doctor or travel clinic 4-6 weeks before your trip for personalized recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cambodia Visas
How long does eVisa processing take?
Standard processing takes 3 business days. Urgent 24-hour and express 5-hour options are available for additional fees ($79 and $99 respectively).
Can I extend a tourist visa more than once?
No. Tourist visas can be extended only once for a maximum of 60 days total. After that, you must leave Cambodia and apply for a new visa.
What happens if I overstay my visa?
Overstay fines are $10 USD per day at the time of departure. For example, overstaying 5 days costs $50. Always depart on or before your visa expiration date to avoid penalties.
Is the e-Arrival Card a visa?
No. The e-Arrival Card is a digital immigration form. You still need a separate visa (eVisa or on-arrival).
Can I change my eVisa after applying?
Yes, you can request corrections through the eVisa portal if you identify errors after submitting. However, correcting major details may require reapplication.
Do I need eVisa and on-arrival visa at the same time?
No. Choose one option. If you apply for an eVisa, you don’t need an on-arrival visa.
What if I lose my eVisa approval certificate?
Check your email for the confirmation. You can also request a reprint through the eVisa portal using your application reference number. Keep copies on your phone and computer.
Can tourists work in Cambodia on a tourist visa?
No. The tourist visa explicitly prohibits employment. Those planning to work must apply for a business visa (Type E) and obtain a work permit.
Are there border-run restrictions?
While technically you can exit and re-enter Cambodia to restart a tourist visa, some borders (particularly Thailand) monitor this activity. Excessive border runs may result in entry denial. Aim for at least 24 hours outside Cambodia between visits.
Can I apply for eVisa from within Cambodia?
Yes, though it’s not recommended. It’s better to apply before arriving. Those already in Cambodia on a previous visa can apply for eVisa extension or new visa, though some limitations may apply.
Planning Your Cambodia Trip: Final Checklist
3 Months Before Travel
- [ ] Check passport validity (6+ months remaining)
- [ ] Research visa requirements for your nationality
- [ ] Plan your accommodation and note addresses
- [ ] Arrange travel insurance
1 Month Before Travel
- [ ] Decide between eVisa or visa on arrival
- [ ] If eVisa: Prepare digital passport photo
- [ ] Book flights and confirm exact arrival date/airport
- [ ] Check visa exemption status (if applicable)
1 Week Before Travel
- [ ] Complete Cambodia e-Arrival Card online
- [ ] Apply for eVisa if choosing that option
- [ ] Print or save digital copies of all documents
- [ ] Prepare USD cash for visa and other expenses
- [ ] Verify entry point accepts your chosen visa type
Upon Arrival
- [ ] Present eVisa certificate and passport at immigration
- [ ] Or complete visa on arrival process
- [ ] Keep your visa paperwork for departure
Conclusion: Your Cambodia Visa Journey
Obtaining a Cambodia visa in 2026 is straightforward, affordable, and increasingly digital. Whether you choose the convenience of an eVisa applied from home or the flexibility of visa on arrival at the airport, the process is designed to welcome visitors quickly and efficiently.
The 2025 price reductions (down to $30 for tourist eVisas) make Cambodia one of Southeast Asia’s most budget-friendly destinations to enter. Combined with the new e-Arrival system, the Cambodian government has modernized its visa procedures to rival international standards.
With your visa in hand and e-Arrival form submitted, you’re ready to experience Cambodia’s ancient temples, vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re spending 30 days or extending to 60 days, your Cambodia adventure awaits.
For the most current information, always check the official Cambodia eVisa portal at https://www.evisa.gov.kh and your nearest Cambodian embassy or consulate before finalizing your travel plans.
Safe travels, and welcome to Cambodia!