Plan your Cambodia adventure as a Bulgarian tourist with our guide! Learn about visa requirements, e-visa applications, border crossings, eco-friendly Cambodia Tours, and top providers for a seamless experience with Cambodia Travel. Start your journey today!
Buddhist Statue at Angkor Complex, Siem Reap (Source: Internet)Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys, and official sources like tourismcambodia.com, evisa.gov.kh, travel.state.gov, culturetrip.com, and justsiemreap.com. Information based on the latest data; verify before travel. Reflects Cambodia’s updated travel regulations.
Bulgarian tourists, please note: Cambodia offers a visa on arrival and an e-visa for Bulgarian nationals, valid for tourism and business purposes. This guide details visa requirements, application processes, border crossing procedures, and travel tips for a seamless journey into Cambodia by land, air, or sea.
Cambodia, a Southeast Asian gem, captivates with cultural landmarks like Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, and vibrant markets like Psar Thmei (Central Market) justsiemreap.com. Understanding visa requirements ensures smooth entry for Bulgarian tourists, whether joining guided Cambodia Tours or traveling independently. Bulgarian nationals can obtain a visa on arrival ($30) at major entry points or apply for an e-visa ($36) online for convenience, facilitating access to Cambodia’s 7 international airports, 6 land borders, and 3 seaports evisa.gov.kh. This guide provides practical visa insights, border crossing tips, cultural etiquette, and eco-friendly Cambodia Travel options for Bulgarian travelers.
Following Cambodia’s updated travel regulations, the country is accessible via major entry points like Phnom Penh International Airport, Siem Reap International Airport, and land borders like Poipet (Thailand) and Bavet (Vietnam). This guide blends visa requirements, border crossing procedures, and sustainable Cambodia Travel ideas for a worry-free adventure.
Bulgarian tourists require a visa for Cambodia (visa on arrival $30 or e-visa $36), valid for 30 days with a single entry. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months with two blank pages. Cultural site entries like Angkor Wat require an Angkor Pass ($37–$72 or 150,000–290,000 KHR), while the Royal Palace costs $10 (40,000 KHR). Guided tours range from $15–$80 (60,000–320,000 KHR). Travelers must register their stay with local police within 24 hours, typically handled by hotels or hosts. Verify visa requirements and border procedures via evisa.gov.kh or tourismcambodia.com.
Visa on Arrival (VOA):
Purpose: Tourism or business for short stays.
Eligibility: Bulgarian nationals and most other nationalities evisa.gov.kh.
Duration: 30 days, single entry tourismcambodia.com.
Cost: $30 (120,000 KHR), payable in USD at the border; carry exact change to avoid delays evisa.gov.kh.
Requirements: Passport valid for at least 6 months from entry date with two blank pages; one passport photo (4x6 cm); proof of onward travel (e.g., return flight or bus ticket) recommended but not mandatory travel.state.gov.
Application Process:
Arrive at an eligible entry point (e.g., Phnom Penh or Siem Reap airports, Poipet or Bavet land borders).
Complete the visa application form provided at the immigration counter.
Submit the form, passport, photo, and $30 fee (cash only, USD preferred).
Receive the visa sticker in your passport within 10–30 minutes, depending on queue length tourismcambodia.com.
Extension: Extendable once for 30 days ($45 or 180,000 KHR) at the Immigration Department in Phnom Penh; requires agency assistance or in-person application evisa.gov.kh.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 7 airports (e.g., Phnom Penh, Siem Reap), 6 land borders (e.g., Poipet, Bavet), and 3 seaports (e.g., Sihanoukville) tourismcambodia.com.
E-Visa:
Purpose: Tourism or business for short stays, preferred for pre-planned travel.
Eligibility: Bulgarian nationals and citizens of 80+ countries evisa.gov.kh.
Duration: 30 days, single entry evisa.gov.kh.
Cost: $36 (144,000 KHR, including $30 visa fee + $6 processing fee), payable by credit/debit card (American Express not accepted); non-refundable evisa.gov.kh.
Application Process:
Visit evisa.gov.kh, select English, and click “Apply Now” evisa.gov.kh.
Review terms and conditions, then confirm to proceed.
Enter personal details (full name, date of birth, nationality), passport details (number, issue/expiry date), travel details (intended entry/exit dates, entry checkpoint like Poipet or Phnom Penh airport), and temporary address in Cambodia (e.g., hotel in Siem Reap or Phnom Penh).
Upload a digital passport photo (4x6 cm, white background, no glasses, straight view) and a scan of the passport data page in .jpg format, max 2MB.
Pay the $36 fee; note the verification code.
Check status at evisa.gov.kh/e-visa/search using registration code, email, and date of birth; download and print the e-visa PDF.
Present printed e-visa and passport at the border checkpoint; ensure details match exactly to avoid entry issues evisa.gov.kh.
Processing Time: 3–5 working days; expedited processing (1–2 days) available through agencies for additional fees ($10–$30 or 40,000–120,000 KHR) evisa.gov.kh.
Extension: Extendable once for 30 days ($45 or 180,000 KHR) at the Immigration Department in Phnom Penh evisa.gov.kh.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at major airports (Phnom Penh, Siem Reap), land borders (Poipet, Bavet, Koh Kong), and seaports (Sihanoukville) evisa.gov.kh.
Embassy/Consulate Visa:
Purpose: Tourism, business, or longer stays requiring pre-approval.
Eligibility: Bulgarian nationals and all others travel.state.gov.
Duration: 30–90 days (single or multiple entry); longer for specific purposes travel.state.gov.
Cost: $30–$100 (120,000–400,000 KHR), depending on visa type and processing time travel.state.gov.
Requirements: Passport, application form, two passport photos (4x6 cm), proof of travel (e.g., itinerary), and fees; apply in person or by mail at a Cambodian embassy (e.g., in Sofia, Bangkok, or Beijing) travel.state.gov.
Extension: Extendable for 30–90 days with a sponsor; fees vary ($45–$150 or 180,000–600,000 KHR) evisa.gov.kh.
Key Restrictions:
Travelers must not fall under suspension categories (e.g., security risks) as per Cambodia’s immigration laws evisa.gov.kh.
Temporary residence registration is mandatory within 24 hours, typically handled by hotels or hosts travel.state.gov.
Overstay penalties: $10/day (40,000 KHR/day); potential exit bans or deportation travel.state.gov.
Airports (7): Major entry points include Phnom Penh International Airport, Siem Reap International Airport, and Sihanoukville; immigration open 24/7; e-visa and visa on arrival accepted tourismcambodia.com.
Land Borders (6): Popular checkpoints include Poipet (Thailand, near Aranyaprathet), Bavet (Vietnam, near Moc Bai), and Koh Kong (Thailand, near Hat Lek). Open 7:00 AM–7:00 PM; e-visa and visa on arrival accepted; expect queues during peak seasons justsiemreap.com.
Seaports (3): Key ports include Sihanoukville; used for cruise travelers; e-visa and visa on arrival accepted tourismcambodia.com.
Requirements at Borders: Present a valid passport and printed e-visa (or obtain visa on arrival); carry one passport photo and $30 cash for visa on arrival; ensure details match passport to avoid delays evisa.gov.kh.
Cultural etiquette ensures a smooth border crossing and travel experience during Cambodia Tours. Here’s your guide, based on current norms:
Greetings: Offer a “sua sdei” (hello) with a slight bow or sampeah (palms pressed together) to immigration officers or locals; use both hands for transactions at border checkpoints or markets culturetrip.com.
Dress: Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees, especially for temple visits like Angkor Wat or the Royal Palace; carry a lightweight scarf ($3 or 12,000 KHR) justsiemreap.com.
Behaviour: Maintain a calm demeanor at border checkpoints; avoid loud behavior or disputes; ask permission before photographing monks or locals; carry passport or e-visa securely to verify status. Avoid public criticism of the Cambodian monarchy (penalties apply). A guest from Bulgaria shared: “Respecting Khmer customs eased our border crossing and trip.” culturetrip.com
Customs: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated ($0.50–$2 or 2,000–8,000 KHR); avoid littering at cultural sites like Angkor Wat; complete residence registration within 24 hours (handled by hotels) travel.state.gov.
Tip: Say “arkun” (thank you) to officers or guides; use eco-friendly practices like reusable water bottles ($4 or 16,000 KHR) to support sustainable Cambodia Travel; keep passport handy for checks. Tony Bùi notes: “In 20 years guiding, I’ve seen respectful travelers thrive at Cambodia’s borders and cultural sites.”
General Tips:
Language: Carry a phrase card ($2 or 8,000 KHR) for Khmer basics like “arkun”; English is widely spoken at major borders and tourist areas culturetrip.com.
Respect: Follow border rules (no photography in immigration areas); respect local vendors with fair purchases in markets like Central Market.
Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for border areas like Poipet or cities like Phnom Penh; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy travel.state.gov.
Eco-Tip: Opt for bicycles ($2–$5 or 8,000–20,000 KHR/day) or tuk-tuks ($1–$3 or 4,000–12,000 KHR) after crossing to reduce emissions tourismcambodia.com.
Below is a curated list of tour options to enhance your visa-prepared journey after crossing into Cambodia, based on the latest data from tourismcambodia.com, evisa.gov.kh, justsiemreap.com, and tripadvisor.com. Confirm schedules and prices before booking.
Details: Explore Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, or Central Market independently after crossing at Poipet, Bavet, or Phnom Penh airport; suitable for travelers with valid visa on arrival or e-visa; low to moderate difficulty tourismcambodia.com.
Visa Tips: Obtain visa on arrival ($30) at borders or apply for e-visa ($36) in advance; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; register temporary residence at hotels evisa.gov.kh.
Schedule: Daily; Angkor Wat open 5:00 AM–5:30 PM (Angkor Pass $37–$72); Royal Palace open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM ($10); Central Market open 7:00 AM–6:00 PM (free).
Cost: Angkor Pass: $37–$72 (150,000–290,000 KHR); Royal Palace: $10 (40,000 KHR); transport (tuk-tuk: $1–$3 or 4,000–12,000 KHR; bicycle: $2–$5 or 8,000–20,000 KHR/day); local purchases: $0.50–$20 (2,000–80,000 KHR).
Location: Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Eco-Friendly Note: Use bicycles or walk to reduce emissions; avoid littering at cultural sites.
Tip: Apply for e-visa early; check evisa.gov.kh; a guest from Bulgaria noted: “Self-guided exploration was seamless after crossing at Poipet with an e-visa.”
Details: 1-day group tour visiting Angkor Wat and Wat Preah Prom Rath in Siem Reap after crossing at Siem Reap airport or Poipet; includes English-speaking guide, tuk-tuk transport from Siem Reap hotels, lunch, and entry fees; low difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use e-visa ($36) for faster processing; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; guides assist with residence registration travel.state.gov.
Schedule: Daily; departs 5:00 AM from Siem Reap hotels for Angkor Wat sunrise; returns by 3:00 PM.
Cost: $50–$60/person (200,000–240,000 KHR, includes Angkor Pass).
Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels in Siem Reap.
Eco-Friendly Note: Group transport with fuel-efficient vehicles minimizes impact; supports local communities.
Tip: Book via legendtravelgroup.com; a guest from Bulgaria noted: “Legend’s tour ensured visa compliance and cultural immersion after Siem Reap entry.”
Details: 1-day guided tour visiting Royal Palace, Central Market, and Wat Phnom in Phnom Penh after crossing at Phnom Penh airport or Bavet; includes English-speaking guide, tuk-tuk transport, lunch, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use visa on arrival ($30) or e-visa ($36); carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; confirm visa eligibility evisa.gov.kh.
Schedule: Daily; departs 8:00 AM from Phnom Penh hotels; returns by 4:00 PM.
Cost: $35–$50/person (140,000–200,000 KHR, includes entries).
Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels in Phnom Penh.
Eco-Friendly Note: Small groups and tuk-tuks reduce environmental impact; supports local communities.
Tip: Book via localvietnam.com (Cambodia partner sites); a guest from Bulgaria noted: “The combo tour was visa-ready and enriching after Bavet crossing.”
Details: 2–3 day tour combining Angkor Wat, Royal Palace, and Tonle Sap Lake after crossing at Poipet, Bavet, or Phnom Penh airport; includes English-speaking guide, transport, accommodation, meals, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use e-visa ($36) for multi-city travel; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; confirm temporary residence registration travel.state.gov.
Schedule: Daily; departs from Siem Reap or Phnom Penh hotels; returns after 2–3 days.
Cost: $100–$250/person (400,000–1,000,000 KHR, includes entries).
Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels or custom locations in Siem Reap or Phnom Penh.
Eco-Friendly Note: Uses eco-lodges and fuel-efficient transport; supports local communities.
Tip: Book Cambodia Tours via legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp (+84 825862222); a guest from Bulgaria noted: “The multi-day tour was a visa-smart cultural journey.”
Self-Guided Exploration: Flexible and cost-effective, ideal for Bulgarian tourists with visa on arrival or e-visas.
Group Cultural Tours: Affordable and guided, perfect for visa-compliant cultural insights.
Combo Cultural and Market Tours: Blend cultural visits with market experiences for a comprehensive journey.
Multi-Day Cultural and Adventure Tours: Offer in-depth exploration with visa-smart itineraries.
Eco-Friendly Note: Group and multi-day tours use fuel-efficient transport or bicycles, supporting Cambodia’s green tourism goals.
Key visa-prepared travel opportunities include:
Khmer New Year: Typically April, vibrant with temple ceremonies and street celebrations; warm (25–35°C); check dates at tourismcambodia.com.
Pchum Ben: Typically September–October, spiritual with temple offerings; rainy (24–32°C); check dates at tourismcambodia.com.
Cultural Site Visits: Cool season (November–February, 20–30°C) for comfortable weather; February for optimal conditions justsiemreap.com.
Cool season (November–February, 20–30°C) is ideal for border crossings and cultural visits. Hot season (March–May, 25–35°C) suits early morning outings. Wet season (June–October, 24–32°C) is best for budget travelers and indoor experiences; expect rain at land borders like Poipet. Morning crossings (7:00 AM–11:00 AM) avoid crowds and heat. Verify forecasts via accuweather.com.
Verify Visa Needs: Bulgarian tourists can use visa on arrival ($30) or apply for e-visas ($36) at evisa.gov.kh; embassy visas for specific needs ($30–$100); check eligibility evisa.gov.kh.
Border Crossing Tips: Choose major borders like Poipet (Thailand) or Bavet (Vietnam) for smoother immigration; cross early (7:00 AM) to avoid queues; carry a printed e-visa or $30 cash and one passport photo for visa on arrival; have proof of onward travel (recommended) tourismcambodia.com.
Documentation: Ensure passport validity (6+ months); carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; keep a photocopy of passport bio page separately travel.state.gov.
Residence Registration: Confirm hotels or hosts register your stay with local police within 24 hours; carry proof of registration travel.state.gov.
Eco-Tip: Use digital e-visa copies to reduce paper waste; opt for bicycles or tuk-tuks after crossing for sustainable travel.
Tip: Apply for e-visas 7–14 days early; double-check details to match passport; carry small KHR or USD notes for local purchases; check visa status at evisa.gov.kh. For embassy visas, contact the nearest Cambodian embassy (e.g., Sofia: +359 2 973 0078, Bangkok: +66 2 254 8455).
Pack for a comfortable, sustainable visit:
Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), printed e-visa ($36 or 144,000 KHR) or $30 USD and one passport photo (4x6 cm) for visa on arrival, passport photocopy, proof of onward travel (e.g., return flight or bus ticket), wallet ($5 or 20,000 KHR), tour bookings.
Clothing: Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for temple visits; lightweight scarf ($3 or 12,000 KHR); quick-dry clothing and raincoat ($5 or 20,000 KHR) for wet season; comfortable walking shoes ($15 or 60,000 KHR); hat ($5 or 20,000 KHR).
Essentials: Reusable water bottle ($4 or 16,000 KHR); snacks ($0.50–$2 or 2,000–8,000 KHR, e.g., amok); small backpack ($5 or 20,000 KHR); sunscreen ($3 or 12,000 KHR); insect repellent ($3 or 12,000 KHR).
Tech: Phone with translation apps (e.g., Google Translate); charger ($10–$15 or 40,000–60,000 KHR); local SIM ($3–$5 or 12,000–20,000 KHR); camera ($50 or 200,000 KHR) for photos.
Eco Items: Reusable tote ($3 or 12,000 KHR) for market purchases; phrase card ($2 or 8,000 KHR) with Khmer basics.
Extras: Small KHR or USD notes for donations or purchases; small first aid kit ($5 or 20,000 KHR); umbrella ($5 or 20,000 KHR) for wet season; money belt ($5 or 20,000 KHR) for valuables. Tip: Pack light (1 small bag, max 5 kg); reusable items support sustainability.
Visa and Travel Costs
Visa on Arrival: $30 (120,000 KHR) evisa.gov.kh.
E-Visa: $36 (144,000 KHR) evisa.gov.kh.
Embassy Visa: $30–$100 (120,000–400,000 KHR) travel.state.gov.
Visa Extension: $45 (180,000 KHR) for 30 days evisa.gov.kh.
Self-Guided Exploration: Angkor Pass: $37–$72 (150,000–290,000 KHR); Royal Palace: $10 (40,000 KHR); transport (tuk-tuk: $1–$3 or 4,000–12,000 KHR; bicycle: $2–$5 or 8,000–20,000 KHR/day).
Group Cultural Tours: $25–$40 (100,000–160,000 KHR, includes entries).
Combo Cultural and Market Tours: $35–$50 (140,000–200,000 KHR, includes entries).
Multi-Day Cultural and Adventure Tours: $100–$250 (400,000–1,000,000 KHR, includes entries). Safety-Related Costs
Money Belt: $5 (20,000 KHR).
Local SIM for Emergency Calls: $3–$5 (12,000–20,000 KHR).
Travel Insurance (Recommended): $20–$50 (80,000–200,000 KHR). Other Costs
Local Snacks (e.g., kuy teav, amok): $0.50–$2 (2,000–8,000 KHR).
Souvenirs (e.g., silk, crafts): $1–$20 (4,000–80,000 KHR).
Donations: $0.30–$1 (1,200–4,000 KHR). Total Daily Cost (Per Person)
Budget: $15–$40 (self-guided, snacks, transport, entry).
Mid-range: $40–$80 (group tour, purchases).
Luxury: $80–$120 (private tour, premium souvenirs). Tip: Budget $15–$120 for tours, visa costs, and transport; $0.50–$20 for purchases or add-ons; use e-visa to save time at borders.
Visa Tips: Apply for e-visa ($36) 7–14 days early at evisa.gov.kh for convenience or use visa on arrival ($30) at major borders; carry $30 USD and a passport photo for visa on arrival; double-check details to match passport evisa.gov.kh.
Border Crossing Tips: Choose major borders like Poipet or Bavet for smoother immigration; cross early (7:00 AM) to avoid queues; carry printed e-visa or $30 cash and photo for visa on arrival; have proof of onward travel (recommended) tourismcambodia.com.
Etiquette: Use “sua sdei”; dress modestly for temples; respect border and local customs; avoid littering at cultural sites.
Access: Choose self-guided exploration for flexibility, group tours for visa-compliant insights, or multi-day tours for immersion.
Schedules: Borders open 7:00 AM–7:00 PM (airports 24/7); cultural sites open 7:00 AM–6:00 PM; peak crowds in cool season (November–February); book early for festivals.
Sustainability: Use bicycles or tuk-tuks; carry reusable items; support local vendors with fair purchases.
Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for border areas or cities like Phnom Penh.
Weather: Cool season (Nov–Feb, 20–30°C) ideal; wet season (Jun–Oct, 24–32°C) requires rain gear; check forecasts via accuweather.com.
Safety Note: Secure valuables with a money belt ($5 or 20,000 KHR); beware of pickpocketing in markets; carry emergency numbers (Police: 117, Tourist Police: +855 97 760 2001).
Do Bulgarian tourists need a visa for Cambodia? Yes, Bulgarians require a visa on arrival ($30) or e-visa ($36) for 30 days evisa.gov.kh.
Which borders accept visas for Bulgarians? All 7 airports (e.g., Phnom Penh, Siem Reap), 6 land borders (e.g., Poipet, Bavet), and 3 seaports accept visas on arrival and e-visas tourismcambodia.com.
How much does a Cambodia visa cost for Bulgarians? Visa on arrival: $30 (120,000 KHR); e-visa: $36 (144,000 KHR); embassy visa: $30–$100 (120,000–400,000 KHR) evisa.gov.kh.
Can visas be extended? Yes, extendable once for 30 days ($45 or 180,000 KHR) at Phnom Penh’s Immigration Department evisa.gov.kh.
What are the penalties for overstaying? Fines of $10/day (40,000 KHR/day); potential exit bans or deportation travel.state.gov.
Is visa on arrival reliable for Bulgarians? Yes, available at major entry points; carry $30 USD and a passport photo for smoother processing tourismcambodia.com.
Enhance your visa-prepared Cambodia journey with eco-conscious tours from Legend Travel Group:
Cambodia Cultural Eco-Tour ($40–$80/person, 1 day): Guided temple and market tour with sustainable practices.
Cambodia Heritage Trail ($100–$200/person, 2 days): Explore cultural sites with low-emission transport.
Cambodia Explorer ($200–$350/person, 3 days): Multi-site adventure with eco-lodges and community-focused activities. Prices include guides, transport, and entry fees; group discounts available. Explore options at legendtravelgroup.com or contact sales@legendtravelgroup.com / WhatsApp (+84825862222) for your Cambodia Travel plans.
Mastering Cambodia Visa for Bulgarian Tourists with cultural etiquette—modest attire, polite greetings like “sua sdei,” and visa-smart planning—unlocks a vibrant, eco-friendly journey through Cambodia’s cultural treasures. With tour costs from $15–$80, sustainable Cambodia Tours, and attractions like Angkor Wat and the Royal Palace, this trip offers adventure and sustainability for Bulgarian travelers. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Cambodia Travel, apply for e-visas early via evisa.gov.kh or prepare $30 and a photo for visa on arrival, and respect local customs for the best experience. Safe travels!
Sources:
tourismcambodia.com
evisa.gov.kh
travel.state.gov
culturetrip.com
justsiemreap.com
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