Plan your Cambodia adventure as a Latvian traveler 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!
Koh Rong Beach and Blue Water, Cambodia (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 nomadicmatt.com. Information based on the latest data; verify before travel. Reflects Cambodia’s updated travel regulations.
Latvian travelers can enter Cambodia using a visa on arrival ($30), an e-visa ($36), or an embassy visa ($30–$60) for tourism, business, or leisure. This guide details visa requirements, border crossing procedures, and travel tips for a seamless journey into Cambodia by air, land, or sea, with a focus on cultural sites like Angkor Wat and Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace.
Cambodia, a Southeast Asian gem, captivates with its ancient temples like Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, vibrant markets like Psar Thmei in Phnom Penh, and serene riverside communities along the Mekong tourismcambodia.com. For Latvian travelers, understanding visa requirements ensures smooth entry, whether joining guided Cambodia Tours or exploring independently. Latvia is not among Cambodia’s visa-exempt countries, so Latvians require a visa on arrival, e-visa, or embassy visa, valid at 9 international airports, 7 land borders, and 7 seaports evisa.gov.kh. This guide provides practical visa insights, border crossing tips, cultural etiquette, and eco-friendly Cambodia Travel options for Latvian 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.
Latvian travelers require a visa for Cambodia (visa on arrival $30; e-visa $36; embassy visa $30–$60). 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 Royal Palace entry costs $10 (40,000 KHR). Guided tours range from $15–$80 (60,000–320,000 KHR). Temporary residence registration with local police is required 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:
Purpose: Tourism or business for short stays.
Eligibility: Available to Latvian citizens 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 nomadicmatt.com.
Requirements: Passport valid for at least 6 months from entry date with two blank pages; one passport photo (4x6 cm, white background); 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 International Airport, Poipet land border).
Complete the visa on arrival form provided at the border.
Submit the form, passport, photo, and $30 fee at the immigration counter.
Receive the visa stamp after processing (5–15 minutes, depending on queue) nomadicmatt.com.
Extension: Extendable for an additional 30 days ($30–$45 or 120,000–180,000 KHR) at the Immigration Department in Phnom Penh tourismcambodia.com.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 9 airports (e.g., Phnom Penh, Siem Reap), 7 land borders (e.g., Poipet, Bavet), and 7 seaports (e.g., Sihanoukville) evisa.gov.kh.
E-Visa:
Purpose: Tourism or business for short stays, preferred for pre-arranged entry.
Eligibility: Available to Latvian citizens evisa.gov.kh.
Duration: 30 days (single entry) evisa.gov.kh.
Cost: $36 (144,000 KHR), including $30 visa fee and $6 processing fee; non-refundable evisa.gov.kh.
Application Process:
Visit evisa.gov.kh, select English, and click “Apply now.”
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 Bavet), and temporary address in Cambodia (e.g., hotel address).
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 via credit/debit card (American Express not accepted); 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) nomadicmatt.com.
Extension: Extendable for an additional 30 days ($30–$45 or 120,000–180,000 KHR) at the Immigration Department in Phnom Penh tourismcambodia.com.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 9 airports, 7 land borders (e.g., Poipet, Bavet), and 7 seaports evisa.gov.kh.
Embassy/Consulate Visa:
Purpose: Tourism, business, work, or study for those preferring traditional applications or needing longer stays.
Eligibility: Available to Latvian citizens travel.state.gov.
Duration: Typically 30–90 days (single or multiple entry); longer for work/study visas travel.state.gov.
Cost: $30–$60 (120,000–240,000 KHR), depending on visa type and processing time travel.state.gov.
Requirements: Passport, application form, two passport photos (4x6 cm), and fees; apply in person or by mail at a Cambodian embassy (e.g., in Warsaw, Poland: +48 22 696 09 00, or other nearby embassies like Berlin or Moscow) travel.state.gov.
Extension: Extendable for 1–12 months with a sponsor; fees vary ($30–$155 or 120,000–620,000 KHR) tourismcambodia.com.
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 detention travel.state.gov.
Airports (9): Major entry points include Phnom Penh International Airport, Siem Reap International Airport, and Sihanoukville; immigration open 24/7 tourismcambodia.com.
Land Borders (7): Popular checkpoints include Poipet (Thailand, near Aranyaprathet), Bavet (Vietnam, near Moc Bai), and Koh Kong (Thailand, near Trat). Open 7:00 AM–8:00 PM; expect queues during peak seasons nomadicmatt.com.
Seaports (7): Key ports include Sihanoukville and Kep; used for cruise travelers tourismcambodia.com.
Requirements at Borders: Present a valid passport and printed e-visa (if applicable) or apply 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 after crossing (e.g., Angkor Wat in Siem Reap); carry a lightweight scarf ($3 or 12,000 KHR) tourismcambodia.com.
Behaviour: Maintain a calm demeanor at border checkpoints; avoid loud behavior or disputes; ask permission before photographing locals or rituals; carry passport or e-visa securely to verify status. Avoid public criticism of the Cambodian monarchy (penalties apply). A guest from Latvia 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 or Royal Palace; 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.
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/day or 8,000–20,000 KHR) 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, nomadicmatt.com, and tripadvisor.com. Confirm schedules and prices before booking.
Details: Explore Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, or Sihanoukville’s beaches independently after crossing at Poipet, Bavet, or Phnom Penh International Airport; suitable for travelers with valid visas; low to moderate difficulty tourismcambodia.com.
Visa Tips: Use visa on arrival ($30) or e-visa ($36); 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 ($37–$72 or 150,000–290,000 KHR); Royal Palace open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM ($10 or 40,000 KHR); Sihanoukville beaches accessible anytime.
Cost: Entry: free (markets); 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/day or 8,000–20,000 KHR); local purchases: $0.50–$20 (2,000–80,000 KHR).
Location: Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, Cambodia.
Eco-Friendly Note: Use bicycles or walk to reduce emissions; avoid littering at cultural sites.
Tip: Apply for e-visas early; check evisa.gov.kh; a Latvian guest 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 International Airport or Poipet; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Siem Reap hotels, lunch, and Angkor Pass; low difficulty.
Visa Tips: Ensure valid visa on arrival or e-visa; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; guides assist with residence registration travel.state.gov.
Schedule: Daily; departs 4:30 AM from Siem Reap hotels for Angkor Wat sunrise; returns by 4:00 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 Latvian guest noted: “Legend’s tour ensured visa compliance and cultural immersion after crossing.”
Details: 1-day guided tour visiting Royal Palace and Central Market in Phnom Penh after crossing at Phnom Penh International Airport or Bavet; includes English-speaking guide, tuk-tuk transport, lunch, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use visa on arrival or e-visa; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; confirm visa validity evisa.gov.kh.
Schedule: Daily; departs 7:30 AM from Phnom Penh hotels; returns by 4:00 PM.
Cost: $35–$50/person (140,000–200,000 KHR, includes entry).
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; a Latvian guest noted: “The combo tour was visa-ready and enriching after crossing at Bavet.”
Details: 2–3 day tour combining Angkor Wat (Siem Reap), Royal Palace (Phnom Penh), and Sihanoukville beaches after crossing at Poipet, Bavet, or Phnom Penh International Airport; includes English-speaking guide, transport, accommodation, meals, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use an e-visa 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 Latvian guest noted: “The multi-day tour was a visa-smart cultural journey.”
Group Cultural Tours: Affordable and guided, perfect for visa-compliant cultural insights.
Combo Cultural and Adventure Tours: Blend cultural visits with eco-friendly activities 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.
Year-Round Opportunities: Cool season (November–February, 20–30°C) is best for cultural visits; wet season (June–October) suits budget travelers and indoor experiences. 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: Apply for e-visas at evisa.gov.kh or obtain visa on arrival ($30) at major borders; use embassy visas for longer stays travel.state.gov.
Border Crossing Tips: Choose major borders like Poipet (Thailand) or Bavet (Vietnam) for smoother immigration; cross early (7:00 AM) to avoid queues; carry printed e-visa or passport photocopy; have USD for visa on arrival nomadicmatt.com.
Documentation: Ensure passport validity (6+ months); carry a digital or printed e-visa copy or passport photocopy; provide proof of onward travel (recommended) 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 notes for local purchases; check visa status at evisa.gov.kh. For embassy visas, contact the nearest Cambodian embassy (e.g., Warsaw: +48 22 696 09 00).
Pack for a comfortable, sustainable visit:
Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), printed e-visa ($36 or 144,000 KHR) or visa on arrival funds ($30 or 120,000 KHR), 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 purchases; phrase card ($2 or 8,000 KHR) with Khmer basics.
Extras: Small KHR 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 Costs: $30 (120,000 KHR); extension: $30–$45 (120,000–180,000 KHR) tourismcambodia.com.
E-Visa Costs: $36 (144,000 KHR); expedited processing: $10–$30 (40,000–120,000 KHR) evisa.gov.kh.
Embassy Visa Costs: $30–$60 (120,000–240,000 KHR), depending on visa type travel.state.gov.
Self-Guided Exploration: Entry: free (markets); 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/day or 8,000–20,000 KHR).
Group Cultural Tours: $25–$40 (100,000–160,000 KHR, includes entries).
Combo Cultural and Adventure 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., amok, kuy teav): $0.50–$2 (2,000–8,000 KHR).
Souvenirs (e.g., silk, carvings): $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-visas for convenience.
Visa Tips: Apply for e-visas at evisa.gov.kh or obtain visa on arrival ($30) at major borders; use embassy visas for longer stays; 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 crowds; carry printed e-visa or USD for visa on arrival; have proof of onward travel (recommended) nomadicmatt.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–8:00 PM; 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).
Which borders accept visas for Latvians? All 9 airports, 7 land borders (e.g., Poipet, Bavet), and 7 seaports accept visas on arrival and e-visas evisa.gov.kh.
How much does a Cambodia visa cost for Latvians? Visa on arrival: $30; e-visa: $36; embassy visa: $30–$60 tourismcambodia.com.
Can visas be extended? Yes, extendable for 30 days ($30–$45) at the Immigration Department in Phnom Penh tourismcambodia.com.
What are the penalties for overstaying? Fines of $10/day (40,000 KHR/day); potential exit bans or detention travel.state.gov.
Where do I apply for an e-visa? Apply online at evisa.gov.kh; processing takes 3–5 days evisa.gov.kh.
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 Cultural and Adventure Trail ($100–$200/person, 2 days): Explore cultural sites and eco-friendly activities.
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 Latvians 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–$250, sustainable Cambodia Tours, and attractions like Angkor Wat and the Royal Palace, this trip offers adventure and sustainability for Latvian travelers. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Cambodia Travel, apply for e-visas early via evisa.gov.kh or use visa on arrival, and respect local customs for the best experience. Safe travels!
Sources:
tourismcambodia.com
evisa.gov.kh
travel.state.gov
culturetrip.com
nomadicmatt.com
Favorite experiences booked by travelers
