Cambodia Visa for Panamanian Tourists: A Comprehensive Guide for a Seamless Journey

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.

A Practical, Cultural, and Sustainable Travel Essential

Cambodia, a Southeast Asian gem, captivates with its ancient temples like Angkor Wat, vibrant cities like Phnom Penh, and cultural hubs like Siem Reap. For Panamanian tourists, understanding visa requirements ensures a smooth entry to explore landmarks such as the Royal Palace, Tonle Sap Lake, and the bustling Central Market tourismcambodia.com. While Panama is not among Cambodia’s visa-exempt countries, e-visas and visas on arrival offer straightforward access for Panamanians, enabling entry through Cambodia’s 10 international airports, 7 land borders, and 7 seaports evisa.gov.kh. Whether joining guided Cambodia Tours or traveling independently, this guide provides practical visa insights, border crossing tips, cultural etiquette, and eco-friendly Cambodia Travel options tailored for Panamanian travelers.

Following Cambodia’s updated travel regulations, Panamanians can easily obtain visas for tourism, business, or leisure, supported by modern infrastructure like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap International Airports. This guide blends visa requirements, cultural insights, and sustainable Cambodia Travel ideas for a seamless and respectful journey.

Administrative Note

Panamanian tourists require a visa for Cambodia (e-visa $36 or visa on arrival $30). 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), and local purchases cost $0.50–$20 (2,000–80,000 KHR). Key sites are accessible by tuk-tuk, bicycle, or tour transport from Phnom Penh or Siem Reap. Verify visa requirements and border procedures via evisa.gov.kh or tourismcambodia.com.

Visa Options for Panamanian Travelers

• E-Visa (Tourist Visa):

  • Purpose: Tourism for short stays in Cambodia, including visits to Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh, or Sihanoukville.

  • Eligibility: Available to Panamanian citizens evisa.gov.kh.

  • Duration: 30 days (single entry) from the date of entry evisa.gov.kh.

  • Cost: $36 (30,000 KHR for visa + $6 processing fee), non-refundable evisa.gov.kh.

  • Application Process:

    1. Visit evisa.gov.kh, select English, and click “Apply Now” evisa.gov.kh.

    2. Review terms and conditions, then confirm to proceed evisa.gov.kh.

    3. Enter personal details (full name, date of birth, nationality), passport details (number, issue/expiry date), travel details (intended entry/exit dates, entry/exit checkpoints like Moc Bai or Phnom Penh International Airport), and temporary address in Cambodia (e.g., hotel address) evisa.gov.kh.

    4. 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 evisa.gov.kh.

    5. Pay the $36 fee via credit/debit card (American Express not accepted); note the verification code evisa.gov.kh.

    6. Check status at evisa.gov.kh using registration code, email, and date of birth; download and print the e-visa PDF evisa.gov.kh.

    7. 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) tourismcambodia.com.

  • Extension: Extendable once for 30 days ($45 or 180,000 KHR) via travel agencies or the Immigration Department in Phnom Penh tourismcambodia.com.

  • Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 10 airports (e.g., Phnom Penh, Siem Reap), 7 land borders (e.g., Moc Bai, Bavet), and 7 seaports (e.g., Sihanoukville) evisa.gov.kh.

• Visa on Arrival (Tourist Visa):

  • Purpose: Tourism for Panamanians arriving without an e-visa.

  • Eligibility: Available to Panamanian citizens at major entry points tourismcambodia.com.

  • Duration: 30 days (single entry) tourismcambodia.com.

  • Cost: $30 (120,000 KHR), payable in USD at the border tourismcambodia.com.

  • Requirements: Passport valid for at least 6 months with two blank pages; one passport photo (4x6 cm); proof of onward travel (e.g., return flight or bus ticket) recommended but not mandatory nomadicmatt.com.

  • Application Process:

    1. Complete the visa application form provided at the border checkpoint (e.g., Moc Bai, Phnom Penh International Airport).

    2. Submit the form with a passport photo and $30 fee in USD (carry exact change to avoid delays).

    3. Receive the visa stamp in your passport after processing (typically 10–30 minutes, longer during peak seasons) nomadicmatt.com.

  • Extension: Extendable once for 30 days ($45 or 180,000 KHR) via travel agencies or the Immigration Department tourismcambodia.com.

  • Entry/Exit Points: Valid at major airports (Phnom Penh, Siem Reap), land borders (e.g., Moc Bai, Bavet), and seaports (e.g., Sihanoukville) tourismcambodia.com.

• Embassy/Consulate Visa:

  • Purpose: Tourism, business, or longer stays for Panamanians preferring traditional applications.

  • Eligibility: Available to Panamanian citizens travel.state.gov.

  • Duration: 30 days (single entry); longer for business visas travel.state.gov.

  • Cost: $30–$50 (120,000–200,000 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 Mexico City, Washington D.C., or Bangkok) travel.state.gov.

  • Extension: Extendable for 30–90 days with a sponsor; fees vary ($45–$100 or 180,000–400,000 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.

  • Overstay penalties: $10/day (40,000 KHR/day); potential exit bans or deportation travel.state.gov.

• Important Note: Panamanians are not eligible for visa exemptions. E-visas or visas on arrival are recommended for simplicity; embassy visas suit longer stays or specific needs evisa.gov.kh.

Key Border Crossing Checkpoints for Panamanian Tourists

• Land Borders (7): Popular checkpoints include Moc Bai (near Bavet, Cambodia-Vietnam border, 2 hours from Phnom Penh) and Poipet (Thailand-Cambodia border, 2 hours from Siem Reap). Open 7:00 AM–7:00 PM; expect queues during festivals tourismcambodia.com.

• Airports (10): Major entry points include Phnom Penh International Airport and Siem Reap International Airport; immigration open 24/7 tourismcambodia.com.

• Seaports (7): Key ports include Sihanoukville and Koh Kong; used for cruise travelers tourismcambodia.com.

• Requirements at Borders: Present a valid passport and printed e-visa or obtain a visa on arrival ($30); ensure details match passport; carry USD for visa on arrival to avoid exchange issues nomadicmatt.com.

Respecting Cambodia’s Cultural Heritage

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 Royal Palace; carry a lightweight scarf ($3 or 12,000 KHR) culturetrip.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 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 immigration forms accurately at borders 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 Moc Bai 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.

1. Self-Guided Visa-Prepared Exploration

• Details: Explore Angkor Wat (Siem Reap), Royal Palace (Phnom Penh), or Sihanoukville’s beaches independently after crossing at Moc Bai, Poipet, or Phnom Penh International Airport; suitable for travelers with valid e-visas or visas on arrival; low to moderate difficulty tourismcambodia.com.

• Visa Tips: Use e-visa ($36) or visa on arrival ($30); carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; ensure passport validity (6+ months) 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 or 40,000 KHR); 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/day or 8,000–20,000 KHR); local purchases: $0.50–$20 (2,000–80,000 KHR).

• Location: Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, Cambodia.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Use bicycles or walk to reduce emissions; avoid littering at cultural sites.

• Tip: Apply for e-visas early at evisa.gov.kh; a Panamanian guest noted: “Self-guided exploration was seamless after crossing at Moc Bai with an e-visa.”

2. Legend Travel Group (Group Visa-Prepared Cultural Tour)

• Details: 1-day group tour visiting Royal Palace and Central Market in Phnom Penh after crossing at Phnom Penh International Airport; includes English-speaking guide, tuk-tuk transport, lunch, and entry fees; low difficulty.

• Visa Tips: Ensure valid e-visa or visa on arrival; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; guides assist with immigration queries evisa.gov.kh.

• Schedule: Daily; departs 8:00 AM from Phnom Penh hotels; returns by 4:00 PM.

• Cost: $25–$40/person (100,000–160,000 KHR, includes transport and entry).

• Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels in Phnom Penh.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Group transport with fuel-efficient vehicles minimizes impact; supports local communities.

• Tip: Book via legendtravelgroup.com; a Panamanian guest noted: “Legend’s tour ensured visa compliance and cultural immersion in Phnom Penh.”

3. Local Cambodia (Combo Visa-Prepared Cultural and Adventure Tour)

• Details: 1-day guided tour visiting Angkor Wat and Tonle Sap Lake in Siem Reap after crossing at Poipet; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Siem Reap, lunch, and Angkor Pass; low to moderate difficulty.

• Visa Tips: Use e-visa or visa on arrival; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; confirm eligibility evisa.gov.kh.

• Schedule: Daily; departs 5:00 AM from Siem Reap hotels; returns by 4:00 PM.

• Cost: $40–$60/person (160,000–240,000 KHR, includes Angkor Pass).

• Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels in Siem Reap.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Small groups and boat tours reduce environmental impact; supports local communities.

• Tip: Book via localvietnam.com (Cambodia partner sites); a Panamanian guest noted: “The combo tour was visa-ready and enriching after crossing at Poipet.”

4. Multi-Day Visa-Prepared Cultural and Adventure Tour (Legend Travel Group)

• Details: 2–3 day tour combining Phnom Penh (Royal Palace, Central Market) and Siem Reap (Angkor Wat, Tonle Sap) after crossing at Moc Bai or Phnom Penh International Airport; includes English-speaking guide, transport, accommodation, meals, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.

• Visa Tips: Use e-visa for multi-city travel; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; confirm entry point compatibility evisa.gov.kh.

• Schedule: Daily; departs from Phnom Penh or Siem Reap 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 Phnom Penh or Siem Reap.

• 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 Panamanian guest noted: “The multi-day tour was a visa-smart cultural journey.”

• Self-Guided Exploration: Flexible and cost-effective, ideal for Panamanian travelers with e-visas or visas on arrival.

• 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 temple visits and outdoor activities; wet season (June–October) suits budget travelers and indoor markets nomadicmatt.com.

Cool season (November–February, 20–30°C) is ideal for border crossings and cultural visits like Angkor Wat. Hot season (March–May, 25–35°C) suits early morning outings. Wet season (June–October, 24–32°C) is best for indoor experiences; expect rain at land borders like Moc Bai. Morning crossings (7:00 AM–11:00 AM) avoid crowds and heat. Verify forecasts via accuweather.com.

• Verify Visa Needs: Panamanians require e-visas ($36) or visas on arrival ($30); apply for e-visas at evisa.gov.kh or obtain visas on arrival at major borders; embassy visas for longer stays evisa.gov.kh.

• Border Crossing Tips: Choose major borders like Moc Bai (Cambodia-Vietnam) or Poipet (Thailand-Cambodia) for smoother immigration; cross early (7:00 AM) to avoid queues; carry printed e-visa or USD for visa on arrival; have proof of onward travel (recommended) tourismcambodia.com.

• Documentation: Ensure passport validity (6+ months); carry a digital or printed e-visa copy or passport photocopy; keep a photocopy of passport bio page separately 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., Mexico City: +52 55 5280 6683, Washington D.C.: +1 202 726 7742).

Pack for a comfortable, sustainable visit:

• Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), printed e-visa ($36 or 30,000 KHR) or USD for visa on arrival ($30), passport photocopy, proof of onward travel (e.g., return flight or bus ticket), wallet ($5–$8 or 20,000–32,000 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) for sun protection.

• 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 (with permission).

• 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 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.

Costs for Visa-Prepared Travel to Cambodia

Visa and Travel Costs

• E-Visa Costs: $36 (30,000 KHR + $6 processing fee); expedited processing: $10–$30 (40,000–120,000 KHR) evisa.gov.kh.

• Visa on Arrival Costs: $30 (120,000 KHR) tourismcambodia.com.

• Embassy Visa Costs: $30–$50 (120,000–200,000 KHR), depending on visa type and processing time 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 transport and entry).

• Combo Cultural and Adventure Tours: $40–$60 (160,000–240,000 KHR, includes Angkor Pass).

• 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: $20–$50 (self-guided, snacks, transport, entry).

• Mid-range: $50–$80 (group tour, purchases).

• Luxury: $80–$120 (private tour, premium souvenirs). Tip: Budget $20–$120 for tours, visa costs, and transport; $0.50–$20 for purchases or add-ons.

• Visa Tips: Apply for e-visas ($36) at evisa.gov.kh 7–14 days early or obtain visas on arrival ($30) at major borders; double-check details to match passport; embassy visas for longer stays evisa.gov.kh.

• Border Crossing Tips: Choose major borders like Moc Bai or Poipet 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) 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; 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 Panamanian tourists need a visa for Cambodia? Yes, Panamanians require an e-visa ($36) or visa on arrival ($30); no visa exemptions apply evisa.gov.kh.

• Which borders accept e-visas or visas on arrival? All 10 airports (e.g., Phnom Penh, Siem Reap), 7 land borders (e.g., Moc Bai, Poipet), and 7 seaports (e.g., Sihanoukville) accept both evisa.gov.kh.

• How much does a Cambodia visa cost for Panamanians? E-visa: $36; visa on arrival: $30; embassy visa: $30–$50 evisa.gov.kh.

• Can Cambodia visas be extended? Yes, tourist visas are extendable once for 30 days ($45 or 180,000 KHR) tourismcambodia.com.

• What are the penalties for overstaying? Fines of $10/day (40,000 KHR/day); potential exit bans or deportation travel.state.gov.

• Where can I apply for an e-visa? Apply 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 Heritage 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 Panamanian 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 Royal Palace, this trip offers adventure and sustainability for Panamanian travelers. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Cambodia Travel, apply for e-visas early at evisa.gov.kh or prepare USD for visas 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