Cambodia Visa for South Africans: A Comprehensive Travel Guide for 2026-2027

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, visaforsouthafricans.com, and lonelyplanet.com. Information based on the latest data; verify before travel. Reflects Cambodia’s updated travel regulations.

South African travelers, please note: The Visa on Arrival (VOA) program was discontinued in 2022. South African citizens can use the e-visa online via evisa.gov.kh or obtain a visa through a Cambodian embassy for border crossings. This guide details visa requirements, application processes, and travel tips for a smooth entry into Cambodia by land, air, or sea.

A Practical, Cultural, and Sustainable Travel Essential

Cambodia, a captivating Southeast Asian gem, is renowned for its ancient temples like Angkor Wat, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks like the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh and the bustling streets of Siem Reap lonelyplanet.com. Understanding visa requirements for South Africans ensures smooth entry for travelers from South Africa, whether joining guided Cambodia Tours or exploring independently. South Africans require a visa for Cambodia, but the e-visa process is straightforward, allowing entry through Cambodia’s 11 airports, 10 land borders, and 4 seaports tourismcambodia.com. This guide provides practical visa insights, border crossing tips, cultural etiquette, and eco-friendly Cambodia Travel options for South African travelers.

Following Cambodia’s updated travel regulations, the country is accessible via multiple border checkpoints, including popular land borders like Bavet (Vietnam) and Poipet (Thailand). This guide blends visa requirements, border crossing procedures, and sustainable Cambodia Travel ideas for a worry-free adventure.

Administrative Note

South African citizens require a visa for Cambodia; e-visa ($36 or 145,000 KHR) or embassy visa ($30–$50) is recommended. 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); 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 travel.state.gov.

Visa Options for South African Citizens

• E-Visa (Recommended for Tourism):

  • Purpose: Tourism, business, or leisure for short stays.

  • Eligibility: Available to South African citizens evisa.gov.kh.

  • Duration: Up to 30 days (single entry) evisa.gov.kh.

  • Cost: $36 (145,000 KHR) 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 Phnom Penh International Airport or Poipet land border), and temporary address in Cambodia (e.g., hotel address) tourismcambodia.com.

    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 fee ($36) via credit/debit card (American Express not accepted); note the verification code tourismcambodia.com.

    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 travel.state.gov.

  • Processing Time: 3–7 working days; expedited processing (1–2 days) available through agencies for additional fees ($5–$15 or 20,000–60,000 KHR) tourismcambodia.com.

  • Extension: Non-extendable; requires exit and re-entry with a new e-visa (visa run) tourismcambodia.com.

  • Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 11 airports (e.g., Phnom Penh International, Siem Reap International), 10 land borders (e.g., Bavet with Vietnam, Poipet with Thailand), and 4 seaports (e.g., Sihanoukville) tourismcambodia.com.

• Embassy/Consulate Visa (For Longer Stays or Specific Needs):

  • Purpose: Tourism, business, work, or study for those preferring traditional applications or needing longer stays.

  • Eligibility: Available to South African citizens travel.state.gov.

  • Duration: Typically 30–90 days (single or multiple entry); longer for work/study visas travel.state.gov.

  • Cost: $30–$50 (120,000–200,000 KHR) 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 Pretoria: +27 12 342 5790, or Bangkok: +66 2 254 6630) travel.state.gov.

  • Extension: Extendable for 1–3 months with a sponsor; fees apply ($5–$15 or 20,000–60,000 KHR) tourismcambodia.com.

  • Entry/Exit Points: Valid at all Cambodian airports, land borders, and seaports tourismcambodia.com.

• Visa Exemption for South Africans:

  • Purpose: None available; South Africans must obtain a visa evisa.gov.kh.

  • Note: South Africans do not qualify for visa exemptions; e-visa or embassy visa is required 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: 10,000 KHR/day ($2.50/day); potential exit bans or deportation travel.state.gov.

• Important Note: The Visa on Arrival program was discontinued in 2022. South African travelers must use e-visas or embassy visas for border crossings tourismcambodia.com.

Key Border Crossing Checkpoints for South Africans

• Land Borders (10): Popular checkpoints include Bavet (Vietnam, near Moc Bai), Poipet (Thailand), and O’Smach (Thailand). Open 7:00 AM–7:00 PM (some 24/7); expect immigration queues during peak seasons tourismcambodia.com.

• Airports (11): Major entry points include Phnom Penh International and Siem Reap International; immigration open 24/7 tourismcambodia.com.

• Seaports (4): Key ports include Sihanoukville and Koh Kong; used for cruise travelers tourismcambodia.com.

• Requirements at Borders: Present a valid passport and printed e-visa; ensure details match exactly to avoid delays; have proof of onward travel (recommended) travel.state.gov.

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 nod 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); carry a lightweight scarf ($1 or 4,000 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 government (penalties apply). A guest shared: “Respecting Cambodian customs eased our border crossing and trip.” culturetrip.com

• Customs: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated ($0.20–$1 or 800–4,000 KHR); avoid littering at cultural sites like the Royal Palace or 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 ($1 or 4,000 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 ($1 or 4,000 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 Bavet or cities like Phnom Penh; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy travel.state.gov.

• Eco-Tip: Opt for bicycles ($1–$2 or 4,000–8,000 KHR/day) or motorbike taxis ($0.50–$1 or 2,000–4,000 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, travel.state.gov, and lonelyplanet.com. Confirm schedules and prices before booking.

1. Self-Guided Visa-Prepared Exploration

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

• Visa Tips: Use e-visa ($36 or 145,000 KHR); carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; register temporary residence at hotels evisa.gov.kh.

• Schedule: Daily; Royal Palace open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM ($10 or 40,000 KHR); Angkor Wat open 5:00 AM–5:30 PM (Angkor Pass $37–$72); beaches accessible anytime.

• Cost: Entry: Royal Palace: $10 (40,000 KHR); Angkor Pass: $37–$72 (150,000–290,000 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: Confirm e-visa approval; check evisa.gov.kh; a guest from South Africa noted: “Self-guided exploration was seamless after Bavet crossing with 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; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; guides assist with residence registration travel.state.gov.

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

• Cost: $20–$30/person (80,000–120,000 KHR, includes 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 South African guest noted: “Legend’s tour was visa-compliant and enriching after arrival.”

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

• Details: 1-day guided tour visiting Angkor Wat in Siem Reap after crossing at Poipet; includes English-speaking guide, tuk-tuk transport, lunch, and Angkor Pass ($37); low to moderate difficulty.

• Visa Tips: Use a single-entry e-visa or embassy visa for multi-city travel; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; confirm eligibility tourismcambodia.com.

• Schedule: Daily; departs 5:00 AM from Siem Reap hotels for sunrise; returns by 3:00 PM.

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

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

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

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

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

• Details: 2–3 day tour combining Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace, Siem Reap’s Angkor Wat, and Sihanoukville’s beaches after crossing at Phnom Penh or Poipet; includes English-speaking guide, transport, accommodation, meals, and Angkor Pass ($62); low to moderate difficulty.

• Visa Tips: Use a multiple-entry 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 Phnom Penh hotels; returns after 2–3 days.

• Cost: $80–$150/person (320,000–600,000 KHR, includes pass and entries).

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

• Eco-Friendly Note: Uses eco-lodges and fuel-efficient transport; supports local communities.

• Tip: Book Cambodia Tours via legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp (+855 23 728 000); a guest noted: “The multi-day tour was a visa-smart cultural journey.”

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

• 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; warm and dry (25–35°C); check dates at tourismcambodia.com.

• Pchum Ben: Typically September–October, spiritual with temple offerings; warm and wet (24–31°C); check dates at tourismcambodia.com.

• Year-Round Opportunities: Dry season (November–April, 20–35°C) for comfortable border crossings; wet season (May–October, 24–32°C) has fewer crowds but rain risks lonelyplanet.com.

Dry season (November–April, 20–35°C) is ideal for border crossings and cultural visits. Hot period (March–May, 25–35°C) suits early morning outings. Wet season (May–October, 24–32°C) is best for budget travelers and indoor experiences; expect rain at land borders like Bavet. Morning crossings (7:00 AM–11:00 AM) avoid crowds and heat. Verify forecasts via weather.com.

• Verify Visa Needs: Apply for e-visas at evisa.gov.kh for South Africans; use embassy visas for non-exempt nationalities or specific needs; no exemptions for South Africans tourismcambodia.com.

• Border Crossing Tips: Choose major borders like Bavet or Poipet for smoother immigration; cross early (7:00 AM) to avoid queues; carry printed e-visa or passport photocopy; 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; provide proof of onward travel for exemptions 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 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., Pretoria: +27 12 342 5790, or Bangkok: +66 2 254 6630).

Pack for a comfortable, sustainable visit:

• Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), printed e-visa ($36 or 145,000 KHR), passport photocopy, proof of onward travel (e.g., return flight or bus ticket), wallet ($2 or 8,000 KHR), tour bookings.

• Clothing: Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for temple visits; lightweight scarf ($1 or 4,000 KHR); quick-dry clothing and raincoat ($2 or 8,000 KHR) for wet season; comfortable walking shoes ($3 or 12,000 KHR); hat ($2 or 8,000 KHR).

• Essentials: Reusable water bottle ($1 or 4,000 KHR); snacks ($0.20–$1 or 800–4,000 KHR, e.g., kuy teav); small backpack ($2 or 8,000 KHR); sunscreen ($1 or 4,000 KHR); insect repellent ($1 or 4,000 KHR).

• Tech: Phone with translation apps (e.g., Google Translate); charger ($3–$5 or 12,000–20,000 KHR); local SIM ($2–$3 or 8,000–12,000 KHR); camera ($6 or 24,000 KHR) for photos.

• Eco Items: Reusable tote ($1 or 4,000 KHR) for market purchases; phrase card ($1 or 4,000 KHR) with Khmer basics.

• Extras: Small KHR notes for donations or purchases; small first aid kit ($2 or 8,000 KHR); umbrella ($2 or 8,000 KHR) for wet season; money belt ($2 or 8,000 KHR) for valuables. Tip: Pack light (1 small bag, max 5 kg); reusable items support sustainability.

Costs for Visa-Prepared Border Crossing into Cambodia

Visa and Travel Costs

• E-Visa Costs: $36 (145,000 KHR); expedited processing: $5–$15 (20,000–60,000 KHR) evisa.gov.kh.

• Embassy Visa Costs: $30–$50 (120,000–200,000 KHR) travel.state.gov.

• Self-Guided Exploration: Entry: Royal Palace: $10 (40,000 KHR); Angkor Pass: $37–$72 (150,000–290,000 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: $20–$30 (80,000–120,000 KHR, includes entry).

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

• Multi-Day Cultural and Adventure Tours: $80–$150 (320,000–600,000 KHR, includes entries). Safety-Related Costs

• Money Belt: $2 (8,000 KHR).

• Local SIM for Emergency Calls: $2–$3 (8,000–12,000 KHR).

• Travel Insurance (Recommended): $5–$10 (20,000–40,000 KHR). Other Costs

• Local Snacks (e.g., kuy teav, amok): $0.20–$1 (800–4,000 KHR).

• Souvenirs (e.g., silk, crafts): $0.20–$10 (800–40,000 KHR).

• Donations: $0.20–$1 (800–4,000 KHR). Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $10–$30 (self-guided, snacks, transport, entry).

• Mid-range: $30–$60 (group tour, purchases).

• Luxury: $60–$100 (private tour, premium souvenirs). Tip: Budget $10–$100 for tours, visa costs (if applicable), and transport; $0.20–$10 for purchases or add-ons; use e-visa to save on embassy fees.

• Visa Tips: Apply for e-visas at evisa.gov.kh for South Africans; use embassy visas for specific needs; no exemptions for South Africans; double-check details to match passport tourismcambodia.com.

• Border Crossing Tips: Choose major borders like Bavet or Poipet for smoother immigration; cross early (7:00 AM) to avoid queues; carry printed e-visa or passport photocopy; 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 (some 24/7); cultural sites open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; peak crowds in dry season (November–April); 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: Dry season (Nov–Apr, 20–35°C) ideal; hot period (Mar–May, 25–35°C) suits early mornings; wet season (May–Oct, 24–32°C) requires rain gear; check forecasts via weather.com.

• Safety Note: Secure valuables with a money belt ($2 or 8,000 KHR); beware of pickpocketing in markets or nightlife areas; carry emergency numbers (Police: 117, Tourist Police: +855 97 760 2001).

• Do South Africans need a visa for Cambodia? Yes, e-visa or embassy visa required; no exemptions evisa.gov.kh.

• How much does a Cambodia visa cost for South Africans? E-visa: $36 (145,000 KHR); embassy visa: $30–$50 tourismcambodia.com.

• How long does it take to get a Cambodia e-visa? 3–7 working days; expedited: 1–2 days evisa.gov.kh.

• Can South Africans extend their visa in Cambodia? E-visas are non-extendable; embassy visas may be extendable with a sponsor tourismcambodia.com.

• What are the penalties for overstaying? Fines of 10,000 KHR/day ($2.50/day); potential exit bans or deportation travel.state.gov.

• Is Visa on Arrival available for South Africans? No, discontinued in 2022; use e-visa at evisa.gov.kh tourismcambodia.com.

Enhance your visa-prepared Cambodia journey with eco-conscious tours from Legend Travel Group:

• Cambodia Cultural Eco-Tour ($25–$40/person, 1 day): Guided temple and market tour with sustainable practices.

• Cambodia Cultural and Adventure Trail ($80–$150/person, 2 days): Explore cultural sites and eco-friendly activities.

• Cambodia Explorer ($150–$250/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 (+855 23 728 000) for your Cambodia Travel plans.

Mastering Cambodia Visa for South Africans with cultural etiquette—modest attire, polite greetings like “sua sdei,” and visa-smart planning—unlocks a vibrant, eco-friendly journey through this Southeast Asian gem. With tour costs from $15–$250, sustainable Cambodia Tours, and attractions like Angkor Wat and Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace, this trip offers adventure and sustainability for South African travelers. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Cambodia Travel, leverage e-visas early via evisa.gov.kh, and respect local customs for the best experience. Note that Visa on Arrival is no longer available; plan accordingly. Safe travels!

Sources:

• tourismcambodia.com

• evisa.gov.kh

• travel.state.gov

• lonelyplanet.com