Cambodia Visa for Surinamese: A Comprehensive Guide for Travelers

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.

Surinamese travelers, please note: Cambodia offers a Visa on Arrival (VOA) and e-visa options for Surinamese nationals, but there is no visa exemption for Suriname. This guide details visa requirements, application processes, border crossing procedures, and travel tips for a seamless journey into Cambodia by land, air, or sea, particularly for visiting cultural landmarks like Angkor Wat and Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace.

A Practical, Cultural, and Sustainable Travel Essential

Cambodia, a Southeast Asian gem, captivates with its rich Khmer heritage, from the majestic Angkor Wat in Siem Reap to the vibrant Royal Palace in Phnom Penh tourismcambodia.com. For Surinamese travelers, understanding visa requirements ensures smooth entry, whether joining guided Cambodia Tours or exploring independently. Surinamese nationals can obtain a Visa on Arrival ($30–$36) at major entry points or apply for an e-visa ($36) online for convenience evisa.gov.kh. Cambodia’s 13 international airports, 7 land borders, and 7 seaports facilitate entry, with popular checkpoints like Moc Bai (Vietnam) and Poipet (Thailand) nomadicmatt.com. This guide provides practical visa insights, border crossing tips, cultural etiquette, and eco-friendly Cambodia Travel options for Surinamese travelers.

Following Cambodia’s updated travel regulations, the country is accessible via multiple entry points, supported by modern infrastructure like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap International Airports. This guide blends visa requirements, border crossing procedures, and sustainable Cambodia Travel ideas for a worry-free adventure.

Administrative Note

Surinamese travelers require a visa for Cambodia (VOA $30–$36 or e-visa $36). 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). 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 Surinamese Travelers

• Visa on Arrival (VOA):

  • Purpose: Tourism or business for short stays.

  • Eligibility: Available to Surinamese nationals at major entry points evisa.gov.kh.

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

  • Cost: $30 (tourist) or $36 (business), payable in USD; carry exact change evisa.gov.kh.

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

  • Application Process:

    1. Arrive at a designated entry point (e.g., Phnom Penh or Siem Reap airports, Moc Bai or Poipet land borders).

    2. Complete the VOA application form provided at the counter.

    3. Submit passport, photo, and fee ($30–$36 in USD).

    4. Receive visa stamp within 10–30 minutes, depending on queue length evisa.gov.kh.

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

  • Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 13 airports (e.g., Phnom Penh, Siem Reap), 7 land borders (e.g., Moc Bai, Poipet), and 7 seaports (e.g., Sihanoukville) tourismcambodia.com.

• E-Visa:

  • Purpose: Tourism or business for stays up to 30 days.

  • Eligibility: Available to Surinamese nationals evisa.gov.kh.

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

  • Cost: $36 (includes processing fee), payable by credit/debit card (American Express not accepted) evisa.gov.kh.

  • Application Process:

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

    2. Review terms and conditions, then confirm to proceed.

    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 Poipet), and temporary address in Cambodia (e.g., hotel address).

    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.

    5. Pay the fee ($36) and note the verification code.

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

    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) evisa.gov.kh.

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

  • Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 13 airports (e.g., Phnom Penh, Siem Reap), 7 land borders (e.g., Moc Bai, Poipet), 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 Surinamese nationals travel.state.gov.

  • Duration: Typically 30–90 days (single or multiple entry); longer for work/study visas 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), and fees; apply in person or by mail at a Cambodian embassy (e.g., in Bangkok, Beijing, or Washington, D.C.) travel.state.gov.

  • Extension: Extendable for 1–12 months with a sponsor; fees vary ($45–$300 or 180,000–1,200,000 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 deportation travel.state.gov.

Key Border Crossing Checkpoints

• Land Borders (7): Popular checkpoints include Moc Bai (Vietnam, near Bavet), Poipet (Thailand, near Aranyaprathet), and Koh Kong (Thailand, near Hat Lek). Open 7:00 AM–8:00 PM; expect immigration queues during peak seasons tourismcambodia.com.

• Airports (13): Major entry points include Phnom Penh International Airport, Siem Reap International Airport, and Sihanoukville; immigration open 24/7 tourismcambodia.com.

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

• Requirements at Borders: Present a valid passport and printed e-visa (if used) or obtain VOA ($30–$36) with a passport photo; ensure details match passport to avoid delays evisa.gov.kh.

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 after crossing (e.g., Angkor Wat, Royal Palace); carry a lightweight scarf ($3 or 12,000 KHR) nomadicmatt.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 shared: “Respecting Khmer customs eased our border crossing and trip.” culturetrip.com

• Customs: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated ($0.30–$1 or 1,200–4,000 KHR); avoid littering at cultural sites like Angkor Wat or Wat Phnom; 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 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, travel.state.gov, and nomadicmatt.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 Airport; suitable for travelers with valid VOA or e-visas; low to moderate difficulty tourismcambodia.com.

• Visa Tips: Obtain VOA ($30–$36) at borders or e-visa ($36) online; 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 or 150,000–290,000 KHR); Royal Palace open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM ($10 or 40,000 KHR); Wat Phnom open 7:00 AM–6:00 PM ($1 or 4,000 KHR).

• 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 at evisa.gov.kh; a guest from Suriname 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 Angkor Wat and Wat Preah Prom Rath in Siem Reap after crossing at Poipet or Siem Reap Airport; includes English-speaking guide, tuk-tuk transport from Siem Reap hotels, lunch, and Angkor Pass; low difficulty.

• Visa Tips: Ensure valid VOA or e-visa; 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 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 Suriname noted: “Legend’s tour ensured visa compliance and cultural immersion after Poipet.”

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

• Details: 1-day guided tour visiting Royal Palace and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh after crossing at Moc Bai or Phnom Penh Airport; includes English-speaking guide, tuk-tuk transport, lunch, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.

• Visa Tips: Use VOA 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 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 Suriname noted: “The combo tour was visa-ready and enriching after crossing.”

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

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

• Visa Tips: Use 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 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 guest from Suriname noted: “The multi-day tour was a visa-smart cultural journey.”

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

• Group Cultural Tours: Affordable and guided, perfect for visa-compliant cultural insights.

• Combo Cultural and Historical Tours: Blend cultural visits with historical 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.

• Year-Round Opportunities: Cool season (November–February, 20–30°C) is best for comfortable weather; 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 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: Surinamese travelers require a VOA ($30–$36) or e-visa ($36); apply for e-visas at evisa.gov.kh or obtain VOA at borders; embassy visas for longer stays evisa.gov.kh.

• Border Crossing Tips: Choose major land borders like Moc Bai (Vietnam) or Poipet (Thailand) for smoother immigration; cross early (7:00 AM) to avoid queues; carry printed e-visa or passport photo for VOA; have USD for VOA fees tourismcambodia.com.

• Documentation: Ensure passport validity (6+ months); carry a digital or printed e-visa copy or passport photocopy; provide one passport photo for VOA; 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 notes for local purchases; check visa status at evisa.gov.kh. For embassy visas, contact the nearest Cambodian embassy (e.g., Bangkok: +66 2 957 5851, Washington, D.C.: +1 202 726 7742).

Pack for a comfortable, sustainable visit:

• Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), printed e-visa ($36 or 144,000 KHR if used), one passport photo (4x6 cm) for VOA ($30–$36), passport photocopy, 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.

Costs for Visa-Prepared Border Crossing into Cambodia

Visa and Travel Costs

• Visa on Arrival Costs: $30 (tourist) or $36 (business); extension: $45 (180,000 KHR) evisa.gov.kh.

• E-Visa Costs: $36 (144,000 KHR); expedited processing: $10–$30 (40,000–120,000 KHR) evisa.gov.kh.

• Embassy Visa Costs: $30–$100 (120,000–400,000 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 Historical 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, 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 to avoid VOA queues.

• Visa Tips: Apply for e-visas at evisa.gov.kh 7–14 days early or obtain VOA at borders; double-check details to match passport; use embassy visas for longer stays; carry USD for VOA 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 passport photo for VOA; have USD ready for VOA fees 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–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 or nightlife areas; carry emergency numbers (Police: 117, Tourist Police: +855 97 760 2001).

• Do Surinamese need a visa for Cambodia? Yes, Surinamese require a VOA ($30–$36) or e-visa ($36); no visa exemption is available evisa.gov.kh.

• Which borders accept VOA or e-visas? All 13 airports, 7 land borders (e.g., Moc Bai, Poipet), and 7 seaports accept VOA and e-visas tourismcambodia.com.

• How much does a Cambodia visa cost for Surinamese? VOA: $30 (tourist) or $36 (business); e-visa: $36; embassy visa: $30–$100 evisa.gov.kh.

• Can Cambodia visas be extended? Yes, once for 30 days ($45 or 180,000 KHR) 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 deportation travel.state.gov.

• How do I apply for an e-visa? Apply online at evisa.gov.kh; upload passport photo and data page; pay $36; print e-visa for entry 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 Surinamese with cultural etiquette—modest attire, polite greetings like “sua sdei,” and visa-smart planning—unlocks a vibrant, eco-friendly journey through Cambodia’s Khmer heartland. 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 Surinamese travelers. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Cambodia Travel, apply for e-visas early via evisa.gov.kh or obtain VOA at borders, and respect local customs for the best experience. Safe travels!

Sources:

• tourismcambodia.com

• evisa.gov.kh

• travel.state.gov

• culturetrip.com

• nomadicmatt.com