Plan your Cambodia adventure as a UK tourist with our guide! Learn about visa exemptions, e-visa applications, border crossings, eco-friendly Cambodia Tours, and top providers for a seamless experience with Cambodia Travel. Start your journey today!
Angkor Wat Main Three Temples, 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.
Cambodia, a Southeast Asian gem, captivates UK tourists with its iconic Angkor Wat, vibrant Phnom Penh, and serene Sihanoukville beaches. Understanding visa requirements ensures a smooth entry for UK travelers, whether joining guided Cambodia Tours or exploring independently. UK citizens benefit from a 30-day visa exemption for tourism, while e-visas and embassy visas offer flexibility for longer stays or specific needs evisa.gov.kh. With 13 international airports, 8 land borders, and 7 seaports, Cambodia is accessible via major entry points like Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, and Moc Bai (from Vietnam) tourismcambodia.com. This guide provides practical visa insights, border crossing tips, cultural etiquette, and eco-friendly Cambodia Travel options for UK tourists seeking a seamless journey.
Following Cambodia’s updated travel regulations, the country supports tourism with streamlined visa processes and modern infrastructure like Phnom Penh International Airport. This guide blends visa requirements, cultural insights, and sustainable Cambodia Travel ideas for a memorable adventure.
UK tourists can enter Cambodia visa-free for 30 days for tourism purposes, requiring only a passport valid for 6 months with two blank pages. E-visas ($36 or 145,000 KHR) or embassy visas ($30–$60 or 120,000–240,000 KHR) are available for extended stays or other purposes. 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). Verify visa requirements and border procedures via evisa.gov.kh or tourismcambodia.com.
Visa Exemption:
Purpose: Tourism for short stays.
Eligibility: UK citizens with a valid British passport evisa.gov.kh.
Duration: Up to 30 days tourismcambodia.com.
Cost: No cost evisa.gov.kh.
Requirements: Passport valid for at least 6 months from entry date with two blank pages; proof of onward travel (e.g., return flight or bus ticket) recommended but not mandatory tourismcambodia.com.
Extension: Extendable for 30 days ($30–$45 or 120,000–180,000 KHR) at the Immigration Department in Phnom Penh; requires a passport photo and application evisa.gov.kh.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 13 airports (e.g., Phnom Penh, Siem Reap), 8 land borders (e.g., Moc Bai from Vietnam, Poipet from Thailand), and 7 seaports (e.g., Sihanoukville) tourismcambodia.com.
E-Visa (For Longer Stays or Non-Tourism Purposes):
Purpose: Tourism, business, or other activities for stays exceeding 30 days or requiring guaranteed entry.
Eligibility: UK citizens and most nationalities evisa.gov.kh.
Duration: 30 days (single entry); extendable for 30 days ($30–$45 or 120,000–180,000 KHR) evisa.gov.kh.
Cost: $36 (145,000 KHR, includes $30 visa fee + $6 processing fee); 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 evisa.gov.kh.
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 Siem Reap), and temporary address in Cambodia (e.g., hotel address) evisa.gov.kh.
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.
Pay the fee ($36) via credit/debit card (American Express not accepted); note the verification code evisa.gov.kh.
Check status at evisa.gov.kh using registration code, email, and date of birth; download and print the e-visa PDF evisa.gov.kh.
Present printed e-visa and passport at the border checkpoint; ensure details match exactly to avoid entry issues travel.state.gov.
Processing Time: 3–5 working days; expedited processing (1–2 days) available through agencies for additional fees ($10–$20 or 40,000–80,000 KHR) evisa.gov.kh.
Extension: Extendable for 30 days ($30–$45 or 120,000–180,000 KHR) at the Immigration Department in Phnom Penh evisa.gov.kh.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at major airports (e.g., Phnom Penh, Siem Reap), land borders (e.g., Moc Bai, Poipet), and seaports (e.g., Sihanoukville) evisa.gov.kh.
Visa on Arrival (Alternative for Specific Borders):
Purpose: Tourism or business for UK tourists entering via specific land borders or airports.
Eligibility: UK citizens at select entry points tourismcambodia.com.
Duration: 30 days (single entry); extendable for 30 days ($30–$45 or 120,000–180,000 KHR) tourismcambodia.com.
Cost: $30 (120,000 KHR) for tourism visa; $35 (140,000 KHR) for business visa tourismcambodia.com.
Requirements: Passport valid for 6 months with two blank pages; one passport photo (4x6 cm); USD cash for payment; proof of onward travel recommended tourismcambodia.com.
Entry/Exit Points: Available at Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville airports; land borders like Moc Bai (Vietnam) and Poipet (Thailand) tourismcambodia.com.
Embassy/Consulate Visa:
Purpose: Tourism, business, work, or study for UK tourists preferring traditional applications or needing longer stays.
Eligibility: UK 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., London: +44 20 7251 7984) travel.state.gov.
Extension: Extendable for 1–12 months with a sponsor; fees vary ($30–$300 or 120,000–1,200,000 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.
Overstay penalties: $10/day (40,000 KHR/day); potential exit bans or detention travel.state.gov.
Important Note: UK tourists typically use the 30-day visa exemption for simplicity; e-visas are recommended for guaranteed entry or longer stays evisa.gov.kh.
Airports (13): Major entry points include Phnom Penh International Airport, Siem Reap International Airport, and Sihanoukville; immigration open 24/7 tourismcambodia.com.
Land Borders (8): Popular checkpoints include Moc Bai (from Vietnam, near Bavet), Poipet (from Thailand, near Aranyaprathet), and Koh Kong (from Thailand). Open 7:00 AM–8:00 PM; expect queues during peak seasons tourismcambodia.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 or visa on arrival form if required); visa-exempt UK tourists need proof of onward travel (recommended); 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 Wat Phnom after crossing; 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 the UK 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 Royal Palace; respect temple rules (remove shoes, stay quiet) 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 UK travellers 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 Siem Reap; 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, justsiemreap.com, and tripadvisor.com. Confirm schedules and prices before booking.
Details: Explore Angkor Wat (Siem Reap), Royal Palace (Phnom Penh), or Sihanoukville beaches independently after crossing at Moc Bai, Poipet, or Siem Reap airport; suitable for UK tourists with visa exemptions; low to moderate difficulty tourismcambodia.com.
Visa Tips: Use 30-day visa exemption; carry passport and proof of onward travel (e.g., return flight ticket); e-visa ($36) for longer stays; 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); Sihanoukville beaches accessible anytime.
Cost: Angkor Pass: $37–$72 (150,000–290,000 KHR); Royal Palace: $10 (40,000 KHR); Wat Phnom: $1 (4,000 KHR); transport (tuk-tuk: $1–$3 or 4,000–12,000 KHR; bicycle: $2–$5/day or 8,000–20,000 KHR); local purchases: $0.30–$20 (1,200–80,000 KHR).
Location: Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, Cambodia.
Eco-Friendly Note: Use bicycles or walk to reduce emissions; avoid littering at cultural sites.
Tip: Verify exemption eligibility or apply for e-visas early; check evisa.gov.kh; a UK guest noted: “Self-guided exploration was seamless with the visa exemption.”
Details: 1-day group tour visiting Angkor Wat and Wat Preah Prom Rath (Siem Reap) after crossing at Siem Reap airport or Poipet; includes English-speaking guide, tuk-tuk transport from Siem Reap hotels, lunch, and Angkor Pass; low difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use visa exemption or e-visa ($36); carry printed e-visa or passport photocopy; guides assist with cultural etiquette evisa.gov.kh.
Schedule: Daily; departs 4:30 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 UK guest noted: “Legend’s tour ensured visa compliance and cultural immersion.”
Details: 1-day guided tour visiting Royal Palace and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (Phnom Penh) after crossing at Phnom Penh airport or Moc Bai; includes English-speaking guide, tuk-tuk transport, lunch, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use visa exemption or e-visa ($36); carry printed e-visa or passport photocopy; confirm exemption eligibility 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 reduce environmental impact; supports local communities.
Tip: Book via localvietnam.com (Cambodia partner sites); a UK guest noted: “The combo tour was visa-ready and culturally enriching.”
Details: 2–3 day tour combining Angkor Wat (Siem Reap), Royal Palace (Phnom Penh), and Sihanoukville 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 visa exemption for 30 days or e-visa for multi-city travel; carry printed e-visa or passport photocopy; confirm exemption eligibility evisa.gov.kh.
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 UK guest noted: “The multi-day tour was a visa-smart cultural journey.”
Self-Guided Exploration: Flexible and cost-effective, ideal for UK tourists using the 30-day visa exemption.
Group Cultural Tours: Affordable and guided, perfect for visa-compliant cultural insights.
Combo Cultural and Historical Tours: Blend cultural and historical sites for a comprehensive experience.
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 temple 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 budget travelers and indoor experiences like Phnom Penh’s markets; 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: Use the 30-day visa exemption for tourism; apply for e-visas ($36) at evisa.gov.kh for longer stays or guaranteed entry; embassy visas for specific needs evisa.gov.kh.
Border Crossing Tips: Choose major borders like Moc Bai (from Vietnam) or Poipet (from Thailand) for smoother immigration; cross early (7:00 AM) to avoid queues; carry passport and proof of onward travel for exemptions; e-visa users need a printed copy tourismcambodia.com.
Documentation: Ensure passport validity (6+ months); carry a 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.
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 Cambodian Embassy in London (+44 20 7251 7984).
Pack for a comfortable, sustainable visit:
Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), printed e-visa ($36 or 145,000 KHR if required), passport photocopy, proof of onward travel (e.g., return flight or bus ticket for exemptions), 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 ($0.30–$2 or 1,200–8,000 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 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 Exemption Costs: No cost for 30-day tourism exemption; extension: $30–$45 (120,000–180,000 KHR) evisa.gov.kh.
E-Visa Costs: $36 (145,000 KHR); expedited processing: $10–$20 (40,000–80,000 KHR) evisa.gov.kh.
Visa on Arrival Costs: $30 (120,000 KHR, tourism); $35 (140,000 KHR, business) tourismcambodia.com.
Embassy Visa Costs: $30–$60 (120,000–240,000 KHR) travel.state.gov.
Self-Guided Exploration: Angkor Pass: $37–$72 (150,000–290,000 KHR); Royal Palace: $10 (40,000 KHR); Wat Phnom: $1 (4,000 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): $0.30–$2 (1,200–8,000 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, using visa exemption).
Mid-range: $40–$80 (group tour, purchases, including e-visa).
Luxury: $80–$120 (private tour, premium souvenirs). Tip: Budget $15–$120 for tours, visa costs (if applicable), and transport; $0.30–$20 for purchases or add-ons; leverage visa exemptions to save on costs.
Visa Tips: Use the 30-day visa exemption for tourism; apply for e-visas ($36) at evisa.gov.kh for longer stays; embassy visas for specific needs; double-check details to match passport evisa.gov.kh.
Border Crossing Tips: Choose major borders like Moc Bai (from Vietnam) or Poipet (from Thailand) for smoother immigration; cross early (7:00 AM) to avoid crowds; carry passport and proof of onward travel for exemptions; e-visa users need a printed copy 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; hot season (Mar–May, 25–35°C) suits early mornings; 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 UK tourists need a visa for Cambodia? No, UK citizens are exempt for 30 days for tourism; e-visas ($36) or visa on arrival ($30) for longer stays or guaranteed entry evisa.gov.kh.
Which borders accept visa exemptions or e-visas? All 13 airports, 8 land borders (e.g., Moc Bai, Poipet), and 7 seaports accept exemptions and e-visas tourismcambodia.com.
How much does a Cambodia visa cost for UK tourists? Visa exemption: no cost; e-visa: $36 (145,000 KHR); visa on arrival: $30 (120,000 KHR); embassy visa: $30–$60 (120,000–240,000 KHR) evisa.gov.kh.
Can Cambodia visas be extended? Yes, 30-day extensions available ($30–$45) at the Immigration Department in Phnom Penh evisa.gov.kh.
What are the penalties for overstaying? Fines of $10/day (40,000 KHR/day); potential exit bans or detention travel.state.gov.
Where can 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 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 UK 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 UK travelers. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Cambodia Travel, leverage the 30-day visa exemption or apply for e-visas early via evisa.gov.kh, and respect local customs for the best experience. Safe travels!
Sources:
tourismcambodia.com
evisa.gov.kh
travel.state.gov
culturetrip.com
justsiemreap.com
Favorite experiences booked by travelers
