Plan your Cambodia business visa with our guide for international travelers! Learn about Type-E visa requirements, extensions, cultural etiquette, eco-friendly Cambodia Tours, and top providers for a seamless experience with Cambodia Travel. Start your journey today!
Siem Reap Ta Prohm Temples, 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 embassyofcambodiadc.org, evisa.gov.kh, cambodiaivisa.org, travel.state.gov, and tourismcambodia.com. Information based on the latest data; verify before travel. Reflects Cambodia’s updated travel regulations.
Travelers, please note: Visa on Arrival (VOA) is available at major entry points for business purposes. International travelers can apply for a Type-E (business) visa upon arrival, through e-visa, or at embassies. This guide details visa requirements, extensions, and travel tips for a seamless business journey in Cambodia by land, air, or sea.
Cambodia, a dynamic Southeast Asian destination, is renowned for its cultural landmarks like Angkor Wat, bustling markets in Phnom Penh, and emerging business opportunities in sectors like tourism, manufacturing, and real estate. Understanding business visa requirements ensures smooth entry for travelers from all countries, whether joining guided Cambodia Tours or conducting business independently. The Type-E visa allows for employment, investment, or business activities, with initial 30-day validity and extension options embassyofcambodiadc.org. This guide provides practical visa insights, border crossing tips, cultural etiquette, and eco-friendly Cambodia Travel options for international business 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.
Travelers from visa-exempt countries for tourism (e.g., ASEAN nations) may need a Type-E visa for business activities. Type-E visas are available on arrival ($35 or 140,000 KHR), via e-visa ($30–$36 or 120,000–145,000 KHR), or at embassies ($35–$100 or 140,000–400,000 KHR). 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); 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.
Standard Visa Exemption for Tourism (Not Applicable for Business):
Purpose: Tourism or leisure for short stays (business activities require Type-E visa).
Eligibility: Citizens of 10 countries, including ASEAN nations (e.g., Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia), Laos, Myanmar, and others evisa.gov.kh.
Duration: Up to 30 days (e.g., ASEAN countries) evisa.gov.kh.
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 bus or flight ticket) recommended travel.state.gov.
Extension: Non-extendable for business; requires Type-E visa for work-related activities cambodiaivisa.org.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 3 airports (e.g., Phnom Penh, Siem Reap), 6 land borders (e.g., Bavet, Poipet), and 2 seaports (e.g., Sihanoukville, Kep) tourismcambodia.com.
Type-E (Business) Visa (For Employment or Business Activities):
Purpose: Employment, investment, or business activities in Cambodia.
Eligibility: Available to all nationalities entering for business purposes embassyofcambodiadc.org.
Duration: 30 days initially; extendable for 1, 3, 6, or 12 months cambodiaivisa.org.
Cost: Visa on arrival or e-visa: $35 (140,000 KHR); embassy visa: $35–$100 (140,000–400,000 KHR); extensions: $45–$285 (180,000–1,140,000 KHR) depending on duration cambodiaivisa.org.
Application Process:
Visit evisa.gov.kh, select English, and click “Apply now” for e-visa (not specific for business, but Type-E can be requested) 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 Bavet or Poipet), and temporary address in Cambodia (e.g., hotel address) cambodiaivisa.org.
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 ($35) via credit/debit card; note the verification code cambodiaivisa.org.
Check status at evisa.gov.kh/e-visa/search 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: 3–7 working days for e-visa; expedited processing (1–2 days) available through agencies for additional fees ($10–$30 or 40,000–120,000 KHR) cambodiaivisa.org.
Extension: Extendable at immigration offices in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap; requires sponsor letter from a Cambodian company, passport, photos, and fees ($45 for 1 month, $75 for 3 months, $155 for 6 months, $285 for 12 months) cambodiaivisa.org.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 3 airports (Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville), 6 land borders (e.g., Bavet, Poipet, Cham Yeam), and 2 seaports evisa.gov.kh.
Embassy/Consulate Visa:
Purpose: Business or long-term stays for those preferring traditional applications or needing specific endorsements.
Eligibility: Available to all nationalities travel.state.gov.
Duration: 30 days initially; extendable as above embassyofcambodiadc.org.
Cost: $35–$100 (140,000–400,000 KHR), depending on visa type and processing time embassyofcambodiadc.org.
Requirements: Passport, application form, two passport photos (4x6 cm), business invitation letter from a Cambodian company, and fees; apply in person or by mail at a Cambodian embassy (e.g., in Bangkok, Hanoi, or Beijing) travel.state.gov.
Extension: Extendable as for Type-E visa cambodiaivisa.org.
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 with local police 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.
Land Borders (6): Popular checkpoints include Poipet (Thailand, near Aranyaprathet), Cham Yeam (Thailand, near Koh Kong), Bavet (Vietnam, near Moc Bai), and Trapaing Kriel (Laos, near Stung Treng). Open 7:00 AM–8:00 PM; expect immigration queues during peak seasons tourismcambodia.com.
Airports (3): Major entry points include Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville; immigration open 24/7 tourismcambodia.com.
Seaports (2): Key ports include Sihanoukville and Kep; used for cruise travelers tourismcambodia.com.
Requirements at Borders: Present a valid passport, printed e-visa or embassy visa, business invitation letter, and proof of funds or accommodation; ensure details match to avoid delays embassyofcambodiadc.org.
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); 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., Royal Palace in Phnom Penh); 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 Khmer 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 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 ($2 or 8,000 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 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 ($1–$3 or 4,000–12,000 KHR/day) or tuk-tuks ($0.50–$2 or 2,000–8,000 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, travel.state.gov, nomadicmatt.com, justynjen.com, and tripadvisor.com. Confirm schedules and prices before booking.
Details: Explore Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace, Central Market, or Siem Reap’s Angkor Wat independently after crossing at Bavet, Poipet, or Phnom Penh Airport; suitable for travelers with valid Type-E visas; low to moderate difficulty tourismcambodia.com.
Visa Tips: Use Type-E visas ($35–$100); carry a printed visa or passport photocopy; register temporary residence at hotels travel.state.gov.
Schedule: Daily; Royal Palace open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; Central Market open 7:00 AM–6:00 PM; Angkor Wat open 5:00 AM–5:30 PM.
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 or Siem Reap, Cambodia.
Eco-Friendly Note: Use bicycles or walk to reduce emissions; avoid littering at cultural sites.
Tip: Confirm visa validity or apply for extensions early; check evisa.gov.kh; a guest from Thailand noted: “Self-guided exploration was seamless after crossing at Poipet.”
Details: 1-day group tour visiting Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace and Central Market after crossing at Phnom Penh Airport or Bavet; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Phnom Penh hotels, lunch, and entry fees; low difficulty.
Visa Tips: Ensure valid Type-E visa; carry a printed 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: $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 guest from Vietnam noted: “Legend’s tour ensured visa compliance and cultural immersion after Bavet.”
Details: 1-day guided tour visiting Royal Palace, Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, and Central Market after crossing at Phnom Penh Airport; includes English-speaking guide, tuk-tuk transport, lunch, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use a Type-E visa for business; carry a printed visa or passport photocopy; confirm eligibility embassyofcambodiadc.org.
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 (Cambodia partner sites); a guest from the US noted: “The combo tour was visa-ready and enriching after arrival.”
Details: 2–3 day tour combining Phnom Penh, Siem Reap’s Angkor Wat, and Tonle Sap Lake after crossing at Phnom Penh Airport or Bavet; includes English-speaking guide, transport, accommodation, meals, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use a Type-E visa for multi-city business travel; carry a printed visa or passport photocopy; confirm temporary residence registration travel.state.gov.
Schedule: Daily; departs from 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 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 guest from France noted: “The multi-day tour was a visa-smart cultural journey.”
Self-Guided Exploration: Flexible and cost-effective, ideal for travelers with Type-E visas.
Group Cultural Tours: Affordable and guided, perfect for visa-compliant cultural insights.
Combo Cultural and Historical Tours: Blend cultural visits with historical sites 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 tuk-tuks, 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 (24–32°C); check dates at tourismcambodia.com.
Year-Round Opportunities: Dry season (November–May) for comfortable weather; March for optimal conditions tourismcambodia.com.
Dry season (November–May, 20–35°C) is ideal for border crossings and cultural visits. Hot period (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 or Bavet. Morning crossings (7:00 AM–11:00 AM) avoid crowds and heat. Verify forecasts via accuweather.com.
Verify Visa Needs: Apply for Type-E visas at embassies, on arrival, or via e-visa; carry business invitation letter from a Cambodian company, passport, photos, and fees; all nationalities eligible embassyofcambodiadc.org.
Border Crossing Tips: Choose major land borders like Poipet (Thailand) or Bavet (Vietnam) for smoother immigration; cross early (7:00 AM) to avoid queues; carry printed visa or passport photocopy; have proof of business invitation tourismcambodia.com.
Documentation: Ensure passport validity (6+ months); carry a digital or printed visa copy or passport photocopy; keep a photocopy of passport bio page separately; provide proof of business purpose (invitation letter) 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 visa copies to reduce paper waste; opt for bicycles or tuk-tuks after crossing for sustainable travel.
Tip: Apply for 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, Hanoi: +84 24 3825 8733).
Pack for a comfortable, sustainable visit:
Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), printed visa ($35 or 140,000 KHR if applicable), business invitation letter, passport photocopy, proof of funds or accommodation, 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; lightweight clothing like cotton or linen and light jacket ($3 or 12,000 KHR) for dry season; waterproof shoes ($3 or 12,000 KHR); hat ($2 or 8,000 KHR).
Essentials: Reusable water bottle ($2 or 8,000 KHR); snacks ($0.20–$1 or 800–4,000 KHR, e.g., amok); 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); waterproof camera ($6 or 24,000 KHR) for photos.
Eco Items: Reusable tote ($1 or 4,000 KHR) for 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.
Visa and Travel Costs
Type-E Visa Costs: On arrival or e-visa: $35 (140,000 KHR); embassy visa: $35–$100 (140,000–400,000 KHR); extensions: $45–$285 (180,000–1,140,000 KHR) depending on duration cambodiaivisa.org.
Exemption Costs: No cost for tourism exemptions (up to 30 days for ASEAN, etc.); not applicable for business evisa.gov.kh.
Self-Guided Exploration: Entry: free (markets); Royal Palace: $10 (40,000 KHR); Tuol Sleng: $5 (20,000 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 entry).
Combo Cultural and Historical Tours: $35–$50 (140,000–200,000 KHR, includes entry).
Multi-Day Cultural Tours: $100–$250 (400,000–1,000,000 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): $10–$30 (40,000–120,000 KHR). Other Costs
Local Snacks (e.g., nom banh chok, amok): $0.20–$1 (800–4,000 KHR).
Souvenirs (e.g., crafts, textiles): $0.20–$10 (800–40,000 KHR).
Donations: $0.20–$1 (800–4,000 KHR). Total Daily Cost (Per Person)
Budget: $15–$40 (self-guided, snacks, transport, entry).
Mid-range: $40–$70 (group tour, purchases).
Luxury: $70–$120 (private tour, premium souvenirs). Tip: Budget $15–$120 for tours, visa costs (if applicable), and transport; $0.20–$10 for purchases or add-ons; use exemptions to save on costs.
Visa Tips: Check eligibility for Type-E visas; apply on arrival, via e-visa, or at embassies; carry business invitation letter, passport, photos, and fees; all nationalities eligible embassyofcambodiadc.org.
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 visa or passport photocopy; have business invitation letter 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 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; peak crowds in dry season (November–May); 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–May, 20–35°C) ideal; hot period (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 ($2 or 8,000 KHR); beware of pickpocketing in markets or nightlife areas; carry emergency numbers (Police: 117, Medical: 119, nearest embassy).
Who needs a business visa for Cambodia? Any foreign national entering for employment or business activities; all nationalities eligible cambodiaivisa.org.
Which borders accept business visas? All 3 airports, 6 land borders (e.g., Poipet, Bavet), and 2 seaports accept Type-E visas evisa.gov.kh.
How much does a Cambodia business visa cost? $35 (on arrival or e-visa); $35–$100 (embassy visa); extensions $45–$285 cambodiaivisa.org.
Can business visas be extended? Yes, for 1–12 months with a sponsor letter from a Cambodian company; fees $45–$285 cambodiaivisa.org.
What are the penalties for overstaying? $10/day (40,000 KHR/day); potential exit bans or deportation travel.state.gov.
Is Visa on Arrival available for business? Yes, at major entry points; carry passport, photo, and business invitation letter embassyofcambodiadc.org.
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 (+84825862222) for your Cambodia Travel plans.
Mastering Cambodia Business Visa 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 markets, this trip offers adventure and sustainability for international business travelers. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Cambodia Travel, leverage Type-E visas or apply early via evisa.gov.kh, and respect local customs for the best experience. Safe travels!
Sources:
embassyofcambodiadc.org
evisa.gov.kh
cambodiaivisa.org
travel.state.gov
tourismcambodia.com
Favorite experiences booked by travelers
