Plan your Cambodia adventure with our guide for international tourists! Learn about e-visa applications, entry points, cultural etiquette, eco-friendly Cambodia Tours, and top providers for a seamless experience with Cambodia Travel. Start your journey today!
Angkor Wat Ancient Statues, 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 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.
Travelers, please note: Visa on Arrival (VOA) is available for air entry at Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville airports ($30–$36 or 120,000–144,000 KHR). For land and sea border crossings, an e-visa or embassy visa is strongly recommended to avoid delays. This guide details e-visa requirements, application processes, entry points, and travel tips for a seamless journey into Cambodia by air, land, or sea.
Cambodia, a Southeast Asian gem, is renowned for its cultural landmarks like Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, and the pristine beaches of Sihanoukville tourismcambodia.com. Understanding e-visa requirements ensures smooth entry for tourists from all countries, whether joining guided Cambodia Tours or traveling independently. The Cambodia e-visa, introduced to simplify entry, is available to most nationalities and valid at major airports, land borders, and seaports, including Moc Bai (Vietnam) and Koh Kong (Thailand) evisa.gov.kh. This guide provides practical e-visa insights, border crossing tips, cultural etiquette, and eco-friendly Cambodia Travel options for international tourists.
Following Cambodia’s updated travel regulations, the country is accessible via 7 international airports, 9 land borders, and 7 seaports, with e-visas streamlining entry for tourism. This guide blends visa requirements, entry procedures, and sustainable Cambodia Travel ideas for a worry-free adventure.
Tourists from most nationalities require an e-visa ($36 or 144,000 KHR, including processing fee) or visa on arrival ($30–$36 or 120,000–144,000 KHR, air entry only). ASEAN countries (e.g., Thailand, Vietnam) enjoy visa-free entry for 14–30 days. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months with one blank page. Cultural site entries like Angkor Wat require an Angkor Pass ($37–$72 or 148,000–288,000 KHR); other sites like the Royal Palace cost $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 travel.state.gov.
Purpose: Tourism for short stays (e.g., visiting Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh, or Sihanoukville).
Eligibility: Available to citizens of most countries, except restricted nationalities (e.g., Afghanistan, Pakistan, Nigeria; check full list at evisa.gov.kh) evisa.gov.kh.
Duration: 30 days (single entry), valid for 3 months from issuance evisa.gov.kh.
Cost: $30 (120,000 KHR) visa fee + $6 (24,000 KHR) processing fee; total $36 (144,000 KHR); non-refundable evisa.gov.kh.
Application Process:
Visit evisa.gov.kh, select English, and click “Apply Now” evisa.gov.kh.
Create an account with a valid email and password evisa.gov.kh.
Fill in personal details (full name, nationality, date of birth), passport details (number, issue/expiry date), and travel details (intended entry date, entry checkpoint like Siem Reap airport or Moc Bai border) evisa.gov.kh.
Upload a digital passport photo (4x6 cm, white background, no glasses, straight view, max 2MB, .jpg format) evisa.gov.kh.
Pay the fee ($36) via credit/debit card (Visa, MasterCard, UnionPay; American Express not accepted); note the application ID evisa.gov.kh.
Check status at evisa.gov.kh using application ID and email; download and print the e-visa PDF (two copies recommended) evisa.gov.kh.
Present printed e-visa and passport at the entry checkpoint; ensure details match exactly to avoid entry issues travel.state.gov.
Processing Time: 3 business days; expedited processing (1–2 days) available through agencies for additional fees ($10–$20 or 40,000–80,000 KHR) nomadicmatt.com.
Extension: Extendable once for 30 days ($45 or 180,000 KHR) at the Immigration Department in Phnom Penh; apply 7 days before expiry evisa.gov.kh.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 7 airports (e.g., Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville), 9 land borders (e.g., Moc Bai-Bavet, Koh Kong-Had Lek, Poipet-Aranyaprathet), and 7 seaports (e.g., Sihanoukville, Kep) evisa.gov.kh.
Key Restrictions:
Travelers must not fall under restricted categories (e.g., security risks) as per Cambodia’s immigration laws evisa.gov.kh.
Overstay penalties: $10/day (40,000 KHR/day); potential fines or detention travel.state.gov.
E-visa is for tourism only; business or work requires embassy visas ($70–$100 or 280,000–400,000 KHR) travel.state.gov.
Visa on Arrival (Air Entry Only):
Eligibility: Most nationalities at Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville airports tourismcambodia.com.
Cost: $30 (120,000 KHR) for tourism; $36 (144,000 KHR) with processing nomadicmatt.com.
Requirements: Passport valid for 6 months with one blank page, one passport photo (4x6 cm), and cash payment (USD preferred) travel.state.gov.
Visa-Free Entry:
Eligibility: ASEAN countries (e.g., Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia) for 14–30 days; check full list at tourismcambodia.com.
Requirements: Passport valid for 6 months; proof of onward travel recommended travel.state.gov.
Embassy/Consulate Visa:
Purpose: Tourism, business, or work for those preferring traditional applications.
Cost: $30–$100 (120,000–400,000 KHR), depending on visa type travel.state.gov.
Requirements: Passport, application form, two passport photos, and fees; apply at embassies (e.g., Bangkok, Hanoi) travel.state.gov.
Airports (7): Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, and others; immigration open 24/7; e-visa and VOA accepted tourismcambodia.com.
Land Borders (9): Moc Bai-Bavet (Vietnam), Koh Kong-Had Lek (Thailand), Poipet-Aranyaprathet (Thailand); open 7:00 AM–8:00 PM; e-visa or embassy visa required evisa.gov.kh.
Seaports (7): Sihanoukville, Kep, and others; used for cruise travelers; e-visa accepted evisa.gov.kh.
Requirements at Borders: Present a valid passport and printed e-visa; visa-free travelers need proof of onward travel (recommended); ensure details match passport to avoid delays travel.state.gov.
Cultural etiquette ensures a smooth entry 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) 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 e-visa entry 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 or Wat Phnom; complete any required entry forms 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 e-visa 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 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 e-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.
Details: Explore Angkor Wat (Siem Reap), Royal Palace (Phnom Penh), or Sihanoukville beaches independently after crossing at Moc Bai, Poipet, or Phnom Penh airport; suitable for travelers with valid e-visas; low to moderate difficulty tourismcambodia.com.
e-Visa Tips: Carry a printed e-visa ($36 or 144,000 KHR); ensure passport validity (6+ months); have proof of onward travel (recommended); register temporary residence at hotels evisa.gov.kh.
Schedule: Daily; Angkor Wat open 5:00 AM–5:30 PM ($37–$72 or 148,000–288,000 KHR); Royal Palace open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM ($10 or 40,000 KHR); Sihanoukville beaches accessible anytime.
Cost: Angkor Pass: $37–$72 (148,000–288,000 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-visa early at evisa.gov.kh; a guest from Australia noted: “Self-guided exploration was seamless after crossing with an e-visa.”
Details: 1-day group tour visiting Angkor Wat and Wat Preah Prom Rath in Siem Reap after crossing at Siem Reap airport or Poipet; includes English-speaking guide, tuk-tuk transport, lunch, and Angkor Pass; low difficulty.
e-Visa Tips: Carry a printed e-visa; ensure details match passport; guides assist with entry verification evisa.gov.kh.
Schedule: Daily; departs 5:00 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 guest from Thailand noted: “Legend’s tour ensured e-visa compliance and cultural immersion.”
Details: 1-day guided tour visiting Royal Palace, Central Market, and Wat Phnom in 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.
e-Visa Tips: Use a printed e-visa; carry passport photocopy; confirm entry point compatibility evisa.gov.kh.
Schedule: Daily; departs 8:00 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; a guest from the US noted: “The combo tour was e-visa-ready and enriching.”
Details: 2–3 day tour combining Angkor Wat, Royal Palace, and Sihanoukville beaches after crossing at major borders or airports; includes English-speaking guide, transport, accommodation, meals, and entries; low to moderate difficulty.
e-Visa Tips: Use a printed e-visa for multi-city travel; carry 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 France noted: “The multi-day tour was an e-visa-smart cultural journey.”
Self-Guided Exploration: Flexible and cost-effective, ideal for travelers with e-visas or visa-free entry.
Group Cultural Tours: Affordable and guided, perfect for e-visa-compliant cultural insights.
Combo Cultural and Market Tours: Blend cultural visits with market experiences for a comprehensive journey.
Multi-Day Cultural and Adventure Tours: Offer in-depth exploration with e-visa-smart itineraries.
Eco-Friendly Note: Group and multi-day tours use fuel-efficient transport or bicycles, supporting Cambodia’s green tourism goals.
Key e-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 indoor markets and fewer crowds.
Cool season (November–February, 20–30°C) is ideal for e-visa-prepared travel and cultural exploration. 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; expect rain at land borders like Moc Bai. Morning visits (7:00 AM–11:00 AM) avoid crowds and heat. Verify forecasts via accuweather.com.
Verify Visa Needs: Check eligibility for visa-free entry (ASEAN countries) or apply for e-visas at evisa.gov.kh; use embassy visas for restricted nationalities or specific needs evisa.gov.kh.
e-Visa Tips: Apply 7–14 days early; double-check details to match passport; carry two printed e-visa copies; have proof of onward travel (recommended); expect queues at peak times (e.g., festivals) evisa.gov.kh.
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.
Border Crossing Tips: Choose major entry points like Phnom Penh airport or Moc Bai for smoother immigration; cross early (7:00 AM) to avoid crowds; confirm e-visa compatibility with entry point evisa.gov.kh.
Eco-Tip: Use digital e-visa copies to reduce paper waste; opt for bicycles or tuk-tuks after crossing for sustainable travel.
Tip: Check e-visa status at evisa.gov.kh; carry small KHR notes for local purchases; contact the nearest Cambodian embassy (e.g., Bangkok: +66 2 957 5850, Hanoi: +84 24 3947 7777) for issues.
Pack for a comfortable, sustainable visit:
Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), printed e-visa ($36 or 144,000 KHR), passport photocopy, proof of onward travel (e.g., return flight or bus ticket), 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., kuy teav); 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
e-Visa Costs: $36 (144,000 KHR, including processing fee); expedited processing: $10–$20 (40,000–80,000 KHR) evisa.gov.kh.
Visa-Free Entry: No cost for ASEAN countries (14–30 days) tourismcambodia.com.
Embassy Visa Costs: $30–$100 (120,000–400,000 KHR), depending on visa type travel.state.gov.
Self-Guided Exploration: Angkor Pass: $37–$72 (148,000–288,000 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 Market 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, 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).
Mid-range: $40–$80 (group tour, purchases).
Luxury: $80–$120 (private tour, premium souvenirs). Tip: Budget $15–$120 for tours, e-visa costs, and transport; $0.50–$20 for purchases or add-ons; use visa-free entry to save on costs.
e-Visa Tips: Apply 7–14 days early at evisa.gov.kh; double-check details to match passport; carry two printed e-visa copies; have proof of onward travel; use visa-free entry for ASEAN travelers evisa.gov.kh.
Border Crossing Tips: Choose major entry points like Phnom Penh airport or Moc Bai for smoother immigration; cross early (7:00 AM) to avoid crowds; confirm e-visa compatibility with entry point evisa.gov.kh.
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 e-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).
Who needs an e-visa for Cambodia? Most nationalities, except visa-free ASEAN countries (14–30 days) and restricted nationalities (e.g., Afghanistan); check at evisa.gov.kh.
Which borders accept e-visas? 7 airports (e.g., Phnom Penh, Siem Reap), 9 land borders (e.g., Moc Bai, Poipet), and 7 seaports (e.g., Sihanoukville) evisa.gov.kh.
How much does a Cambodia e-visa cost? $36 (144,000 KHR, including processing fee); non-refundable evisa.gov.kh.
Can e-visas be extended? Yes, once for 30 days ($45 or 180,000 KHR) at Phnom Penh’s Immigration Department evisa.gov.kh.
What are the penalties for overstaying? $10/day (40,000 KHR/day); potential fines or detention travel.state.gov.
Is Visa on Arrival available for land borders? No, VOA is for air entry only (Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville airports); use e-visas for land/sea evisa.gov.kh.
Enhance your e-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 e-Visa for Tourists with cultural etiquette—modest attire, polite greetings like “sua sdei,” and e-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 international tourists. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Cambodia Travel, apply for e-visas early via evisa.gov.kh and respect local customs for the best experience. Note that Visa on Arrival is limited to air entry; plan e-visas for land/sea borders. Safe travels!
Sources:
tourismcambodia.com
evisa.gov.kh
travel.state.gov
culturetrip.com
nomadicmatt.com
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