Plan your Cambodia entry with our guide for international travelers! Learn about visa exemptions, e-visa applications, border checkpoints, eco-friendly Cambodia Tours, and top providers for a seamless experience with Cambodia Travel. Start your journey today!
Angkor Wat gates, Siem Reap, 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.
SEO Title: Cambodia Entry Visa Rules Travel Guide 2026-2027: Requirements, Borders & Eco-Tours
Meta Description: Plan your Cambodia entry with our guide for international travelers! Learn about visa exemptions, e-visa applications, border checkpoints, eco-friendly Cambodia Tours, and top providers for a seamless experience with Cambodia Travel. Start your journey today!
Author Bio: 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.
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 serene beaches of Sihanoukville. Understanding Cambodia’s entry visa rules ensures smooth entry for travelers from all countries, whether joining guided Cambodia Tours or traveling independently. Many nationalities benefit from visa exemptions (up to 30 days for ASEAN countries), while e-visas or visa-on-arrival options are available for others, facilitating entry through Cambodia’s 6 international airports, 7 land borders, and 3 seaports tourismcambodia.com. This guide provides practical visa insights, border crossing tips, cultural etiquette, and eco-friendly Cambodia Travel options for international travelers.
Following Cambodia’s updated travel regulations, the country is accessible via major entry points like Phnom Penh International Airport, Siem Reap International Airport, and land borders like Poipet (Thailand) and Bavet (Vietnam). This guide blends visa requirements, entry procedures, and sustainable Cambodia Travel ideas for a worry-free adventure.
Travelers from visa-exempt countries (e.g., ASEAN nations) can enter for up to 30 days without a visa, while others require e-visas ($36 or 145,000 KHR) or visas on arrival ($30 or 120,000 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). 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 Exemption:
Purpose: Tourism, business, or leisure for short stays.
Eligibility: Citizens of 9 ASEAN countries (e.g., Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Laos, Indonesia, Philippines, Brunei, Myanmar) evisa.gov.kh.
Duration: Up to 30 days for most ASEAN countries; 14 days for Brunei and Myanmar evisa.gov.kh.
Cost: No cost tourismcambodia.com.
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 but not mandatory travel.state.gov.
Extension: Non-extendable; requires exit to a neighboring country (e.g., Thailand, Vietnam, Laos) and re-entry with a new exemption or visa nomadicmatt.com.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 6 airports (e.g., Phnom Penh, Siem Reap), 7 land borders (e.g., Poipet, Bavet, Trapeang Kriel), and 3 seaports (e.g., Sihanoukville) tourismcambodia.com.
E-Visa:
Purpose: Tourism or business for stays exceeding exemption periods or for non-exempt nationalities.
Eligibility: Available to citizens of most countries, including the US, Canada, Australia, UK, EU nations, India, and China evisa.gov.kh.
Duration: 30 days (single entry) evisa.gov.kh.
Cost: $36 (145,000 KHR), including $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 Poipet or Bavet), 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; note the registration 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) nomadicmatt.com.
Extension: Extendable once for 30 days ($45 or 180,000 KHR) at the Immigration Department in Phnom Penh evisa.gov.kh.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at major airports (Phnom Penh, Siem Reap), land borders (Poipet, Bavet, Trapeang Kriel), and seaports (Sihanoukville) evisa.gov.kh.
Visa on Arrival:
Purpose: Tourism or business for travelers without prior e-visa arrangements.
Eligibility: Available to most nationalities, excluding restricted countries (e.g., Afghanistan, Algeria, Bangladesh; check full list at evisa.gov.kh) tourismcambodia.com.
Duration: 30 days (single entry) tourismcambodia.com.
Cost: $30 (120,000 KHR) for tourist visa; $35 (140,000 KHR) for business visa; payable in USD nomadicmatt.com.
Requirements: Passport valid for 6 months with two blank pages; one passport photo (4x6 cm); cash in USD; proof of onward travel recommended travel.state.gov.
Extension: Extendable once for 30 days ($45 or 180,000 KHR) at the Immigration Department in Phnom Penh tourismcambodia.com.
Entry/Exit Points: Available at Phnom Penh and Siem Reap airports, and major land borders (Poipet, Bavet, Koh Kong) tourismcambodia.com.
Embassy/Consulate Visa:
Purpose: Tourism, business, work, or study for those preferring traditional applications or needing longer stays.
Eligibility: Available to all nationalities travel.state.gov.
Duration: Typically 30–90 days (single or multiple entry); longer for work/study visas travel.state.gov.
Cost: $30–$70 (120,000–280,000 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, Hanoi, or Beijing) travel.state.gov.
Extension: Extendable for 1–12 months with a sponsor; fees vary ($45–$290 or 180,000–1,160,000 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.
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 detention travel.state.gov.
Airports (6): Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, and others; immigration open 24/7; e-visas and visas on arrival accepted tourismcambodia.com.
Land Borders (7): Popular checkpoints include Poipet (Thailand, near Aranyaprathet), Bavet (Vietnam, near Moc Bai), and Koh Kong (Thailand, near Hat Lek). Open 7:00 AM–7:00 PM; expect queues during peak seasons nomadicmatt.com.
Seaports (3): Sihanoukville, Kampot, and Kep; used for cruise travelers; e-visas accepted tourismcambodia.com.
Requirements at Borders: Present a valid passport and printed e-visa or visa on arrival form; visa-exempt travelers 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 after crossing (e.g., Angkor Wat in Siem Reap); 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 ($0.50–$2 or 2,000–8,000 KHR); avoid littering at cultural sites like Angkor Wat or Royal Palace; 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 Poipet or cities like Phnom Penh; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy travel.state.gov.
Eco-Tip: Opt for bicycles ($2–$5 or 8,000–20,000 KHR/day) 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.
Details: Explore Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, or Sihanoukville’s beaches independently after crossing at Poipet, Bavet, or Phnom Penh Airport; suitable for travelers with valid visa exemptions or e-visas; low to moderate difficulty tourismcambodia.com.
Visa Tips: Use visa exemptions (if eligible) or e-visas ($36); 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 ($37–$72 or 150,000–290,000 KHR); Royal Palace open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM ($10 or 40,000 KHR); Sihanoukville beaches accessible anytime.
Cost: Entry: free (beaches); 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 or 8,000–20,000 KHR/day); 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: Confirm exemption eligibility or apply for e-visas 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 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 entry fees; low difficulty.
Visa Tips: Ensure valid exemption 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 Angkor Wat sunrise; returns by 3:00 PM.
Cost: $40–$60/person (160,000–240,000 KHR, includes transport and entry).
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 Malaysia noted: “Legend’s tour ensured visa compliance and cultural immersion after Poipet.”
Details: 1-day guided tour visiting Royal Palace and Central Market in Phnom Penh after crossing at Bavet or Phnom Penh Airport; includes English-speaking guide, tuk-tuk transport, lunch, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use an e-visa or visa on arrival for flexibility; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; confirm eligibility evisa.gov.kh.
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 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 Vietnam noted: “The combo tour was visa-ready and enriching after crossing at Bavet.”
Details: 2–3 day tour combining Siem Reap (Angkor Wat), Phnom Penh (Royal Palace), and Sihanoukville (beaches) after crossing at Poipet, Bavet, or Phnom Penh Airport; includes English-speaking guide, transport, accommodation, meals, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use an 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 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 guest from the UK noted: “The multi-day tour was a visa-smart cultural journey.”
Self-Guided Exploration: Flexible and cost-effective, ideal for travelers with visa exemptions or e-visas.
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 tuk-tuks, 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 border crossings and cultural visits; 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 like Angkor Wat. Hot season (March–May, 25–35°C) suits early morning crossings. Wet season (June–October, 24–32°C) is best for budget travelers; expect rain at land borders like Poipet. Morning crossings (7:00 AM–11:00 AM) avoid crowds and heat. Verify forecasts via accuweather.com.
Verify Visa Needs: Check eligibility for visa exemptions (9 ASEAN countries) or apply for e-visas at evisa.gov.kh; use visa on arrival or embassy visas for non-exempt nationalities tourismcambodia.com.
Border Crossing Tips: Choose major borders like Poipet (Thailand) or Bavet (Vietnam) for smoother immigration; cross early (7:00 AM) to avoid crowds; carry printed e-visa or passport photocopy; have proof of onward travel for exemptions nomadicmatt.com.
Documentation: Ensure passport validity (6+ months); carry a digital or printed e-visa copy or passport photocopy; provide proof of onward travel for exemptions; complete residence registration within 24 hours (handled by hotels) 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 or USD 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 5850, Hanoi: +84 4 3947 7777).
Pack for a comfortable, sustainable visit:
Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), printed e-visa ($36 or 145,000 KHR if required) or visa on arrival form ($30 or 120,000 KHR), 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 ($0.50–$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 purchases; phrase card ($2 or 8,000 KHR) with Khmer basics.
Extras: Small KHR or USD 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 (145,000 KHR); expedited processing: $10–$20 (40,000–80,000 KHR) evisa.gov.kh.
Visa on Arrival Costs: $30 (120,000 KHR, tourist); $35 (140,000 KHR, business) tourismcambodia.com.
Exemption Costs: No cost for ASEAN countries (14–30 days) evisa.gov.kh.
Embassy Visa Costs: $30–$70 (120,000–280,000 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 or 8,000–20,000 KHR/day).
Group Cultural Tours: $25–$40 (100,000–160,000 KHR, includes entry).
Combo Cultural and Adventure Tours: $25–$40 (100,000–160,000 KHR, includes entry).
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., amok, kuy teav): $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, excluding visa).
Mid-range: $40–$80 (group tour, purchases, including visa).
Luxury: $80–$120 (private tour, premium souvenirs, including visa). Tip: Budget $15–$120 for tours, visa costs (if applicable), and transport; $0.50–$20 for purchases or add-ons; use visa exemptions to save on costs.
Visa Tips: Check eligibility for visa exemptions (9 ASEAN countries) or apply for e-visas at evisa.gov.kh; use visa on arrival or embassy visas for non-exempt nationalities; double-check details to match passport evisa.gov.kh.
Border Crossing Tips: Choose major borders like Poipet or Bavet for smoother immigration; cross early (7:00 AM) to avoid crowds; carry printed e-visa or passport photocopy; have proof of onward travel for exemptions nomadicmatt.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 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).
Who needs a visa to enter Cambodia? Citizens of 9 ASEAN countries are exempt for 14–30 days; others require e-visas or visas on arrival evisa.gov.kh.
Which borders accept e-visas or visas on arrival? Major airports (Phnom Penh, Siem Reap), land borders (Poipet, Bavet), and seaports (Sihanoukville) accept both evisa.gov.kh.
How much does a Cambodia visa cost? E-visa: $36 (145,000 KHR); visa on arrival: $30 (tourist) or $35 (business); exemptions: no cost tourismcambodia.com.
Can visas be extended? E-visas and visas on arrival are extendable once for 30 days ($45 or 180,000 KHR); embassy visas may allow longer extensions 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 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 Entry Visa Rules 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 the Royal Palace, this trip offers adventure and sustainability for international travelers. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Cambodia Travel, leverage visa exemptions 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
nomadicmatt.com
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