Plan your Cambodia adventure with our guide to tourist visa requirements! Learn about visa exemptions, e-visa applications, entry points, eco-friendly Cambodia Tours, and top providers for a seamless experience with Cambodia Travel. Start your journey today!
Angkor Wat Temple under the Sunrise, 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.
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 vibrant markets of Psar Thmei (Central Market). Understanding tourist visa requirements 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 some), while e-visas or visas on arrival are available for others, facilitating entry through Cambodia’s 6 international airports, 7 land borders, and 2 seaports evisa.gov.kh. This guide provides practical visa insights, entry procedures, cultural etiquette, and eco-friendly Cambodia Travel options for international travelers.
Following Cambodia’s updated travel regulations, the country is accessible via key entry points like Phnom Penh International Airport, Siem Reap International Airport, and land borders such as Poipet (Thailand) and Bavet (Vietnam). This guide blends visa requirements, entry tips, and sustainable Cambodia Travel ideas for a worry-free adventure.
Travelers from visa-exempt countries (e.g., ASEAN nations) can enter for up to 14–30 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); other sites like the Royal Palace cost $10 (40,000 KHR). Guided tours range from $15–$80 (60,000–320,000 KHR). Registration with local authorities is not required for short stays but may be needed for extended visits (handled by hotels). Verify visa requirements and entry procedures via evisa.gov.kh or travel.state.gov.
Visa Exemption:
Purpose: Tourism for short stays.
Eligibility: Citizens of 9 ASEAN countries (e.g., Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Indonesia, Singapore) evisa.gov.kh.
Duration: 14–30 days, depending on nationality (e.g., 30 days for Thailand, Vietnam; 14 days for Laos) 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 but not mandatory tourismcambodia.com.
Extension: Non-extendable; requires exit to a neighboring country (e.g., Thailand, Vietnam) and re-entry with a new exemption or e-visa evisa.gov.kh.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 6 airports (e.g., Phnom Penh, Siem Reap), 7 land borders (e.g., Poipet, Bavet, Koh Kong), and 2 seaports (e.g., Sihanoukville) evisa.gov.kh.
E-Visa:
Purpose: Tourism for stays up to 30 days.
Eligibility: Available to citizens of most countries (e.g., US, UK, Australia, Canada, India, EU nations) except restricted nationalities (e.g., Afghanistan, Pakistan) 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 checkpoint like Poipet or Phnom Penh Airport), 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 application ID evisa.gov.kh.
Check status at evisa.gov.kh using application ID; download and print the e-visa PDF evisa.gov.kh.
Present printed e-visa and passport at the entry checkpoint; ensure details match exactly to avoid 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 once for 30 days at the Immigration Department in Phnom Penh ($30 or 120,000 KHR) tourismcambodia.com.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 6 airports (e.g., Phnom Penh, Siem Reap), 7 land borders (e.g., Poipet, Bavet), and 2 seaports evisa.gov.kh.
Visa on Arrival:
Purpose: Tourism for stays up to 30 days.
Eligibility: Available to most nationalities except restricted ones (e.g., Afghanistan, Pakistan) tourismcambodia.com.
Duration: 30 days (single entry) tourismcambodia.com.
Cost: $30 (120,000 KHR); payable in USD tourismcambodia.com.
Requirements: Passport valid for 6 months with two blank pages; one passport photo (4x6 cm); proof of onward travel recommended; completed arrival form provided at the checkpoint tourismcambodia.com.
Processing Time: 15–30 minutes at the border; expect queues during peak seasons nomadicmatt.com.
Extension: Extendable once for 30 days at the Immigration Department in Phnom Penh ($30 or 120,000 KHR) tourismcambodia.com.
Entry/Exit Points: Available at 6 airports (e.g., Phnom Penh, Siem Reap), 7 land borders (e.g., Poipet, Bavet, Koh Kong), and 2 seaports tourismcambodia.com.
Embassy/Consulate Visa:
Purpose: Tourism for those preferring traditional applications or from restricted countries.
Eligibility: Available to all nationalities, including those not eligible for e-visas or visas on arrival travel.state.gov.
Duration: Typically 30 days (single entry); longer for specific purposes travel.state.gov.
Cost: $30–$50 (120,000–200,000 KHR), depending on embassy 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 once for 30 days at the Immigration Department ($30 or 120,000 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 deportation travel.state.gov.
Airports (6): Major entry points include Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville; immigration open 24/7 tourismcambodia.com.
Land Borders (7): Popular checkpoints include Poipet (Thailand, near Aranyaprathet), Bavet (Vietnam, near Moc Bai), and Koh Kong (Thailand, near Trat). Open 7:00 AM–8:00 PM; expect queues during peak seasons nomadicmatt.com.
Seaports (2): Key ports include Sihanoukville and Phnom Penh; used for cruise travelers tourismcambodia.com.
Requirements at Checkpoints: 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 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 entry points or markets culturetrip.com.
Dress: Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees, especially for temple visits like Angkor Wat or the Royal Palace; carry a lightweight scarf ($3 or 12,000 KHR) tourismcambodia.com.
Behaviour: Maintain a calm demeanor at entry 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 visa process 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; registration with local authorities is typically handled by hotels for short stays 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 entry points and tourist areas culturetrip.com.
Respect: Follow checkpoint rules (no photography in immigration areas); respect local vendors with fair purchases in markets like Psar Thmei.
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/day or 8,000–20,000 KHR) or tuk-tuks ($1–$3 or 4,000–12,000 KHR) after entry for sustainable travel tourismcambodia.com.
Below is a curated list of tour options to enhance your visa-prepared journey after entering 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 Psar Thmei independently after entering at Poipet, Phnom Penh Airport, or Bavet; 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; hotels handle registration 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); Psar Thmei open 7:00 AM–6:00 PM (free).
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: Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, 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 Royal Palace and Wat Phnom in Phnom Penh after entering at Phnom Penh Airport or Bavet; includes English-speaking guide, tuk-tuk transport, 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 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 Angkor Wat and a cycling tour in Siem Reap after crossing at Poipet or Siem Reap Airport; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Siem Reap, lunch, and Angkor Pass; low to moderate difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use e-visa or exemption; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; confirm eligibility evisa.gov.kh.
Schedule: Daily; departs 5:00 AM from Siem Reap hotels; returns by 4:00 PM.
Cost: $40–$60/person (160,000–240,000 KHR, includes Angkor Pass).
Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels in Siem Reap.
Eco-Friendly Note: Small groups and cycling reduce environmental impact; supports local communities.
Tip: Book via localvietnam.com; a guest from Australia noted: “The combo tour was visa-ready and enriching after crossing.”
Details: 2–3 day tour combining Phnom Penh (Royal Palace, Wat Phnom) and Siem Reap (Angkor Wat) after entering at Poipet, Bavet, or Phnom Penh Airport; includes English-speaking guide, transport, accommodation, meals, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use e-visa for multi-city travel; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; confirm 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 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 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 cultural visits; wet season (June–October) suits indoor experiences like markets. 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 budget travelers and indoor experiences; expect rain at land borders like Poipet. Morning entries (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 evisa.gov.kh.
Entry Tips: Choose major entry points like Poipet (Thailand) or Phnom Penh Airport for smoother immigration; arrive early (7:00 AM) to avoid queues; carry printed e-visa or passport photocopy; have proof of onward travel for exemptions tourismcambodia.com.
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; provide proof of onward travel travel.state.gov.
Registration: Hotels typically handle registration for short stays; confirm with accommodation travel.state.gov.
Eco-Tip: Use digital e-visa copies to reduce paper waste; opt for bicycles or tuk-tuks after entry 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 5850, Hanoi: +84 24 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, 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., 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). 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) tourismcambodia.com.
Exemption Costs: No cost for ASEAN exemptions (14–30 days) evisa.gov.kh.
Embassy Visa Costs: $30–$50 (120,000–200,000 KHR) 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 transport and entry).
Combo Cultural and Adventure Tours: $40–$60 (160,000–240,000 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, crafts): $1–$20 (4,000–80,000 KHR).
Donations: $0.30–$1 (1,200–4,000 KHR). Total Daily Cost (Per Person)
Budget: $15–$50 (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 (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.
Entry Tips: Choose major entry points like Poipet or Phnom Penh Airport for smoother immigration; enter early (7:00 AM) to avoid crowds; carry printed e-visa or passport photocopy; have proof of onward travel for exemptions tourismcambodia.com.
Etiquette: Use “sua sdei”; dress modestly for temples; respect entry point 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: Entry points open 7:00 AM–8:00 PM (airports 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; 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 ($36) or visas on arrival ($30) evisa.gov.kh.
Which entry points accept e-visas or exemptions? All 6 airports, 7 land borders (e.g., Poipet, Bavet), and 2 seaports accept e-visas and exemptions evisa.gov.kh.
How much does a Cambodia visa cost? E-visa: $36 (145,000 KHR); visa on arrival: $30 (120,000 KHR); exemptions: no cost evisa.gov.kh.
Can visas be extended? E-visas and visas on arrival are extendable once for 30 days ($30); exemptions are non-extendable tourismcambodia.com.
What are the penalties for overstaying? Fines of $10/day (40,000 KHR/day); potential exit bans or deportation travel.state.gov.
Is visa on arrival reliable? Yes, available at major entry points; carry USD and a passport photo; e-visas are recommended for faster processing nomadicmatt.com.
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 ($100–$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 Tourist Visa Requirements 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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