Plan your Cambodia border crossing 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!
Local stilt-hourses on Tonle Sap Lake, 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 evisa.gov.kh, tourismcambodia.com, travel.state.gov, embassyofcambodiadc.org, and cibtvisas.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 airports and land borders. International travelers can use visa exemptions (if eligible), apply for an e-visa online via evisa.gov.kh, or obtain a visa on arrival at entry points. Cambodian citizens do not need a visa to enter Cambodia, but must present a valid Cambodian passport. This guide details visa requirements, border crossing procedures, and travel tips for a seamless journey into Cambodia by land, air, or sea.
Cambodia, a captivating Southeast Asian destination, is renowned for its cultural landmarks like Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace, and Sihanoukville’s beaches tourismcambodia.com. Understanding visa requirements for border crossings ensures smooth entry for travelers from all countries, whether joining guided Cambodia Tours or traveling independently. Many nationalities benefit from visa on arrival or e-visas, while exemptions apply to some. 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 multiple border checkpoints, including popular land borders like Bavet (Vietnam), Poipet (Thailand), and Cham Yeam (Thailand). This guide blends visa requirements, border crossing procedures, and sustainable Cambodia Travel ideas for a worry-free adventure.
Travelers from visa-exempt countries (e.g., ASEAN nations, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam) can enter for 14–30 days without a visa, while others require e-visas ($30–$35 or 120,000–140,000 KHR) or visa on arrival ($30). Cambodian citizens enter freely with a valid passport. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months with one blank page. Cultural site entries like Royal Palace cost $10 (40,000 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:
Purpose: Tourism, business, or leisure for short stays.
Eligibility: Citizens of ASEAN countries (e.g., Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam) and select others (e.g., Indonesia for 30 days, Myanmar for 14 days) embassyofcambodiadc.org.
Duration: Up to 30 days (most ASEAN), 14 days (Myanmar) embassyofcambodiadc.org.
Cost: No cost embassyofcambodiadc.org.
Requirements: Passport valid for at least 6 months from entry date with one blank page; proof of onward travel (e.g., return bus or flight ticket) recommended but not mandatory travel.state.gov.
Extension: Extendable for up to 30 days at immigration offices; fees apply ($45 or 180,000 KHR) tourismcambodia.com.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at all international airports (e.g., Phnom Penh, Siem Reap), land borders (e.g., Bavet, Poipet), and seaports tourismcambodia.com.
**E-Visa (For Longer Stays or Non-Exempt Nationalities):
Purpose: Tourism or business for stays exceeding exemption periods or for non-exempt nationalities.
Eligibility: Available to citizens of most countries, excluding visa-exempt ones evisa.gov.kh.
Duration: Up to 30 days (single entry) evisa.gov.kh.
Cost: $30 for tourist (Type-T), $35 for business (Type-E); non-refundable evisa.gov.kh.
Application Process:
Visit evisa.gov.kh, select language, 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 Bavet or Poipet), and temporary address in Cambodia (e.g., hotel address) embassyofcambodiadc.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 1MB evisa.gov.kh.
Pay the fee ($30 or $35) 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 working days; expedited processing not available evisa.gov.kh.
Extension: Extendable for 30 days at immigration offices; fees apply ($45 or 180,000 KHR) tourismcambodia.com.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 3 airports (Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville), 7 land borders (e.g., Bavet, Poipet), and 1 seaport (Sihanoukville) evisa.gov.kh.
Visa on Arrival (VOA):
Purpose: Tourism or business for travelers not applying for e-visa.
Eligibility: Available to most nationalities at international airports and land borders embassyofcambodiadc.org.
Duration: Up to 30 days (single entry) embassyofcambodiadc.org.
Cost: $30 for tourist (Type-T), $35 for business (Type-E) embassyofcambodiadc.org.
Requirements: Passport valid for 6 months with one blank page; recent passport photo (4x6 cm); completed application form available at the border cibtvisas.com.
Extension: Extendable for 30 days at immigration offices; fees apply ($45 or 180,000 KHR) tourismcambodia.com.
Entry/Exit Points: Available at all international airports, major land borders (e.g., Bavet, Poipet, Cham Yeam), and seaports 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 days (single entry); longer for business or work visas embassyofcambodiadc.org.
Cost: $30 for tourist, $35 for business embassyofcambodiadc.org.
Requirements: Passport, application form, two passport photos (4x6 cm), and fees; apply in person or by mail at a Cambodian embassy (e.g., in Hanoi, Bangkok, or Beijing) embassyofcambodiadc.org.
Extension: Extendable for 30 days (tourist/business) or longer for work visas; fees apply ($45 or 180,000 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.
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.
Note for Cambodian Citizens: Cambodian citizens do not require a visa to enter Cambodia. A valid Cambodian passport is sufficient for entry and exit. For dual nationals or returning expats, ensure passport validity (at least 6 months) and contact the nearest Cambodian embassy for any special procedures embassyofcambodiadc.org.
Land Borders (7): Popular checkpoints include Bavet (Vietnam, near Moc Bai), Poipet (Thailand, near Aranyaprathet), Cham Yeam (Thailand, near Koh Kong), 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 International Airport, Siem Reap International Airport, and Sihanoukville International Airport; immigration open 24/7 tourismcambodia.com.
Seaports (1): Sihanoukville Port for cruise travelers tourismcambodia.com.
Requirements at Borders: Present a valid passport and printed e-visa or VOA form (if applicable); Cambodian citizens need only a valid passport; have proof of onward travel; ensure details match to avoid delays travel.state.gov.
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 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 ($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 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 PassApp for ride-hailing after crossing; use offline maps (Maps.me) for Phnom Penh or Siem Reap; 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 for sustainable travel 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, tourismcambodia.com, and tripadvisor.com. Confirm schedules and prices before booking.
Details: Explore Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace, Siem Reap’s Angkor Wat, or Sihanoukville’s beaches independently after crossing at Bavet, Poipet, or Phnom Penh Airport; suitable for travelers with valid visa on arrival or e-visas; low to moderate difficulty tourismcambodia.com.
Visa Tips: Use visa on arrival (if eligible) or e-visas ($30–$35); carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; register temporary residence at hotels evisa.gov.kh.
Schedule: Daily; Royal Palace open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM ($10 or 40,000 KHR); Angkor Wat open 5:00 AM–5:30 PM (Angkor Pass $37–$72); beaches accessible anytime.
Cost: Entry: free (beaches); 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: $0.20–$10 (800–40,000 KHR).
Location: Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, 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 Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda after crossing at Phnom Penh Airport or Bavet; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Phnom Penh hotels, lunch, and entry fees; low difficulty tourismcambodia.com.
Visa Tips: Ensure valid visa on arrival or e-visa; carry a printed e-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 Siem Reap’s Angkor Wat and Old Market after crossing at Siem Reap Airport or Poipet; includes English-speaking guide, tuk-tuk transport, lunch, and Angkor Pass ($37); low to moderate difficulty justsiemreap.com.
Visa Tips: Use a multiple-entry visa on arrival or e-visa for multi-city travel; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; confirm eligibility evisa.gov.kh.
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 pass).
Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels in Siem Reap.
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 Thailand noted: “The combo tour was visa-ready and enriching after Poipet.”
Details: 2–3 day tour combining Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville after crossing at Phnom Penh Airport, Bavet, or Poipet; includes English-speaking guide, transport, accommodation, meals, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty tourismcambodia.com.
Visa Tips: Use a multiple-entry visa on arrival or 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 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 the US 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, festive with temple ceremonies; 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: Dry season (November–May) for comfortable weather; February for optimal conditions tourismcambodia.com.
Dry season (November–May, 20–35°C) is ideal for border crossings and cultural visits. Cool period (November–February, 20–30°C) suits early mornings. Wet season (June–October, 24–32°C) is best for budget travelers and indoor experiences; expect rain at land borders like Bavet. 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 (ASEAN and select countries) or apply for e-visas at evisa.gov.kh; use visa on arrival at entry points; Cambodian citizens enter with a valid passport embassyofcambodiadc.org.
Border Crossing Tips: Choose major land borders like Bavet (Vietnam) or Poipet (Thailand) for smoother immigration; cross early (7:00 AM) to avoid queues; carry printed e-visa or passport photocopy; have proof of onward travel for visa on arrival 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 for visa on arrival 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 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 Cambodian citizens, ensure passport is valid for re-entry embassyofcambodiadc.org.
Pack for a comfortable, sustainable visit:
Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), printed e-visa ($30–$35 or 120,000–140,000 KHR if required), passport photocopy, proof of onward travel (e.g., return flight or bus ticket for visa on arrival), 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., kuy teav); 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 ($3–$5 or 12,000–20,000 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
E-Visa Costs: $30 (120,000 KHR) for tourist; $35 (140,000 KHR) for business evisa.gov.kh.
Visa on Arrival Costs: $30 (120,000 KHR) for tourist; $35 (140,000 KHR) for business embassyofcambodiadc.org.
Exemption Costs: No cost for ASEAN and select countries embassyofcambodiadc.org.
Embassy Visa Costs: $30–$35 (120,000–140,000 KHR) embassyofcambodiadc.org.
Self-Guided Exploration: Entry: free (markets); Royal Palace: $10 (40,000 KHR); Angkor Wat: 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).
Group Cultural Tours: $25–$40 (100,000–160,000 KHR, includes transport and entry).
Combo Cultural and Adventure Tours: $30–$50 (120,000–200,000 KHR, includes entry).
Multi-Day Cultural and Adventure Tours: $80–$200 (320,000–800,000 KHR, includes entries). Safety-Related Costs
Money Belt: $2 (8,000 KHR).
Local SIM for Emergency Calls: $3–$5 (12,000–20,000 KHR).
Travel Insurance (Recommended): $10–$30 (40,000–120,000 KHR). Other Costs
Local Snacks (e.g., kuy teav, 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 visa on arrival to save on costs.
Visa Tips: Check eligibility for visa exemptions (ASEAN and select countries) or apply for e-visas at evisa.gov.kh; use visa on arrival at entry points; Cambodian citizens enter with a valid passport; double-check details to match passport evisa.gov.kh.
Border Crossing Tips: Choose major land borders like Bavet (Vietnam) or Poipet (Thailand) for smoother immigration; cross early (7:00 AM) to avoid queues; carry printed e-visa or passport photocopy; have proof of onward travel for visa on arrival 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 PassApp for ride-hailing after crossing; use offline maps (Maps.me) for Phnom Penh or Siem Reap; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy travel.state.gov.
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 visa to cross into Cambodia? Citizens of ASEAN and select countries (e.g., Laos, Malaysia) are exempt for 14–30 days; others require e-visas or visa on arrival embassyofcambodiadc.org.
Which borders accept e-visas or visa on arrival? All international airports, major land borders (e.g., Bavet, Poipet), and seaports accept e-visas and visa on arrival evisa.gov.kh.
How much does a Cambodia visa cost? E-visa/visa on arrival: $30 (tourist) or $35 (business); exemptions: no cost evisa.gov.kh.
Can visas be extended at the border? E-visas and visa on arrival are extendable for 30 days at immigration offices; fees apply ($45) tourismcambodia.com.
What are the penalties for overstaying? Fines of $10/day (40,000 KHR/day); potential exit bans or deportation travel.state.gov.
Do Cambodian citizens need a visa for Cambodia? No, Cambodian citizens enter with a valid passport; dual nationals should check with embassies for special procedures 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 with eco-lodges.
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 Visa Border Crossing 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–$200, sustainable Cambodia Tours, and attractions like Angkor Wat and Phnom Penh, 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. Note that visa on arrival is available at entry points; plan accordingly. Safe travels!
Sources:
evisa.gov.kh
tourismcambodia.com
travel.state.gov
embassyofcambodiadc.org
cibtvisas.com
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