Plan your Cambodia visa as a New Zealand citizen with our guide! Learn about e-visa applications, visa options, border checkpoints, eco-friendly Cambodia Tours, and top providers for a seamless experience with Cambodia Travel. Start your journey today!
Siem Reap Apsara Shows at Kulen Restaurant, 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 evisa.gov.kh, tourismcambodia.com, travel.state.gov, wayfairertravel.com, and justsiemreap.com. Information based on the latest data; verify before travel. Reflects Cambodia’s updated travel regulations.
Travelers, please note: New Zealand citizens are eligible for Cambodia’s e-visa program. International travelers, including New Zealand citizens, can apply for an e-visa online via evisa.gov.kh for tourism or business. Visa on arrival is available at select entry points, but e-visa is recommended for smoother processing. 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, the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, and pristine beaches in Sihanoukville tourismcambodia.com. Understanding visa requirements for border crossings ensures smooth entry for travelers from all countries, including New Zealand citizens, whether joining guided Cambodia Tours or traveling independently. New Zealand citizens benefit from e-visa options (up to 30 days for tourism), facilitating entry through Cambodia’s 3 international airports, 7 land borders, and 7 seaports evisa.gov.kh. 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) 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 (e.g., ASEAN nations) can enter for 14–30 days without a visa, while New Zealand citizens require e-visas ($30–$35 or 120,000–140,000 KHR) or visa on arrival ($30). 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.
Visa T (Tourist):
Purpose: Tourism, leisure, or short visits.
Eligibility: Available to New Zealand citizens and most nationalities evisa.gov.kh.
Duration: 30 days, single entry evisa.gov.kh.
Cost: $30 (120,000 KHR) evisa.gov.kh.
Requirements: Passport valid for at least 6 months from entry date with two blank pages; passport photo (4x6 cm, white background); proof of onward travel recommended but not mandatory wayfairertravel.com.
Extension: Extendable for an additional 30 days through immigration offices; fees apply ($45 or 180,000 KHR) justsiemreap.com.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 3 airports (Techo International Airport, Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, Sihanoukville International Airport), land borders like Bavet and Tropaeng Kreal, and seaports evisa.gov.kh.
Visa E (Business):
Purpose: Business, conferences, or short-term work.
Eligibility: Available to New Zealand citizens and most nationalities evisa.gov.kh.
Duration: 30 days, single entry evisa.gov.kh.
Cost: $35 (140,000 KHR) evisa.gov.kh.
Requirements: Passport valid for at least 6 months with two blank pages; passport photo (4x6 cm, white background); invitation letter from a Cambodian company recommended for business purposes wayfairertravel.com.
Extension: Extendable for up to 12 months through immigration offices; fees apply ($45–$290 or 180,000–1,160,000 KHR) justsiemreap.com.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at the same airports, land borders, and seaports as Visa T evisa.gov.kh.
Visa on Arrival (VOA):
Purpose: Tourism or business for short stays.
Eligibility: Available to New Zealand citizens at airports and some land borders tourismcambodia.com.
Duration: 30 days, single entry tourismcambodia.com.
Cost: $30 (120,000 KHR) tourismcambodia.com.
Requirements: Passport valid for 6 months with two blank pages; passport photo (4x6 cm); cash in USD for payment wayfairertravel.com.
Extension: Extendable for an additional 30 days; fees apply ($45 or 180,000 KHR) justsiemreap.com.
Entry/Exit Points: Available at 3 airports and major land borders like Bavet and Poipet tourismcambodia.com.
Visa Exemption:
Purpose: Tourism or business for short stays.
Eligibility: Citizens of ASEAN countries (e.g., Thailand, Vietnam, Laos) for 14–30 days; no exemption for New Zealand citizens tourismcambodia.com.
Duration: N/A for New Zealand citizens.
Cost: No cost.
Requirements: N/A.
Extension: N/A.
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.
Important Note: Visa on Arrival is available at select entry points, but e-visa is recommended for New Zealand citizens to avoid queues. Always verify current eligibility as policies may change evisa.gov.kh.
Airports (3): Techo International Airport (Phnom Penh), Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, Sihanoukville International Airport; open 24/7 for e-visa and VOA evisa.gov.kh.
Land Borders (e.g., Bavet, Tropaeng Kreal, Poipet): Popular checkpoints for e-visa and VOA; open 7:00 AM–8:00 PM; expect queues during peak seasons tourismcambodia.com.
Seaports: Available for e-visa; used for cruise travelers evisa.gov.kh.
Requirements at Borders: Present a valid passport and printed e-visa (if required); VOA requires passport photo and cash in USD; ensure details match to avoid entry issues wayfairertravel.com.
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., Wat Phnom 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 Phnom Penh’s markets; 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 offline maps (Maps.me) for border areas like Bavet 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 evisa.gov.kh, tourismcambodia.com, travel.state.gov, wayfairertravel.com, and justsiemreap.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 or Poipet; suitable for travelers with valid e-visas or VOA; low to moderate difficulty tourismcambodia.com.
Visa Tips: Use e-visas ($30–$35) or VOA ($30) for New Zealand citizens; 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; Angkor Wat open 5:00 AM–5:30 PM.
Cost: Royal Palace: $10 (40,000 KHR); Angkor Pass: $37–$72 (150,000–290,000 KHR); transport (bicycle: $1–$3 or 4,000–12,000 KHR/day; tuk-tuk: $0.50–$2 or 2,000–8,000 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 eligibility or apply for e-visas early; check evisa.gov.kh; a guest from New Zealand noted: “Self-guided exploration was seamless after crossing at Bavet.”
Details: 1-day group tour visiting Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda after crossing at Techo International Airport or Bavet; includes English-speaking guide, tuk-tuk transport, lunch, and entry fees; low difficulty wayfairertravel.com.
Visa Tips: Ensure valid e-visa or VOA; 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 entries).
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 New Zealand noted: “Legend’s tour ensured visa compliance and cultural immersion after Techo Airport.”
Details: 1-day guided tour visiting Siem Reap’s Angkor Wat and Old Market after crossing at Siem Reap Angkor International Airport; includes English-speaking guide, tuk-tuk transport, lunch, and Angkor Pass ($37); low to moderate difficulty justsiemreap.com.
Visa Tips: Use an e-visa for New Zealand citizens; 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 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 New Zealand noted: “The combo tour was visa-ready and enriching after Siem Reap Airport.”
Details: 2–3 day tour combining Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville after crossing at Techo Airport or Bavet; includes English-speaking guide, transport, accommodation, meals, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty tourismcambodia.com.
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 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 New Zealand noted: “The multi-day tour was a visa-smart cultural journey.”
Self-Guided Exploration: Flexible and cost-effective, ideal for travelers with e-visas or exemptions.
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, 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; rainy and wet (24–32°C); check dates at tourismcambodia.com.
Cultural Site Visits: Dry season (November–April) for comfortable weather; March for optimal conditions tourismcambodia.com.
Dry season (November–April, 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 Bavet. Morning crossings (7:00 AM–11:00 AM) avoid crowds and heat. Verify forecasts via accuweather.com.
Verify Visa Needs: New Zealand citizens apply for e-visas ($30–$35) at evisa.gov.kh or VOA ($30) at select points; use exemptions if eligible (none for New Zealand); always verify current eligibility as policies may change evisa.gov.kh.
Border Crossing Tips: Choose major 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 cash in USD for VOA 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 VOA 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 3 business 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., Wellington: +64 4 499 8909).
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 VOA), 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
E-Visa Costs: Visa T: $30 (120,000 KHR); Visa E: $35 (140,000 KHR) evisa.gov.kh.
VOA Costs: $30 (120,000 KHR) tourismcambodia.com.
Exemption Costs: No cost for ASEAN exemptions (14–30 days); no exemption for New Zealand citizens tourismcambodia.com.
Extension Costs: $45 (180,000 KHR) for 30 days justsiemreap.com.
Self-Guided Exploration: Entry: free (markets); Royal Palace: $10 (40,000 KHR); Wat Phnom: $1 (4,000 KHR); transport (bicycle: $1–$3 or 4,000–12,000 KHR/day; tuk-tuk: $0.50–$2 or 2,000–8,000 KHR).
Group Cultural Tours: $25–$40 (100,000–160,000 KHR, includes transport and entry).
Combo Cultural and Historical Tours: $35–$50 (140,000–200,000 KHR, includes entry).
Multi-Day Cultural and Historical 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., amok, nom banh chok): $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 e-visas to save on time.
Visa Tips: New Zealand citizens apply for e-visas ($30–$35) at evisa.gov.kh or VOA ($30) at select points; use exemptions if eligible (none for New Zealand); always verify current eligibility as policies may change evisa.gov.kh.
Border Crossing Tips: Choose major 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 cash in USD for VOA 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 (some 24/7); cultural sites open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; peak crowds in dry season (November–April); 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 or offline maps (Maps.me) for border areas or cities like Phnom Penh.
Weather: Dry season (Nov–Apr, 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, Tourist Police: +855 97 760 2001) nomadicmatt.com.
Who needs a visa to cross into Cambodia? New Zealand citizens require e-visas ($30–$35) or VOA ($30); ASEAN citizens are exempt for 14–30 days evisa.gov.kh.
Which borders accept e-visas or VOA? All 3 airports, land borders like Bavet and Poipet, and seaports accept e-visas and VOA evisa.gov.kh.
How much does a Cambodia visa cost? E-visa T: $30; E-visa E: $35; VOA: $30; extensions: $45 evisa.gov.kh.
Can visas be extended at the border? E-visas and VOA are extendable through immigration offices; fees apply ($45) justsiemreap.com.
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? Yes, at airports and major land borders for New Zealand citizens; e-visa recommended to avoid queues tourismcambodia.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 Heritage Trail ($80–$150/person, 2 days): Explore cultural sites with eco-lodges.
Cambodia Explorer ($150–$250/person, 3 days): Multi-site adventure with 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 for New Zealand Citizens 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 New Zealand travelers. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Cambodia Travel, leverage e-visas or VOA, and respect local customs for the best experience. Safe travels!
Sources:
evisa.gov.kh
tourismcambodia.com
travel.state.gov
wayfairertravel.com
justsiemreap.com
Favorite experiences booked by travelers
