Plan your Cambodia adventure with our guide to applying for a visa online! Learn about e-visa processes, entry points, cultural etiquette, eco-friendly Cambodia Tours, and top providers for a seamless experience with Cambodia Travel. Start your journey today!
Angkor Wat Main Three Temples, 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, culturetrip.com, and nomadicmatt.com. Information based on the latest data; verify before travel. Reflects Cambodia’s updated travel regulations.
Travelers, please note: Cambodia offers both e-visas and visas on arrival for most nationalities. The e-visa, applied online via evisa.gov.kh, is recommended for a smoother, pre-arranged entry process, avoiding queues at borders or airports. This guide details the online visa application process, entry points, and travel tips for a seamless journey to 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 vibrant markets like Psar Thmei. Applying for a Cambodia visa online ensures hassle-free entry for travelers from nearly all countries, whether joining guided Cambodia Tours or traveling independently. The e-visa system simplifies entry at 7 international airports, 6 land borders, and 3 seaports, offering convenience for exploring Cambodia’s Khmer heritage and natural beauty evisa.gov.kh. This guide provides practical visa insights, 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 application steps, entry procedures, and sustainable Cambodia Travel ideas for a worry-free adventure.
Most nationalities require a Cambodia visa, with e-visas ($36, including processing fee) or visas on arrival ($30) available. ASEAN countries (e.g., Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia) enjoy visa-free entry for 14–30 days. 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), while the Royal Palace costs $10 (40,000 KHR). Guided tours range from $15–$80 (60,000–320,000 KHR). Travelers must register temporary residence with local police within 24 hours, typically handled by hotels or hosts. Verify visa requirements and entry procedures via evisa.gov.kh or tourismcambodia.com.
E-Visa:
Purpose: Tourism or business for short stays.
Eligibility: Available to citizens of nearly all countries, except those with visa-free entry (e.g., ASEAN nations) or restricted nationalities (e.g., certain Middle Eastern countries; check evisa.gov.kh) evisa.gov.kh.
Duration: 30 days (single entry) evisa.gov.kh.
Cost: $30 visa fee + $6 processing fee ($36 total or 144,000 KHR); 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 point like Phnom Penh Airport or Poipet), 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 (Visa, MasterCard, or UnionPay; American Express not accepted); note the registration code evisa.gov.kh.
Check status at evisa.gov.kh/visa-status 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 entry point; 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) via a local agency or immigration office in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap evisa.gov.kh.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 7 airports (e.g., Phnom Penh, Siem Reap), 6 land borders (e.g., Poipet, Bavet, Koh Kong), and 3 seaports (e.g., Sihanoukville) evisa.gov.kh.
Visa on Arrival:
Purpose: Tourism or business for short stays.
Eligibility: Available to most nationalities, except visa-free countries or restricted nationalities tourismcambodia.com.
Duration: 30 days (single entry) tourismcambodia.com.
Cost: $30 (120,000 KHR); payable in USD at entry points nomadicmatt.com.
Requirements: Passport valid for 6 months with two blank pages; one passport photo (4x6 cm); USD cash for payment; proof of onward travel (e.g., return flight or bus ticket) recommended travel.state.gov.
Extension: Extendable once for 30 days ($45 or 180,000 KHR) via a local agency or immigration office nomadicmatt.com.
Entry/Exit Points: Available at 7 airports, major land borders (e.g., Poipet, Bavet), and seaports tourismcambodia.com.
Visa-Free Entry:
Purpose: Tourism, business, or leisure for short stays.
Eligibility: Citizens of 9 ASEAN countries (e.g., Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia) and select others (e.g., Laos, Indonesia) for 14–30 days tourismcambodia.com.
Duration: 14 days (e.g., Laos), 21 days (e.g., Philippines), or 30 days (e.g., Thailand, Vietnam) tourismcambodia.com.
Cost: No cost tourismcambodia.com.
Requirements: Passport valid for 6 months with two blank pages; proof of onward travel recommended travel.state.gov.
Extension: Non-extendable; requires exit and re-entry with e-visa or visa on arrival nomadicmatt.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–$100 (120,000–400,000 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–$300 or 180,000–1,200,000 KHR) nomadicmatt.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 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.
Airports (7): Phnom Penh International Airport, Siem Reap International Airport, Sihanoukville International Airport, and others; immigration open 24/7 evisa.gov.kh.
Land Borders (6): Poipet (Thailand), Bavet (Vietnam), Koh Kong (Thailand), Tropaeng Kreal (Laos), Cham Yeam (Thailand), and O Smach (Thailand); open 7:00 AM–7:00 PM (some 24/7) evisa.gov.kh.
Seaports (3): Sihanoukville, Phnom Penh Port, and Koh Rong; used for cruise travelers evisa.gov.kh.
Requirements at Entry: Present a valid passport and printed e-visa; ensure details match exactly; proof of onward travel (e.g., return flight or bus ticket) recommended for visa-free entry travel.state.gov.
Cultural etiquette ensures a smooth visa application 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) nomadicmatt.com.
Behaviour: Maintain a calm demeanor at immigration checkpoints; avoid loud behavior or disputes; ask permission before photographing monks or locals; 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 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 Psar Thmei; 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 entry points and tourist areas culturetrip.com.
Respect: Follow immigration rules (no photography in checkpoint areas); respect local vendors with fair purchases in markets.
Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for entry points 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 evisa.gov.kh, tourismcambodia.com, 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 via Poipet, Phnom Penh Airport, or Bavet; suitable for travelers with valid e-visas or visa-free entry; low to moderate difficulty tourismcambodia.com.
Visa Tips: Use e-visa ($36) or visa-free entry (if eligible); 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 (Angkor Pass $37–$72); 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: 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: $0.30–$20 (1,200–80,000 KHR).
Location: Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Eco-Friendly Note: Use bicycles or walk to reduce emissions; avoid littering at cultural sites.
Tip: Apply for e-visa 7–14 days early; check evisa.gov.kh; a guest from Thailand noted: “Self-guided exploration was seamless after crossing at Poipet with an e-visa.”
Details: 1-day group tour visiting Angkor Wat and Wat Preah Prom Rath (Siem Reap) after entering via Siem Reap Airport or Poipet; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Siem Reap hotels, lunch, and Angkor Pass; low difficulty.
Visa Tips: Ensure valid e-visa or visa-free entry; 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 sunrise; returns by 4:00 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 the UK noted: “Legend’s tour ensured visa compliance and cultural immersion after Siem Reap entry.”
Details: 1-day guided tour visiting Royal Palace, Psar Thmei, and Wat Phnom (Phnom Penh) after entering via Phnom Penh Airport or Bavet; includes English-speaking guide, tuk-tuk transport, lunch, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use e-visa or visa on arrival; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; confirm eligibility evisa.gov.kh.
Schedule: Daily; departs 7:30 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 (Cambodia partner sites); a guest from Australia noted: “The combo tour was visa-ready and enriching after crossing at Bavet.”
Details: 2–3 day tour combining Angkor Wat (Siem Reap), Royal Palace (Phnom Penh), and Tonle Sap Lake after entering via Phnom Penh Airport, Siem Reap Airport, or Poipet; 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 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 Germany 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 visa-free entry.
Group Cultural Tours: Affordable and guided, perfect for 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 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 markets.
Cool season (November–February, 20–30°C) is ideal for comfortable weather and temple 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 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, 14–30 days) or apply for e-visas at evisa.gov.kh; use embassy visas for non-e-visa entry points or specific needs evisa.gov.kh.
Application Tips: Apply for e-visa 7–14 days early; ensure passport validity (6+ months); upload correct photo and passport scan; double-check details to match passport; have a temporary address in Cambodia (e.g., hotel) evisa.gov.kh.
Entry Tips: Choose major entry points like Phnom Penh Airport or Poipet for smoother immigration; arrive early (7:00 AM) to avoid queues; carry printed e-visa or passport photocopy; have proof of onward travel for visa-free entry tourismcambodia.com.
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 entry for sustainable travel.
Tip: Apply for e-visas early; check visa status at evisa.gov.kh; carry small KHR notes for local purchases; 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 144,000 KHR if required), passport photocopy, proof of onward travel (e.g., return flight or bus ticket for visa-free entry), wallet ($5–$8 or 20,000–32,000 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 ($0.30–$2 or 1,200–8,000 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 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 on Arrival Costs: $30 (120,000 KHR) tourismcambodia.com.
Visa-Free Entry Costs: 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); 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): $0.30–$2 (1,200–8,000 KHR).
Souvenirs (e.g., silk, crafts): $0.50–$20 (2,000–80,000 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, visa costs (if applicable), and transport; $0.30–$20 for purchases or add-ons; use e-visas to save time at entry points.
Visa Tips: Check eligibility for visa-free entry (ASEAN countries) or apply for e-visas at evisa.gov.kh; use embassy visas for non-e-visa entry points or specific needs; apply 7–14 days early; double-check details to match passport evisa.gov.kh.
Entry Tips: Choose major entry points like Phnom Penh Airport or Poipet for smoother immigration; arrive early (7:00 AM) to avoid queues; carry printed e-visa or passport photocopy; have proof of onward travel for visa-free entry tourismcambodia.com.
Etiquette: Use “sua sdei”; dress modestly for temples; respect immigration 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–7:00 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 entry points 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 a Cambodia visa? Most nationalities, except ASEAN countries (e.g., Thailand, Vietnam) with 14–30 days visa-free entry tourismcambodia.com.
How much does a Cambodia e-visa cost? $36 (144,000 KHR, including processing fee); non-refundable evisa.gov.kh.
Which entry points accept e-visas? 7 airports (e.g., Phnom Penh, Siem Reap), 6 land borders (e.g., Poipet, Bavet), and 3 seaports (e.g., Sihanoukville) evisa.gov.kh.
How long does e-visa processing take? 3–5 working days; expedited processing (1–2 days) available for extra fees evisa.gov.kh.
Can e-visas be extended? Yes, once for 30 days ($45 or 180,000 KHR) via agencies or immigration offices nomadicmatt.com.
What are the penalties for overstaying? $10/day (40,000 KHR/day); potential exit bans or deportation travel.state.gov.
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 Apply Cambodia Visa Online with cultural etiquette—modest attire, polite greetings like “sua sdei,” and visa-smart planning—unlocks a vibrant, eco-friendly journey through Cambodia’s cultural heartland. 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 travelers. 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. Safe travels!
Sources:
evisa.gov.kh
tourismcambodia.com
travel.state.gov
culturetrip.com
nomadicmatt.com
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