The 2025 Cambodia Visa Guide
Welcome to the Kingdom of Wonder. In 2024, over 6.7 million people visited Cambodia. But for anyone staying longer than a holiday, your *entire* trip depends on one choice you make at the airport.
Getting the wrong Cambodia visa is a costly mistake. This simple guide breaks down the e-Visa, long-term extensions, and new work permit rules to make your move seamless.
Your Visa Costs at a Glance (2025)
Here are the typical fees you can expect. Note that long-term extensions are best handled by a trusted visa agent.
Cambodia Visa Exemption Cheatsheet
Citizens from these ASEAN countries and others can enter Cambodia without a visa for a short period. Always check with your embassy before travel, as rules can change.
| Country / Territory | Max Visa-Free Stay | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Indonesia | 30 days | ASEAN Member |
| Laos | 30 days | ASEAN Member |
| Malaysia | 30 days | ASEAN Member |
| Philippines | 30 days | ASEAN Member |
| Singapore | 30 days | ASEAN Member |
| Vietnam | 30 days | ASEAN Member |
| Thailand | 14 days | ASEAN Member |
| Brunei | 14 days | ASEAN Member |
| Myanmar | 14 days | ASEAN Member |
| Maldives | 30 days | Bilateral Agreement |
| Seychelles | 15 days | Bilateral Agreement |
The Most Critical Choice You Will Make
Your first visa is the key. Choosing a “T” (Tourist) visa locks you into a short trip. Choosing an “E” (Ordinary) visa unlocks the path to long-term residency. This choice costs $5. Getting it wrong costs $200+ for a “visa run” flight.
Slide the handle to see the two paths.
The 4 Long-Stay “E” Visa Extensions
Once you enter on a 30-day Ordinary (E) Visa, you must “extend” it into one of these types. This 1-column layout gives each visa type the focus it deserves, so you can clearly see the requirements.
This is for anyone working, freelancing, or running a business. It’s available for 6 or 12 months with multiple entries. The key rule: You **must** have a valid Work Permit to get this extension.
This is for retirees. You must show proof of retirement from your home country (like a pension) and proof of funds. You are **not allowed to work** on this visa.
This is for foreigners studying at a registered Cambodian school, university, or language institute. You must provide an official letter of enrollment to qualify.
This is a short-term visa (1-6 months) for those who need time to find a job. Once you get a job, you must switch to an EB visa. You cannot work on an EG visa.
The New Work Permit Mandate
The “grey area” is gone. Cambodia’s immigration and labor departments now share data online. You can’t hide, and the fines are serious.
To renew your 6 or 12-month EB (Business) visa, the immigration system now digitally checks if you have a valid Work Permit. If you don’t, your visa extension will be denied. Your employer is responsible for getting your permit, and they face massive fines for non-compliance.
Why Cambodia is Easiest for Long-Term Stays
Compared to its neighbors, Cambodia’s path to residency is based on *purpose* (working, retiring), not massive wealth.
🇰🇭 Cambodia
The “Accessibility Advantage.” It offers a flexible system for workers, retirees, and business owners without demanding high wealth.
Key Hurdle: ~$500/year (EB visa + Work Permit).
🇹🇭 Thailand
The “High-Barrier Approach.” Its Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa is aimed at very wealthy individuals, investors, or highly-paid professionals.
Key Hurdle: $80,000/year income or $1M+ in assets.
🇻🇳 Vietnam
The “Employment-Tied System.” Long-term stay (TRC) is tied directly to a sponsoring company and a work permit. Less flexible for retirees or freelancers.
Key Hurdle: Must be sponsored by an employer for a 2-year TRC.
Key Immigration Locations (Phnom Penh)
Most visa activity happens in Phnom Penh. The map below shows the main international airport and the GDI headquarters (where agents submit your paperwork).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new Cambodia e-Arrival Card?
This is a new *mandatory* digital form. All travelers flying to Cambodia must fill it out online within 7 days *before* their flight. It is free and replaces the old paper immigration, health, and customs forms. You will get a QR code to show at the airport.
Can I get a Tourist (T) Visa and then stay long-term?
No. This is the most common and costly mistake. A Tourist (T) Visa can only be extended *one time* for 30 days (total 60 days). After that, you *must* leave the country. To stay long-term, you must enter on an Ordinary (E) Visa from the start.
What is the fine for overstaying a Cambodia visa?
The standard fine for overstaying your visa is **$10 USD per day**. You must pay this fine in cash at the airport when you are departing. A large overstay can result in more serious penalties, including deportation.
How much is a 12-month EB (Business) visa extension?
While government fees exist, almost everyone uses a visa agent. The typical agent fee for a 12-month, multiple-entry EB (Business) visa extension is around **$290 USD**. This is separate from the annual ~$200 Work Permit fee, which is also required.
Ready to Make Your Move?
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