Cambodia Visa Guide 2026
The definitive handbook for moving to the Kingdom of Wonder. Demystifying E-Class visas, work permits, and long-term residency.
Choose Your Path
Cambodia’s visa system is flexible but specific. Select your category to see requirements.
Tourist Visa (T-Class)
Best for short visits. Strictly single entry.
- Validity: 30 Days
- Renewable: Once (for +30 days)
- Total Stay: Maximum 60 days
- Cost: $30 (Arrival) / $36 (e-Visa)
- Work: Strictly Prohibited
Business Extension (EB)
The standard for expats working or freelancing in Cambodia.
- Prerequisite: Enter on E-Class (Ordinary) Visa ($35)
- Validity: 1, 3, 6, or 12 Months
- Multiple Entry: Only on 6 & 12 month extensions
- Requirement: Stamped Employment Letter or Business License
- FPCS: Must be registered in FPCS app by landlord
Retirement Extension (ER)
For those aged 55+ looking to retire in the Kingdom.
- Age Requirement: 55+ years old
- Proof: Pension documentation or proof of funds (often flexible)
- Work: Cannot be employed
- Validity: Up to 12 months (Renewable)
The “Digital Nomad” Route
Cambodia doesn’t have a specific “Nomad Visa” yet, so most use the EB (Business) route.
- Strategy: Enter on E-Class (Ordinary).
- Extension: Extend for 6 or 12 months as “Looking for Business/Employment” or self-employed.
- Work Permit: You must apply for a self-employed work permit (~$200/year) to be 100% legal.
The Step-by-Step Process
From landing at POC to securing your long-term stay.
Arrival (Day 0)
Do NOT check “Tourist”. Check “Ordinary/Business” (E-Class) on your arrival card. Pay $35. This gives you 30 days and is the only visa that can be extended indefinitely.
FPCS Registration (Week 1)
Ensure your landlord registers you in the “Foreigners Present in Cambodia System” (FPCS) app. No FPCS screenshot = No Visa Extension.
Apply for Extension (Day 20)
Do not wait until the last day. Visit a reputable agent (Lucky Lucky, Sovann) about 7-10 days before expiry. Hand over passport + photos + fees.
Work Permit (Month 2-3)
If you got an EB (Business) extension, you legally need a Work Permit. Apply online via the Ministry of Labour website or pay your agent to handle it.
Critical Warning: The Overstay Trap
The fine for overstaying is $10 per day. It is payable at the airport upon departure. However, overstaying more than 30 days can lead to imprisonment, deportation, and a future ban. Always renew 1 week early.
Visa Extension Costs (2026 Estimates)
Prices vary slightly by agency, but these are the market averages in Phnom Penh.
| Duration | Type | Avg Cost | Entry Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Month | EB / EG / ER | $45 – $55 | Single |
| 3 Months | EB / EG / ER | $75 – $90 | Single |
| 6 Months | EB / EG / ER | $160 – $180 | Multiple |
| 12 Months | EB / EG / ER | $285 – $300 | Multiple |
*Prices generally exclude the agent’s service fee (usually $5-$10).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I convert a Tourist Visa to a Business Visa?
No. This is the most common mistake. If you enter on a T-Class (Tourist) visa, you strictly cannot switch to an E-Class (Business) visa inside the country. You must leave Cambodia (do a border run) and re-enter, ensuring you check “Ordinary/General” on the arrival card.
Do I need a return ticket to enter?
Officially, yes. Airlines will often deny boarding without one. Immigration rarely asks, but it’s risky. We recommend buying a cheap bus ticket to Ho Chi Minh or Bangkok via Giant Ibis as proof of onward travel if you don’t have a flight.
What is the ES (Student) Visa?
The ES extension is for students enrolled in a registered Cambodian school or university. It requires a letter of acceptance and enrollment confirmation. It is generally cheaper than the EB extension but prohibits working.
Which countries are Visa Exempt?
ASEAN passport holders (Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, Brunei) typically get 14-30 days visa-free. However, if you plan to stay longer, apply for the E-Class visa upon arrival anyway.
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