Easy Steps: How to Get Cambodia Visa for Tourists

Welcome to Cambodia, the ‘Kingdom of Wonder,’ a land rich in ancient history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. From the majestic temples of Angkor Wat to the serene beaches of Sihanoukville, Cambodia offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler. To ensure a smooth journey into this captivating country, understanding how to get a Cambodia visa is your first essential step. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, covering all your options, requirements, and crucial tips for a hassle-free entry.

Cambodia continues to be a magnet for international visitors, welcoming a significant 6.7 million international tourists in 2024, a 23% increase compared to 2023. From January to November 2024 alone, the country attracted 6 million international tourists, marking a 22% rise over the same period in 2023. The top three source markets during these eleven months were Thailand (1.91 million visitors), Vietnam (1.2 million visitors), and China (769,775 arrivals). This increasing popularity underscores the importance of having your travel documents in order before you arrive. Whether you’re considering the convenience of a Cambodia e-visa, the flexibility of a Cambodia visa on arrival, or a traditional embassy application, we’ve got you covered.

Understanding Cambodia Visa Types: eVisa vs. Visa on Arrival vs. Traditional Sticker Visa

Before diving into the application process, it’s crucial to understand the different types of Cambodian tourist visas available and how they cater to various travel plans. The primary options for tourists are the eVisa and the Visa on Arrival (VoA), though a traditional sticker visa through a Royal Embassy of Cambodia is also an option.

What’s the Difference Between the Visa on Arrival and the eVisa?

The main distinction lies in *where* and *when* you apply. The Cambodia eVisa is applied for and obtained online *before* your travel, while the Visa on Arrival is processed at designated entry points *upon* your arrival in Cambodia.

• Cambodia eVisa (Electronic Visa): This is a digitally processed visa that you apply for through the official government website. It’s convenient for those who prefer to have their visa sorted before departure, avoiding potential queues at the airport or border. The approval letter is typically emailed to you, which you then print and present upon entry. [2]
• Cambodia Visa on Arrival (VoA): This option allows eligible travelers to obtain a visa directly at international airports and some land border crossings after landing in Cambodia. It’s often chosen by spontaneous travelers or those who couldn’t apply for an eVisa in advance. [7, 8, 10]
• Traditional Sticker Visa: For those who prefer or require it, a traditional visa can be obtained by applying at a Royal Embassy of Cambodia or consulate in your home country. This usually involves submitting your passport and documents in person or by mail. This method is less common for tourist visas due to the convenience of the eVisa and VoA but might be necessary for certain nationalities or specific visa types not covered by the online/on-arrival systems.

How to Get a Cambodia Visa Online: The eVisa Process

The Cambodia eVisa is a popular and straightforward way to secure your entry permit, especially if you’re flying into one of Cambodia’s international airports. The entire Cambodia visa application process is completed online, making it a convenient option for many tourists.

Requirements for the Cambodia eVisa

To successfully apply for a Cambodia e-visa, you will generally need the following documents required for Cambodia visa:

• Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of entry into Cambodia. It should also have at least one blank page for immigration stamps. [8]
• Digital Photograph: A recent passport-sized digital photograph (usually 4×6 cm), taken within the last six months. Ensure it has a white background and meets standard Cambodia visa photo requirements.
• Credit/Debit Card: For payment of the Cambodia visa cost.
• Email Address: A valid email address where your eVisa approval letter will be sent.
• Travel Itinerary (Optional but recommended): While not always strictly required for the application, having your flight details and accommodation bookings can be helpful.

Step-by-Step eVisa Application

Applying for your Cambodia e-visa online is a simple three-step process:

1. Visit the Official eVisa Cambodia Official Site: Navigate to the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, which handles the Cambodia eVisa: www.evisa.gov.kh. Be wary of unofficial websites that may charge higher fees or are fraudulent. [2, 4, 5, 6, 9]
2. Fill in the Online Cambodia Visa Application Form: Complete the secure online application form with your personal details, passport information, and travel plans. This includes your full name, date of birth, nationality, passport number, issue and expiry dates, and your intended port of entry. The form is designed to be user-friendly, sometimes offering passport reader technology to simplify data entry. [2]
3. Upload Documents and Pay the Fee: Upload your digital passport photo and then proceed to the secure payment gateway. You can typically pay using major credit cards like Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Diners Club, UnionPay, Alipay, or WeChat. [2]

Cambodia eVisa Cost and Processing Time

How much does a Cambodia visa cost when applying online? As of January 1, 2025, the fee structure for e-visas has been updated:

• Tourist e-visa (Type T): The fee will be reduced from $36 to $30 USD.
• Regular e-visa (Type E – for business): The fee will decrease from $42 to $35 USD.

These fees are for a single-entry visa. [2]

How long does it take to get a Cambodia e-visa? The standard Cambodia visa processing time is typically 3 business days from the date of application. However, it’s always advisable to apply well in advance of your travel date, ideally a few weeks, to account for any unforeseen delays. [2]

Checking Your Cambodia eVisa Status

After submitting your application, you can easily monitor its progress. How do I check my Cambodia e-visa status? Simply visit the official eVisa website and navigate to the ‘Check & Change’ section: www.evisa.gov.kh/check_change. You will typically need your application reference number and passport details to retrieve your status. [4, 9]

Once approved, you will receive an email with your eVisa approval letter. Print at least two copies of this letter to present to immigration officials upon arrival.

Cambodia eVisa Validity

A Cambodia eVisa (Type T) is generally valid for 3 months from the date of issue. This means you must enter Cambodia within this three-month window. Upon entry, it grants you a maximum stay of 30 days. This is a single-entry visa, so if you leave Cambodia and wish to re-enter, you will need to apply for a new visa. [2]

Planning your first adventure to the Kingdom of Wonder? Don’t miss our First-Time Cambodia Travel Guide: Ultimate Beginner’s Plan to make the most of your trip after securing your visa.

Getting a Cambodia Visa on Arrival (VoA): Is it Still Possible in 2025?

Yes, for many nationalities, you can still get a Cambodia visa on arrival in 2025! This remains a viable option for tourists entering Cambodia via international airports and certain land border crossings. It offers flexibility for last-minute travel plans, but it’s important to be prepared to avoid delays.

Documents Required for Cambodia Visa on Arrival

What documents do I need for a Cambodia visa on arrival? To obtain a VoA, have the following ready:

• Passport: Your original passport, valid for at least six months from your date of entry, with at least one blank page. [8]
• Passport-sized Photographs: One recent (taken within the last six months) passport-sized photograph (4×6 cm) with a white background. It’s wise to carry a couple of spares.
• Completed Visa Application Form: These forms are provided at the immigration counter upon arrival. You’ll need to fill it out on the spot, so having a pen handy is useful.
• Visa Fee: The required fee in US dollars (cash). [10]
• Proof of Onward Travel (Recommended): While not always strictly enforced, immigration officials *can* request proof of a return or onward ticket. [10]
• Accommodation Details: The address of your first night’s accommodation in Cambodia.

Visa on Arrival Process at Ports of Entry

The Visa on Arrival process is generally straightforward:

1. Arrival: Upon disembarking your flight or crossing the border, look for the ‘Visa on Arrival’ or ‘Immigration’ counters.
2. Collect and Complete Form: Pick up a visa application form from the counter and fill it out accurately. Ensure all details match your passport.
3. Submit Documents and Fee: Present your completed form, passport, photograph(s), and the exact visa fee (in USD cash) to the immigration officer. You will also have your fingerprints collected using an inkless, electronic process. [8]
4. Wait for Processing: The officer will process your application. This usually takes between 10-30 minutes, depending on the number of arrivals. Patience is key.
5. Receive Visa and Enter: Once approved, your visa sticker will be affixed to a page in your passport, and you’ll receive an entry stamp. You can then proceed through immigration.

#### Ports of Entry Accepting Visa on Arrival:

International Airports:

• Phnom Penh International Airport (Note: Techo International Airport – KTI – will replace Phnom Penh International Airport effective September 9, 2025) [2]
• Siem Reap Angkor International Airport (SAI) [2]
• Sihanoukville International Airport (KOS) [2]

Major Land Border Checkpoints (e.g.):

• Bavet (from Vietnam) [2]
• Poipet (from Thailand) (Note: Poipet is temporarily closed for eVisa entry, but VoA is typically available for land crossings, check latest updates) [2]
• Cham Yeam (from Thailand) (Note: Cham Yeam is temporarily closed for eVisa entry, check latest updates) [2]
• Tropaeng Kreal (from Laos) [2]

Cambodia Visa on Arrival Cost

For tourists, the Cambodia visa on arrival cost is typically $30 USD for a Tourist Visa (Type T). For those needing a Business Visa (Type E), the cost is usually $35 USD. It is crucial to have the exact amount in clean, unfolded US dollar bills, as change may not always be readily available. [10]

Cambodia’s Mandatory e-Arrival Card: What You Need to Know

To streamline the entry process, the Cambodia e-Arrival Card became mandatory for all travelers arriving by air at Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville airports on September 1, 2024. This digital system replaces the traditional paper forms for immigration, customs, and health declarations. Travelers are recommended to submit the e-Arrival Card online within 7 days before their arrival to ensure a smooth entry. This digital submission is entirely free. [2, 10]

Even if you have been granted an eVisa or plan to get a Visa on Arrival, completing the e-Arrival Card in advance is a mandatory step that helps reduce waiting times at immigration counters. It’s part of Cambodia’s ongoing efforts to modernize its tourism infrastructure and improve the traveler experience.

General Cambodia Tourist Visa Requirements for All Applicants

Regardless of whether you choose the eVisa or Visa on Arrival, certain universal Cambodia tourist visa requirements apply to all foreigners seeking entry:

• Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months beyond your intended date of entry into Cambodia. This is a critical requirement that is often overlooked. [7, 8, 10]
• Blank Passport Pages: Your passport should have at least one completely blank page for the visa sticker and entry/exit stamps. Some sources recommend two blank pages to be safe. [8, 11]
• Photographs: One or two recent passport-sized photographs (4×6 cm) with a white background. Even for eVisas, having a physical copy can sometimes be useful.
• Return or Onward Ticket: While not always requested, officials can ask for proof of a confirmed return or onward flight out of Cambodia. [10]
• Sufficient Funds: You may be asked to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in Cambodia, although this is rare for tourists.
• No Criminal Record: Applicants should not have a criminal record that would deem them inadmissible.

Familiarize yourself with the Best Places to Visit in Cambodia in 2025 to ensure you have a fantastic itinerary once your visa is secured!

Important Considerations for Your Cambodia Visa

Beyond the application process, there are several key factors to keep in mind regarding your Cambodian visa.

Visa Validity and Extensions

How long is the Cambodia tourist visa valid for? Both the tourist eVisa and Visa on Arrival are typically issued for a 30-day stay from your date of entry. [2, 7, 8, 10]

If you wish to extend your stay, a tourist visa (Type T) can generally be extended for one additional month only. This extension must be processed within Cambodia by applying at the Department of Immigration, located in Phnom Penh. Business visas (Type E), however, offer more flexibility and can be extended for one, three, six, or twelve months, potentially with multiple entries. [7]

It is crucial to initiate the extension process *before* your current visa expires to avoid penalties.

Overstaying Your Cambodia Visa

What’s the fine for overstaying a Cambodia visa? Overstaying your visa in Cambodia is a serious matter and can lead to significant penalties. Cambodian immigration officials will impose a fine, typically $10 USD per day for each day you overstay. [8]

In cases of excessive overstays, you risk being arrested, detained, and subjected to official deportation proceedings at your own expense. Deportation can also result in you being prohibited from re-entering Cambodia in the future. Always monitor your visa expiry date carefully. For the most current and detailed information, it’s advisable to consult the U.S. Department of State’s International Travel Information for Cambodia or the nearest Royal Embassy of Cambodia. [8]

Countries Exempt from Cambodia Visa

While most visitors require a visa, citizens of certain countries are exempt from Cambodia visa requirements for short stays. These generally include fellow ASEAN member states, though the permitted duration of stay varies:

• 30 days: Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Maldives, Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam. [10]
• 15 days: Seychelles. [10]
• 14 days: Brunei, Myanmar. [10]
• 7 days: Thailand (note: length of stay may be reduced due to bilateral agreements or border situations) [10]

Always verify the latest visa exemption policies with the Visa Policy of Cambodia on Wikipedia or the Royal Embassy of Cambodia before your trip, as policies can change. [10]

For those seeking the perfect photo opportunities, explore our guide to the Top 7 Instagrammable Places in Cambodia and capture stunning memories of your visa-approved adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions