Cambodia

The Land of Temples
and Traditions

Flag of Cambodia
Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Cambodia.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in Cambodia.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from ASEAN countries (e.g., Laos, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia) can enter Cambodia with a valid passport and stay for up to 14-30 days (depending on nationality) without a visa.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from most other nations must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Cambodia, though many nationalities are eligible for a visa on arrival or an e-visa.

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry; a Cambodian visa is still required unless the traveler’s nationality is visa-exempt.
  • Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry; a Cambodian visa is required unless visa-exempt.
  • Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK do not qualify for visa-free entry; a Cambodian visa is required unless visa-exempt.
  • ID Card Entry: No countries are permitted to enter Cambodia using only a national ID card; a passport is mandatory for all travelers.

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for up to 30 days (tourist visa, "T" visa). Can be single-entry, with validity up to 3 months; extendable for another 30 days.
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 30 days (business visa, "E" visa). Valid for one year with multiple entries, allowing application for a residence permit (e.g., for work or long-term stays).

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays for ASEAN nationals are limited to 14-30 days. Tourist visas (on arrival or e-visa) allow a 30-day stay, extendable once.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; "E" visas are required for work and can be extended indefinitely with proper documentation.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions, as Cambodia may reintroduce measures like mandatory testing or health declarations.
Toll

Driving in Cambodia

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, Cambodia has a few toll roads, including:
    • Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway: A major toll road connecting the capital to the coastal city of Sihanoukville.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates vary based on vehicle type and distance traveled. For example, a standard car pays approximately KHR 20,000-40,000 (Cambodian Riel) for the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway. For the most current rates, visit the Ministry of Public Works and Transport website: https://www.mpwt.gov.kh/
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Cambodian Riel (KHR) is accepted at all toll booths; US Dollars (USD) are also widely accepted.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Limited acceptance; major toll roads may start accepting cards, but cash is preferred.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: An e-toll system is under development but not widely implemented; check for updates on https://www.mpwt.gov.kh/.

Driving in Cambodia

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for front-seat occupants, though enforcement is inconsistent.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 40 km/h
    • Rural roads: 60-80 km/h
    • Highways: 100 km/h (e.g., Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway)
  • Road conditions vary; major roads like National Highway 4 are paved but can be congested, while rural roads are often unpaved, narrow, or flooded during the rainy season (May-October).
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license, especially for non-ASEAN nationals.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Cambodia does not use a vignette system; tolls are collected at specific points on major roads.
  • Road Safety: Driving can be chaotic due to motorbikes, pedestrians, and livestock on roads. Night driving is risky due to poor lighting and potholes.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is somewhat reliable in urban areas (e.g., Phnom Penh, Siem Reap), but connectivity can be spotty in rural regions; keep an updated physical map as a backup.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 119 for emergencies.

Useful Links

Cambodia Currency

The official currency of Cambodia is the Cambodian Riel (KHR).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, 100,000 KHR
  • Coins: 50, 100, 200, 500 KHR (rarely used)
  • Symbol: ៛ (often written as KHR)
  • Note: The US Dollar (USD) is widely accepted in Cambodia, often preferred for larger transactions.

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services are available at banks, airports, and markets in major cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
  • ATMs are widely available in urban areas for direct KHR withdrawals (often dispense USD as well), but may be scarce in rural regions.

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, especially in rural areas and small establishments; USD is often used for larger payments, with change given in KHR.
  • Credit/debit cards are accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments in tourist areas (e.g., Siem Reap, Phnom Penh), but rarely in rural areas.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card issues.
  • Carry some cash (KHR for small purchases, USD for larger ones) for rural areas, as digital payments are not universal.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards; the KHR fluctuates against the USD.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the National Bank of Cambodia website: https://www.nbc.gov.kh/
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Cambodia

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Cambodia, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including life imprisonment or the death penalty. Even small quantities can lead to severe charges.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Alcohol consumption is permitted, but public intoxication can lead to fines or detention.
    • Smoking is banned in indoor public spaces and near certain cultural sites (e.g., Angkor Wat).
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Respect Buddhist traditions; dress modestly at temples (e.g., cover shoulders and knees at Angkor Wat). Avoid touching monks (especially for women).
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are legal, but same-sex marriage is not recognized. Public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention, especially in rural areas.
  • Photography: Restricted at military sites, government buildings, and some temples (e.g., inside Angkor Wat’s main sanctuary). Always ask permission for portraits of locals, especially monks.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 2L spirits.
  • Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over USD 10,000 (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, and antiquities (e.g., artifacts from Angkor Wat).
  • Counterfeit goods may face fines or confiscation.

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport (e.g., Phnom Penh International Airport).

Complaints

  • Submit grievances to the Cambodia Tourism Authority or the Ministry of Tourism.

Beach Access

  • Public beaches (e.g., Sihanoukville, Kep) must allow free access within 5 meters of the shoreline. Wheelchair access is mandated but not always implemented.

Key Resources

Cambodia Travel Safety

Cambodia is generally safe for travellers, with moderate crime rates and a reputation for hospitality. However, travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Cambodia.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing, bag-snatching) is common in crowded areas like markets (e.g., Psar Chas in Siem Reap) or tourist sites (e.g., Angkor Wat). Violent crime against tourists is rare but can occur.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Cambodia is considered moderately safe, with locals often eager to help. Female travelers should avoid isolated areas at night and be cautious of tuk-tuk scams.
  • Road Safety:
    • Driving can be challenging due to chaotic traffic, motorbikes, and pedestrians.
    • Avoid night driving due to poor road lighting and frequent accidents.
    • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory but enforcement is lax.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Avoid tap water; drink bottled water only.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travellers’ diarrhea; street food can be risky if not freshly prepared.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus, COVID-19, and rabies (for rural travel).
    • Yellow Fever: Required if arriving from a risk country.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Use insect repellent to guard against dengue, malaria, and Zika, especially during the rainy season (May-October).
  • Altitude Sickness: Not a concern; Cambodia is mostly flat, with the highest point (Phnom Aoral) at 1,813 meters, rarely visited by tourists.

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Private facilities like Royal Phnom Penh Hospital offer good care in Phnom Penh. Rural areas often lack advanced medical services.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap; carry essential medications for rural travel.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation, as rural care is limited.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 119 (works for police, ambulance, and fire).
  • Ambulance: 119 | Fire: 118 | Police: 117.
  • Tourist Police (Phnom Penh): +855 97 778 0002.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Avoid self-driving; hire a local driver or use tuk-tuks for safety. Check insurance coverage for rentals.
  • Hiking: Use local guides for treks in areas like Cardamom Mountains or Koh Kong; unexploded ordnance (UXO) from the Khmer Rouge era remains a risk in remote areas.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid pointing your feet at people or sacred objects; remove shoes when entering temples.
  • Air Quality: Pollution can be high in Phnom Penh; monitor via the World Air Quality Index.

Key Links

Flying to Cambodia