Home Arrow FAQ Arrow Can I Get a Visa on Arrival at Phnom Penh Airport? Here’s What Travelers Should Know in 2025

Can I Get a Visa on Arrival at Phnom Penh Airport? Here’s What Travelers Should Know in 2025

A frequently asked question among travelers is: “Can I get a visa on arrival at Phnom Penh Airport?”

The short answer is yes—but there are important considerations before choosing this option. In this article, we’ll explain how the visa on arrival process works at Phnom Penh International Airport in 2025, uncover the potential downsides, and highlight why applying for a Cambodia eVisa in advance is often the better choice for a smooth and stress-free entry.

So… Can You Get a Visa on Arrival at Phnom Penh Airport?

Yes—you can.

Phnom Penh International Airport remains one of Cambodia’s main entry points offering visa on arrival services. If you’re flying into Cambodia’s capital, here’s what you need to know:

  • Visa type: Tourist Visa (T-class)
  • Fee: $30 USD (cash only)
  • Validity: 30 days, extendable for another 30 days
  • Requirements: A passport valid for at least six months, one recent passport-sized photo, and completed arrival forms

It sounds simple enough—but in practice, many travelers discover some unexpected inconveniences.

The Hidden Inconveniences of Visa on Arrival at Phnom Penh Airport

While the visa on arrival is technically available, it’s not always the most traveler-friendly option. Here’s why:

Long Lines and Crowded Arrival Halls

During Cambodia’s high tourist season (November through March), the arrival halls at Phnom Penh airport can get crowded. Many travelers find themselves standing in line for 30 minutes—or sometimes over an hour—just to process their visa. After a long international flight, that’s the last thing you want.

Cash-Only Payments

Visa fees must be paid in crisp U.S. dollars—and cash only. Bills that are torn, faded, or written on are often rejected. If you don’t have cash, you may have to hunt for an ATM or exchange counter, which isn’t always convenient and could result in poor exchange rates.

Extra Costs for Missing Photos

Forgot your passport photo? No problem—but expect to pay an extra $2 to $5 to get one taken on the spot. It’s a small cost but an extra hassle.

Unpredictable Delays

Sometimes, even small issues—like incomplete forms, spelling mistakes, or an unclear reason for your visit—can cause delays at the visa counter. I’ve spoken to travelers who spent over two hours dealing with unexpected questioning or corrections.

Fatigue After a Long Flight

Navigating forms, cash payments, and interviews right after a flight can be stressful, especially if you’re arriving late at night. Many travelers wish they’d handled their visa in advance.

Why I Recommend Getting a Cambodia eVisa Instead

Over the past ten years, I’ve seen more and more travelers switching to the Cambodia eVisa—and for good reason. Here’s why the eVisa is a far better choice for most people flying into Phnom Penh:

Skip the Lines Entirely

With an eVisa, you can breeze past the visa-on-arrival counters and go straight to immigration. It saves valuable time, especially during peak hours.

Pay Online, Avoid Cash Hassles

An eVisa allows you to pay securely online. No worries about carrying perfect U.S. dollars or searching for an ATM at the airport.

Peace of Mind Before You Fly

With your eVisa already approved, you know you’re cleared for entry. It eliminates a lot of anxiety before your trip.

Fast, Easy Process

Applying for a Cambodia eVisa through Cambodia Immigration Services takes only a few minutes. Our team checks your application for errors to avoid delays or rejections.

Fully Accepted at Phnom Penh Airport

Phnom Penh International Airport is one of the official entry points for Cambodia eVisa holders—so you’re completely covered.

Tips for a Smooth Cambodia eVisa Experience

If you’re thinking of choosing the eVisa route (and I highly encourage it), here are my top tips:

  • Apply at least 3-5 business days before your trip. While eVisas often arrive faster, it’s smart to allow a few extra days.
  • Print two copies of your eVisa approval letter—keep one in your carry-on and one in your checked luggage.
  • Use a trusted provider like Cambodia Immigration Services to ensure your application is error-free.
  • Check your entry point. Confirm that Phnom Penh airport is your planned arrival location (eVisa is accepted there!).

Should You Rely on Visa on Arrival at Phnom Penh Airport?

While a visa on arrival at Phnom Penh airport is still possible, I strongly recommend the eVisa for nearly every traveler in 2025. Here’s why:

  • The visa on arrival process can be crowded, cash-dependent, and time-consuming.
  • The eVisa is quick, secure, and gives you peace of mind before you ever board your flight.

In short: if you value speed, simplicity, and a stress-free arrival, the eVisa is the clear winner.

Let Cambodia Immigration Services Help You Travel with Confidence

Over thousands of travelers have already acquired their Cambodia eVisa using the services of Cambodia Immigration Services, and they were all able to do it quickly and easily. We are familiar with all the intricacies of the process and are here to make sure that you are not exposed to the nightmare associated with visa on arrival.

Are you eager to avoid the lines and go to Phnom Penh with comfort? Start your Cambodia eVisa application here and leave the details to us as you concentrate on the adventure.

Smart travel is the only way to go, and that is why you should use eVisa, and start visiting Cambodia in your way!

Related Articles

View more Arrow
Live chat
COOKIE SETTINGS