Home Arrow FAQ Arrow Can I Get a Visa on Arrival at Siem Reap Airport? Here’s What You Should Know (2025 Update)

Can I Get a Visa on Arrival at Siem Reap Airport? Here’s What You Should Know (2025 Update)

A common question many travelers ask is: “Can I get a visa on arrival at Siem Reap Airport?”

The answer is yes, but there are important details you should know before choosing this option—especially if you’re hoping to save time, avoid delays, and steer clear of unexpected issues.

This article will explain how the visa on arrival process works at Siem Reap International Airport in 2025, highlight potential pitfalls, and explain why opting for a Cambodia eVisa is often the more reliable and hassle-free choice.

Can You Still Get a Visa on Arrival at Siem Reap Airport in 2025?

Yes, you can.

Siem Reap International Airport, the gateway to the world-famous Angkor Wat, continues to offer visa-on-arrival services for many nationalities. Here’s a quick summary of how it works:

  • Visa Type: Tourist Visa (T-class)
  • Fee: USD $30 (payable in cash)
  • Validity: 30 days, extendable once for an additional 30 days
  • Requirements: Passport valid for at least six months, one passport-size photo, and completed arrival forms

It sounds convenient, right? But from my years of experience, I can tell you there are several important drawbacks that travelers should seriously consider.

The Hidden Downsides of Getting a Visa on Arrival at Siem Reap Airport

Many travelers arrive in Cambodia excited to explore the temples and culture—but they’re often caught off guard by the visa-on-arrival process. Here’s what you might encounter:

Long Lines, Especially in Peak Season

After a long flight, standing in a crowded arrival hall for 30 minutes—or sometimes over an hour—can be exhausting. During Cambodia’s high season (November to March), the queues at Siem Reap airport’s visa counters can get very long.

Cash-Only Payments

Visa-on-arrival fees are cash only, and must be paid in crisp, untorn U.S. dollars. If your bills are old, damaged, or you arrive without cash, you may be forced to search for an ATM or currency exchange desk, which can be stressful and often comes with bad exchange rates.

Extra Charges for Missing Documents

If you don’t have a passport photo, you’ll be charged an extra fee (usually around $2-$5) to have one taken on the spot. It’s not expensive—but it’s one more hassle.

Potential for Misunderstandings

Immigration officers may ask you detailed questions about your travel plans, accommodation, and purpose of visit. If your answers don’t match your documents or sound vague, you could face delays—or, in rare cases, be denied entry.

Post-Flight Fatigue

After a long flight, you might not be in the best shape to handle paperwork, cash payments, and interviews at the visa counter. Many travelers tell me they wish they’d sorted their visa before leaving home.

Why I Strongly Recommend Getting a Cambodia eVisa Instead

Based on my years helping travelers avoid headaches at the airport, I highly recommend the Cambodia eVisa instead of relying on a visa on arrival. Here’s why:

Skip the Lines

With an eVisa, you can breeze past the visa-on-arrival desk and head straight to immigration control. It’s a huge time-saver, especially during busy periods.

Pay Online—No Cash Stress

Paying online for your eVisa means no worrying about cash, no ATM runs, and no exchange rate surprises.

Peace of Mind Before You Fly

An eVisa approval guarantees that you’ve already been authorized to enter Cambodia. That’s priceless peace of mind.

Simple and Fast Process

Applying for an eVisa through Cambodia Immigration Services is fast and secure. We check every detail to avoid mistakes that could cause delays.

Perfect for Siem Reap Airport

Your eVisa is fully valid for entry at Siem Reap International Airport—as well as other major Cambodian airports and several land borders.

Tips for a Smooth Cambodia eVisa Experience

If you decide to go the eVisa route (and I hope you do!), here are my top tips:

  • Apply 3-5 business days in advance of your trip to allow time for processing.
  • Print at least two copies of your eVisa approval letter. Keep one in your carry-on and one in your checked luggage.
  • Use a reputable service. Apply through official channels or trusted providers like Cambodia Immigration Services to avoid scams.
  • Check your entry point. While eVisa is accepted at Siem Reap, it’s smart to double-check your airport or border crossing before travel.

So… Should You Get a Visa on Arrival at Siem Reap Airport?

While the visa-on-arrival option does exist, I believe the eVisa is the smarter, safer choice for most travelers in 2025.

Here’s my bottom line:

  • Visa on arrival can work—but it comes with potential delays, cash-only payments, and post-flight stress.
  • The Cambodia eVisa saves time, hassle, and uncertainty. It’s simply a better way to start your adventure.

Let Cambodia Immigration Services Help You Travel Stress-Free

At Cambodia Immigration Services, we’ve helped thousands of travelers secure their Cambodia eVisa quickly and safely. We know the process inside and out, and we’re here to make sure your journey begins smoothly.

Ready to skip the lines and travel with confidence? Start your Cambodia eVisa application here and let us help you make your trip unforgettable.

Travel smarter. Choose the eVisa. And make your arrival in Siem Reap as magical as your time exploring Angkor Wat.

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