How Do I Get a Tourist Visa for Cambodia?
Getting a tourist visa for Cambodia is straightforward and convenient with multiple application options available. Cambodia has modernized its visa system to make entry easy for international tourists. Here's a comprehensive, up-to-date guide on all the ways to obtain a Cambodian tourist visa in 2025:
Overview of Cambodia Tourist Visa
Basic Information
Tourist Visa (T-Class):
- Validity: 30 days from the date of entry
- Type: Single entry visa
- Purpose: Tourism, sightseeing, visiting friends/family, leisure travel
- Extension: Can be extended once for an additional 30 days inside Cambodia
- Cost: Varies by application method (See more)
Who Needs a Visa?
Most nationalities require a visa to enter Cambodia. Only a small number of countries enjoy visa-free entry (mainly ASEAN member states). Always check current requirements for your specific nationality.
Method 1: Cambodia eVisa (Electronic Visa) - RECOMMENDED
What is the Cambodia eVisa?
The Cambodia eVisa is the most convenient and popular method for obtaining a Cambodian tourist visa. It's an official electronic visa that allows you to apply online from anywhere in the world without visiting an embassy or waiting at the airport.
Why Choose eVisa?
Advantages:
- Apply from anywhere - no embassy visit needed
- Fast processing - typically 3 business days
- Convenient - complete application online 24/7
- Secure - official government system
- Email delivery - receive visa approval electronically
- No paperwork hassles - print and present at arrival
- Avoid airport queues - While the eVisa allows you to skip the Visa on Arrival queue, you will still need to go through the regular immigration line upon arrival
- Track application status online
- The eVisa is available for the majority of nationalities, although a small number of countries are not eligible and must apply through an embassy
eVisa Requirements
Documents Needed:
- Valid passport - must be valid for at least 6 months from entry date
- Digital passport photo - recent color photo (JPEG/PNG format)
- A recent digital passport-style photo is required; the system accepts standard portrait dimensions as long as your face is clearly visible
- White background
- Clear facial features
- No glasses or headwear (unless religious reasons)
- Credit/debit card - for payment (Visa, Mastercard, or other accepted cards)
- Valid email address - to receive visa approval
How to Apply for a Cambodia eVisa
Step-by-Step Process:
Step 1: Access the Official Application
- Visit the official Cambodia eVisa application portal
- Trusted service provider: Cambodia Immigration Services offers reliable eVisa processing
Step 2: Complete the Online Form. Fill out the application with:
- Personal information (name, date of birth, nationality)
- Passport details (number, issue/expiry dates)
- Travel information (arrival date, entry point)
- Contact information (email, phone, address)
- Purpose of visit (tourism)
Step 3: Upload Required Documents
- Upload your passport photo (meets specifications)
- Upload your passport biographical page (clear, readable scan)
Step 4: Review and Confirm
- Double-check all information for accuracy
- Ensure names match passport exactly
- Verify dates and passport number
Step 5: Make Payment
- Pay the visa fee using credit/debit card
- Current fee: The official Cambodia eVisa fee is USD 36, which includes a USD 30 visa fee and a USD 6 processing charge. See more
- Keep payment confirmation
Step 6: Submit Application
- Submit your completed application
- Receive confirmation email with application reference number
- Save reference number for tracking
Step 7: Wait for Processing
- Processing usually takes 3 business days, but during peak travel periods it may take up to 5–7 business days
- Can be faster or occasionally take up to 5 business days
- Check application status online using reference number
Step 8: Receive eVisa Approval
- Visa approval letter sent to your email
- Print TWO copies of the approval letter
- Keep one copy in carry-on luggage, one in checked baggage
Step 9: Travel to Cambodia
- Present printed eVisa approval at immigration
- Show your passport
- Immigration officer will stamp your visa
eVisa Entry Points
As of 2025, the Cambodia eVisa is accepted at only five entry points: Phnom Penh International Airport, Siem Reap International Airport, Sihanoukville International Airport, Bavet land border (from Moc Bai, Vietnam), and Poi Pet land border (from Aranyaprathet, Thailand). Other border crossings do not accept the eVisa.
Important: Verify your specific entry point accepts eVisa before applying, as some remote crossings may not.
eVisa Processing Time and Validity
Processing Time:
- Standard: 3 business days
- Can range from 1-5 business days
- Apply at least 1 week before travel for safety
Validity:
- Valid for 3 months from issue date (you must enter Cambodia within this period)
- Once you enter, you can stay for 30 days
- Single entry only
eVisa Cost
Official Fee: The official Visa on Arrival fee for a T-class tourist visa is USD 30, payable in cash (preferably in USD). See more
- Includes processing fee
- Payment by credit/debit card
- Non-refundable once processed
Service Provider Fees: If using Cambodia Immigration Services or similar platforms, fees may include additional service charges for application assistance.
Tips for eVisa Application
Apply in advance - don't wait until last minute
Double-check information - errors can cause delays or rejection
Use clear photos - poor quality images may be rejected
Print multiple copies - always have backup
Save digital copy - keep on phone/tablet as backup
Check email spam folder - approval might go to spam
Verify entry point - ensure your arrival point accepts eVisa
Method 2: Visa on Arrival (VOA)
What is Visa on Arrival?
Visa on Arrival allows you to obtain your tourist visa when you land in Cambodia at the airport or when you reach a land border crossing.
VOA Requirements
Documents Needed:
- Valid passport - at least 6 months validity
- Passport photo - one recent color photo (4cm x 6cm)
- Cash payment - USD recommended
- Completed application form - available at arrival point
How to Get Visa on Arrival
At the Airport:
Step 1: Disembark and Follow Signs
- Look for "Visa on Arrival" counters before immigration
- Usually clearly marked
Step 2: Get Application Form
- Pick up visa application form at counter
- Or download and complete before arrival
Step 3: Complete Form
- Fill in personal details
- Passport information
- Cambodia address (hotel name)
- Purpose of visit
Step 4: Submit Documents
- Hand in completed form
- Your passport
- One passport photo
- Payment (cash USD)
Step 5: Wait for Processing
- Official reviews documents
- Processes visa (5-30 minutes depending on crowds)
Step 6: Receive Passport
- Your passport returned with visa stamp
- Check details are correct
Step 7: Proceed to Immigration
- Join immigration queue
- Present passport with visa
- Get entry stamp
At Land Borders:
- Similar process at border immigration offices
- Can be slower due to facilities
- Have exact change ready
- Some borders may request "processing fees" (sometimes unofficial)
VOA Entry Points
All International Airports:
- Phnom Penh International Airport
- Siem Reap International Airport
- Sihanoukville International Airport
Major Land Border Crossings:
- All official international border checkpoints
- Most popular Thai borders (Poi Pet, Cham Yeam)
- Vietnam borders (Bavet, Kaam Samnor, Phnom Den)
- Laos borders (Dong Kralor, Tropaeng Kreal)
VOA Cost
Official Fee: See more
- Tourist visa (T-class)
- Payable in USD (strongly recommended)
- Some borders may accept Thai Baht or other currencies at poor rates
Additional Costs:
- Passport photo if needed: $2-5 USD
- Some borders charge "overtime fees" outside business hours (unofficial but common)
VOA Pros and Cons
Advantages:
- No advance planning needed
- Available at all entry points
- Slightly cheaper than eVisa
- Immediate processing
Disadvantages:
- Queue waiting time at busy periods
- Need passport photo
- Cash payment required
- Potential for unofficial "fees" at some borders
- Less convenient than eVisa
- More stressful if issues arise
Method 3: Embassy/Consulate Visa
Traditional Visa Application
You can apply for a Cambodian tourist visa at a Cambodian embassy or consulate in your home country or country of residence.
Embassy Visa Requirements
Documents Needed:
- Valid passport - 6 months validity, at least 2 blank pages
- Visa application form - obtained from embassy or downloaded online
- Passport photos - usually 2 photos (4cm x 6cm)
- Visa fee - varies by country (See more)
- Supporting documents (sometimes):
- Flight itinerary
- Hotel booking
- Proof of funds
How to Apply at Embassy
Step 1: Locate Nearest Embassy
- Find Cambodian embassy/consulate in your country
- Check their website for specific requirements
Step 2: Prepare Documents
- Complete application form
- Gather required documents
- Prepare payment
Step 3: Submit Application
- Visit embassy in person (usually required)
- Some allow mail applications
- Submit documents and payment
Step 4: Wait for Processing
- Processing time: 3-5 business days typically
- May need to leave passport at embassy
- Some offer same-day service for extra fee
Step 5: Collect Visa
- Return to embassy to collect passport with visa
- Or receive by mail if applicable
Embassy Visa Pros and Cons
Advantages:
- Face-to-face assistance
- Can ask questions directly
- May accept local currency payment
- Official government channel
Disadvantages:
- Must visit embassy physically (often in capital city)
- Time-consuming
- Limited embassy hours
- Longer processing times
- Less convenient than online options
- Not available in all countries
Comparison of Visa Methods
|
Feature |
eVisa |
Visa on Arrival |
Embassy Visa |
|
Application Location |
Online |
At arrival point |
Embassy visit |
|
Advance Planning |
1 week before |
None needed |
1-2 weeks before |
|
Processing Time |
3 business days |
5-30 minutes |
3-5 business days |
|
Cost |
$36-37 USD |
$30 USD |
$30-40 USD |
|
Convenience |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐⭐ |
⭐⭐ |
|
Entry Points |
Limited (major points) |
All official crossings |
All crossings |
|
Photo Requirement |
Digital upload |
Physical photo |
Physical photos |
|
Payment Method |
Credit/debit card |
Cash USD |
Varies |
|
Queue Time |
None |
Can be long |
Embassy visit |
|
Best For |
Most travelers |
Spontaneous travel |
Specific situations |
Special Visa Situations
Business Visa (E-Class)
If you're visiting Cambodia for business purposes:
- Business visa allows work and can be extended for multiple months/years
- Initial 30-day validity
- Can be extended for 1, 3, 6, or 12 months
- Available as eVisa, VOA, or embassy visa
- Requires company documentation for extensions
Visa Extensions
Tourist Visa Extension:
- Can extend once for additional 30 days
- Apply at Immigration Department in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap
- Cost: approximately $45 USD
- Requires passport photos and application form
- Processing: 1-3 days
Cannot extend further: After one extension, you must leave Cambodia
Visa-Exempt Countries
No visa required for short stays (14-30 days) for nationals of:
- ASEAN countries: Brunei, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam
- Bilateral agreements: Check current list as it changes
Note: Even if visa-exempt, passport must be valid for 6 months
Important Visa Information
Passport Requirements
Your passport must have:
- Minimum 6 months validity from entry date
- At least 1-2 blank pages for visa stamp
- Good condition - not damaged or defaced
- Readable information - clear biographical page
Entry Requirements Beyond Visa
Besides a valid visa, you should have:
- Return/onward ticket (may be checked)
- Sufficient funds for your stay
- Accommodation details (hotel booking)
- Travel insurance (recommended, not mandatory)
Visa Validity Period
Important Distinctions:
- Issue date to entry: eVisa valid for 3 months to enter Cambodia
- Entry to departure: 30 days stay once you enter
- Don't confuse: The 3-month validity is for ENTERING, not staying
Overstaying Your Visa
Penalties:
- Fine: $10 USD per day of overstay
- Paid at airport/border when departing
- Can cause issues for future entries
- Serious overstays may result in ban
Avoid overstaying: Track your entry date carefully
Tips for Smooth Visa Process
Before Applying
Check expiry dates - passport validity
Verify entry point - ensure it accepts your visa type
Apply early - don't wait until last minute
Save confirmations - keep all receipts and emails
Backup documents - digital and physical copies
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Spelling errors - names must match passport exactly
Wrong passport number - double-check digits
Expired passport - renew before applying
Wrong visa type - tourist vs business
Poor quality photos - follow specifications
Not printing eVisa - always bring printed copy
At Immigration
Be polite and patient
Have documents ready - visa, passport, arrival card
Answer questions clearly - purpose: tourism
Don't offer bribes - report if requested
Check visa stamp - ensure dates are correct
Visa Application Checklist
For eVisa Application
- Passport valid for 6+ months
- Digital passport photo (correct specifications)
- Credit/debit card for payment
- Valid email address
- Travel dates and entry point decided
- Access to computer/smartphone with internet
- Time: 15-20 minutes to complete application
For Visa on Arrival
- Passport valid for 6+ months
- 1-2 passport photos (4cm x 6cm)
- Cash USD $30 (exact or large bills)
- Pen to complete form
- Hotel address/name in Cambodia
- Patience for potential queues
For Embassy Visa
- Passport valid for 6+ months
- Completed visa application form
- 2 passport photos
- Visa fee (check embassy for amount and accepted payment)
- Supporting documents if required
- Time to visit embassy during office hours
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a Cambodia visa?
- eVisa: 3 business days average
- Visa on Arrival: 5-30 minutes at arrival
- Embassy: 3-5 business days
Can I extend my tourist visa?
Yes, once for 30 additional days at Immigration Department offices in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap.
What if my eVisa is rejected?
Rare, but usually due to errors. You can reapply with corrections or get visa on arrival instead.
Can I apply for eVisa if I'm already in a neighboring country?
Yes! You can apply online from anywhere as long as you have internet access.
Is the eVisa mandatory?
No, it's optional but recommended. You can still get visa on arrival if you prefer.
Which method is fastest?
eVisa for advance planning, Visa on Arrival if already traveling.
Do children need visas?
Yes, all nationalities require visas regardless of age, including infants.
Can I enter Cambodia multiple times?
Not on a single-entry tourist visa. You need a new visa for each entry.
Recommended Application Method
For Most Travelers: eVisa
The Cambodia eVisa is the best choice for most international tourists because:
Maximum convenience - apply from home
Time-saving - no airport queues
Secure - official government system
Fast processing - 3 business days
Professional service - through trusted providers like Cambodia Immigration Services
Peace of mind - approved before you travel
When to Choose Visa on Arrival
Consider VOA if:
- Last-minute travel plans
- Prefer paying slightly less ($30 vs $36)
- Don't mind airport queues
- Your entry point doesn't accept eVisa
When to Use Embassy
Embassy visa makes sense if:
- Nearest embassy is convenient
- Special circumstances require in-person application
- Your nationality has specific requirements
- You prefer traditional method
Planning Your Cambodia Trip
Once you've secured your tourist visa, you're ready to explore everything Cambodia has to offer - from the magnificent temples of Angkor Wat to pristine beaches, vibrant cities, and warm Khmer hospitality.
To begin your Cambodia adventure with a smooth, hassle-free visa process, apply for your Cambodia eVisa today through Cambodia Immigration Services, a trusted provider that ensures your application is processed efficiently and correctly.
Summary: Getting Your Cambodia Tourist Visa
Quick Overview:
Best Method: Cambodia eVisa
- Apply online at the Cambodia eVisa portal
- 3 business days processing
- $36-37 USD
- Print and present at arrival
Alternative: Visa on Arrival
- Available at all entry points
- $30 USD cash
- Immediate processing
- Bring passport photo
Traditional: Embassy Visa
- Visit Cambodian embassy
- 3-5 days processing
- In-person application required
Requirements: Valid passport (6 months), passport photo, visa fee
Validity: 30 days stay, single entry, extendable once
The Bottom Line: Getting a tourist visa for Cambodia is easy, affordable, and straightforward. The eVisa system has revolutionized the process, making it possible to secure your visa entirely online with just a few clicks. Whether you choose the convenient eVisa, the immediate visa on arrival, or the traditional embassy route, Cambodia welcomes tourists with open arms and simple visa procedures.
Don't let visa concerns delay your dream trip to Cambodia. With trusted service providers like Cambodia Immigration Services offering streamlined eVisa applications, getting your Cambodia tourist visa has never been easier. Apply today and get ready to explore the Kingdom of Wonder!
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