How Long Does It Take to Get a Cambodian Visa?

The time it takes to get a Cambodian visa depends on which application method you choose. Cambodia offers multiple visa application options, each with different processing times ranging from just a few minutes to several days. Here's a comprehensive, up-to-date guide to Cambodian visa processing times for all available methods in 2025.

Quick Answer: Processing Times Overview

Cambodia eVisa (Online): 3 business days (average)
Visa on Arrival: 5-30 minutes (immediate upon arrival)
Embassy/Consulate Visa: 3-5 business days
Each method has its advantages depending on your timeline, travel plans, and preferences. Let's explore each option in detail.

From 2024–2025, all air travelers must also complete the Cambodia e-Arrival Card online within 7 days before arrival. This requirement applies whether you use an eVisa, Visa on Arrival, or an embassy visa.

Method 1: Cambodia eVisa Processing Time

Standard Processing Time

The Cambodia eVisa typically takes 3 business days to process from the time you submit your complete application.

What "3 Business Days" Means:

Business days are Monday through Friday
Excludes weekends (Saturday and Sunday)
Excludes Cambodian public holidays
Counted from submission confirmation, not payment time

Example Timeline:

Submit application: Monday morning
Processing: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday
Approval received: Wednesday evening or Thursday morning

Actual Processing Time Range

While 3 business days is standard, actual processing time can vary:

Fastest: 1-2 business days

During low-volume periods
When application is perfect with no issues
Occasionally same-day processing

Average: 3 business days

Most common processing time
Standard expectation
Reliable timeline for planning

Longest: 4-5 business days

During peak travel seasons
If additional verification needed
Around major holidays
Rare but possible

Maximum: Up to 7 business days

Very rare circumstances
Usually indicates an issue with application
May require follow-up

Factors Affecting eVisa Processing Time

Application Completeness:

Complete, accurate applications process faster
Missing information causes delays
Errors may require resubmission

Document Quality:

Clear, readable uploads process quickly
Poor quality documents may need replacement
Proper file formats prevent delays

Application Volume:

Peak travel seasons may have longer processing
Low seasons often process faster
Major holidays affect timing

Time of Submission:

Submit early in business day for faster processing
Weekend submissions start processing Monday
Late Friday submissions may wait until Monday

Public Holidays:

Cambodian holidays pause processing
Plan around major holidays
Check holiday calendar before applying

Verification Requirements:

Standard applications process routinely
Flagged applications may need additional review
Rare but can extend processing time

When to Apply for eVisa

Recommended Timeline:

Ideal: 2-4 weeks before travel

Provides comfortable buffer
Allows time for any issues
No stress or rush
Can focus on other travel planning

Recommended Minimum: 7-10 days before departure

Accounts for processing time
Allows buffer for delays
Safe margin for peace of mind
Time to address problems if they arise

Acceptable: 5-7 days before travel

Tight but usually workable
Assumes no complications
Little margin for error
Not recommended during peak seasons

Risky: 3-4 days before travel

Cutting it very close
No buffer for delays
High stress situation
Only if absolutely necessary

Too Late: 1-2 days before travel

Not recommended
Consider visa on arrival instead
High risk visa won't arrive in time
May need backup plans

eVisa Application Timeline Breakdown

Day 0 (Application Day):

Complete online application
Upload documents
Make payment
Receive confirmation email with reference number
Time to complete: 15-20 minutes

Day 1-3 (Processing):

Application reviewed by immigration officials
Documents verified
Background checks conducted
Status can be tracked online using reference number

Day 3 (Approval Day):

Approval decision made
eVisa approval letter generated
Sent to your email address
Usually arrives afternoon/evening of 3rd business day

Immediately After Approval:

Check email (including spam folder)
Download eVisa approval letter (PDF)
Print multiple copies
Save digital backup
Ready to travel

How to Check eVisa Processing Status

Online Tracking:

Visit the eVisa portal where you applied
Look for "Check Application Status" section
Enter your application reference number
Enter your email address or passport number
View current status

Status Updates:

Submitted: Application received and in queue
Processing: Under review by officials
Approved: Visa granted, approval letter sent
Rejected: Application denied (rare)

Email Notifications:

Confirmation email upon submission
Approval email with visa letter attached
Check spam/junk folder regularly
Whitelist sender to ensure delivery

What If Processing Takes Longer?

If It's Been 5+ Business Days:

Step 1: Check application status online

Verify current status
Look for any messages or requests

Step 2: Check email thoroughly

Search inbox for approval email
Check spam/junk/promotions folders
Search by sender name

Step 3: Contact visa service provider

Use customer support if available
Provide reference number
Ask for status update
Services like Cambodia Immigration Services offer customer support

Step 4: Verify application details

Ensure you used correct email address
Check for any typos in contact information

Step 5: Consider alternatives if urgent

If departure is imminent and no approval
Consider visa on arrival as backup plan
Check if your entry point accepts VOA

Expedited Processing

Important Note: Cambodia eVisa system does not currently offer official expedited or rush processing options.

All applications process at standard speed (3 business days average)

Cannot pay extra for faster processing through official channels

Best approach for urgent travel:

Apply immediately
Hope for faster processing (sometimes happens)
Have backup plan (visa on arrival)
Consider changing travel dates if very urgent

Method 2: Visa on Arrival Processing Time

Immediate Processing

Visa on Arrival (VOA) provides the fastest processing - you receive your visa within 5 to 30 minutes upon arrival in Cambodia.

Detailed Timeline at Airport

Upon Landing:

Disembark from aircraft
Follow signs to immigration

Visa on Arrival Counter (5-10 minutes):

Locate VOA desk before immigration
Usually clearly marked
Open whenever international flights arrive

Complete Application (2-5 minutes):

Pick up application form
Fill in required information
Attach passport photo

Submit Documents (1-2 minutes):

Hand over passport
Application form
Passport photo
Payment ($30 USD cash)

Wait for Processing (5-20 minutes):

Official reviews documents
Processes visa
Wait time depends on queue

Receive Passport (1 minute):

Passport returned with visa stamp
Verify details are correct
Collect your documents

Proceed to Immigration (5-15 minutes):

Join immigration queue
Present passport with new visa
Get entry stamp
Proceed to baggage claim

Total Time: 15-30 minutes typically

Can be as fast as 5-10 minutes with no queue
Can extend to 45-60 minutes during peak times (multiple flights arriving simultaneously)

Timeline at Land Border

Similar process but timings vary by border:

Busy borders (Poi Pet, Bavet): 15-45 minutes

Higher volume of travelers
More organized facilities
Multiple processing windows

Quieter borders: 5-15 minutes

Fewer travelers
May have fewer staff
Sometimes slower due to limited resources

Peak travel times: 30-60+ minutes

Holiday periods
Weekend crossings
Multiple buses arriving together

Factors Affecting VOA Processing Time

Number of Arrivals:

Multiple flights landing simultaneously = longer waits
Solo arrival = very quick processing
Group travel tours = moderate waits

Time of Day:

Peak hours (morning, evening) = longer queues
Off-peak times = faster processing
Late night arrivals = usually quick

Location:

Major airports = well-staffed, faster
Remote borders = potentially slower
Organized borders = consistent processing

Preparedness:

Have exact documents ready = faster
Missing photo or form = delays
Correct cash amount = smooth process
Wrong currency or missing documents = significant delays

Border Staff:

Experienced staff = efficient processing
Shift changes = temporary delays
Holiday periods = possible reduced staffing

VOA Best Practices for Speed

Before Arrival:

Download and complete application form in advance
Bring passport photos (don't rely on buying at airport)
Have exact USD $30 cash ready
Organize documents in accessible place

At Arrival:

Head directly to VOA counter (don't join immigration queue first)
Have documents in hand (not buried in luggage)
Fill out any forms quickly and clearly
Be ready when called
Check visa details before leaving counter

Method 3: Embassy/Consulate Visa Processing Time

Standard Processing Time

Embassy or consulate visa applications typically take 3-5 business days to process.

Detailed Embassy Timeline

Day 1: Submit Application

Visit embassy during office hours
Submit completed application
Provide required documents
Pay visa fee
Receive receipt and collection date
Time at embassy: 30-60 minutes

Days 2-4: Processing

Embassy processes application
Verifies documents
May conduct background checks
Passport held by embassy during this time

Day 5: Collection

Return to embassy
Collect passport with visa
Verify visa details
Time at embassy: 10-20 minutes

Total Processing: 3-5 business days typically

Some embassies offer faster service
Some may take up to 7 business days
Country-specific variations apply

Factors Affecting Embassy Processing Time

Embassy Location:

Embassies in major cities may be faster
Better-staffed locations process quicker
Some locations have higher volumes

Time of Year:

Peak travel seasons may have delays
Summer months often busier
Around major holidays slower

Application Day:

Apply early in week (Monday/Tuesday) for fastest turnaround
Late week applications may wait over weekend
Holiday weeks extend processing

Nationality:

Some nationalities may require additional checks
Most process at standard speed
Rare cases need extended verification

Document Completeness:

Complete applications process faster
Missing documents cause delays
Errors require resubmission

Embassy Application Timeline Planning

If using embassy visa:

Plan for: 2-3 weeks total

1 week for appointment (if required)
3-5 days processing
Buffer for delays

Minimum timeline: 10 days

Assumes immediate appointment availability
Standard processing time
No complications

Safe timeline: 3-4 weeks

Comfortable buffer
Accounts for possible delays
Stress-free planning

Same-Day Embassy Service

Some embassies offer expedited same-day service:

Usually requires additional fee
Not available at all locations
May need to apply early morning
Typical cost: Extra $20-40 USD
Collection same afternoon

Check with specific embassy for availability and requirements

Mail-In Applications

Some embassies accept mail applications:

Add shipping time both ways
Total time: 2-3 weeks typically
Requires registered/tracked mail
Riskier due to postal delays
Not recommended if time-sensitive

Comparison of Processing Times

Side-by-Side Comparison

eVisa:

Application time: 15-20 minutes (online)
Processing time: 3 business days
Total advance time needed: 3-5 days
Convenience: Very high
Certainty: High (know before travel)

Visa on Arrival:

Application time: 2-5 minutes (at arrival)
Processing time: 5-30 minutes (immediate)
Total advance time needed: 0 days
Convenience: High (no advance planning)
Certainty: Lower (depends on arrival conditions)

Embassy Visa:

Application time: 30-60 minutes (in-person)
Processing time: 3-5 business days
Total advance time needed: 1-3 weeks
Convenience: Low (requires embassy visit)
Certainty: High (know before travel)

Which Method is Fastest?

For Immediate Need: Visa on Arrival

Get visa within minutes upon arrival
No advance application required
Best for last-minute travel

For Advance Planning: eVisa

Faster than embassy (no travel to embassy required)
More convenient than VOA (skip airport queues)
Optimal balance of speed and convenience

Least Time-Efficient: Embassy visa

Requires physical presence at embassy
Same processing time as eVisa but more hassle
Only necessary if other options unavailable

Special Circumstances and Processing Times

Peak Season Considerations

High Travel Periods (November-March):

eVisa may take full 5 business days
VOA queues longer (30-45 minutes)
Embassy applications may have delays

Plan accordingly: Apply earlier during peak seasons

Holiday Impacts

Cambodian Public Holidays:

eVisa processing pauses during holidays
Embassies closed on holidays
VOA still available at airports/borders

Major holidays to watch:

Khmer New Year (mid-April)
Chinese New Year (January/February)
Water Festival (November)
International holidays (Christmas, New Year)

Planning tip: Check holiday calendar and add buffer days

Urgent Travel Situations

If you need to travel within 48 hours:

Best option: Visa on Arrival

Only realistic option for very urgent travel
Available immediately upon arrival
No advance processing time needed

Not recommended: eVisa or embassy

Won't process in time
Risk of traveling without visa

Backup planning:

Verify your entry point accepts VOA
Have exact cash ready ($30 USD)
Bring passport photos
Allow extra time at arrival

Group Applications

Processing multiple visas:

eVisa: Each person needs separate application

Process simultaneously
All take same 3 business days
Can be done by one person for group

VOA: Each person processes individually

Queue time multiplies for groups
Allow 30-60 minutes for large groups
Have all documents ready for everyone

Embassy: Can submit multiple applications together

Processing time same as individual
More efficient for families/groups

Tips to Speed Up Visa Processing

For eVisa Applications

Submit Complete Application:

Fill all fields accurately
Double-check for errors
Provide clear documents

Upload Quality Documents:

High-resolution scans
Clear, readable text
Proper file formats and sizes

Apply Early in Business Day:

Submit Monday-Wednesday morning
Avoid Friday afternoon submissions
Earlier submission may mean earlier processing

Use Reliable Service Provider:

Professional services like Cambodia Immigration Services/ review applications before submission
Catch errors early
Reduce rejection risk
Streamline process

Avoid Peak Seasons:

If flexible, travel during shoulder seasons
Faster processing during low-volume periods

Monitor Email Actively:

Check regularly for approval
Respond immediately if information requested
Set up mobile notifications

For Visa on Arrival

Prepare in Advance:

Download and complete form before flight
Bring multiple passport photos
Have exact cash ready ($30 USD)
Organize documents in carry-on

Arrive During Off-Peak Hours:

Avoid times when multiple flights land
Early morning or late evening often quieter
Mid-week typically less busy

Move Quickly:

Head straight to VOA counter upon landing
Don't stop for bathroom or phone first
Be ready when your turn comes

Be Organized:

Have all documents in hand
Don't search through bags at counter
Fill forms completely and legibly

For Embassy Applications

Apply Early in Week:

Monday or Tuesday submissions
Avoids weekend delays
Faster turnaround

Bring Everything First Visit:

Complete application form
All required documents
Exact payment
Avoid return trips

Consider Same-Day Service:

If offered and affordable
Worth the extra cost if time-sensitive

Call Ahead:

Confirm requirements
Check processing times
Verify office hours

Recommended Visa Timeline for Different Situations

Leisure Travelers

Planning a tourist trip:

Timeline: Apply 2-3 weeks before departure

Comfortable buffer
Stress-free planning
Time to address any issues

Method: Cambodia eVisa via the Cambodia eVisa application

Most convenient
Pre-approved before travel
Skip airport queues

Business Travelers

Business trip to Cambodia:

Timeline: Apply 1-2 weeks before departure

Professional preparation
Ensures visa arrival before trip
Can focus on business planning

Method: eVisa or embassy visa

eVisa faster and more convenient
Embassy visa if business relationship established

Backpackers and Flexible Travelers

Spontaneous travel:

Timeline: Can apply last-minute or at arrival

Method: Visa on Arrival

Perfect for flexible itineraries
No advance planning needed
Immediate processing

Family/Group Travel

Traveling with family or group:

Timeline: Apply 3-4 weeks before departure

Coordinate multiple applications
Buffer for any individual issues
Reduce travel-day stress

Method: Cambodia eVisa for everyone

One person can handle all applications
All process simultaneously
Smoother arrival experience

Time-Sensitive Situations

Must travel within days:

72+ hours before departure: Apply for eVisa

May receive in time
Have VOA as backup plan

Less than 72 hours: Use Visa on Arrival only

eVisa won't process in time
VOA is reliable backup

What Happens If You Travel Without Approved eVisa?

Scenario Planning

If eVisa not received before departure:

Option 1: Delay travel if possible

Wait for approval
Travel once received
Safest approach

Option 2: Travel and get VOA

If entry point accepts VOA
Bring $30 USD cash and passport photo
eVisa fee already paid is usually non-refundable

Option 3: Check with airline

Some airlines may require proof of visa before boarding
Explain eVisa situation
Show application confirmation if helpful

Prevention: Apply well in advance (minimum 7 days) to avoid this situation

Frequently Asked Questions About Processing Time

Can I pay for faster eVisa processing?

No, Cambodia eVisa system does not offer expedited processing options. All applications process at standard speed regardless of payment.

Why is eVisa taking longer than 3 days?

Common reasons:

Submitted during peak season
Application over a weekend or holiday
Document verification needed
High application volume
Rare technical issues

Action: Check status online, contact service provider after 5 business days

Is same-day eVisa possible?

Rarely, but it can happen during low-volume periods. Don't count on it. Always plan for standard 3-day processing.

Can I use VOA if my eVisa is delayed?

Yes, if:

Your entry point accepts VOA
You have required documents (photo, cash)
Your eVisa hasn't been approved yet

Note: eVisa fee is separate and typically non-refundable

Does weekend count as processing days?

No, only business days (Monday-Friday) count. If you submit Friday afternoon, processing starts Monday.

How do I know my eVisa is approved?

You'll receive:

Email to address provided in application
Subject line indicating approval
Attached PDF with eVisa approval letter
Instructions for use

Check spam folder if not in inbox within expected timeframe.

What if I need visa today?

Only option: Visa on Arrival

If already traveling to Cambodia
Available at airports and major borders
Processed within minutes

No advance visa option available for same-day issuance.

These options apply to eligible nationalities. Some passport holders must obtain a visa at a Cambodian embassy in advance, so always check the latest eligibility list before you travel.

Getting Your Cambodian Visa: Action Steps

For Most Travelers

Best approach for getting your Cambodian visa:

Step 1: Choose Cambodia eVisa method

Most convenient option
Reliable processing time
Pre-approved before travel

Step 2: Apply 1-2 weeks before departure

Safe timeline
Buffer for delays
Stress-free preparation

Step 3: Use trusted service provider

Apply through Cambodia Immigration Services
Professional application review
Customer support available
Streamlined process

Step 4: Begin application at Cambodia eVisa portal

Start at https://www.cambodiaimmigration.org/
Complete in 15-20 minutes
Submit and track status

Step 5: Wait for approval (3 business days)

Monitor email for approval
Check application status online
Print upon receipt

Step 6: Travel to Cambodia

Bring printed eVisa
Present at immigration
Enjoy your trip

For Last-Minute Travel

If departing in 1-3 days:

Use Visa on Arrival:

Only realistic option
Prepare required documents
Bring $30 USD cash and passport photo
Allow extra time at arrival

Summary: Cambodia Visa Processing Times

Quick Reference

Cambodia eVisa: 3 business days average

Range: 1-5 days
Apply: 7+ days before travel
Method: Online application
Cost: See more

Visa on Arrival: 5-30 minutes immediate

Range: 5 minutes to 1 hour
Apply: Upon arrival
Method: At airport/border
Visa fee is US$30 for a tourist visa, plus a small processing fee at some entry points. Payment must be made in USD cash

Embassy Visa: 3-5 business days

Range: 3-7 days
Apply: 2-3 weeks before travel
Method: In-person at embassy
Cost: $30-40 USD

Best Practice Recommendations

For advance planning: Apply for Cambodia eVisa 1-2 weeks before travel through the Cambodia Immigration Services

For spontaneous travel: Use Visa on Arrival at airport/border

For peace of mind: eVisa approved before departure

For fastest processing: VOA immediately upon arrival