What’s the Difference Between eVisa and e-Arrival in Cambodia? Explained by Cambodia Immigration Services

One of the most frequently asked questions by travelers is: “What’s the difference between Cambodia eVisa and e-Arrival?”

Understanding the distinction between these two systems is essential for a smooth entry into Cambodia. In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between the eVisa and the e-Arrival system, including their purposes, application processes, and when to use each, so you can plan your trip with clarity and confidence.

So… What’s the Difference Between eVisa and e-Arrival in Cambodia?

Here’s the key distinction in simple terms:

• Cambodia eVisa is your electronic travel visa — your legal permission to enter the country.
• Cambodia e-Arrival is a digital form that replaces paper arrival and health declaration cards — it’s not a visa.

Both are important, but they serve very different purposes.

Let’s look at each one in more detail.

What Is Cambodia eVisa?

The Cambodia eVisa is:

• An official travel visa issued by the Cambodian government.
• Designed for tourism purposes (single-entry, up to 30 days stay).
• Applied for online before you travel.
• Sent to you electronically as an approval letter (usually a PDF you print and bring with you).

Without a valid visa, you cannot enter Cambodia unless you’re from a visa-exempt country.

Benefits of Cambodia eVisa

• Skip long visa-on-arrival queues at the airport.
• Complete everything online from home.
• Get fast processing — as quick as 5 business hours with Cambodia Immigration Services.
• Peace of mind knowing your visa is sorted before you travel.

Where Can You Use the eVisa?

Your eVisa is accepted at:

• Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH)
• Siem Reap International Airport (REP)
• Sihanoukville International Airport (KOS)
• Cham Yeam (from Thailand)
• Poi Pet (from Thailand)
• Bavet (from Vietnam)
• Tropaeng Kreal (from Laos)

What Is Cambodia e-Arrival?

Cambodia’s e-Arrival Card is:

• A digital replacement for the paper arrival/departure forms that travelers used to fill out on the plane or at the airport.
• Used to collect personal, travel, and health information.
• Completed online before you arrive.

It’s essentially Cambodia’s way of streamlining immigration and health checks.

Benefits of Cambodia e-Arrival

• Speeds up processing at the border.
• Reduces paperwork and manual data entry.
• Helps the Cambodian government monitor health and safety for all travelers.

Is e-Arrival Mandatory?

Since July–September 2024, the e-Arrival Card has been mandatory at all Cambodian international airports. As of January 2025, all air travelers must submit it within 7 days before arrival. Paper forms are still used only at land and sea borders. Travelers are strongly advised to complete the e-Arrival Card online to avoid:

• Long delays at immigration.
• Possible fines or denied entry in rare cases.

Key Differences Between eVisa and e-Arrival

Here’s a handy comparison:

Linh’s Top Tips for Cambodia eVisa and e-Arrival

After helping thousands of travelers, here’s my personal advice:

Complete Both Processes Before You Fly

• eVisa: Apply at least a week before travel if possible.
• e-Arrival: You must submit the e-Arrival Card within 7 days before arrival — ideally 3–5 days before departure.

Double-Check Your Details

Make sure all information matches your passport. Even a small error in your name or passport number can cause delays.

Print Everything

While both systems are digital, many Cambodian immigration officers still prefer printed documents. I always advise travelers to print:

• Your Cambodia eVisa approval letter
• Your e-Arrival confirmation

Use a Trusted Service

While you can apply for these documents independently, many travelers prefer using Cambodia Immigration Services because:

• We help avoid errors that can lead to visa delays or rejections.
• We offer super-fast processing options for urgent travel.
• We provide 24/7 support for any questions or emergencies.
• We bundle eVisa and e-Arrival services for one seamless process.

Why Choose Cambodia Immigration Services?

At Cambodia Immigration Services, we make your journey easier by:

• Ensuring accurate and complete applications.
• Saving you time and stress at the border.
• Offering transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
• Keeping you updated on the latest travel requirements.

Applying for your Cambodia eVisa through us is the safest way to guarantee your trip starts off right — and we can help you complete your e-Arrival Card at the same time.

So… What’s the Difference Between eVisa and e-Arrival in Cambodia?

To sum up:

• Cambodia eVisa = Your official travel visa. You must have it (unless exempt).
• Cambodia e-Arrival = A digital entry form you fill out online. It’s not a visa but is increasingly mandatory.

Both are essential for a smooth trip. My advice? Get them both sorted before you fly. And for total peace of mind, let Cambodia Immigration Services handle it for you.

Ready to start your journey? Apply for your Cambodia eVisa here — or reach out anytime. I’m always happy to help make your Cambodia adventure easy, safe, and unforgettable.

Safe travels, and I hope Cambodia captures your heart as it has mine.

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