Cambodia is a captivating Southeast Asian country known for its rich history CAMBODIAN VISA ON ARRIVAL , ancient temples like Angkor Wat, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture. Whether you're a backpacker exploring Southeast Asia or a tourist on a short getaway, understanding the visa requirements is crucial for a hassle-free trip. One of the most convenient ways to enter the country is through the Cambodian Visa on Arrival. This article will walk you through everything you need to know about the Cambodian Visa on Arrival — from eligibility and documentation to fees and tips for a smooth process.
What is the Cambodian Visa on Arrival?
The Cambodian Visa on Arrival is a type of visa that allows eligible travelers to obtain a visa upon entering the country, without needing to apply at a Cambodian embassy or consulate beforehand CAMBODIA VISA TYPES . It is available for most nationalities and is typically issued at international airports and major border crossings.
This visa is especially popular among tourists and business travelers for its simplicity and quick processing time.
Who is Eligible for the Visa on Arrival?
Most foreign nationals are eligible for a Cambodian Visa on Arrival, including citizens from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, European Union countries, and many Asian and South American countries.
However, there are exceptions. Some nationalities — including citizens of Afghanistan, Algeria, Bangladesh, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, and Sudan — are not eligible for the Visa on Arrival and must apply in advance through a Cambodian embassy.
Always check the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or contact your local Cambodian embassy for the most up-to-date information.
Types of Visa Available on Arrival
There are mainly two types of Cambodian visas available on arrival:
1. Tourist Visa (T-Class)
Duration: 30 days
Cost: USD $30
Extension: Can be extended once for an additional 30 days
Purpose: Tourism, sightseeing, short visits
2. Ordinary Visa (E-Class)
Duration: 30 days
Cost: USD $35
Extension: Can be extended multiple times with the proper paperwork
Purpose: Business, employment, volunteering, or long-term stays
Note: The Ordinary (E-Class) visa should not be confused with an electronic visa (e-Visa); the E-Class visa is specifically for non-tourist purposes and can be further categorized for long-term stays.
Where Can You Get a Cambodian Visa on Arrival?
The Cambodian Visa on Arrival is issued at the following main entry points:
Airports:
Phnom Penh International Airport
Siem Reap International Airport
Sihanoukville International Airport
Land Border Crossings (with Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos):
Poipet / Aranyaprathet (Thailand)
Cham Yeam / Hat Lek (Thailand)
Bavet / Moc Bai (Vietnam)
Tropaeng Kreal / Nong Nok Khiene (Laos)
These are the most commonly used points for travelers arriving by land or air.
Required Documents
To obtain your Cambodian Visa on Arrival, you'll need the following:
Valid passport with at least 6 months validity from the date of entry
One passport-sized photo (4x6 cm). If you don’t have a photo, you may be charged an additional fee of $2
Completed visa application form (available at the point of entry)
Visa fee in cash (USD only — credit cards are not accepted)
Some officers may also ask for proof of return or onward travel, hotel bookings, or sufficient funds, though this is not always strictly enforced.
Visa Processing Time
The processing time for the Cambodian Visa on Arrival is relatively quick — usually between 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the queue and the efficiency of the border staff.
For faster service, it’s advisable to:
Carry exact change in USD
Bring a passport photo
Fill out the visa form in advance if available on your flight or at the border
Visa Extension
If you plan to stay in Cambodia for longer than 30 days, both the Tourist and Ordinary Visas can be extended.
Tourist Visa Extension:
Extended for another 30 days
Single extension only
Can be done through travel agencies in major cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap
Ordinary Visa Extension:
Can be extended for 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, or 12 months
Multiple-entry options are available
Requires sponsor documents (for work, volunteering, etc.)
Better suited for expats, businesspeople, or long-term visitors
Pros and Cons of Getting Visa on Arrival
Pros:
No need to apply in advance
Available at most entry points
Quick and straightforward process
No requirement for online forms or mailing documents
Cons:
Risk of long lines at border crossings
Must carry USD cash
Not available for all nationalities
No guarantee of entry if paperwork is incomplete
Alternatives to Visa on Arrival
If you prefer not to deal with queues at the border, you may consider the Cambodian e-Visa:
Apply online at https://www.evisa.gov.kh
Process takes 3 business days
Valid for Tourist Visa only
Accepted at major airports and some land crossings, but not all
The cost is slightly higher (around USD $36 including processing fee), but it can save you time and effort at immigration counters.
Tips for a Smooth Entry
Bring exact change in USD — Cambodian immigration only accepts U.S. dollars in cash.
Have a passport photo ready — Avoid the $2 photo penalty.
Use airports for entry if possible — they tend to be more organized and quicker than land borders.
Arrive early at border checkpoints — lines can be long, especially during peak season (November–March).
Double-check your visa type — make sure it aligns with your travel purpose to avoid problems with extensions later.
Final Thoughts
The Cambodian Visa on Arrival offers travelers a convenient and flexible way to enter this beautiful country. With minimal documentation and a quick application process, it's an excellent option for most short-term visitors. However, being prepared with the right documents and a bit of cash can make all the difference in ensuring a seamless entry.
