Cambodia Visa Requirements For US Citizens
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Tourist Visa (Type-T): Required for tourism purposes.
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Business Visa (Type-E): Required for business-related activities.
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Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned entry date into Cambodia.
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Blank Passport Pages: Ensure your passport has at least one blank page for entry and exit stamps.
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Vaccinations: No specific vaccinations are required unless you’re arriving from a country with a yellow fever risk.
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Currency Declarations: If you’re bringing in more than US$10,000, you must declare it upon arrival.
Additional Entry Requirements
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Arrival Card: Complete an arrival card within seven days before your arrival.
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Passport Photo: Carry a recent passport-sized photo, especially if applying for a visa on arrival.
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eVisa Printouts: If using an eVisa, print two copies to present upon arrival
Does US Citizens Needs Visa To Travel To Cambodia?
Yes, U.S. citizens are required to obtain a visa to travel to Cambodia for tourism or business purposes .
Visa Options for U.S. Citizens
1. eVisa (Electronic Visa):
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Application: Apply online through the official Cambodian eVisa website.
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Validity: Single entry, valid for 30 days.
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Processing Time: Typically processed within 3 business days.
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Entry Points: Accepted at major international airports (Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville) and select land border crossings.
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Requirements: A passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry and at least one blank page for the visa stamp
2. Visa on Arrival:
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Availability: Available at Cambodian international airports and certain land border checkpoints.
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Validity: Single entry, valid for 30 days.
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Fee: Approximately $30 USD, payable in cash upon arrival.
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Requirements: A passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry, one passport-sized photo, and the visa fee in cash.
3. Embassy Visa:
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Application: Apply in person or by mail through the Royal Embassy of Cambodia in Washington, D.C.
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Processing Time: Standard processing times apply; expedited services may be available.
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Validity: Single entry, valid for 30 days.
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Requirements: A completed visa application form, passport-sized photo, valid passport, and applicable fees.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consult the U.S. Department of State’s travel page for Cambodia or the official Cambodian eVisa website
How Long Does It Takes For An American Citizen To Get Cambodian Visa?
For American citizens planning to visit Cambodia, securing a visa is generally a straightforward and relatively quick process. The duration it takes to obtain a Cambodian visa largely depends on the method of application chosen. There are three primary ways for U.S. citizens to acquire a Cambodian visa: visa on arrival, e-Visa (online application), and applying through a Cambodian embassy or consulate. Each method has its own processing times, advantages, and requirements.
1. Visa on Arrival (VOA)
One of the most convenient options for American travelers is the visa on arrival, which is available at most international airports and land border checkpoints in Cambodia. U.S. citizens can obtain this visa directly at ports of entry such as Phnom Penh International Airport, Siem Reap International Airport, and Sihanoukville International Airport.
Processing Time:
The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes upon arrival, depending on the number of travelers and the efficiency of immigration officers at the time. However, delays can occur during peak travel seasons, so early arrival is advised.
Requirements:
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Valid passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining
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One recent passport-sized photo
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Completed visa application form (available at entry points)
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Visa fee (usually $30 USD for a tourist visa, payable in cash)
The visa issued on arrival is typically valid for 30 days and can be extended once while in Cambodia.
2. Cambodia e-Visa (Online Application)
Another efficient method is the e-Visa, which allows travelers to apply online before arrival. The Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs launched this system to simplify the process for tourists and short-term visitors.
Processing Time:
The official processing time for an e-Visa is three business days, though many applicants receive approval within 24 to 48 hours.
How to Apply:
Visit the official website (https://www.evisa.gov.kh) and fill out the application form. You’ll need:
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A digital passport photo
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A scanned copy of your passport
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A valid email address
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A credit/debit card for payment
Cost:
The e-Visa fee is $36 USD, which includes a $6 processing fee.
Validity:
The e-Visa is valid for 30 days and is single-entry only. Extensions must be done in-country through the immigration department.
Advantages:
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No waiting in lines at arrival
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Convenience of applying from anywhere
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Faster processing during off-peak times
Note: e-Visas are only accepted at certain entry points, such as Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville airports, and a few land crossings with Thailand and Vietnam.
3. Visa Through Cambodian Embassy or Consulate
U.S. citizens can also choose to apply for a visa in advance through a Cambodian embassy or consulate in the United States or another country.
Processing Time:
This typically takes 3 to 5 business days, not including mailing time if applying by post. Expedited services may be available for an additional fee.
Requirements:
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Completed visa application form
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Valid passport
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Passport-sized photo
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Visa fee (varies slightly depending on the embassy/consulate)
Advantages:
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Helpful for travelers entering through remote border checkpoints
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Allows peace of mind by securing the visa before traveling
What Do You Need As A U.S Citizen To Move To Cambodia
Relocating to Cambodia as a U.S. citizen can be both an exciting adventure and a chance for a fresh start in Southeast Asia. Known for its ancient temples, affordable cost of living, and welcoming locals, Cambodia draws expatriates from around the world. But beyond the initial thrill of the idea, moving to Cambodia requires thoughtful planning, open-mindedness, and a sense of curiosity.
First and foremost, it’s important to immerse yourself in some understanding of the culture, history, and lifestyle in Cambodia. The country has a unique and complex history shaped by the Khmer Empire, French colonialism, and the traumatic years under the Khmer Rouge. Despite its difficult past, Cambodia has emerged with resilience, offering a rich cultural landscape, particularly evident in the art, dance, cuisine, and religious traditions centered around Theravāda Buddhism.
One of the biggest attractions of life in Cambodia is its affordability. Many expatriates find they can live comfortably on a modest income, especially compared to the high cost of living in the U.S. In cities like Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, modern amenities are accessible, but life remains slower and less stressful. Renting a one-bedroom apartment, enjoying local meals, and using tuk-tuks or motorbikes for transport are part of everyday life. Even health care and domestic help come at a fraction of the cost in the West.
The people of Cambodia are generally warm, patient, and hospitable. Relationships are built on respect, and being polite and culturally aware will go a long way. Learning basic Khmer phrases—even just greetings—can help foster trust and friendship with locals. Though English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, especially by the younger generation, rural regions may offer more language challenges.
Moving to Cambodia also means adjusting to a different pace of life. Things may not always work on a strict schedule. Bureaucratic processes, customer service, and infrastructure may function differently than what you’re used to in the U.S. Adapting with patience and flexibility can make your transition much smoother.
Education and schooling options are available for families moving with children. There are several international schools, especially in larger cities, offering American, British, or French curricula. While these may be more expensive than local schools, they provide familiarity and consistency for expat children.
Cambodia’s expat community is vibrant and growing. Many U.S. citizens have successfully built lives here, often working remotely, teaching English, running small businesses, or volunteering. Social groups, meetups, and online forums offer valuable support, connections, and advice for newcomers. Whether you’re looking to settle permanently or spend just a few years, the community can be a valuable source of friendship and knowledge.
Daily life is filled with opportunity for exploration. From ancient wonders like Angkor Wat to the tropical beaches of Koh Rong and the lively markets of Phnom Penh, Cambodia offers a wide range of experiences. You might spend weekends exploring the countryside, visiting temples, or simply enjoying a coconut by the riverfront.
To thrive in Cambodia, it helps to have a spirit of adventure, a willingness to simplify, and an appreciation for different ways of living. You’ll discover that comfort isn’t always about luxury—it’s about connection, purpose, and perspective. The transition may come with challenges, but for many, the rewards outweigh the struggles.
In summary, moving to Cambodia as a U.S. citizen is about more than logistics—it’s about embracing a new lifestyle. With the right mindset, an open heart, and a readiness to learn, Cambodia can become more than just a destination—it can feel like home
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Conclusion
The time it takes for an American citizen to obtain a Cambodian visa ranges from as little as 15 minutes (visa on arrival) to a few business days (e-Visa or embassy application). The choice of method depends on personal preference, travel itinerary, and desired convenience. For most tourists, the e-Visa offers a balance of speed, ease, and assurance. Regardless of the method, travelers should ensure their passport has sufficient validity and blank pages to avoid any complications at the border.