Cambodia visa application - Entry and departure procedures

Visa for Travel

Everyone needs a visa to travel to Cambodia unless they are citizens of the Southeast Asian countries

Application for Visa

The simplest way is to turn up with US in cash and a passport sized photograph. Fill in the application form on arrival. The process is simple, routine and results in an instant tourist visa valid for 30 days. At peak arrival times in the high season the application procedure can drag on a little when you really want to get on and find your hotel or see Angkor Wat. If you are on a very tight schedule we recommend applying before you travel for an electronic version (see below)

Applying Visa before Travel

you can now apply on-line. See the link below to the left. The process issues an electronic version after around three days.

Stay Longer than 30 Days

Obtain an extension for a maximum further 30 days through the Department of Immigration or go for a 3 month business visa. For the extension it is necessary to travel to Phnom Penh. Alternatively you can always leave and re-enter the country to start the 30 day clock again.

Departure tax

Departure tax is paid at the airport at US cash per person. Note: Pay the tax before you put your bags through the scanner (counter window on your right in Siem Reap airport). Otherwise you will be sent back from passport control to pay the departure tax and re-scan everything again. This tax is payable only in cash and only in US$ so spend your Riels before you get to the airport.

Some Things should be Known

1. You should not bring more than US,000 into the country.

2. If you have bought carvings ensure you have the papers to prove they are copies and not a genuine antiquity.

3. Visit our page on cambodian money to get useful facts for the visitor

Health and Safety in Cambodia Health

Malaria and Dengue fever in Cambodia: The temple complex around Siem Reap is regarded as a low-risk area for malaria transmission. Coupled with evidence that many of the malarial strains found in Cambodia are highly drug-resistant and the added presence of dengue fever leads visitors increasingly to opt for transmission protection (covered shoes, long sleeves/trousers, and regular applications of DEET insect repellent) rather than take drugs. Sensible precautions should ensure you do not get bitten.

Drinking water: Generally water is not potable. Use bottled water and ensure it is opened in front of you.

Sun: Sun hat, sunglasses and sunscreen recommended

Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently in clean water. Tip: bring a pack of moist disinfectant wipes (baby wipes) with you for this purpose.

Hospitals in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh can provide international standards of care. Outside of these cities medical support is not very good.

Safety

With the dissolving of the Khmer Rouge in 1998 the risk of kidnapping or other violent crime has all but vanished in Cambodia. It is a safe country to visit with two notable exceptions:

• Be careful when walking around Phnom Penh at night especially off the main roads. Some foreign tourists were beatenand threatened for money in Penom Penh by a gang some years ago (it is a large city like many others).

• If you intend to travel beyond the regular tourist areas, especially to the forested border areas of the country, you must seek for advice on safety precautions from local authorities or travel experts. Independent travel to such areas is not recommended, our travel agent can help you to find a well-organized guides.

• Always stay on the path. There are still an estimated 6 million landmines in Cambodia

Pickpocketting and bag snatching seems unfortunately to be on the increase. Keep your valuables safe and a photocopy of your passport separate from your passport. Siem Reap is a pretty safe town. The town's residents appreciate the value of tourism and want to keep it that way. Going for a stroll even in the evening is safe but do not put your wealth on display.

Travel with Children to Cambodia

Several of my clients have visited Cambodia with their children and have had only positive experiences. Take sensible precautions and be prepared to slow down a little and you will be rewarded highly by travelling with your children. Cambodians love children. You may find you are often the centre of attention but will also find the locals to be charming, friendly and respectful towards your family.

Health awareness

Dehydration: Ensure the children drink plenty of water all day

Sunburn: The sun is strong.

Frequently apply a good sunblock

Insect bites: A combination of closed shoes, long trousers and a good insect repellent is sufficient protection against insect bites during the day. Most visitors take such precautions rather than antimalarial drugs. Cambodia has highly drug-resistant malaria but Siem Reap areas have low transmission risk.