A visa is always required to travel to Cambodia; there are no visa exemptions (visa-free entry) even for short stays. However, the process for obtaining a Visa on Arrival (VOA) upon arriving at the airport is not difficult. Additionally, there’s also an e-Visa option that can be obtained before departing Japan.
This article provides updated information based on my experience visiting Cambodia in November 2023.
Cambodia’s Visa on Arrival (VOA)
What is Visa on Arrival?
Visa on Arrival (VOA) is a system where you can obtain a visa upon arriving at the airport in Cambodia. Since there’s no need to apply for a visa in advance, it allows for easy visits to Cambodia.
Who can enter with a Visa on Arrival?
- Nationality: Available to citizens of many countries, including Japan.
- Purpose: Can be used for short stays of up to 30 days for purposes such as tourism or business.
- Airports: Available at major international airports such as Phnom Penh International Airport and Siem Reap International Airport.
Visa on Arrival Procedure
- To Immigration: Proceed to the immigration counter at your arrival airport. The procedure is handled at the Visa on Arrival counter.
- Fill out Application Form: Fill in the necessary details on the visa application form.
- Pay Fee: Present the application form and your passport, then pay the visa fee.
- Receive Visa: The visa will be issued and affixed as a sticker in your passport.
Required Documents
- Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended return date.
- Passport Photos: 2 recent color photos.
- Visa Application Form: Distributed at the immigration counter.
- Visa Fee: US$30, payable in cash. Credit cards are not accepted, nor are there exchange offices.
- Cash Preparation: Prepare US dollars in advance. There have been instances where dirty or torn banknotes were not accepted, so ensure you have clean bills. Also, try to have the exact amount as change may not be available.
- Validity: A Visa on Arrival is typically valid for 30 days and is a single-entry visa.
- Extension: If you wish to extend your stay, you must apply for an extension after entering Cambodia.
Other Notes
- Latest Information: Visa information can be updated frequently. Before your departure, always confirm the latest information on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Overseas Safety website or the Cambodian Embassy’s website.
About the e-Visa Procedure
In recent years, Cambodia has introduced the e-Visa, which allows you to apply for a visa online. While it requires a bit more advance planning than a Visa on Arrival, it offers the advantage of smoother entry.
Advantages of e-Visa
- Advance Acquisition: Obtaining the visa beforehand provides more time flexibility compared to getting it upon arrival in Cambodia.
- Smooth Entry: Facilitates a smoother process at the airport.
- Online Application: You can apply from anywhere you like, such as your home or office.
Who can enter with an e-Visa?
- Nationality: Available to citizens of many countries, including Japan.
- Purpose: Can be used for short stays of up to 30 days for purposes such as tourism or business.
- Airports: Can be used for entry through designated international airports, such as Phnom Penh International Airport and Siem Reap International Airport.
How to Apply for an e-Visa
- Access the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ e-Visa website: www.evisa.gov.kh
- Enter Required Information: Accurately input necessary details such as passport information, duration of stay, and entry airport.
- Pay Fee: Pay the fee using a credit card.
- Application Completion: Once your application is complete, you will receive a confirmation email.
- Download, Screenshot, Print: Download, screenshot, or print your e-Visa and carry it with you along with your passport for presentation.
Required Documents
- Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended return date.
- Passport Photo Data: Prepare photos in the size and format specified during the application.
- Can be resized to passport size.
- JPEG or PNG file.
- Selfies taken with a smartphone are acceptable.
- Credit Card: Used for online payment.
Visa Fees
For a tourist visa, it’s US$30 plus a US$6 service fee. Visa fees vary depending on the type of visa and duration of stay. Please check the latest information on the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ e-Visa website.
Important Notes
- Validity: The e-Visa is generally valid for 3 months from the date of issue, with a stay period of 30 days.
- Entry Airports: Entry with an e-Visa is restricted to designated airports.
- Fake Websites: Always apply for an e-Visa through the official website of the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- Latest Information: Visa information can be updated frequently. Before your departure, always confirm the latest information on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Overseas Safety website or the Cambodian Embassy’s website.
Conclusion
The e-Visa is a convenient system that makes travel to Cambodia smoother. By completing the procedure in advance, you can reduce waiting times at the airport. However, it’s crucial to enter accurate information when applying and to verify the latest information.
