Cambodia visa requirements are some of the easiest in Southeast Asia for expats, digital nomads, and retirees. The process is straightforward, affordable, and offers a variety of visa options that can be extended indefinitely. Cambodia visa requirements are really quite simple: They simply want you to pay your way. There are no special income restrictions, they don’t care about your background check, and they are not going to look at your credit. There is no special Cambodia digital nomad visa.
Whether you’re looking to live in Cambodia as an expat, retire in Siem Reap, or work remotely, here’s everything you need to know about Cambodia’s visa system:
Types of Cambodia Visas
When you arrive in Cambodia, you have two main visa options: the Tourist Visa (T-class) and the Ordinary Visa (E-class). The key difference is that the tourist visa is only valid for 30 days with one possible extension, while the ordinary visa can be extended indefinitely, making it the best option for expats. Make Sure you get the Ordinary Visa! I got the T-visa and had to make a border run to a nearby town in Thailand.
Tourist Visa (T-Class) – Short-Term Stay
- Available on arrival or online via Cambodia’s e-visa system (Official E-Visa Site)
- Valid for 30 days
- Can be extended once for another 30 days
- Not suitable for long-term stays
Ordinary Visa (E-Class) – The Long-Term Solution
- Also available on arrival
- Valid for 30 days initially but can be extended for long-term stays
- Requires applying for an extension based on your purpose of stay
Cambodia Visa Extensions: Choosing the Right One
If you’re planning to stay in Cambodia long-term, you’ll need to extend your E-Class Ordinary Visa. There are multiple extension options, depending on why you’re staying.
Business Visa (EB Visa) – The Best Choice for Expats and Digital Nomads
- Best option for expats, freelancers, remote workers, and entrepreneurs
- Can be extended for 1, 3, 6, or 12 months (multiple-entry for 6- and 12-month extensions)
- Officially requires proof of employment or business registration, but enforcement is lax
- Ideal for digital nomads or those working remotely
Retirement Visa (ER Visa) – Perfect for Retirees
- Designed for foreigners over 55 years old who can prove they are retired
- No employment allowed
- Can be extended for 1, 3, 6, or 12 months
- No income requirement officially enforced, but having proof of financial stability helps
Student Visa (ES Visa) – For Those Studying in Cambodia
- Requires proof of enrollment in a Cambodian educational institution
- Can be extended for up to 12 months
Spousal Visa (EG Visa) – For Those Seeking Permanent Residency
- Intended for those staying long-term while searching for work
- Can be extended up to 6 months
How to Extend Your Cambodia Visa
Extending your visa is easy and can be done through a local travel agency or visa service. You don’t need to visit immigration offices yourself.
Steps to Extend Your Visa:
- Choose a visa extension type (EB, ER, ES, or EG)
- Visit a travel agency (such as VISA2Cambodia or a local Siem Reap agency)
- Submit your passport and pay the fee
- Wait for processing (usually 5-10 business days)
- Receive your extended visa
Visa Costs and Fees
The cost of extending a visa varies based on duration, and a Cambodian Retirement visa really isn’t necessary. There are also no necessary special Cambodian business visa’s to look into. You simply get a visa, and extend as follows:
- 1-month extension: ~$45
- 3-month extension: ~$75
- 6-month multiple-entry extension: ~$160
- 12-month multiple-entry extension: ~$290-$310
Understand that when you extend your visa, they will hold your passport for often up to 14-days while they get your visa for you. This can be frightening at first, but after some time, you realize that they want you to stay in their country, stimulating the economy, and of course they will get you your passport back with your visa. Cambodia visa rules are simple, but can seem confusing at first. Just remember, cash is kind here.
Why Cambodia is One of the Easiest Countries for Expats
- No strict financial requirements – Unlike Thailand or the Philippines, Cambodia visa process is simple, and doesn’t require proof of large savings for long-term visas.
- Affordable visa fees – A 1-year visa costs significantly less than other Southeast Asian countries.
- No need for border runs – Once you secure an extension, you don’t need to leave the country. making living in Cambodia long-term a breeze.
- Simple application process – Agencies handle extensions for a small fee.
- Cambodia visa on arrival – Yes, Americans, you can simply hop on a plane a purchase your first Cambodian visa upon arrival.
Can You Work in Cambodia on an EB Visa?
Technically, you need a work permit to work legally in Cambodia. However, enforcement is inconsistent, and many freelancers and remote workers live in Cambodia without an official permit. If you plan to work for a Cambodian company, ensure they provide a proper work permit and employment contract. But I strongly suggest finding work online if you plan to move to Cambodia.
For more information, check out Cambodia Work Permit Guide.
Medical Considerations: Do You Need Health Insurance?
While healthcare in Cambodia is improving, medical evacuation insurance is highly recommended. Many expats visit Thailand for major medical procedures.
Recommended providers:
Final Thoughts: Moving to Cambodia is Easier Than You Think
If you’re looking for an easy, low-cost way to live in Southeast Asia, moving to Cambodia long-term is a fantastic option. With flexible visa policies, affordable living costs, and a welcoming expat community in cities like Siem Reap, it’s no wonder many choose to settle here.
For the latest updates on visa policies, check out Cambodia Immigration.
Start planning your new life in Cambodia! I can’t think of a country with an easier, breezier visa system. And take a look at my list of Expat Travel Gear before you head out!