Cambodia Entry Rules 2025: What You Need to Know Before Your Trip
The Gateway to Ancient Wonders Is Now More Open Than Ever
Planning a trip to Cambodia in 2025? The country has made big changes to its entry rules this year. These updates make it easier to visit amazing places like Angkor Wat and the beautiful beaches. Read on to learn everything about Cambodia entry rules 2025.
1. The Big Changes in Cambodia Entry Rules 2025
Cambodia has totally changed how visitors enter the country. The government removed all COVID-19 restrictions and created new digital systems to make your arrival smoother.
Key updates include:
- E-Arrival Card System: Starting January 1, 2025, all travelers must fill out this online form at least 7 days before arrival
- Reduced Visa Fees: Tourist e-visas now cost less than before
- No COVID Requirements: All pandemic rules are gone – no tests, no vaccine proof needed
- New Border Crossings: Four new international border points are being built
These changes show Cambodia wants more tourists in 2025. The country hopes to welcome over 7 million visitors this year!
2. Visa Options for Your Cambodia Trip
Cambodia gives you several ways to get a visa in 2025. Pick the one that works best for your travel style:
Tourist Visa (Type T)
- Valid for one entry within 3 months of getting it
- Lets you stay 30 days (can add 30 more days once)
- Costs $30 through normal ways or $36 ($30 + $6 fee) for e-visa
- Need: Passport valid for 6+ months, recent photo, and filled-out form
Business Visa (Type E)
- Valid for one entry within 3 months
- Lets you stay 30 days (can extend through Immigration)
- Costs $35 through normal ways or $42 ($35 + $7 fee) for e-visa
- Need: Same as tourist visa plus business papers
Visa-Free Entry
Some countries don’t need visas! If you’re from an ASEAN country (Brunei, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, or Vietnam), you can stay 14-30 days without a visa. Your passport must be good for at least 6 months after you arrive.
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3. How to Apply for Your Cambodia Visa
Getting your visa for Cambodia is pretty simple. You have three main options:
E-Visa (Best for Most Travelers)
- Go to the official website: eVisa Cambodia
- Fill out the form and upload a digital passport photo
- Pay with credit card or other payment options
- Wait about 3 business days for approval
- Print TWO copies of your approval certificate
Visa on Arrival
- Available at airports and major land crossings
- Fill out the form they give you
- Bring two passport photos (2″ x 2″)
- Bring your passport (must be valid 6+ months)
- Pay in US dollars (cash only)
Embassy Application
- Apply in person or by mail to a Cambodian embassy
- Submit your form, photos, passport copy, and payment
- Wait 1-3 days for processing
- Some embassies offer same-day service
4. The New E-Arrival Card – A Must-Do for 2025
The biggest change in Cambodia entry rules 2025 is the new E-Arrival Card system. This replaces all the paper forms you used to fill out on the plane.
Important facts:
- Starts January 1, 2025
- Required for ALL travelers (even with visa-free entry)
- Must complete at arrival.gov.kh at least 7 days before arrival
- Save or print the QR code they give you
- Bring paper copies as backup during the early months of this system
This digital form combines immigration, health, and customs info in one place. It will make your entry much faster if you complete it ahead of time.
5. Where Can You Enter Cambodia in 2025?
Cambodia has several entry points. Your options include:
International Airports
- Phnom Penh International Airport – The main gateway to Cambodia
- Siem Reap International Airport – Closest to Angkor Wat
- Sihanoukville International Airport – For beach destinations
Land Border Crossings
These border crossings accept e-visas:
- Cham Yeam (from Thailand via Koh Kong)
- Poi Pet (from Thailand – busiest crossing)
- Bavet (from Vietnam)
- Tropaeng Kreal (from Laos via Stung Treng)
Seaports
- Note that e-visas usually can’t be used for cruise ship entry
- Special transit visas may apply for cruise travelers
Pro tip: Airports offer the smoothest entry experience. Land borders can be slower and sometimes have scammers offering “help” for extra fees.
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6. Documents You Must Bring to Cambodia
Don’t get stuck at the border! Make sure you have these documents ready:
Required:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay
- Visa or visa exemption proof
- E-Arrival Card QR code (after January 1, 2025)
- Return or onward ticket (may be checked)
- Enough money for your stay (no set amount, but should be reasonable)
Strongly Recommended:
- Travel insurance documents
- Hotel bookings or address where you’ll stay
- Extra passport photos just in case
- Printed copies of ALL documents (phones die, connections fail)
Keep digital copies in your email or cloud storage too. This gives you backup access if anything gets lost.
7. Money Matters for Cambodia Travel
Cambodia uses a unique money system you should know about:
- US Dollars are widely accepted almost everywhere
- The local currency (Riel) is used mostly for small purchases
- The exchange rate is about 4,000 Riel to 1 USD
- Bring clean, unmarked USD bills – damaged bills may be rejected
- ATMs are common in tourist areas but often charge high fees
- Credit cards work in upscale places but many small shops are cash-only
Budget tip: Bring some small US bills ($1, $5, $10) for daily spending. They’re more useful than large bills.
8. Health and Safety Tips for Cambodia in 2025
Cambodia is generally safe, but smart travelers take these precautions:
Health Tips
- No vaccines are required for entry, but CDC recommends routine vaccines
- Consider getting hepatitis A, typhoid, and rabies vaccines
- Bring enough prescription meds in original packaging
- Get good travel health insurance before you go
- Drink bottled water and be careful with street food
Safety Tips
- Watch for pickpockets in Phnom Penh and other busy areas
- Avoid remote rural areas that might have land mines
- Use reputable transportation and hotels
- Be extra careful during festivals when traffic accidents increase
- Keep valuables in hotel safes, not in your bag while out
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9. Cambodia Tourism in 2025: What to Expect
Cambodia’s tourism is growing fast in 2025! Here’s what the numbers show:
- About 7.2-7.5 million international tourists expected in 2025
- 7% growth compared to 2024
- Most visitors come from Thailand, Vietnam, China, and South Korea
- January 2025 already saw 647,206 international arrivals
- Tourism makes up about 7.5% of Cambodia’s GDP
The country is working hard to bring in tourists with new flights, better roads, and special events. You’ll see more options for tours and activities than ever before.
10. Exploring Cambodia: Must-See Places Beyond Angkor
While Angkor Wat is amazing, Cambodia has so much more to see in 2025:
- Phnom Penh – The bustling capital with royal palaces and history
- Sihanoukville & Islands – Beautiful beaches and island getaways
- Battambang – Colonial architecture and countryside views
- Kampot & Kep – Riverside towns with great food and relaxed vibes
- Mondulkiri & Ratanakiri – Mountains and nature experiences
Cambodia is pushing “Sacred Tourism” in 2025, a plan to show visitors more authentic and meaningful experiences beyond the typical tourist spots.
11. Experience Siem Reap: The Gateway to Angkor
Siem Reap is where most people stay when visiting the famous Angkor temples. This charming town has grown into a tourist hub with great hotels, restaurants, and markets.
In 2025, Siem Reap offers:
- Newly renovated streets and walkways
- Expanded night markets and food scenes
- Better transportation options
- More cultural shows and activities
The town is perfect as your base to explore the incredible Angkor Archaeological Park. Most people spend 3-5 days here to see the main sights without rushing.
12. Exclusive Tours You Can’t Miss in Cambodia
Want the best way to see Cambodia? Journey Cambodia offers amazing guided tours with local experts who know all the secrets.
Their most popular tours include:
Angkor Wat Sunrise Tour
See the magical sunrise over Angkor Wat’s ancient towers. This tour takes you to the best spots before the crowds arrive. You’ll learn the stories behind the carvings and get perfect photos in the morning light.
Banteay Srei and Grand Circuit Heritage Tour
Visit the “Citadel of Women” with its amazing pink sandstone carvings. This tour also covers the less-visited but equally amazing temples on the Grand Circuit. Your guide will share facts about Khmer architecture and history you won’t find in guidebooks.
Angkor Wat Sunset Tour
End your day watching the sun set over the ancient temples. The evening light makes the stones glow with a golden color. This tour visits key spots when most tourists have left, giving you a more peaceful experience.
For even more options, check out the full list of Siem Reap Tours that can be custom-made for your interests.
13. Tips for a Smooth Entry to Cambodia in 2025
Follow these pro tips to avoid problems at the border:
- Apply early – Get your e-visa at least a week before travel
- Complete the E-Arrival Card on time (7+ days before arrival)
- Carry printed copies of all documents
- Arrive on weekday mornings to avoid the busiest immigration times
- Have small USD bills ready for any unexpected fees
- Know your hotel address for immigration forms
- Take photos of all documents with your phone as backup
- Check your passport validity – needs 6+ months left
- Choose major entry points when possible
- Stay polite and patient with immigration officers
14. Planning Your Trip Around Cambodia Entry Rules 2025
The best time to visit Cambodia is from November to February when the weather is cooler and dry. However, this is also the busiest time.
Here’s a quick planning guide:
- 3-5 days: Enough for Siem Reap and Angkor Wat
- 7-10 days: Add Phnom Penh and a beach area
- 14+ days: See all major regions at a relaxed pace
Most tourists start in Siem Reap, go to Phnom Penh, then finish at the beaches. With the new entry rules in 2025, crossing between Cambodia and neighboring countries is easier than ever.
Final Thoughts: Your Cambodia Adventure Awaits
Cambodia entry rules 2025 make it easier than ever to visit this amazing country. With the new e-systems, no COVID rules, and more entry points, your journey will be smoother.
Don’t wait! Start planning your trip now:
- Check your passport validity
- Apply for your e-visa
- Book your tours with Journey Cambodia
- Complete your E-Arrival Card
- Pack your bags and get ready for an amazing experience!
Need more help planning your perfect Cambodia trip? Contact Journey Cambodia for expert advice from local travel pros who can answer all your questions about Cambodia entry rules 2025 and build your dream trip.
