United States Visa RequirementsFor Cambodia passport holders

Cambodia is not a participant in the US Visa Waiver Program, so all Cambodian passport holders must apply for a B1/B2 visa before traveling to the United States for tourism, family visits, or business meetings. The US Embassy in Phnom Penh processes these applications.

Interview appointment wait times at the US Embassy Phnom Penh are typically in the range of 100 to 200 days. Begin your application process at least 6 to 9 months before intended travel.

The standard B1/B2 eligibility criteria apply: you must demonstrate non-immigrant intent (that you will return to Cambodia after your visit), financial ability to fund the trip, and a legitimate purpose for travel. For Cambodian applicants, demonstrating strong ties to Cambodia through employment, business, property ownership, or close family members remaining in Cambodia is important.

No direct flights operate between Cambodia and the United States. Travelers connect via major Asian hubs such as Bangkok, Singapore, Seoul, Taipei, or Tokyo, and then onward to US cities. Plan flight connections as part of your travel itinerary when applying.

There are no direct flights from Cambodia to the United States. Common routings involve connecting at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi (BKK) on Thai Airways or Bangkok Airways, Singapore Changi (SIN) on Singapore Airlines, Seoul Incheon (ICN) on Korean Air or Asiana, Taipei Taoyuan (TPE) on EVA Air or China Airlines, or Doha (DOH) on Qatar Airways. Korean Air and EVA Air serve multiple US cities including Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, Chicago, and Seattle from their respective hubs.

The United States uses the US Dollar (USD), which is also widely used in Cambodia, making currency familiarity straightforward. In the US, Visa and Mastercard bank cards are accepted at virtually all merchants, hotels, restaurants, and ATMs. Check with your Cambodian bank that your card is enabled for international transactions before departure.

The US is significantly more expensive than Cambodia. Expect hotel costs of $150 to $300 per night for mid-range accommodation in major cities. Meals at casual restaurants typically cost $15 to $30 per person before tip.

Tipping is expected in US restaurants. Add 18% to 20% to your restaurant bill. Unlike Cambodia, tips are not included in prices.

ATMs are widely available throughout the US. Fees of $3 to $5 per withdrawal from out-of-network ATMs are common.

Apply early. Allow 6 to 9 months before intended travel to account for the appointment wait and any subsequent processing.

Demonstrate ties to Cambodia. Employment letters, property documents, business registration, payslips, or family obligations that require you to return are all useful. The officer must be satisfied you have reasons to return home after your visit.

Financial documentation is important. Bring bank statements covering at least 3 to 6 months showing sufficient funds for the trip and for living expenses back in Cambodia.

No direct flights from Cambodia to the US. Your travel itinerary will involve at least one connection. Plan your routing via Bangkok (BKK), Singapore (SIN), Seoul (ICN), or another major hub. Have your full itinerary ready for the interview.

Previous visa refusals must be disclosed. If you have previously been refused a US visa, you must disclose this on the DS-160. Address the reason for the previous refusal in your current application with stronger documentation.