Cambodia Visa Requirements
For ๐บ๐ธ United States passport holders
United States passport holders must apply for an electronic visa (eVisa) online before traveling to Cambodia.
US citizens can obtain a tourist visa online (e-Visa, $36) or on arrival ($30 + possible unofficial fees). The e-Visa is recommended for faster processing at airports. Visa on arrival available at airports and major land borders.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
1 blank page required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Entry Conditions
Passport valid for at least 6 months with at least one blank page. One passport-sized photo required for visa on arrival. Return/onward ticket may be requested.
Overstay fine of $10 per day. Extended overstays may result in detention and deportation ban.
Required Documents
Valid US Passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned arrival date with at least one blank page
Digital Passport Photo
Recent color photo in JPEG format meeting specific size requirements (usually 35x45mm, 600x600 pixels)
Completed Online Application
Fill out the official eVisa application form on the government portal
Travel Itinerary
Detailed travel plans including dates and places you intend to visit
Proof of Accommodation
Hotel bookings, Airbnb reservations, or host invitation letter
Return or Onward Flight
Confirmed flight booking showing departure from the country
Proof of Sufficient Funds Recommended
Bank statements or credit card showing adequate funds for your stay
Travel Insurance Recommended
Recommended coverage for medical emergencies and trip cancellation
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A/B, typhoid, malaria (rural areas), rabies.
Tap Water
Bottled water recommended
Safety Tips
Cambodia is generally safe. Bag snatching occurs in cities - keep valuables secure. Avoid political gatherings. Mine-affected areas exist in remote regions.
Money & Costs
Currency
แ Cambodian Riel (KHR)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $25 ยท Mid: $60 ยท Luxury: $200+
Tipping
Tip 10% in restaurants. Tip tuk-tuk drivers and guides.
Practical Info
Power
Type A, C, G, 230V
Driving
Right side
Emergency
117 (police), 118 (fire), 119 (ambulance)
Getting There
Main Airports
Phnom Penh (PNH) ยท Siem Reap (REP)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
Cambodia has a tropical monsoon climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season from November to April is ideal for visiting Angkor Wat and other temples - December through February offers the most comfortable conditions with lower humidity and pleasant temperatures. The wet season (May-October) brings daily afternoon downpours but also lush green landscapes, spectacular moats around Angkor temples, and fewer tourists. Tonle Sap Lake is best visited from September to November when water levels are high and fishing villages are most accessible. The Khmer New Year in mid-April brings festive celebrations but extreme heat.
Cultural Notes
Cambodia is recovering from the Khmer Rouge genocide (1975-1979) that killed nearly a quarter of the population. This trauma remains present - many older Cambodians lost family members, and discussions can be sensitive. The Angkorian empire that built the temples represents a source of profound pride and national identity. Buddhism shapes daily life, with morning alms rounds visible in towns. Cambodians are resilient and generally welcoming despite their history. Modest dress is expected at temples. The monarchy is revered; disrespect is a serious offense. Traditional apsara dance preserves ancient court traditions. Economic development is rapid but inequality is visible. Child protection concerns mean responsible tourism is important.
Insider Tips
Cambodia centerpiece is Angkor, the vast temple complex that rivals any ancient site on Earth. Angkor Wat, the worlds largest religious monument, justifies the trip alone, but the jungle-covered Ta Prohm and the faces of Bayon extend the wonder. Buy temple passes for at least three days; sunrise at Angkor Wat is unmissable. Siem Reap serves as the base with excellent restaurants and night markets. Phnom Penh, the capital, has the sobering Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields - essential for understanding Cambodia. Beach resorts are developing at Sihanoukville and Koh Rong. The US dollar is effectively co-currency with the riel. Tuk-tuks are the transport of choice. Try fish amok, the national dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do US citizens need a visa to visit Cambodia?
Yes, US citizens need a visa for Cambodia, but it's easy to obtain. You can apply online for an e-Visa ($36, takes about 3 business days) through evisa.gov.kh, or get a visa on arrival ($30 plus possible processing fees) at major airports and land borders. The e-Visa is recommended for faster processing and fewer hassles. Both options grant a 30-day single-entry tourist visa. You'll need a passport valid for 6 months and one passport photo for visa on arrival.
How much does an Angkor Wat pass cost and how should I plan my visit?
Angkor Archaeological Park passes cost: 1 day ($37), 3 days ($62, valid for 10 days), or 7 days ($72, valid for 1 month). Buy passes at the official ticket office; photos are taken on-site. For first-time visitors, a 3-day pass allows comfortable exploration of main temples without rushing. Must-sees include Angkor Wat (arrive at sunrise), Bayon Temple with its face towers, and Ta Prohm (the "Tomb Raider" temple). Hire a licensed guide ($30-50/day) for historical context. Start early to beat heat and crowds. Dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees) or you'll be refused entry.
Is Cambodia safe and what about landmines?
Cambodia is generally very safe for tourists. The main concerns are petty theft (especially bag snatching by motorcycle in cities) and traffic accidents. Regarding landmines: While Cambodia was heavily mined during decades of conflict, tourist areas, cities, and well-traveled paths are completely safe and cleared. Danger exists only in remote rural areas, particularly near the Thai border. Never walk in unmarked countryside areas, stick to established paths, and don't touch any unknown metal objects. At Angkor and all major tourist sites, there is zero landmine risk.
What currency should I use in Cambodia?
Cambodia has a unique dual-currency system using both US Dollars (USD) and Cambodian Riel (KHR). US dollars are widely accepted everywhere, and ATMs dispense dollars. Prices at hotels, restaurants, and tourist services are typically quoted in USD. Riel is used for small purchases under $1 and as change (approximately 4,000 Riel = $1). Carry small USD bills ($1, $5, $10) as change can be limited. Damaged, torn, or heavily worn US bills may be refused. Credit cards are accepted at upscale establishments but cash remains king for most transactions.