visa-admin
Updated 2026-08-22 5 min
In short
- ●Over 6,000 C and Cex visas were allegedly stolen and illegally used by a Ministry of Foreign Affairs official.
- ●4,000 other visas were reportedly destroyed, according to the Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU).
- ●Expats should verify the authenticity of their visas and report any irregularities to the authorities.
- ●The investigation is ongoing; no mass visa cancellation has been announced so far.
6,000+
Visas stolen
4,000
Visas destroyed
Phnom Penh
Location
Cambodianess
Source
Key Facts at a Glance
- 6,000 C and Cex visas stolen. A Ministry of Foreign Affairs official is accused of misappropriating and illegally using them.
- 4,000 visas destroyed. The same official allegedly destroyed these documents, according to the ACU.
- ACU investigation. The Anti-Corruption Unit has launched an official investigation, which is ongoing.
- Potential impact on expats. The validity of some visas held by foreigners could be affected.
- No mass cancellation announced. For now, authorities have not issued a general cancellation notice.
How It Happened
The case was revealed by the ACU, which is investigating a Ministry of Foreign Affairs official. Here are the key steps in the case and its aftermath.
- 2026 (exact date unknown): The official allegedly stole and illegally used over 6,000 C and Cex visas, and destroyed 4,000 others.
- 2026-08-22: The ACU officially announces the opening of an investigation, according to Cambodianess.
- Ongoing investigation: Authorities are reviewing visa records and identifying affected visas.
- Visa verification: Expats are urged to verify the authenticity of their visas with the relevant authorities.
- Possible next steps: Measures may be taken to regularize the status of affected visas, but nothing has been announced yet.
Breakdown
The affected visas are primarily type C (ordinary visa) and Cex (business travel visa). Here is the estimated breakdown:
| Segment | Number | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Stolen C visas | Approximately 4,000 | Ordinary visas issued to foreigners for stays in Cambodia. |
| Stolen Cex visas | Approximately 2,000 | Business travel visas, often used by investors and businesspeople. |
| Destroyed visas | 4,000 | C and Cex visas destroyed, which could lead to verification issues. |
| Total affected visas | 10,000+ | Sum of stolen and destroyed visas. |
What This Means for Siem Reap
- Verify the authenticity of your C or Cex visa with the Ministry of Interior or Immigration.
- If your visa was issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, be especially vigilant.
- If in doubt, contact the ACU or a lawyer specializing in immigration law.
- Don't panic: no mass cancellation has been announced, but stay informed.
- Prepare copies of your visa documents and passport in case of checks.
How to Avoid Trouble
- Verify your visa: Go to the Siem Reap immigration office or in Phnom Penh to confirm your visa is valid and authentic.
- Keep copies: Make paper and digital copies of your visa, passport, and entry stamp.
- Report any irregularities: If you notice a problem with your visa, report it immediately to the ACU or immigration police.
- Follow official announcements: Regularly check government websites and local media for updates.
- Consult an expert: If you have doubts, schedule an appointment with an immigration lawyer.
- Avoid unofficial intermediaries: Do not use unlicensed agents to renew or obtain a visa.
Frequently asked questions
What is the ACU?
The ACU (Anti-Corruption Unit) is Cambodia's anti-corruption unit, responsible for investigating corruption and fraud cases involving officials.
Which types of visas are affected?
Type C (ordinary visa) and Cex (business travel visa) are affected. These visas are commonly used by expats and business travelers.
Is my visa automatically cancelled?
No, no automatic cancellation has been announced. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not issued a general cancellation notice. It is recommended to verify your visa.
How can I check if my visa is authentic?
You can go to the Siem Reap immigration office or contact the Ministry of Interior to verify your visa's validity. It is also advisable to keep copies of your documents.
What should I do if I find my visa is invalid?
Contact the ACU or immigration authorities immediately to report the issue. A specialized lawyer can help you regularize your status.
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Siem Reap Hub
The community guide for expats and travelers in Siem Reap, Cambodia