visa-admin
Updated 2026-07-22 5 min
In short
- ●The Ministry of Land Management now allows Latin alphabet names on strata titles for foreigners.
- ●Previously, names had to be transliterated into Khmer, causing transcription errors.
- ●The reform simplifies owner identification and reduces administrative errors.
- ●This measure aims to strengthen international investor confidence in Cambodia's real estate market.
Bilingual names (Khmer + Latin)
Reform
July 22, 2026
Announcement Date
MLMUPC
Ministry
Foreign condo owners
Impact
Key Facts at a Glance
- Strata title reform. Cambodia now allows foreign owners' names to be recorded in Latin alphabet on strata titles, in addition to Khmer.
- Goal: reduce errors. Previously, transliteration into Khmer caused discrepancies between passport and title, complicating transactions.
- Applies to condos. The measure concerns private units in condominium buildings, where foreigners can own units above the ground floor.
- Boosting confidence. This reform is part of the modernization of the land registry and aims to reassure international investors.
- Official announcement. The Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction (MLMUPC) communicated the decision on July 22, 2026.
How It Happened
The reform was announced by the MLMUPC on July 22, 2026. Here are the key steps:
- Before 2026: Foreign owners' names had to be transliterated into Khmer on strata titles, leading to transcription errors.
- July 22, 2026: The MLMUPC announces that names can now appear in Latin alphabet (as written on the passport) in addition to Khmer.
- Immediate implementation: The reform applies to all new strata titles and update requests.
- Expected impact: Simplified transactions, reduced disputes, and improved attractiveness of Cambodia's real estate market for foreign investors.
Breakdown
The reform mainly affects foreign condo owners in Cambodia. Here are the impacted segments:
| Segment | Detail | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Asian investors | Chinese, Singaporeans, Japanese | Facilitates transactions and resale |
| Western expats | Europeans, Americans, Australians | Alignment with identity documents |
| Real estate developers | Condo projects in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville | Strengthened sales argument |
| Notaries and land registry | State agents | Reduction of administrative errors |
| Banks and lenders | Financial institutions | Better title verification |
What It Means in Practice for Siem Reap
- Condo owners in Siem Reap can now have their exact name (in Latin alphabet) on the property title, avoiding confusion during transactions.
- Sale or rental procedures are simplified: the owner's identity matches their passport perfectly.
- Expatriates looking to buy a condo can be reassured about the reliability of the land title.
- Local notaries and lawyers save time in document verification.
- This reform boosts Siem Reap's attractiveness as a real estate investment destination for expats.
How to Avoid Trouble
- Check that your strata title is updated. If you already own a condo, request the land registry to add your name in Latin alphabet.
- Always use the same name as on your passport. Ensure the Latin name on the title matches your ID exactly.
- Hire a specialized lawyer. For any transaction, a lawyer can verify the title's compliance with the new regulation.
- Keep copies of your passport and title. In case of dispute, these documents will be essential.
- Follow MLMUPC announcements. Regulations may change; stay informed via official sources.
Frequently asked questions
What is a strata title?
A strata title is a condominium ownership title that allows foreigners to own private units in multi-story buildings, above the ground floor.
Does the reform apply to land?
No, it only concerns condominium units (condos). Foreigners cannot own land in Cambodia.
Do I need to redo my property title?
It is not mandatory to redo the title, but you can request an update to add your name in Latin alphabet.
What are the benefits for investors?
Fewer administrative errors, faster transactions, and better international recognition of the property title.
Where can I get more information?
From the Ministry of Land Management (MLMUPC) or a lawyer specialized in Cambodian real estate law.
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Siem Reap Hub
The community guide for expats and travelers in Siem Reap, Cambodia