Cambodian Senate: 2-Year Compulsory Military Service Adopted

actualites

Updated 2026-05-20 5 min

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In short

●The Cambodian Senate unanimously approved the compulsory military service bill on May 20, 2026.
●The law imposes two years of military service on young male Cambodian citizens.
●Male expatriates holding dual Cambodian citizenship may be affected.
●Implementation details and exemptions remain to be specified by decree.

May 20, 2026

Adoption Date

2 years

Service Duration

Unanimous

Vote

Khmer Times Breaking News

Source

Unanimous adoption. The Cambodian Senate approved the compulsory military service bill on May 20, 2026.
Duration: 2 years. Young male citizens will have to complete two years of military service.
Target audience. The law targets male Cambodian citizens of service age.
Expat impact. Men holding dual Cambodian citizenship may be included.
Next steps. Implementation details (exemptions, age, etc.) will be set by royal decree.

The legislative process moved quickly. Here are the key steps:

May 2026: The bill is introduced and debated in the National Assembly.
May 20, 2026: The Senate votes unanimously in favor of the text.
Soon: Royal signature and publication in the Official Gazette.
Upcoming: Publication of implementing decrees specifying age criteria, exemptions, and procedures.
Implementation: Gradual entry into force, likely within the following months.

Although the law concerns all male citizens, certain segments are more likely to be impacted:

Segment	Potential Impact	Detail
Male Cambodian citizens	Obligation to serve	All men of service age (age to be specified)
Dual nationals (expats)	Possible inclusion	Men with dual Cambodian citizenship may be required
Foreign residents without citizenship	No direct impact	Not affected by the law
Women	Not affected	The law targets only men
Possible exemptions	To be defined	Students, medical conditions, etc. (per decree)

Check nationality. Male expats born in Cambodia or with a Cambodian parent should verify if they are considered citizens.
Dual nationality. Men holding dual Cambodian citizenship could be called up.
Administrative obligations. Those affected may need to register with military authorities.
Exemptions. Exemption criteria (age, studies, health) will be crucial for student or working expats.
Monitor decrees. It is recommended to follow official announcements for exact procedures.

Step 1: Check your status. If you have a link to Cambodian citizenship (birth, parent), consult the embassy or a lawyer.
Step 2: Monitor decrees. Implementation details (age, exemptions) will be published in the Official Gazette.
Step 3: Keep your documents up to date. Passport, residence card, nationality certificate.
Step 4: Anticipate a census. Authorities may organize a military census.
Step 5: Learn about exemptions. Studies, overseas employment, medical conditions may be grounds.
Step 6: Contact your embassy. If in doubt, your diplomatic representation can advise you.
Step 7: Stay informed. Follow reliable local media like the Khmer Times.

Who is affected by this law?

Male Cambodian citizens of service age. Men with dual Cambodian citizenship may also be included.

Are foreign expats without Cambodian citizenship affected?

No, the law only applies to Cambodian citizens. Foreign residents without Cambodian nationality are not affected.

What is the duration of compulsory military service?

Two years, according to the bill adopted by the Senate.

When will the law come into effect?

After royal signature and publication of implementing decrees. The precise details (age, exemptions) will then be known.

What should I do if I am a dual national living in Siem Reap?

Check your status with Cambodian authorities or your embassy. Monitor official announcements and keep your documents up to date.

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Siem Reap Hub

The community guide for expats and travelers in Siem Reap, Cambodia