Setting Up a Business in Cambodia: The Single Portal Guide

The Single Portal is accessible to foreign nationals wishing to set up a business in Cambodia. Here are the main criteria:

• Nationality: All nationalities are accepted, but certain activities may be reserved for Cambodians (e.g., retail of specific products).
• Company type: Limited Liability Company (LLC), sole proprietorship, or branch of a foreign company.
• Minimum capital: No legal minimum for most sectors, but a capital of 1,000 USD is often recommended for banking procedures.
• Identification documents: Valid passport, valid visa (type E or K), and proof of residence in Cambodia.
• Activity: The activity must be legal and not on the list of activities prohibited to foreigners.

The Single Portal has replaced paper-based procedures across several ministries. Here are the main changes:

Follow these steps to register your business via the Single Portal:

1. Step 1: Gather documents: passport, visa, ID photo, proof of residence (lease agreement or certificate), and proof of capital (bank statement).
2. Step 2: Create an account on the official Single Portal website (https://singleportal.gov.kh).
3. Step 3: Fill out the online registration form: choose the company type, activity, and shareholder/director information.
4. Step 4: Upload scanned documents (PDF format, max 5 MB per file).
5. Step 5: Pay the registration fees online (credit card or bank transfer). The amount varies by company type: approximately 300 USD for an LLC.
6. Step 6: Wait for validation (5 to 10 business days). You will receive an email with the registration certificate and tax documents.
7. Step 7: Download your documents from your account. Print and keep them for banking and tax procedures.

• No need to travel to Phnom Penh for formalities: everything is done online from Siem Reap.
• Reduced processing times allow you to start your business faster, ideal for tourist seasons.
• Cost transparency avoids hidden fees from local intermediaries.
• Digital documents are accepted by Siem Reap banks for opening a business account.
• The system facilitates the creation of micro-enterprises (tourism, restaurants, services) common in the region.

Here are the pitfalls to avoid during registration:

• Mistake 1 — Choosing the wrong company type. An LLC is recommended for most activities. A sole proprietorship exposes your personal assets.
• Mistake 2 — Poorly scanned documents. Files must be legible, in color, and within size limits. A blurry passport leads to rejection.
• Mistake 3 — Forgetting to check the permitted activity. Some activities are reserved for Cambodians (e.g., land transport, retail of agricultural products). Check the official list.
• Mistake 4 — Neglecting the minimum capital. Although no legal minimum is required, banks often ask for a capital of 1,000 USD to open an account.
• Mistake 5 — Ignoring post-registration tax obligations. After registration, you must declare VAT and taxes monthly. Hiring a local accountant is advisable.