Siem Reap: Up to $1,000 Fine per Undocumented Foreigner in Hotels

• Fine of $1,000 per person. Any hotel, guesthouse, or accommodation hosting a foreigner without valid documents faces a fine of up to $1,000 per person.
• Governor's announcement. Prak Sophoan, Governor of Siem Reap Province, made this statement on May 26, 2026.
• Objective: prevent scams. The measure aims to prevent scam networks from relocating to Siem Reap after being dismantled elsewhere.
• Increased checks. Local authorities are intensifying inspections at accommodation establishments.
• Direct impact on expats. Foreigners living or traveling in Siem Reap must have their documents in order to avoid complications for themselves and their hosts.

Here is the timeline of events surrounding this announcement.

1. 2025-2026: Cambodian authorities conduct operations against online scam networks, notably in Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville, forcing their relocation.
2. Early May 2026: Reports emerge of attempts by these networks to relocate to tourist provinces like Siem Reap.
3. May 26, 2026: Governor Prak Sophoan holds a meeting with hotel industry representatives and publicly announces the fines and increased checks.
4. From May 27, 2026: Law enforcement begins inspections at hotels and guesthouses in Siem Reap.
5. Coming weeks: Awareness campaigns for hosts and expats are planned to clarify document requirements.

Fines and checks affect all types of accommodation. Here are the most impacted segments.

• Mandatory document check. Every expat must have a valid passport, a valid visa (EOS, EB, or other), and a certificate of residence (if staying more than 30 days).
• Hosts become stricter. Expect hotels and landlords to request copies of your documents upon check-in.
• Risk of denied accommodation. Without proper documents, you may be refused entry to a hotel or guesthouse.
• Fine for host, complications for you. If the host is fined, they may ask you to leave or report your situation to authorities.
• Increased checks in expat-frequented areas. Pub Street, Sok San Road, and popular digital nomad residences will be particularly monitored.

1. Check your passport and visa validity. Ensure your passport is not expired and your visa (tourist, EB, EOS, etc.) is up to date. Renew or change status as soon as possible.
2. Obtain a certificate of residence. If staying more than 30 days, register your address with local authorities (via your landlord or directly at the foreigner office).
3. Always keep copies of your documents. Carry a paper or digital copy of your passport, visa, and certificate of residence. Keep originals in a safe place.
4. Choose law-abiding accommodation. Prefer reputable hotels and guesthouses that request documents upon check-in. Avoid informal lodging.
5. Inform your host of your status. If in long-term rental, provide your documents to the landlord upon arrival so they can declare them.
6. Follow official announcements. Regularly check local authority information channels and expat groups for updates on upcoming checks.
7. If in doubt, consult a specialist agent. For visa and residence questions, contact a trusted agency or your country's embassy.