Working in Cambodia in 2026: Visas, Permits and Daily Reality

To work legally in Cambodia in 2026, you must meet the following conditions depending on your status:

• Employees: EB (Employment) visa + work permit. The employer must be a company registered in Cambodia.
• Freelancers: E-type visa (retiree) or business visa (annual extension). No work permit required if you work for foreign clients, but you must declare your income.
• Entrepreneurs: Business visa + work permit. You must set up a registered company (minimum 1 Cambodian employee for certain activities).
• Interns: EB visa with internship mention, work permit issued by the host company.

In 2026, Cambodian authorities are strengthening controls and penalties for illegal work. Here are the main changes compared to previous years:

Follow these steps to be in order before starting work:

1. Step 1: Get a visa on arrival (T visa). At Phnom Penh or Siem Reap airport, apply for a tourist visa (T) valid for 30 days. Cost: 30 USD.
2. Step 2: Convert your visa to an EB visa. Go to the Immigration Department in Phnom Penh or via an authorized agency. Provide: passport, photo, employer's hiring letter, company registration certificate. Processing time: 5-10 business days.
3. Step 3: Obtain the work permit. Your employer must submit the application to the Ministry of Labor. Documents: employment contract, diplomas, medical certificate, copy of EB visa. Processing time: 10-15 business days.
4. Step 4: Register with the foreigner registry. Within 30 days of obtaining the EB visa, declare your address at the local immigration office (form and photo).
5. Step 5: Renew each year. The EB visa and work permit are valid for 1 year. Renewal must be done 30 days before expiry.
6. Step 6: For freelancers: Opt for a business visa (annual extension) and declare your income to the tax authorities. No work permit needed if you work for foreign clients.
7. Step 7: For entrepreneurs: Set up your company (registration with the Ministry of Commerce, bank account, minimum capital 1,000 USD). Then apply for a business visa and a work permit in your name.

• Increased checks in bars and restaurants: Local authorities regularly check work permits of foreign employees. Establishments employing undocumented expats risk heavy fines.
• Visa agencies more in demand: Many expats use agencies to simplify procedures. Expect 50-100 USD in agency fees on top of official fees.
• Freelancers in coworking spaces: Coworking spaces like The Place or The Workshop see freelancers arriving who prefer a business visa rather than risking a tourist visa.
• Less informal work: The informal market (undeclared English lessons, odd jobs) is shrinking. Expats are turning to official contracts or online activities.
• More stable expat community: With longer visas and work permits, expats stay longer, boosting local associations and events.

Here are the most frequent pitfalls and how to avoid them:

• Mistake 1 — Working on a tourist visa. The T visa does not allow work. Checks are intensifying: fine of 500 USD and possible deportation. Convert your visa before starting.
• Mistake 2 — Neglecting renewal. An expired visa incurs a fine of 10 USD per day of delay. Beyond 30 days, you risk a ban. Note the expiry date.
• Mistake 3 — Omitting address declaration. Registration with the foreigner registry is mandatory. Without it, you cannot renew your visa. Do it within 30 days.
• Mistake 4 — Thinking freelancers are exempt from all declarations. Even without a work permit, you must declare your income in Cambodia if you reside there more than 182 days per year. Taxes are 10% on local income.
• Mistake 5 — Employing Cambodians without a contract. If you set up a company, you must declare your employees and pay social contributions. Non-compliance can lead to company closure.