If you’re planning an extended stay in the heart of South East Asia, securing a long-term visa in Cambodia is a crucial step. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of obtaining a long-term visa for stays between 6 to 12 months, detailing the process and associated costs, ensuring your adventure in Cambodia starts smoothly.
Understanding the Types of Long-Term Visas in Cambodia
Cambodia offers several visa types for short term stays including the Tourist and Ordinary Visa. Both can be organised on arrival at the airport or border. The tourist visa can also be purchased through an online portal before arrival
Tourist Visa – Allows 30 days and can be extended once for a further 30 days. This can be purchased on arrival for around $35 and can be extended at an agent for between $40 – $50.
Ordinary Visa – This visa is ideal for those who intend to stay in Cambodia for an extended period due to employment, retirement, or other reasons such as volunteering or studying. It can be extended for 1 month, 3 months, 6 months or 12 months. If extending for 3 months if you wish to stay, you then have to extend for either 6 months or 12 months.
To obtain the Ordinary Visa, make it clear on arrival at the border. If asked how long you intend to stay, say at least 3 months.
Step-by-Step Process for Acquiring a Long-Term “E” Visa (not to be confused with the online “e-visa”)
- Obtain an Ordinary Visa: Initially, you must enter Cambodia on an ordiary Visa, which you can easily purchase upon arrival. This visa is valid for 30 days and can be extended.
- Choose the Right Extension: Once you have your Ordinary Visa, you can extend it to fit your needs. For long-term stays, you can extend it for 6 or 12 months, this flexibility allows you to travel in and out of Cambodia without reapplying for a visa.
Visa Extensions
EB – Business visa. This can be for 1, 3, 6, or 12 months and needs to be accompanied with a stamped letter of employment. If for 6 or 12 months then it needs to be accompanied with a Work permit which is easily organised through an agent for around $180-$200. Most visa agents offer this service, along with a work employment letter.
ES – Student visa, needs to be accompanied with a letter proving registration at a Cambodian school.
ER – Retirement visa, required documentation proving retirement in home country and resources to support yourself.
EG – Looking for work visa and can be for 1, 3, or 6 months. It is not renewable and to extend requires an EB visa.
Costs Involved
Extension for 6 to 12 months typically costs between $180 to $300 USD, depending on the length required, and these fees are subject to change, so it’s advisable to consult with a visa agency.
Overstay
Overstay is charged at $10 per day and it can often be cheaper than getting an extension, if you need just a few more days. However, be aware that overstaying for longer periods can result in risk of more severe penalties including future bans from entering the country or even imprisonment.
Conclusion
Navigating long-term visas in Cambodia involves understanding the right visa type for your needs, preparing the necessary documents, and following through with the application process diligently. By leveraging local services like Camboticket for your in country travel needs, you can ensure a smooth transition to your new long-term stay in Cambodia, fully embracing the rich culture and breathtaking landscapes of this unique country.
By carefully planning your visa application and travel arrangements, your extended stay in Cambodia will not only be less stressful, leaving you more time to explore and enjoy the vibrant life and scenic beauty of Cambodia.