🇰🇭 Cambodia visa for Japanese citizens
Japan passport holders need an e-Visa for Cambodia. You apply online before you fly and arrive with the approval attached to your passport, typically for 30 days.
The verdict
For Japan passport holders specifically
Japan passport holders get 30 days visa-free on arrival in Cambodia. You don't need to apply for an e-Visa beforehand. Just head to the immigration desk at any major airport like Phnom Penh (PNH) or Siem Reap (REP). The fee is US$30†, payable in cash. Processing is usually instant.
The most common mistake for Japan passport holders is not having a clear onward or return ticket. Immigration officers may ask for proof that you intend to leave Cambodia within your 30-day stay. Ensure you have this readily accessible to avoid any delays.
†= figure we couldn’t independently verify. Confirm with the official source before you book.
Cambodia visa, the full picture
Most passports get a tourist visa on arrival for 30 days. Some countries need pre-approval.
Who walks in visa-free (and who doesn't)
For many nationalities, getting into Cambodia is straightforward. Citizens of ASEAN countries like Thailand, Singapore, or Malaysia can enter visa-free for varying lengths of stay, often 30 days. Most Western passports, including those from the US, EU, UK, Canada, and Australia, can get a tourist visa on arrival. This costs $30 USD and is valid for 30 days. You'll need a passport with at least six months' validity and a couple of recent passport photos.
A smaller group of countries requires you to obtain a visa before arriving. This usually includes nations from parts of Africa and the Middle East. It’s always best to check the official Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for the most up-to-date list if your passport isn't from a commonly listed country. Don't rely on outdated travel blogs for this; immigration rules can change.
How long can you actually stay?
The standard tourist visa grants 30 days of entry. You can extend this once for an additional 30 days without leaving the country. This is called a "one-month extension." If you plan to stay longer, you'll need to do a border run. This means exiting Cambodia and re-entering, which typically grants you another 30-day tourist visa on arrival.
Be aware of overstay penalties. While enforcement can be inconsistent, the official rate is $10 USD per day. Exceeding your visa duration by more than a few days can lead to complications, including being denied re-entry for a period or facing a deportation process. For example, overstaying by 10 days could theoretically cost you $100 USD, but it's also possible immigration officials might simply stamp you out and note the infraction on your record. It's not worth the risk for a few extra days.
Working remotely on a tourist visa
Can you work remotely in Cambodia on a tourist visa? Officially, no. A tourist visa is for tourism, not employment. However, the reality on the ground is a bit murkier. For many digital nomads and remote workers, working on a 30-day tourist visa is common. You won't see immigration officers checking your laptop for work documents at the border. The Cambodian government is also aware of the economic benefits remote workers can bring.
The grey area exists because there isn't a specific "digital nomad visa" or remote work visa at the tourist level. Enforcement is usually focused on people trying to work for Cambodian companies without the proper work permits. If you're simply connecting to your clients abroad, you’re unlikely to face issues. Just be prepared to exit and re-enter every 30 days if you plan a longer stay, as extensions beyond the initial two months are not permitted on a tourist stamp.
What's new with Cambodian visas?
Cambodia has been modernizing its visa system. The most significant change was the rollout of the e-Visa system, which allows eligible nationalities to apply for a tourist visa online before they travel. This is a welcome convenience, often processed within 3 business days. The fee for the e-Visa is typically $36 USD (including a processing fee), slightly more than the visa on arrival, but it saves time at the airport.
They have also expanded the e-Visa system to more entry points, including land borders like Poipet and Bavet, and all major airports. While the core 30-day tourist visa remains the standard, keep an eye on official announcements regarding any changes to fees or visa durations. There haven't been major suspensions or expansions of visa types in the last 12-18 months, but the e-Visa remains the most notable recent development for travellers.
How other passports enter Cambodia
The rule changes entirely with the document. Open the row that matches yours.