Cambodian Visa: A Comprehensive Guide for UK Citizens

Understanding the requirements for a Cambodia visa for UK citizens holding a British Citizen passport is crucial. These rules are established and regulated by the Cambodian authorities. 

Individuals uncertain about these requirements should consult the Cambodian embassy, high commission, or consulate in the UK. 

Visa Requirements for UK Travelers 

UK citizens must secure a visa for entry or transit through Cambodia.

Tourist visas can either be applied for online or obtained upon arrival. It’s important to note that transiting through Cambodia without leaving the airport (staying airside) is currently not allowed. 

When transiting through Cambodia, including overnight layovers for a subsequent flight, individuals must comply with entry requirements related to vaccination status. 

Checking Documents Prior to Travel 

Travelers are advised to verify their passports and other travel documents with their travel provider to ensure they meet the required criteria. 

Passport Validity 

Passports must remain valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Cambodia. Entry may be denied if the passport is damaged or has missing pages. If you want to renew or extend your visa in Cambodia, your passport needs to be valid for six more months. 

Visa Details;

Visa fees, conditions, and photograph requirements may differ. To apply for an e-visa, visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Co-operation’s website. You can also get the latest updates on fees, conditions, and photo requirements from the same website. 

Tourist Visa Validity

A tourist visa from a Cambodian Embassy abroad may appear valid for more than a month. However, it only permits entry into Cambodia during that period. This validity period is applicable for travelers from the UK as well. 

Once in Cambodia, the visa is valid for 30 days from the date of entry. It is important to ensure the passport is stamped upon arrival and the departure form is retained.

In case of losing the departure form, immigration officials should be contacted to make alternative plans before leaving the country. 

Overstaying Visa Validity

Overstaying visas can lead to fines, detention, and deportation. A daily fine of $10 applies to overstays, and there is no cap on the fine. Overstays exceeding 30 days require exiting Cambodia in addition to paying the fine. 

In the event of a passport loss requiring departure on a UK Emergency Travel Document, an exit visa will be necessary. More details on this are available under UK Emergency Travel Documents. 

Foreigner Registration 

Cambodia’s Department of Immigration has introduced the Foreigners Present in Cambodia System (FPCS) for online registration of foreign visitors and residents. This system enhances safety and security by documenting entry and exit data. 

All foreign visitors or residents should register on the FPCS app, regardless of their stay duration or purpose. Registration is recommended before arrival. Failure to register could affect visa extension procedures. 

The Royal Government of Cambodia has stopped automatic extensions of tourist visas and waived fines for tourist visa overstays for foreigners, effective immediately. 

Cambodia eVisa for UK Citizens

British travelers have the convenience of visiting Cambodia using an electronic visa, or eVisa. The eVisa was introduced in 2006 by Cambodia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to simplify the visa application process. 

UK citizens can easily apply for the Cambodian eVisa online in just 30 minutes without leaving their homes. The process eliminates the need to schedule appointments at an embassy or consulate.

When it comes to the requirements for UK citizens applying for the Cambodian eVisa, it is advised that these be consulted before beginning the eVisa application process. 

Additional Visa Types for UK Citizens

Following are a few Cambodia visas that visitors from the UK can apply for: 

K-Class Visa

This visa is for individuals of Cambodian descent holding a foreign passport, including a UK passport. It is a free lifetime visa, although an unofficial “facilitation fee” may be required. Individuals should bring any documents that show they have one Khmer parent. Being able to speak Khmer and having a Khmer last name, along with a $20 bill, may be sufficient. 

Visas for Children

Since late 2016, all non-Cambodian children have been required to have an E-class visa to enter Cambodia. 

The fees are the same as for adults. If the child has at least one Cambodian parent, they can apply for a free K-class visa. Children can apply for an ES visa extension without proof of school enrollment up to the age of 17. After that, they will need to get a visa extension or provide evidence of school enrollment. 

B-Class Visa 

This visa is for UK workers invited by the Cambodian government, like those from the United Nations or World Health Organization. It must be arranged in advance by the employer. 

C-Class Visa 

This visa is free for UK citizens who are NGO employees of an MoU with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 

The INGO must apply for the visa in advance and have a representative meet the employee at the airport on arrival with a letter of attestation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 

E-Class Visa for the UK Citizens

If UK citizens are contemplating a prolonged stay in Cambodia, they will need to apply for a 30-day E-class visa (not an online e-visa) upon arrival. This visa is also valid for 30 days and comes with a cost of $35. The distinction between the tourist visa and this ordinary visa lies in its potential for indefinite extension. After the initial 30-day period, UK travelers can opt for a visa extension. 

Conclusion

Understanding Cambodia’s visa regulations for UK citizens is crucial for a smooth journey. Cambodian authorities made rules. Consult the Cambodian embassy or high commission in the UK for more information. 

As requirements may vary or change over time, staying updated is paramount for a hassle-free Cambodian experience.