Cambodia travel advice
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- Safety and security
- Entry and exit requirements
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Risk level
Cambodia - Exercise a high degree of caution
Exercise a high degree of caution in Cambodia due to an increase in petty crime.
Safety and security
Crime
Petty crime
Petty crime, such as phone and bag snatching, occurs frequently. Thieves, sometimes on motorcycles, grab bags and other valuables, including passports. Theft targeting foreigners is frequent on sidewalks, on motorcycles and tuktuks (rickshaws) in:
- Phnom Penh, particularly the riverfronts and the Boeung Keng Kang areas
- Siem Reap
- Sihanoukville
Personal belongings have been stolen from locked rooms, particularly in low-cost accommodations. Items have been removed from luggage stored in the luggage compartments of buses, especially on the journey between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
These crimes occur any time of day or night.
During your stay in Cambodia:
- ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and your other travel documents are secure at all times
- do not leave your belongings unattended
- if you are robbed, hand over cash, electronic devices and valuables without resistance
Violent crime
Violent crimes, such as stabbings, sometimes occur. Foreigners have encountered difficulties when reporting crimes to police and military personnel lacking discipline.
Organized crime
There are reports of criminal operations in the seaside resort of Sihanoukville and the Special Economic Zone. The criminal activity includes employment scams, drug and human trafficking.
During your trip:
- exercise a high degree of caution at all times
- avoid walking alone after dark
- report any criminal incidents to the local police of the jurisdiction, before leaving Cambodia
Landmines
Cambodia is one of the most heavily mined countries in the world. Landmines pose a threat to the safety of travellers.
There are still reports of landmines in the following areas:
- the Preah Vihear Phnom Kulen temple areas
- the border areas, including with Thailand
- the River of a Thousand Lingas
There are also landmines in rural areas, especially in the following provinces:
- Banteay Meanchey
- Battambang
- Kampong Thom
- Pursat
- Siem Reap except in the town of Siem Reap and the Angkor temples, which are considered clear by the Cambodian government
If you are travelling through the affected areas:
- be especially vigilant in remote areas, near small bridges and secondary roads
- do not walk in forested areas, fields or in dry rice paddies without a local guide
- don't handle suspicious items and report them to local authorities
- pay attention to signs indicating the possible presence of landmines
- stay on paved and main roads and avoid roadside ditches, shoulders and unmarked trails
- cross only at official border crossings
Terrorism
Although there have been no recent reports of terrorist activity, the global risk of terrorism should not be ruled out.
Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.
Demonstrations
Demonstrations take place and even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
- Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
- Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Fraud
Credit card and ATM fraud
There is bank and ATM fraud. When using debit or credit cards:
- pay careful attention if other people are handling your cards
- use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
- count and examine your cash at the ATM or with your teller
- avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
- cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
- check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements
Scams
Scams targeting tourists occur, including card games. The criminals sometimes take travellers to ATMs and force them to withdraw money.
Travellers have been the victim of scams and extortion at border crossings. Some have reported that border officials demanded they pay extra charges before they can enter Cambodia.
Carefully consider accepting assistance from individuals offering to help with documentation or transportation.
Reports of scam operations have increased, especially in the city of Sihanoukville and Poipet.
- Be wary of fake job offers on social media, through agencies, or from unknown employers.
- Verify the business's legitimacy before making the decision.
Telephone scams
Foreigners have received calls from scammers claiming to be local authorities or financial institutions. The caller may try to collect personal information or request a fund transfer to resolve administrative or customs issues.
Do not send any money or personal information in this type of situation.
Romance scams
Romance scams through dating sites or social media have occurred. Be alert to attempts at fraud by persons who profess friendship or romantic interest over the internet. It may be an attempt to get you to send money to pay off fake debts.
- Beware of people who show a keen interest online
- Keep in mind that you may be the victim of a scam if you go to Cambodia to meet someone that you met online
- Always meet new acquaintances in a secure and familiar location
- Be mindful of the risk of inviting new acquaintances in your hotel room or apartment
Useful links
Women's safety
Sexual assault has been committed, including against foreign women, in Cambodia. Some of the reported incidents happened in hostels.
- Be cautious of strangers who are helpful and friendly
- Do not accept offers of transportation from strangers
- Avoid dark alleys and isolated areas
- Avoid unattended beaches
- Keep your hotel or hostel doors and windows locked
If you are victim of a sexual assault, you should seek medical attention and report the situation immediately to local authorities and the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate.
Road safety
Driving habits
Road safety can vary considerably across the country. Drivers do not drive safely or respect traffic laws.
Drinking and driving is common, and frequently the cause of accidents, especially around major holidays. Some vehicles, especially motorcycles, may drive against the flow of traffic and on the sidewalks.
- Exercise caution when driving or walking
- Be particularly vigilant when driving during the holiday periods
In the event of a car accident:
- remain at the scene
- report the accident to the police and your insurance company as soon as possible
- if you are found to be at fault, you may be detained until all fines are paid
Road conditions
The road system outside of major cities is in poor condition. Main roads are paved but secondary roads may not be. Narrow and unpaved roads affect rural driving. Conditions may be more hazardous during the rainy season.
Travel by road during daylight hours.
Travel by motorcycle
Motorcycles are a common in urban areas. Motorcycle accidents kill or maim several Canadians in Cambodia each year.
Riding motorcycles in Cambodia as it is dangerous, even for experienced motorcyclists.
Rental agencies often request passports as a guarantee when renting motorcycles.
You should not use your Canadian passport as collateral or assurance for debts or rental of motorcycles. If your passport is inaccessible or stolen because of such misuse, you may be subject to investigation by Passport Canada and may receive limited passport services.
Checkpoints
Expect checkpoints and have your up-to-date documents ready for traffic police to inspect.
Public transportation
Buses
Exercise caution when taking buses in Cambodia.
- Only use reputable transportation companies
- Contact your travel agency for a list of recommended intercity bus companies
Taxis and ridesharing services
Taxis are available in major cities and are easy to obtain at hotels or taxi stands. Self-drive (rental), chauffeur-driven cars and ridesharing services are also available in major cities.
Confirm fares before entering a taxi, and/or request that the taxi driver use the meter.
Trains
Travel can be affected by the poor track maintenance and drivers trying to beat the train at crossings.
Boats
Boats are often overcrowded and lack adequate safety equipment. Boat owners do not accept liability for accidents.
Drugs
Each year, illicit drug use leads to the death of several Canadians in Cambodia. Seek medical assistance if you begin to feel sick after using drugs.
More information on how to avoid difficult and dangerous situations related to illegal drugs
Piracy
Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.
Live piracy report – International Maritime Bureau's Piracy Reporting Centre
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
Entry and exit requirements
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from the Cambodian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.
Passport
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.
Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Regular Canadian passport
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of entry into Cambodia. If you wish to extend your stay in Cambodia, make sure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond the extension period.
Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.
Passport with “X” gender identifier
While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
Other travel documents
Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
Useful links
Visas
Tourist visa: required
Business visa: required
Student visa: required
Tourist and business visas allow entry to Cambodia for 30 days only, counting from the date of entry.
Travellers must pay a fee in cash of US$30 for tourist visas or US$35 for business visas and provide two passport-sized photos. The photos can be purchased at the airport for US$3 each.
Make sure Cambodian officials stamp your passport when you arrive. Keep your immigration card intact in your passport or put it in a safe place. You will have to contact Cambodian immigration officials if you lose your immigration card before you can leave the country.
E-visa
You can request a single-entry tourist visa online through Cambodia's e-Visa service.
Apply for an e-visa – Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
Visa expiry date
When issued outside Cambodia, visas have an expiry date, which refers to the date by which the visa must be used, not the length of time allowed in the country. Visas must be renewed for stays over 30 days and may only be extended once.
Where to get a visa
Tourist and business visas can be obtained at:
- a Cambodian embassy abroad
- upon arrival at the airports in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap
- certain land borders as e-visas
For more information, contact the nearest Cambodian embassy or consulate.
Other entry requirements
The Government of Cambodia has extended the trial period for the Cambodia e-Arrival application (CeA) until December 31, 2024.
As of January 1, 2025, the electronic form in the app will replace the standard immigration, customs and health forms.
You will have to download the Cambodia e-Arrival application (CeA) and complete your e-Arrival forms (immigration, customs and health) within 7 days of your scheduled arrival.
Cambodia e-Arrival (CeA) application – Government of Cambodia
An onward or return ticket and proof of sufficient funds are required to visit Cambodia.
Foreigners Presence in Cambodia System (FPCS)
Cambodian immigration has required that foreign nationals in Cambodia be registered on the FPCS – an online registration system aiming to protect foreigners' safety and security in case of an emergency while living or staying in Cambodia. If you don't register, you may be denied a visa extension. Verify with your accommodation staff or owners if they have registered your information on the system. If you own your accommodation, you can self-register by downloading the mobile app.
Children and travel
Learn more about travelling with children.
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
Health
Relevant Travel Health Notices
- Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
- Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
- COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
- Dengue: Advice for travellers - 2 July, 2024
This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.
Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.
Routine vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccinations, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.
Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.
Pre-travel vaccines and medications
You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary.
Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
Risk
- There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.
Country Entry Requirement*
- Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country where yellow fever occurs.
Recommendation
- Vaccination is not recommended.
- Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
- Contact a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.
Hepatitis A
There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.
Practise safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus. Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.
Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.
Japanese encephalitis
Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain. It is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is very low for most travellers. Travellers at relatively higher risk may want to consider vaccination for JE prior to travelling.
Travellers are at higher risk if they will be:
- travelling long term (e.g. more than 30 days)
- making multiple trips to endemic areas
- staying for extended periods in rural areas
- visiting an area suffering a JE outbreak
- engaging in activities involving high contact with mosquitos (e.g., entomologists)
Malaria
Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.
There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination.
Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:
• Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.
• Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows.
• Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.
• Wear permethrin-treated clothing.
If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living.
Influenza
The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.
The flu occurs worldwide.
- In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to April.
- In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and October.
- In the tropics, there is flu activity year round.
The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.
The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.
Rabies
In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions, including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.
If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.
Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals).
COVID-19
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.
Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.
Safe food and water precautions
Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.
- Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
- Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
- Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs.
Travellers' diarrhea
Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.
The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.
Typhoid
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.
Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.
Schistosomiasis
There is a risk of schistosomiasis in this destination. Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by tiny worms (blood flukes) which can be found in freshwater (lakes, rivers, ponds, and wetlands). The worms can break the skin, and their eggs can cause stomach pain, diarrhea, flu-like symptoms, or urinary problems. Schistosomiasis mostly affects underdeveloped and rural communities, particularly agricultural and fishing communities.
Most travellers are at low risk. Travellers should avoid contact with untreated freshwater such as lakes, rivers, and ponds (e.g., swimming, bathing, wading, ingesting). There is no vaccine or medication available to prevent infection.
Insect bite prevention
Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:
- Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
- Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
- Minimize exposure to insects
- Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed
To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.
Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.
Chikungunya
There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. The level of risk may vary by:
- season
- year
- region
- elevation
The virus that causes chikungunya is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times.
Learn more:
Dengue
- In this country, dengue is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
- Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
- The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
- Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.
Zika virus
Zika virus is a risk in this country.
Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.
During your trip:
- Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
- Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.
If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel.
For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.
Animal precautions
Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.
Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.
Avian Influenza
Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.
Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.
Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those:
- visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
- working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
- hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
- working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
- working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)
All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.
Person-to-person infections
Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette, which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:
- washing your hands often
- avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
- avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.
For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.
Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.
High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.
HIV
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).
High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.
Multidrug-resistant gonorrhea
There has been an increase in the number of multidrug-resistant gonorrhea cases reported in this country. Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted bacterial infection. It is spread through sexual contact (oral, genital or anal) with someone who has the infection. Multidrug-resistant gonorrhea is very difficult to treat as it may not respond to currently recommended antibiotics.
Reduce your risk of getting multidrug-resistant gonorrhea by:
- avoiding sexual activity with a new partner
- packing your own supply of condoms and dental dams
- using condoms consistently and correctly every time you have sex
- using dental dams (rectangular pieces of thin latex) over the vagina or anus for a protective barrier during oral sex
If you think you may have been exposed to gonorrhea, discuss this with your health care provider. If you are diagnosed with gonorrhea, it is important to follow your health care provider's prescribed treatment and any follow-up recommendations.
Learn more:
Medical services and facilities
Medical facilities are poor and very limited throughout Cambodia, except some foreign hospitals in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
Doctors and hospitals may require cash payment or written guarantees from insurance providers in advance for health services.
Medical evacuation to Thailand or Singapore is often required to obtain adequate treatment. You should seek immediate assistance in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap and consider leaving the country if you experience medical problems.
Psychiatric or psychological facilities and services in Cambodia are almost non-existent.
Medication
Some prescription medication may not be available in Cambodia. Pharmacies only carry a limited selection compared to Canada. There have been reports of expired and fake medicines being sold in some pharmacies.
If you take prescription medications, you're responsible for determining their legality in Cambodia.
- Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
- Always keep your medication in the original container
- Pack them in your carry-on luggage
- Carry a copy of your prescriptions
Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Health and safety outside Canada
Laws and culture
You must abide by local laws.
Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.
Drugs
There are severe penalties for the possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs. If you are convicted, you can expect lengthy jail sentences and steep fines.
Expulsion, deportation and limitation of visit
Cambodian authorities can expel, deport or limit a traveller's visit if you are accused, or suspected of:
- violating local laws, which include possession of invalid entry documents and requirements
- having a criminal record
- being involved in criminal activities
- suffering from mental illness or serious transmitted diseases
Legal process
Detention during the investigative period is commo and can exceed 6 months before charges are laid.
Illegal or restricted activities
Overstaying a visa
Immigration regulations are strict. You could face fines, detention and deportation if you overstay your visa. There is a daily fine for overstaying the validity of your visa. There is no limit to this fine. If you overstay more than 30 days, you will need to leave Cambodia in addition to paying the fine.
Exploitation of minors
There are harsh penalties for sexual exploitation of minors. It is a serious offence in Cambodia.
Canadians may also be subject to criminal proceedings in Canada for acts of this nature committed while abroad.
Child Sex Tourism: It’s a Crime
Surrogacy
All forms of commercial surrogacy are illegal in Cambodia. Penalties for surrogates, as well as operators of clinics and hospitals providing surrogacy services, may include imprisonment and/or fines. If you have already entered into a surrogacy agreement, you should seek advice from a local lawyer on how these guidelines, including its exit requirements, apply to your situation.
Cultural heritage and antiquities
A permit is required to purchase, export or possess cultural or archaeological artefacts.
To avoid any difficulties, make sure you obtain and carry the required legal paperwork to purchase or export antiquities.
2SLGBTQI+ persons
Cambodian law doesn't prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.
Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Cambodia.
If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Cambodia, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.
International Child Abduction
The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Cambodia.
If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Cambodia by an abducting parent:
- act as quickly as you can
- consult a lawyer in Canada and in Cambodia to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
- report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre
If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.
Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.
Useful links
- International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
- Children and travel
- Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
- Request emergency assistance
Driving
You must have and carry a Cambodian driver's licence.
Helmets are mandatory for motorcycle riders, but many helmets do not meet international safety standards. Ensure your medical insurance will cover you when riding as a driver or passenger.
Dress and behaviour
There are reports of local authorities cracking down on events such as pub crawls, raves, booze cruises and pool parties, as well as other events where recreational drugs may be present. Avoid these types of events.
Behaviour that is deemed scandalous, drunken or disorderly is considered highly disrespectful to the local culture and population, especially near the Angkor temples.
To avoid offending local sensitivities:
- dress conservatively
- behave discreetly
- respect religious and social traditions
- do not photograph airports or military installations
- ask permission before photographing individuals, including Buddhist monks
Money
The currency is the riel (KHR).
U.S. dollars are also widely used. Only newer, undamaged notes are accepted. Notes with the slightest tear will not be accepted.
Credit cards are not widely accepted outside major cities. Some banks in Phnom Penh accept certain credit cards for cash advances. There are many ATMs in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville but fewer in smaller cities.
Natural disasters and climate
Monsoon
The rainy (or monsoon) season extends from May to November. Severe rainstorms can cause flooding and landslides, resulting in loss of life and extensive damage to infrastructure. They can also hamper the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged. Flooding can affect wide areas in numerous provinces, including certain parts of Phnom Penh.
- Keep informed of regional weather forecasts
- Avoid disaster areas
- Follow the advice of local authorities
Useful links
- Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
- Mekong River conditions – Mekong River Commission
Forest fires
The dry season lasts from November to April. Forest fires can start and spread very quickly during this period.
- Stay clear of active fires
- Always verify local conditions with relevant authorities before travelling near forested areas, particularly during the dry seasons
National Committee for Disaster Management – Government of Cambodia
Need help?
Local services
Emergency services
In case of emergency, dial:
- police: 117
- medical assistance: 119
- firefighters: 118 or 666
Consular assistance
Phnom Penh - Office of the Embassy of Canada
Siem Reap - Consulate of Canada
Siem Reap, Battambang, Banteay Meanchey, Oddar Meanchey, and Preah Vihear
Bangkok - Embassy of Canada
Thailand, Cambodia, Laos
Appointment Book your appointment onlineFor emergency consular assistance, call the Office of the Embassy of Canada in Phnom Penh and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
Disclaimer
The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.
The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.
If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
Learn more about consular services.
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