No restrictions in this travel advice

Avoid all but essential travel to part(s) of country

Avoid all but essential travel to whole country

Avoid all travel to part(s) of country

Avoid all travel to whole country

• Travel Summary
• Safety and security
• Local laws and customs
• Entry requirements

• Health
• General
 

• We advise against all travel to the Preah Vihear (Khaoi Pra Viharn in Thai) temple area and the Ta Krabey/Ta Moan temple area located on the Thai-Cambodian border due to the presence of troops in the area and recent outbreaks of fighting. Remain alert to the local situation when travelling in other border regions, particularly at Ou Smach and at land crossings between the two countries. See Safety and Security - Local Travel.
  
  
• There is a low threat from terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by expatriates and foreign travellers. Avoid demonstrations and political gatherings.
  
  
• Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. See the General - Insurance  section of this Travel Advice.
  
  
• 104,000 British nationals visited Cambodia in 2011 (Source: Cambodia Ministry of Tourism). Most visits to Cambodia are trouble-free. See General - Consular Assistance Statistic.

Safety and Security - Terrorism

There is a low threat from terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by expatriates and foreign travellers. There have been a small number of grenade/bomb attacks and shootings. Most have been linked to business, personal and traffic disputes. There is no evidence to suggest that British nationals or Western interests have been the targets of these attacks. However, there is a danger foreigners might be caught up in any future attacks.

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Safety and Security - Crime
Disparity in wealth may make foreigners an attractive target for crime. Sensible precautions should be taken to avoid opportunistic theft.  Be on your guard against pickpockets and bag snatchers. You should remain particularly vigilant against theft when using public transportation, including inter-city buses, tuk-tuks and motos. Use security facilities in hotels and guest houses for your valuables.

Particular areas where crime levels have been relatively high in recent months have been the riverfront and BKK areas of Phnom Penh, and the beaches and tourist areas of Sihanoukville, although incidents are not confined to these areas. You should be particularly vigilant at night, and in deserted areas, although incidents have occurred at all times of day. Thieves do not generally use violence, but some incidents have involved criminals carrying weapons.  During 2010, there were a number of incidents when bricks have been thrown from cars onto the Phnom Penh river front (Sisowath Quay) towards pedestrians. A number of foreign nationals were been injured.    

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Safety and Security - Local Travel
Remain alert to the local situation when travelling in the border regions, and at land crossings between the countries. At the more remote crossing, conditions can be basic with few facilities.  Some visitors have reported local officials at land border entry points imposing unofficial fees or inflating visa prices. Familiarise yourself with the correct visa requirements and fees before you travel. Check the local conditions with reputable travel agencies before setting out to cross the border at more remote crossings, matters are subject to change with little notice.

Cambodia remains heavily affected by landmines and unexploded ordnance. Mined areas are frequently unmarked.  Do not stray off main routes in rural areas, including around temple complexes.

Seasonal flooding occurs both in Phnom Penh and in the rest of Cambodia, particularly between the end of July and November. Travel to some provinces can be seriously disrupted during this time.

Safety and Security - Local Travel - Thailand Border
The line of the international border in the vicinity of the Preah Vihear temple is disputed by Cambodia and Thailand. Since July 2008 there have been periodic clashes between Thai and Cambodian troops in the area. Hostilities broke out again between 4 -7 February 2011 resulting in, civilian and military fatalities, on both sides. The situation remains tense and further fighting may occur without warning. We advise against all travel to this to the Preah Vihear (Khaoi Pra Viharn in Thai) temple and surrounding area. Remain alert to the local situation when travelling in other border regions, and at land crossings between the two countries.  

There have also been separate confrontations in Oddar Meanchey Province, 3km east of the Ou’Smach international border crossing with Thailand (April 2010) and at Trapaing Prasat District (June 2010).

Disputes also exist over control of the Ta Moan and Ta Krabey temples, which lie close to the Thailand-Cambodia border. Fighting broke out between Cambodian and Thai troops at Ta Krabey on 22 April and is ongoing. A number of deaths and injuries have been reported by both sides. We advise against all travel to the Ta Moan and Ta Krabey temple area. Exercise caution if visiting temples close to the border with Thailand which may be the subject of disputes over ownership

British nationals need a visa to enter Cambodia. Visas can be obtained on arrival in Cambodia at most border crossings. Visas to enter Thailand from Cambodia can also be obtained at the border.

See Travel Advice for Thailand.

Safety and Security - Local Travel - Entry from Laos
Visas can be obtained on arrival in Cambodia at the Dom Krolor checkpoint. There is also a river checkpoint at Vern Kham (9 km from the road checkpoint) but visas cannot be obtained from this border crossing.  

To enter Laos from Cambodia you must obtain a visa before arriving at the border. Check locally for the opening times for the Laos-Cambodia border crossings before you travel.

See also Travel Advice for Laos.

Safety and Security - Local Travel - Entry from Vietnam
Visa can now be obtained on arrival in Cambodia from Vietnam from most border crossings (the entry requirements below apply). To enter Vietnam from Cambodia, you must get a visa in advance - you cannot get it at the border. Bavet, Kaam Samnor and Phnom Den crossings are open to foreign travellers and issue Cambodian visas. The other border crossings at Trapeang Phlong, Prek Chak, O Yadaw and Trapeang Srer are also reported to be open to foreign travellers and in some cases to issue Cambodian visas.

There are also a number of other local crossing points which are only open to Cambodian and Vietnamese nationals. Check locally before travelling to these points.

See Travel Advice for Vietnam.

Safety and Security - Local Travel - Air Travel
Visas can be obtained on arrival at Phnom Penh and Siem Reap International airports. There is a US$25 airport departure tax which is payable on departure from all international airports. Domestic flights attract a tax of US $6. These taxes may be included in your ticket price.

Further information on airlines is available from organisations such as the International Civil Aviation Organisation and the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.

For more general information see Airline Security.

Safety and Security - Local Travel - Rail Travel
There are no scheduled passenger trains operating in Cambodia and you should not ride on the occasional goods trains.  Trains and rail track are poorly maintained which increases the risk of accidents.

Safety and Security - Local Travel - Road Travel
The majority of roads in Cambodia are in a very poor condition. Travel after dark significantly increases the risk of accidents. Cambodia has one of the highest rates of road traffic accidents in the region, resulting in high numbers of fatalities and serious injuries.

A Cambodian driver’s licence is required to drive in Cambodia, including for the use of motorcycles. Holders of International Driving Permits can apply for one at a cost of US $25.  Some local travel agencies can arrange a licence for an additional administrative fee. Driving without a licence may invalidate your travel insurance in the event of an accident. Check with the rental company what insurance is included in the hire. Drivers not in possession of a valid Cambodian driver’s licence have had motorcycles impounded with the police imposing a hefty charge for release. Do not use your passport as security for motorcycle rental.

Travelling as a passenger by motorcycle taxi (called ‘motodop’) is dangerous. Roads and vehicles are poorly maintained. The level of driver skills are low and there is a risk of bag snatching. A helmet is required by law, and the police will enforce on-the-spot fines.  Riding without a helmet may invalidate your insurance.

Due to the high number of accidents involving tourists on motorcycles in Siem Reap and Sihanoukville, the local police periodically ban rental outlets from hiring motorcycles to tourists. The police are known to stop tourists on motorcycles and advise them to return the bikes immediately occasionally imposing an unofficial on-the-spot fine.

Before you hire a vehicle, check your travel insurance policy to ensure that you are covered (as either a driver or passenger for motorcycles) and check the small print of the lease agreement. Never hand over your passport as a guarantee against returning a motorcycle or scooter. Owners have been known to hold on to passports against claimed damage to the motorcycle or scooter.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Safety and Security - Local Travel - Sea/River Travel  
The water levels and rivers and lakes are high due to recent heavy rains but are now below flood alert status and there is still flooding in a number of  Provinces. You should check with your travel agent and your hotel staff to know which areas to avoid.

Accidents have occurred due to overloaded or poorly maintained boats. A boat with tourists sank off the coast of Sihanoukville in April 2011, reportedly due to overloading. Life-vests and other safety equipment are not routinely provided, even on modern vessels. Boat travel on rivers becomes difficult in the dry season (March – May).

There have been attacks against ships in the South China Sea and surrounding seas. Mariners should be vigilant; reduce opportunities for theft; establish secure areas on-board; and report all incidents to the coastal and Flag State authorities.

For more general information see River and Sea Safety.

Safety and Security - Political Situation  
Cambodia Country Profile

The political situation in Cambodia is stable, and incidents of politically motivated violence have fallen significantly in recent years, but particular events or political disputes may occasionally trigger violent protests. Avoid large gatherings, demonstrations and political meetings, and expressing forcible opinions on Cambodian politics or culture.

On 21 April 2010 the Royal Government of Cambodia informed Diplomatic Missions of new procedures to be followed between foreign and Cambodian citizens who wish to marry in Cambodia.  Information on the procedures and the marriage application form can be obtained from the British Embassy in Phnom Penh, or direct from the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.  Certificates of No Impediment and marriage affidavits are issued at the applicant's request from the British Embassy.  Approval or refusal for marriage applications is given by the Royal Government of Cambodia only, and not the Embassy.

The sexual abuse of children is a serious crime.  The UK and Cambodian authorities are committed to combating travelling child sex offenders.  Those arrested and convicted can expect to receive long sentences in a Cambodian prison where facilities are very poor. The UK has no prisoner transfer agreement with Cambodia and those found guilty can expect to serve their full prison term in Cambodia, have their visas revoked and be deported when released.  The Sex Offenders Act of 1997 can be used in the UK to prosecute those who commit sex offences against children abroad and has been successful in cases against British nationals who have committed such offences in Cambodia.

There have also been a small number of rapes and sexual assaults against foreigners in various locations.  

For more general information, see Rape and Sexual Assault Abroad.

Penalties for possession, distribution or manufacture of drugs, including Class C, are severe.  Prison sentences can be long and served in grim conditions. Drugs have been the cause of a number of deaths of travellers in Cambodia.  These are suspected to be a result of the high purity, or adulteration by unknown substances, of the drugs involved.

Never take photographs in or near airports or military bases and ask permission before taking pictures of members of the public especially monks and other religious figures.  When entering religious and cultural sites it is a courtesy to dress in appropriate clothing.  You are expected to remove your shoes when entering temples and private accommodation.

For more general information for different types of travellers, see Your Trip.

Entry Requirements - Visas
Visas for Cambodia can be obtained on arrival (payment of US dollars only). Two passport photographs are required. A business visa costs US $25 for one month and can be renewed indefinitely. A tourist visa costs US $20 for one month and can be extended for only one extra month. The Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs operates an electronic visa ("e-Visa") facility for tourist visas only. The e-Visa costs US $20. The e-Visa can only be used at the main entry crossings with the immigration IT system. Applications should be made through the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs' website, where full terms and conditions are also listed, with information on which border entry points accept the e-Visa.

Tourist visas issued by a Royal Cambodian Embassy abroad may appear to have a longer validity than one month. Their validity refers to time to enter Cambodia. The visa is valid for 30 days from the actual date of entry into Cambodia.  Make sure your passport is stamped on arrival, whether entering through an airport or land crossing. Overstaying either business or tourist visas without the proper authority is a serious matter and you can be held in detention until a fine is paid ($5 per day for the first 30 days, followed by $6 thereafter). Travellers have been imprisoned and deported at their own expense for overstaying.

If you have any queries about visas or entry requirements, check with the The Royal Cambodian Embassy.

Entry Requirements - Passport validity
You must hold a valid passport to enter Cambodia. Your passport must be valid for a minimum period of six months from the date of entry Cambodia. Entry to Cambodia is normally refused if you have a passport with less than six months’ validity, or which is damaged or has pages missing. Neighbouring counties have different validity requirements and travellers should check those separately.

Contact your GP around eight weeks before your trip to check whether you need any vaccinations or other preventive measures. Country specific information and advice is published by the National Travel Health Network and Centre, and useful information about healthcare abroad, including a country-by-country guide of reciprocal health care agreements with the UK, is available from NHS Choices.

Public health facilities in Cambodia are very poor.  Private clinics and hospitals in Phnom Penh are often better equipped but are of variable quality and can be expensive. The standards maintained by Cambodian emergency services are poor in comparison to the UK and evacuation is recommended for medical emergencies. Hospitals are not recommended for anything but immediate stabilisation prior to an air medical evacuation or for minor medical concerns.  Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

Local pharmacies provide a limited supply of medications, and some may sell counterfeit products. Make sure you bring adequate supplies for the duration of your stay.

There are no proper mental health care facilities in Cambodia and professional treatment including medication, if available at all, is difficult and expensive to obtain.  Emergency mental health treatment is likely to require an air ambulance transfer to a country offering appropriate facilities.

In the 2010 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 56,000 adults aged 15 or over in Cambodia were living with HIV; the prevalence percentage was estimated at around 0.5 of the adult population compared to the prevalence percentage rate in adults in the UK of around 0.2%. You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 119 and ask for an ambulance. You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Our Travel Health pages offer further advice on how to stay healthy when overseas.

Health - Avian Influenza
There have been outbreaks of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in poultry in Cambodia. This has led to a small number of human infections, including fatalities during 2011. 

The risk to humans from Avian Influenza is believed to be very low. However, as a precaution, you should avoid visiting live animal markets, poultry farms and other places where you may come into close contact with domestic, caged or wild birds; and ensure poultry and egg dishes are thoroughly cooked.

British nationals living longer term in an Avian-Influenza affected region should take personal responsibility for their own safety in the event of a future pandemic, including considering their access to adequate healthcare and ensuring travel documents are up to date.

See our Avian and Pandemic Influenza page.

General - Insurance
Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. Check any exclusions and ensure that your policy covers you for all activities, including cover for medical evacuation by air ambulance. See our Travel Insurance page.

If things do go wrong then see When Things Go Wrong.

General - Consular Assistance - Registration
Register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency.  

The British Embassy in Phnom Penh also has consular responsibility for Commonwealth citizens whose countries are not represented in Cambodia and citizens of the Netherlands, Sweden, Ireland, Lithuania, Malta, Cyprus and the Czech Republic.  Nationals of all these countries should also register with our LOCATE service.

More information about registering with LOCATE can be found here.

More information on Consular Assistance including Honorary Consuls can be found on the British Embassy website [ukincambodia.fco.gov.uk/en]

General - Consular Assistance Statistics
104,000 British nationals visited Cambodia in 2011 (Source: Cambodia Ministry of Tourism). Most visits to Cambodia are trouble-free. 94 British nationals required consular assistance in Cambodia in the period  01 April 2010 - 31 March 2011 for the following types of incidents: 11 deaths; 26 hospitalisations; and 21 arrests, for a variety of offences.

General - Money
ATMs are available in Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville and Siem Reap. Take care when withdrawing cash and be aware of your surroundings.

Not all banks accept international cards. Check with your own bank prior to travel as to whether your card may be used abroad. Credit cards are not widely used, but a few hotels and businesses in larger cities accept them. Travellers cheques can be exchanged at many banks and bureaux de change.

US dollars are widely accepted and are used for most transactions over US$1. In certain border areas with Thailand it is possible to use Thai Baht.

It may not be possible to change Northern Irish and Scottish bank notes anywhere in Cambodia.  

General - Travelling with children
Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country.  

For further information on exactly what will be required at immigration, please contact the Royal Cambodian Embassy in London.

General - adoptions of Cambodian children by UK residents
The Department for Education (DFE) has suspended all adoptions of Cambodian children by UK residents.  The suspension was last reviewed in 2007/8 with the findings published on 2 April 2008.  A new Inter-Country Adoption Law is due to come into effect in Cambodia on 1 April 2011.  The Department for Education will continue to monitor the adoption processes in Cambodia and will review the suspension accordingly.  

Further information is available from the DCSF's website.