Asia
Cambodia offers one of the most flexible visa systems in Southeast Asia for digital nomads and long-term travelers. While there is no dedicated digital nomad visa, the Ordinary (E-class) visa can be extended indefinitely for 6 or 12 months at a time, making it a popular destination for remote workers. The country uses US dollars as primary currency, has a low cost of living, and welcomes foreigners with minimal bureaucracy. Phnom Penh and Siem Reap have established expat communities with good coworking infrastructure.
Visa requirements vary by nationality
The gateway visa for long-term stays in Cambodia. Initially valid for 30 days but can be extended for 1, 3, 6, or 12 months. Essential for digital nomads, business travelers, and anyone planning to stay beyond 60 days.
The Ordinary Visa with EB extension is the most common pathway for remote workers in Cambodia. Technically a work permit is required for any work including remote/freelance work (fine ~$12,600 for non-compliance). Many digital nomads use EB extensions without a work permit for the first 6 months while seeking employment.
Extension: 365 days (max x)
Cost: $290
Process: Convert to EB (Business) extension at immigration office or through visa agent. Extensions available for 1 month (~$45-50), 3 months (~$85), 6 months (~$165), or 12 months (~$290). Renewable indefinitely.
Renewal: The Ordinary visa can be renewed indefinitely through the Extension of Stay (EOS) system. For long-term stays, most expats extend for 6 or 12 months at a time.
Residents (182+ days) are taxed on worldwide salary income with progressive rates from 0-20%. Non-residents pay a flat 20% on Cambodia-sourced income. Self-employed freelancers may be subject to withholding tax of 14-15% on service fees. A patent tax certificate is required for self-employed workers.
The most popular long-term visa option for digital nomads and expats. Extends your Ordinary (E) visa for up to 12 months at a time with multiple entry privileges. Can be renewed indefinitely, making it ideal for those living and working remotely in Cambodia.
EB extension holders working remotely technically need a work permit ($450+ DIY or $1,000-1,800 via agent). First-time 6/12-month EB can be obtained without a work permit to allow job searching. Since 2024, renewals of 6+ month EB extensions require a valid work permit or proof of application.
Extension: 365 days (max x)
Cost: $290
Process: The EB extension can be renewed indefinitely. For the first 6 or 12-month extension, no work permit is required. All subsequent long-term extensions require proof of employment or business activity in Cambodia.
Renewal: Renewable indefinitely as long as you maintain proper documentation. Many expats have lived in Cambodia for years using consecutive EB extensions.
EB visa holders staying 182+ days become tax residents, subject to progressive salary tax (0-20%) on worldwide income. Self-employed must register a sole proprietorship and obtain a patent tax certificate. Employer withholding applies for employed workers.
The most common visa for short-term visitors. Available at all international airports and major land border crossings. Valid for 30 days with one possible 30-day extension.
Tourist visas do not officially permit any form of work. Remote workers are legally considered self-employed and require a work permit (fine of ~$12,600 for non-compliance). Enforcement is tightening, though many digital nomads continue to work on tourist visas without issues in practice.
Non-residents (under 182 days in Cambodia) are taxed at a flat 20% on Cambodia-sourced income only. Foreign-sourced remote work income is generally not taxed if you remain non-resident. Residents (182+ days) are subject to progressive salary tax (0-20%) on worldwide income.
Apply online before travel through the official government portal. Same 30-day validity as visa on arrival but processed in advance for faster entry. Valid for single entry within 3 months of issue.
Tourist visas do not officially permit any form of work. Remote workers are legally considered self-employed and require a work permit (fine of ~$12,600 for non-compliance). Enforcement is tightening, though many digital nomads continue to work on tourist visas without issues in practice.
Non-residents (under 182 days in Cambodia) are taxed at a flat 20% on Cambodia-sourced income only. Foreign-sourced remote work income is generally not taxed if you remain non-resident. Residents (182+ days) are subject to progressive salary tax (0-20%) on worldwide income.
Designed for retirees aged 55 and above who wish to live long-term in Cambodia. Requires proof of retirement status and financial means but no work permit. Renewable indefinitely for hassle-free retirement living.
ER visa holders must be retired and not seeking employment. Working on an ER visa (including remote work) is not permitted. If caught working, the visa can be revoked and fines applied.
Retirement income (pensions, investment returns) from foreign sources is generally not taxed for non-residents. Residents (182+ days) are technically liable for worldwide salary income but passive retirement income treatment is less clearly enforced.
Short-term extension for those actively seeking employment in Cambodia. Available for 1 or 3 months as a bridge between arriving and securing formal employment. Not renewable - must convert to EB visa once employed.
EG visa is designed for job seeking, not working. Remote work is not officially permitted but is a common grey area. The typical pathway is EG for 3-6 months while seeking work, then converting to EB once employment is secured.
Same rules as other visa types: 182+ days creates tax residency with progressive salary tax (0-20%) on worldwide income. Under 182 days: flat 20% on Cambodia-sourced income only.
Visa requirements can change frequently. This information is provided for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or immigration authorities before making travel plans. Last updated: December 1, 2025