Country guide · 2026Move to Cambodia: Visas, Costs and the Real Logic of Relocation
Phnom Penh: 1BR in BKK1 district — $250–500/month. Ordinary E-Visa extends annually without mandatory exit. Serious medical care requires transport to Bangkok ($500–800 by ambulance). The US dollar is the de facto official currency in transactions.
Overview
Why Choose Cambodia
Cambodia works as a budget base with USD as the de facto currency and an E-Visa that extends annually without mandatory exit.
Serious medical care means a trip to Bangkok — $500–800 ambulance transport across the border plus treatment. Without repatriation insurance, living here is risky.
Visas
Visa Routes in 2026
Conditions change regularly. Verify current requirements on official government sources before applying.
| Visa | Duration | Key Requirements | Who It's For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary Visa (E class) | 1 month, extendable to 1 year | Standard | Long stay, business, work |
| Tourist Visa (T class) | 30 days, 1 extension | Standard | Tourism |
| Retirement Visa (55+) | 1 year, renewable | Income verification | Retirees |
| Business Visa | Up to 1 year, renewable | Company sponsorship | Business activities |
Cost of Living
Cost of Living in Cambodia
Excludes insurance, visa fees, flights and setup costs.
Top Cities: Phnom Penh · Siem Reap · Kampot
Analysis
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 1BR in BKK1 (Phnom Penh): $250–500/month — among the most affordable in the region
- US dollar is the de facto currency: ATMs, rentals, cafés — all in USD
- Ordinary E-Visa: extends for one year without mandatory exit
- Flat tax for foreign business: 20%, simple registration process
Cons
- Serious medical care = Bangkok: ambulance $500–800 across the border + treatment costs
- Legal instability: courts and contracts work non-standardly for foreigners
- Sihanoukville became a 'casino town' from 2018 — significantly changed for the worse
- Corruption and periodic rule changes affecting foreign business
Ready to Choose a Country?
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Official Sources To Verify Before You Pay
Use these official pages for stay length, renewal logic, income proof, permitted activity, dependants and document checks before paying for housing, flights or services.
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