Cambodia Opens Its Doors Wider: Visa-Free Travel for Chinese Tourists Signals a New Tourism Era

Cambodia

Cambodia is stepping confidently into a new chapter of tourism growth with the launch of a four-month visa-free trial for Chinese tourists. Announced by the Cambodian Ministry of Tourism, this strategic move is set to strengthen travel ties between Cambodia and China while revitalising international arrivals across the kingdom.

Cambodia’s Visa-Free Pilot Program Explained

From 15 June to 15 October 2026, Chinese passport holders travelling directly from China will be able to enter Cambodia without a visa under a newly approved pilot program. The visa exemption allows visitors to stay for up to 14 days without submitting any visa application or paying any fees. Travellers will only need to complete an e-arrival card upon entry, streamlining the arrival process and reducing travel barriers.

The pilot program also permits multiple entries during the four-month period, making Cambodia an even more attractive destination for repeat visits and multi-city Southeast Asia itineraries.

Boosting Cambodia Tourism and Economic Growth

The decision reflects Cambodia’s broader tourism recovery strategy and its focus on the Chinese outbound travel market. During the first ten months of this year, Cambodia welcomed approximately 4.8 million international tourists, with around one million arrivals from China. These figures highlight China’s position as one of Cambodia’s most important source markets.

Before the pandemic in 2019, Chinese visitors numbered around 2.3 million, accounting for nearly one-third of total international arrivals. Tourism authorities are optimistic that the visa-free trial will help Cambodia move closer to those pre-pandemic levels while accelerating growth across hospitality, transport, retail, and real estate sectors.

Why Chinese Tourists Matter to Cambodia

Phnom Penh, Cambodia. [Photo/Xinhua]

Cambodian Tourism Minister Huot Hak has described the growth of Chinese tourism as a major opportunity for the country. Beyond supporting hotels, airlines, and tour operators, increased Chinese arrivals are expected to encourage investment across multiple industries, including infrastructure development and services.

The pilot visa exemption is designed not only to attract leisure travellers but also to strengthen business and cultural exchanges between the two nations.

Current Entry Options for Cambodia

Outside of the pilot program, Chinese travellers can still enter Cambodia using existing options, including visa-on-arrival, e-visa services, or visas obtained through Cambodian embassies. The trial visa-free scheme, however, offers a simpler and more cost-effective alternative that may influence future long-term visa policy decisions.

As Cambodia continues to position itself as one of Southeast Asia’s most welcoming and culturally rich destinations, this visa-free initiative could mark a turning point in the country’s tourism revival.

Ministry of Tourism Cambodia

Website: https://tourismcambodia.org/

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