Cambodia Welcomes More Chinese Visitors with New Visa-Free Travel Pilot

Cambodia visa-free travel to help bring back Chinese visitors

Cambodia is making it easier than ever for Chinese travellers to discover its extraordinary temples, vibrant cities and tropical coastlines with the launch of a new pilot visa waiver program. Introduced on 15 June 2026, the four-month initiative allows eligible Chinese passport holders to enter Cambodia without a visa for short holidays, supporting tourism growth and strengthening travel ties between the two countries.

Running until 15 October 2026, the temporary scheme is expected to encourage more visitors to experience Cambodia’s world-famous cultural heritage, stunning landscapes and warm hospitality while providing a welcome boost to the country's tourism industry during the traditional green season.

A Major Boost for Cambodia Tourism

The new visa waiver allows eligible Chinese nationals to visit Cambodia for up to 14 days without obtaining a visa before departure or paying visa-on-arrival fees.

The pilot program permits multiple entries during its validity period, making it an attractive option for travellers planning regional holidays across Southeast Asia.

The initiative applies to passport holders from mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao, regardless of whether they travel directly from China or arrive via another international destination.

By simplifying entry procedures, Cambodia is aiming to increase visitor numbers from one of its most valuable international tourism markets while making spontaneous short-break holidays more accessible.

Supporting Tourism During the Green Season

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The launch forms part of Cambodia's wider tourism strategy to attract more international visitors throughout the year rather than concentrating arrivals during the traditional peak season.

The country's green season offers travellers a unique opportunity to experience Cambodia with fewer crowds, lush countryside, vibrant rice fields and spectacular waterfalls brought to life by seasonal rainfall.

Popular destinations such as Angkor Archaeological Park, Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, Kep, Kampot and the islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem continue to welcome visitors throughout the year, offering exceptional value and unforgettable travel experiences.

Tourism authorities hope the simplified entry process will encourage more visitors to explore Cambodia's diverse attractions beyond the peak holiday months.

The Cambodia e-Arrival Card Remains Essential

Although the visa requirement has been temporarily removed for eligible Chinese travellers, an important travel formality remains in place.

All international visitors, including those travelling under the visa waiver, must complete the Cambodia e-Arrival card within seven days before arriving in the country.

The digital system combines immigration, customs and health declarations into a single online process, helping to streamline arrivals at Cambodian airports and border crossings.

Travellers can complete the Cambodia e-Arrival card through the official online portal or by using the dedicated mobile application before departure.

Understanding the difference between visa-free entry and arrival registration is essential. While no visa is required under the pilot program, the digital arrival declaration remains mandatory.

Visa Rules Continue for Other International Visitors

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The temporary visa waiver only applies to eligible Chinese passport holders during the pilot period ending on 15 October 2026.

Travellers from other countries must continue to follow Cambodia's existing visa requirements.

Eligible international visitors can still apply for a Cambodia e-Visa before travelling, allowing them to receive travel authorisation online without visiting an embassy or consulate.

It is important to note that travellers holding an e-Visa must also complete the Cambodia e-Arrival card before entering the country, as the two systems operate independently.

Creating New Opportunities for Cambodia Holidays

The simplified entry arrangements are expected to benefit both travellers and the tourism industry.

Travel companies can more easily promote short Cambodia holidays, including popular itineraries that combine the ancient temples of Angkor with the capital Phnom Penh, the beaches of Sihanoukville, the riverside charm of Kampot and the country's growing collection of eco-tourism destinations.

With multiple-entry access during the pilot period, visitors also have greater flexibility to include Cambodia as part of wider Southeast Asian travel adventures.

The initiative reflects Cambodia's ongoing commitment to making travel more convenient while strengthening its position as one of Asia's fastest-growing tourism destinations.

A Strategic Step Towards Tourism Growth

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China has long been one of Cambodia's largest international visitor markets, and the new visa waiver represents an important step towards rebuilding tourism and encouraging stronger visitor flows.

By reducing travel barriers while maintaining modern digital arrival procedures, Cambodia is creating a balance between visitor convenience, border management and tourism development.

Although currently operating as a four-month pilot program, its success could help shape future travel policies as Cambodia continues investing in sustainable tourism growth and international connectivity.

For travellers seeking remarkable cultural experiences, UNESCO World Heritage sites, tropical islands, authentic cuisine and genuine hospitality, Cambodia has become even easier to explore.

Cambodia Ministry of Tourism

Website: https://www.tourismcambodia.org
Cambodia e-Arrival Website: https://arrival.gov.kh
Cambodia e-Visa Website: https://www.evisa.gov.kh

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