The Royal Government of Cambodia has directed all African nationals to leave the Southeast Asian nation on or before May 31, 2026, warning that any foreigner found in the country from June 1 will be arrested and sentenced to two years in prison.
In an official notice issued by the Director-General of the General Department of Immigration, Lt. Gen. Som Sopheak, and approved by Secretary of State of the Cambodian Ministry of Interior, Gen. Sar Sokha, the government announced that the immigration waiver previously granted to African nationals would officially expire on May 31, 2026.
“All foreign nationals whose fines have been cleared must leave Cambodia on or before the 31st of May 2026,” the circular stated. “Any foreign national who enters, remains, or is found in Cambodia from 1st of June 2026 will be arrested at the airport or at any location and shall serve a jail term of 2 (two) years; and pay a penalty of $8,000 (Eight Thousand US Dollars) before being allowed to leave Cambodia.”
The directive specifically targets African nationals including citizens of Ghana, Kenya, Cameroon, Uganda, Nigeria and other African countries who had been benefiting from a special visa waiver arrangement.
According to the notice, Cambodian police would commence operations from June 1, 2026, to arrest any foreigner found at hideouts in Cambodia for overstaying, after which arrested individuals would be handed over to immigration authorities for legal action.
The immigration crackdown comes amid growing concerns over illegal migration and overstaying by foreign nationals in Cambodia, particularly from African countries.
“All concerned are hereby informed to strictly comply with this notice. The Royal Government of Cambodia will not tolerate any violation of our immigration laws. Your cooperation is highly appreciated,” the circular read.
The announcement has triggered urgent travel advisories for Africans currently in Cambodia, with many rushing to make travel arrangements before the deadline expires in less than 48 hours.
