Cambodia Work Permits & Visas: Employer Guide to Types & Sponsorship

Who Needs a Work Permit in Cambodia?

In Cambodia, foreign nationals who are employed by a Cambodian company or engaged in business activities are generally required to obtain a work permit. This includes expatriates, remote workers, or any employees hired to work within the country for a specified period. As an employer, you are responsible for ensuring that your international employees secure the necessary permits to work legally.

Certain types of employees, such as those working in specialized fields, might have additional requirements or exemptions. For instance, high-level executives or experts may be subject to different criteria compared to workers in other sectors. Understanding which roles require permits is key to maintaining compliance.

Types of Work Visas in Cambodia

Cambodia offers several types of work visas for foreign nationals, depending on the nature of the work and duration of the stay. Work visas typically come in two forms: short-term visas for those visiting Cambodia for temporary work and long-term visas for individuals with extended employment contracts.

Below is a summary of the main work visa types available:

Work Permit Application Process in Cambodia (Step-by-step)

In Cambodia, most foreign employees work under an E-class (Ordinary) visa combined with a formal work permit and employment card issued by the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training. The process is employer-driven, and careful preparation of company and employee documents helps avoid delays.

• Step 1: The employer confirms the need for a foreign hire and ensures the company is properly registered and in good standing. This typically includes having a valid business registration, tax patent, and up-to-date corporate records that can be presented to the authorities.
• Step 2: The employee enters Cambodia (or remains in-country) on an appropriate E-class (Ordinary) visa, often an EB (business) extension for employment. In some cases, the initial visa is obtained at a Cambodian embassy or on arrival, then extended in-country once the employment relationship is confirmed.
• Step 3: The employer gathers supporting documentation for the work permit application. This usually includes company registration documents, tax patent, commercial license where applicable, and a list of foreign employees, along with the employee’s passport, photos, CV, and employment contract.
• Step 4: The employer or its authorized agent submits the work permit and employment card application to the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training, often via the online MLVT system where available. Fees are paid at this stage, and authorities may request clarifications or additional documents.
• Step 5: The authorities review the application and may conduct basic checks on the company and the employee’s background and qualifications. If everything is in order, the work permit and employment card are issued for a defined period, typically aligned with a one-year employment term.
• Step 6: After issuance, the employer ensures the employee’s immigration status (visa and, where relevant, residence registration) is consistent with the work authorization. The company should maintain internal records, track expiry dates, and prepare for renewals before the permit or visa lapses.

Requirements and Eligibility for a Work Permit

Eligibility for a Cambodian work permit depends on both the employer’s status and the foreign employee’s qualifications and immigration status. Authorities focus on whether the role is genuine, the company is compliant, and the individual is fit and properly documented.

Common requirments inlcude:

• Valid company registration and tax status. The employer must hold a current business registration, tax patent, and any sector-specific licenses to demonstrate that it is lawfully operating in Cambodia.
• A genuine job offer and employment contract. The foreign worker should have a signed employment contract outlining position, duties, salary, and duration, which helps confirm that the role is real and aligned with the company’s activities.
• Appropriate visa status (E-class / Ordinary visa with business purpose).
• Proof of qualifications and experience. Depending on the role, authorities may request diplomas, professional certificates, or a CV to show that the foreign worker has the skills required and is not displacing local labor without justification.
• Medical fitness and clean record. A basic medical certificate and, in some cases, a police clearance from the home country or previous country of residence may be requested to ensure the worker is fit for employment and does not pose a security risk.
• Compliance with foreign worker quotas or policies. While practice may vary, employers should be prepared to show that their use of foreign staff is consistent with any applicable quota rules or guidance from the MLVT.

Work Permit Processing Time in Cambodia

Processing times for Cambodian work permits and related visas can differ depending on the location, the completeness of the file, and whether the application is handled directly or through a licensed agent. Peak seasons and regulatory changes can also affect how long approvals take.

The typical processing time for a work permit or visa in Cambodia can vary depending on the specific category, whether it is a first-time application or renewal, and how quickly any follow-up questions are answered. Generally, you can expect the following timelines:

• Temporary Residence or Work Permit: Around 2 to 8 weeks after all required documents are submitted and fees are paid, assuming there are no major queries from the authorities.
• Permanent Residence: Often 12 to 24 months or longer, as applications may involve extensive background checks, reviews of long-term stay and investment history, and careful scrutiny of supporting evidence.
• Short-Term Business or Work Visas: Typically 1 to 4 weeks, especially for E-class business visas used for short business trips, meetings, or brief project assignments, provided documentation is straightforward.

Expected Processing Timeline: Employer vs Employee

From initial planning to the employee working on the ground, both employer and employee have tasks that unfold over several weeks. The outline below is a general illustration and may shift based on your specific case and the authorities involved.

• Week 1: Employer confirms the role, gathers company registration and tax documents, and agrees terms with the candidate.
• Week 2: Employee collects personal documents such as passport, photos, CV, qualifications, and any required police or medical certificates.
• Week 3: Employer or agent submits the work permit application and, where needed, initiates visa extension or adjustment to an appropriate E-class (Ordinary) business visa.
• Week 4: Authorities review the application, request clarifications if needed, and the employer responds promptly with any additional information.
• Week 5: Work permit and employment card are issued, or final approvals are granted, and the employer updates internal records and onboarding plans.
• Week 6 and beyond: Employee commences or continues work under the approved permit, while the employer monitors compliance and prepares for future renewals.

Who Does What During Cambodia Work Permit Sponsorship?

• Employers are responsible for: Defining the role, confirming that the company is properly registered and tax-compliant, preparing and submitting the work permit application, paying official fees, and ensuring ongoing compliance with Cambodian labor and immigration rules. They must also track expiry dates, manage renewals, and keep accurate records of foreign staff.
• Employee is responsible for: Providing accurate personal information and supporting documents, maintaining a valid passport and visa status, and attending any required medical checks or appointments. They must also comply with the specific terms of the work permit, including working only for the sponsoring employer and in the approved role.

Work Permit Renewal Periods in Cambodia

In Cambodia, work permits and employment cards are commonly issued for up to one year and are renewable on an annual basis, provided the employment relationship continues and both parties remain compliant. Employers typically begin the renewal process several weeks before expiry to avoid gaps in authorization and to allow time to address any document updates or system issues.

Practice may vary depending on the sector, location, and the interpretation of rules by local offices, so it is important to verify current renewal procedures with the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training or a qualified local advisor. Setting internal reminders, maintaining updated company and employee records, and coordinating closely with your payroll and HR teams will help ensure renewals are processed smoothly and on time.

What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in Cambodia?

The fees associated with obtaining work permits and visas in Cambodia can vary based on the type of visa or work permit being applied for. Employers should budget for these costs when planning to hire foreign nationals.

Note: The above fees reflect government fees for work permits and visas in Cambodia, and is not associated with Playroll's fees for visa support services. Please contact our team for detailed information on our visa support services.

Visa Requirements For Digital Nomads in Cambodia

Cambodia has been increasingly popular with digital nomads due to its affordable cost of living and growing infrastructure. Although there is no specific "digital nomad visa," foreign nationals working remotely can still apply for the Ordinary (E) visa or other business visas.

Digital Nomad Visa Requirements:

• Valid Passport: Digital nomads must hold a valid passport for at least six months.
• Proof of Remote Employment or Income: Evidence of employment or business income from outside Cambodia.
• Application for a Business or Ordinary (E) Visa: While the Ordinary visa can be used, digital nomads may also explore other options based on their work status.

Employer Compliance & Obligations in Cambodia

When hiring international employees in Cambodia, employers may face several challenges related to legal compliance, work permits, and visa processing. Being aware of these potential hurdles can help ensure a smooth hiring process.

Common Challenges:

• Delays in visa or work permit processing: Delays can occur due to incomplete documentation or changes in regulations.
• Navigating Cambodia’s evolving labor laws: Employers must stay up-to-date with the latest legal requirements and documentation procedures.
• Managing payroll and tax obligations: Foreign employees may have different tax requirements that employers must accommodate.

Hire Global employees without hassle with an EOR solution

Expanding your workforce across international borders is an exciting step, but it can be a logistical nightmare to hire and pay employees in different countries. That’s the advantage of using a trusted Employer of Record like Playroll. They can:

• Handle your international payroll: An EOR will act as your payroll provider, paying your employees on your behalf in the local currency. The company will also have in-depth knowledge of local tax codes, regulatory practices, and everything else that goes into managing global payroll.
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