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:
| Visa Type | Description |
| Ordinary (E) Visa | The primary visa for foreign workers, which is often extended for longer periods based on employment contracts. |
| Business Visa | A visa for foreign nationals conducting business in Cambodia, which allows multiple entries. |
| Investor Visa | For foreign nationals investing in businesses or establishing companies within Cambodia. |
Common Hiring Scenarios for Cambodia
When hiring talent in Cambodia, employers typically choose one of three pathways depending on the role, duration, & legal requirements. Below are the most common models.
Use Case 1: Sponsoring a Foreign Employee via Work Permit or Visa
This is the most common route for companies hiring full-time foreign talent in Cambodia. To sponsor this visa, an employer (or Playroll as the Employer of Record) must have a registered legal entity in-country and issue a compliant offer of employment.
Key Employer Considerations:
- Sponsorship is required — contractors or freelancers cannot apply under this visa.
- Employees must remain in the approved work location unless authorized to relocate or change employers.
- Processing timelines vary (around 10 to 30 business days on average), depending on the consulate or embassy.
This is best for: Long-term roles with in-office or hybrid presence in Cambodia.
Use Case 2: Hiring a Foreign Contractor in Cambodia
Independent professionals in Cambodia can legally work with international clients without employer sponsorship, but must comply with local tax registration and reporting laws.
With Playroll’s Contractor Management solution, you can:
- Draft fully compliant local contractor agreements.
- Automate contractor invoicing and cross-border payments, in Cambodian Riel (KHR) or USD.
- Mitigate risk of permanent establishment and contractor misclassification.
This is best for: Freelancers, consultants or project-based roles, especially if the worker already lives in Cambodia.
Use Case 3: Relocating an Existing Employee to Cambodia
Transferring an existing team member to Cambodia? You’ll still need to navigate the same visa and payroll setup process. Even if the employee works for you elsewhere, a local employer of record is required to stay compliant.
EOR’s, like Playroll, handle all local steps, including:
- Work permit sponsorship and immigration paperwork,
- Registration with local authorities and payroll systems,
- Enrollment in mandatory benefits and statutory schemes.
This is best for: Internal transfers or remote-first companies looking to expand into Asia, or talent retention offerings for global mobility programs.
Requirements For a Work Permit in Cambodia
To apply for a work permit in Cambodia, employees need to meet several legal requirements. These typically include having a valid passport, a signed employment contract with a Cambodian company, and other supporting documents that confirm the employee’s role and qualifications. Employers must submit the necessary documents to the Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training.
Work Permit Requirements:
- Valid Passport: The employee must hold a passport with at least six months validity.
- Employment Contract: A signed contract detailing the terms of employment and salary.
- Company Registration: The employer must be registered with the Cambodian Ministry of Labor.
- Medical Examination: A medical certificate from a recognized hospital may be required for health clearance.
Cambodia Work Permit Application Process
The process for applying for a work permit in Cambodia involves several key steps. Employers should ensure all documentation is submitted correctly to avoid delays.
Work Permit Application Steps:
- Submit required documents, including the employee’s passport, a signed employment contract, and company registration details, to the Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training.
- Pay the application fee and other related charges, which vary depending on the type of work and duration of stay.
- Wait for approval and issuance of the work permit, which can take several weeks depending on the application’s complexity.
Process for Visa Sponsorship In Cambodia
Visa sponsorship in Cambodia is typically the responsibility of the employer. Employers must submit the necessary documents to support the visa application, including the employee's passport, employment contract, and a copy of the company’s registration. For specific work visa types, the employer may also need to provide financial records or additional documentation that demonstrates the company’s ability to sponsor foreign workers.
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.
| Visa Type | Application Fee |
| Ordinary (E) Visa | $35 - $50 (varies by duration) |
| Business Visa | $50 - $75 (depending on duration) |
| Investor Visa | $100 - $150 (based on investment level) |
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.
Processing Time for a Work Permit Or Visa in Cambodia
The processing time for work permits and visas in Cambodia can vary depending on the type of visa and the completeness of the application. Generally, applications take between 10 to 30 business days. Employers should plan ahead to avoid delays in their employees' start dates.
Work Permit Renewal Periods in Cambodia
Work permits in Cambodia are typically issued for one-year periods, with renewals required each year. Employers should ensure that their employees’ work permits are renewed before the expiration date to maintain compliance with Cambodian labor laws.
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.
Common Challenges and Tips for Employers Hiring 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.
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