Complete Guide to Moving to Cambodia in 2026

While the world’s digital nomads pile into Bali and Chiang Mai, driving up rents and turning once-authentic neighborhoods into smoothie bowl corridors, Cambodia has been quietly building a case as the most underrated expat destination in Southeast Asia. Phnom Penh has transformed from a gritty backpacker waypoint into a genuine cosmopolitan city — rooftop bars along the Mekong, specialty coffee shops in converted colonial villas, coworking spaces with gigabit fiber, and a food scene that blends Khmer tradition with international ambition. And the cost of all this? A fraction of what you would pay in Bangkok, let alone Bali.

Cambodia offers something no other country in the region can match: the simplest long-stay visa in Asia, a US dollar economy that eliminates currency risk entirely, and a cost of living that lets you live well on $800 a month. The country is not perfect — healthcare infrastructure lags behind its neighbors, roads outside the cities can be rough, and the wet season is genuinely oppressive — but for people who prioritize affordability, simplicity, and a frontier energy that Thailand lost a decade ago, Cambodia delivers.

This guide covers everything you need to plan a move to Cambodia in 2026: visa pathways, cost of living by city, healthcare realities, where to live, taxes, safety, the dollar economy, and cultural integration. Explore the full Cambodia country profile for real-time data and scores, or keep reading for the deep dive.

Why People Move to Cambodia

Cambodia attracts a specific type of expat — someone drawn to frontier energy, extreme affordability, and minimal bureaucracy. The country is not polished like Singapore or developed like Thailand. It is raw, rapidly changing, and full of opportunity for people willing to embrace imperfection.

Ultra-affordable living: Cambodia is one of the cheapest countries in Southeast Asia. A one-bedroom apartment in Phnom Penh’s best expat neighborhood runs $300–$500 per month. A local meal costs $1.50–$3. A draft beer at a riverside bar costs $0.75–$1.50. You can live a comfortable, social, well-fed life in the capital for $800–$1,200 per month. In Siem Reap or Kampot, that drops to $600–$900.

Easiest visa in Asia: The EB (Ordinary) visa is Cambodia’s secret weapon. It costs $35 on arrival, extends to 12 months for around $290, and renews indefinitely with no questions asked. No income requirements, no age restrictions, no proof of business activity. No other country in the region comes close to this level of simplicity.

The dollar advantage: Cambodia runs on US dollars. Your rent, your restaurant bills, your ATM withdrawals — all in USD. For American expats, this eliminates the exchange-rate anxiety that plagues expat life in countries with volatile local currencies. For non-Americans, the dollar’s global stability still offers predictability.

Frontier energy: Cambodia is developing fast. New buildings rise every month in Phnom Penh. The country’s GDP growth has averaged 7% over the past two decades. For entrepreneurs and people who thrive on opportunity in emerging markets, Cambodia’s trajectory is compelling. The expat scene is small enough that you know people, yet cosmopolitan enough to include Europeans, Americans, Australians, Japanese, Koreans, and a growing Chinese community.

Warm people, deep culture: Khmer people are extraordinarily warm and hospitable. The country’s Buddhist culture permeates daily life — monks in saffron robes collecting alms at dawn, flower offerings at small spirit houses on every block, and a genuine gentleness that surprises newcomers. The Angkor Wat complex — the largest religious monument in the world — anchors a civilization that dates back over a thousand years.

Visa & Residency Options

Cambodia’s visa system is the simplest in Southeast Asia, and arguably the simplest in the world for long-term stays. There is no retirement visa, no digital nomad visa, and no investor visa category. There does not need to be. The Ordinary (EB) visa covers everyone, and it works beautifully.

Tourist Visa (T Type)

The tourist visa grants a 30-day stay and costs $30 on arrival or via e-visa. It can be extended once for an additional 30 days (approximately $45 through a visa agent). After that, you cannot extend further — you must leave the country or switch to an Ordinary visa. The tourist visa is fine for scouting trips but is not the right path for anyone planning to stay longer than 60 days.

Ordinary Visa (EB Type) — The One Everyone Uses

This is the visa that makes Cambodia unique. The EB visa costs $35 on arrival and initially grants a 30-day stay. From there, you can extend it through a visa agent (the standard approach) in several increments:

• 1 month extension: ~$45
• 3 month extension: ~$75
• 6 month extension: ~$155
• 12 month extension (multiple entry): ~$290

The 12-month multiple-entry extension is the gold standard for long-term expats. It allows unlimited exits and re-entries throughout the year and renews indefinitely, year after year. The renewal process takes 2–3 business days through any visa agent. No income verification, no employment check, no age restriction, no interview. You hand over your passport and $290, and you get another year.

The EB visa is technically labeled a “business” visa, but it does not require you to own or operate a business. Retirees, freelancers, remote workers, and people simply living in Cambodia all use the EB visa. It is the de facto residency permit for the entire expat community. Check our visa checker tool for the latest requirements.

Work Permit

If you are formally employed by a Cambodian company, you will need a work permit in addition to your EB visa. The employer handles the application through the Ministry of Labour. Requirements include a valid passport, EB visa, health certificate from a Cambodian clinic, and employment contract. The process takes 2–4 weeks and costs approximately $100–$200. Work permits are tied to the sponsoring employer and must be renewed annually.

The Simplicity Advantage

Cambodia’s visa approach stands in stark contrast to the region. Thailand requires proof of income, retirement age, or employer sponsorship. Vietnam caps e-visas at 90 days. Malaysia’s MM2H program demands substantial financial commitments. Cambodia says: pay $290, get a year, come back and do it again. For people who value bureaucratic simplicity above all else, this alone justifies choosing Cambodia.

Cost of Living

Cambodia is one of the cheapest places to live in Southeast Asia. Phnom Penh is the most expensive city in the country and is still dramatically cheaper than Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, or Ho Chi Minh City. The USD economy adds a layer of predictability that few other budget destinations can offer.

Phnom Penh ($800–$1,500/month): The capital is where most expats land. A modern one-bedroom apartment in BKK1 (the main expat district) runs $300–$500 per month — fully furnished, often with a gym and pool. A Khmer street meal costs $1.50–$3. A cappuccino at one of the city’s many excellent coffee shops costs $2–$3. A solid Western meal with a beer runs $8–$15. Tuk-tuks and ride-hailing apps (PassApp, Grab) keep transport costs to $30–$60 per month for daily commuting. Electricity is the one area that stings — Cambodia has some of the highest electricity rates in the region, and heavy air conditioning use can push monthly utility bills to $60–$100.

Siem Reap ($600–$1,000/month): The gateway to Angkor Wat is considerably cheaper than the capital. A one-bedroom apartment runs $150–$350 per month. The town has a surprisingly developed expat infrastructure — international restaurants, yoga studios, art galleries, and a vibrant night market along Pub Street. The trade-off is fewer career opportunities and a smaller international community.

Kampot ($500–$900/month): This riverside town in southern Cambodia has become a haven for expats seeking maximum tranquility at minimum cost. A riverside bungalow or small apartment runs $150–$300. The town is famous for its pepper plantations, durian, and a chill atmosphere that verges on sleepy. Kampot attracts artists, writers, and retirees who want off the beaten path without giving up decent food and a supportive expat community.

Sihanoukville ($500–$900/month): Once a charming beach town, Sihanoukville has been transformed by massive Chinese investment and casino development. The old backpacker Sihanoukville is largely gone, replaced by construction cranes and Chinese-language signage. Some expats still find pockets of charm in Otres Beach, but most long-term residents have relocated to Kampot or the islands. Be prepared for a very different experience than what travel blogs from 2018 describe.

Healthcare

Healthcare is Cambodia’s most significant weakness as an expat destination. This is the area where honesty matters most, because underestimating it can have serious consequences.

Phnom Penh has improving private hospitals. Royal Phnom Penh Hospital and Sunrise Japan Hospital are the two facilities most expats trust for general care, minor surgeries, and diagnostics. A standard consultation costs $30–$60. Blood work runs $20–$50. These hospitals are adequate for routine care, minor emergencies, and non-complex procedures. The quality has improved significantly over the past five years, with international-trained doctors and modern equipment.

For anything serious — complex surgery, cancer treatment, cardiac care, or major trauma — the standard protocol is medical evacuation to Bangkok. Bangkok is a 1-hour flight from Phnom Penh, and Thailand’s private hospitals (Bumrungrad, BNH, Bangkok Hospital) are among the best in the world. This is not optional; it is the reality of living in Cambodia. Every long-term expat in Cambodia knows that Bangkok is their backup hospital.

International health insurance is essential. Plans that include medical evacuation coverage cost $100–$250 per month depending on age, coverage level, and whether the plan includes the US. SafetyWing, Cigna Global, and Pacific Cross are popular among Cambodia-based expats. Make sure your plan explicitly covers emergency evacuation to Thailand. For a detailed comparison, see our expat health insurance guide.

Dental care is a bright spot. Phnom Penh has several quality dental clinics with international dentists, and prices are 60–80% lower than the US. A cleaning costs $20–$40. A crown runs $100–$200 versus $800–$1,500 in the US. Roomchang Dental Hospital and SOS International Dental Clinic are well-regarded.

Outside Phnom Penh, healthcare options drop dramatically. Siem Reap has a few basic clinics but nothing approaching international standard for serious care. Kampot and Sihanoukville are even more limited. If you live outside the capital, you should be within travel distance of Phnom Penh for anything beyond routine care, and you should carry evacuation insurance without exception.

Where to Live

Phnom Penh

The capital is home to the vast majority of Cambodia’s expat community, and within Phnom Penh, neighborhoods are distinct enough to be different cities.

BKK1 (Boeung Keng Kang 1): This is the expat epicenter. A leafy, walkable grid of tree-lined streets packed with international restaurants, coffee shops, boutique gyms, yoga studios, and coworking spaces. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment runs $350–$500. BKK1 is where most newcomers land, and many never leave. You can walk to everything, the food scene is excellent, and the neighborhood has a genuinely cosmopolitan feel. The downside: it can feel like a bubble — you could spend months in BKK1 without needing to engage with the rest of the city.

Tonle Bassac: Immediately south of BKK1 along the riverside, Tonle Bassac offers a quieter atmosphere with easy access to the BKK1 infrastructure. Newer apartment buildings with pools and gyms are more common here. Rent runs $300–$450 for a modern one-bedroom. Diamond Island (Koh Pich), a reclaimed island in the Bassac River, has newer developments, a park, and a growing number of restaurants. This area suits expats who want proximity to BKK1 without living in the thick of it.

Toul Tom Poung (TTP / Russian Market area): Named for the famous Russian Market, TTP has become the hip alternative to BKK1. Slightly more local, slightly cheaper ($250–$400 for rent), and increasingly popular with younger expats and creatives. Independent cafés, vintage shops, and Khmer fusion restaurants are the draw. The neighborhood is less polished than BKK1 but more authentic.

Chroy Changvar (north Phnom Penh): Across the Tonle Sap river, this rapidly developing peninsula offers newer apartments at lower prices ($200–$350). It is quieter and more suburban, with river views and a handful of restaurants. The trade-off is distance from the action — you will need a tuk-tuk or motorbike to reach BKK1.

Siem Reap

Siem Reap is the temple town — Angkor Wat is 15 minutes away, and the entire city exists in the orbit of the world’s largest religious complex. But beyond the temples, Siem Reap has built a surprisingly rich expat life. The town has an active art scene, farm- to-table restaurants, social enterprises, yoga retreats, and a community of long-term expats who chose a slower pace over Phnom Penh’s energy. Rent is dramatically cheaper: $150–$350 for a furnished one-bedroom. The town is very safe, easy to navigate by bicycle, and has a laid-back rhythm that suits retirees, writers, artists, and remote workers who do not need big-city infrastructure.

Kampot

Kampot is Cambodia’s answer to “what if I just want peace?” A riverside town in the south, surrounded by pepper plantations and limestone hills, Kampot draws expats who want the cheapest possible cost of living combined with genuine natural beauty. The town has a small but loyal expat community, a few excellent restaurants, and a slow-motion lifestyle. There is no nightlife to speak of, limited shopping, and the nearest quality hospital is in Phnom Penh (2.5 hours by car). Kampot is for people who know exactly what they want — and what they want is quiet.

Sihanoukville & the Islands

Sihanoukville requires a candid assessment. Chinese-led development has fundamentally changed the town since 2017. Dozens of casinos, massive construction projects, and a dramatic demographic shift have made Sihanoukville unrecognizable to anyone who visited before 2016. Some pockets remain — Otres Beach still has a backpacker feel — but most Western expats have left.

The islands are a different story. Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem offer stunning white-sand beaches, clear water, and a Robinson Crusoe atmosphere. Infrastructure is extremely basic — electricity is unreliable, internet is limited, healthcare is nonexistent, and supplies come by boat. Island life suits a very specific type of person: someone who wants barefoot beach living and is willing to sacrifice every modern convenience to get it.

Taxes

Cambodia’s tax system is relatively straightforward, though the practical reality for many expats exists in a gray area.

Tax residency kicks in at 183 days per year. Residents are subject to tax on worldwide income, while non-residents are taxed only on Cambodian-sourced income. The progressive salary tax rates for residents are:

• 0% on monthly income up to 1,500,000 KHR (~$375)
• 5% on income from $375–$500
• 10% on income from $500–$2,000
• 15% on income from $2,000–$3,125
• 20% on income above $3,125

For formally employed expats, the employer withholds salary tax directly. This is clean and straightforward. If you have a work permit and receive a salary from a Cambodian company, your tax obligations are handled by payroll.

For self-employed individuals and business owners, Cambodia imposes a tax on profit (20% for registered companies, or a flat presumptive regime for smaller operations). Rental income is taxed at 10%. Capital gains are currently taxed at 20%, though enforcement has been uneven.

The gray area: Many expats on EB visas who work remotely for foreign clients or employers exist in a regulatory no-man’s-land. They are technically tax residents after 183 days, but their income originates from outside Cambodia and is paid into foreign bank accounts. In practice, enforcement on foreign-sourced remote work income has been minimal. This is not a recommendation to ignore tax obligations — it is a description of the current reality. Consult a tax advisor familiar with Cambodian law and your home country’s obligations. Americans owe US taxes on worldwide income regardless — the FEIE and Foreign Tax Credit can help reduce the burden.

Safety

Cambodia is safer than most people expect. Violent crime against foreigners is rare. The country does not have the gang violence of parts of Latin America, the political instability of some African nations, or the terrorism concerns of certain Middle Eastern destinations. That said, Cambodia has its own safety considerations that any expat should understand.

Bag snatching is the most common crime affecting expats in Phnom Penh. The typical pattern: a motorbike pulls alongside you, the passenger grabs your bag or phone, and they speed off. This happens frequently enough that every long-term expat in Phnom Penh knows someone it has happened to. Prevention is simple: carry your bag on the building side (away from the road), avoid using your phone while walking near traffic, and do not carry a purse with a long strap on your shoulder.

Traffic is chaotic by Western standards. Rules are loosely enforced, helmets are optional for many locals (but mandatory for you), and the mix of tuk-tuks, motorbikes, SUVs, and ox carts requires constant attention. If you ride a motorbike, wear a proper helmet, ride defensively, and avoid riding at night if possible. Traffic accidents are the single biggest safety risk for foreigners in Cambodia.

Scams targeting tourists exist but are generally low-stakes: inflated tuk-tuk prices, rigged card games near tourist sites, and overcharging at certain markets. These are easily avoided with basic awareness.

Landmines: Cambodia was one of the most heavily mined countries in the world during the Khmer Rouge era and the civil war that followed. While cities, towns, and established paths are completely safe, rural areas — particularly in the northwest provinces near the Thai border — still contain unexploded ordnance. Stick to marked paths, never walk into uncleared fields, and heed local warnings. This is not a daily concern for urban expats, but it is important context for anyone venturing into the countryside.

Siem Reap is very safe — one of the safest places in Southeast Asia for expats and tourists. Kampot is similarly tranquil. Phnom Penh requires more street awareness but is far safer than its reputation suggests.

The Dollar Economy

Cambodia’s dual-currency system is unique in Asia and is one of its strongest practical advantages for expats, particularly Americans.

USD is the primary currency for all medium-to-large transactions. Rent, restaurant bills, supermarket purchases, and ATM withdrawals are all in US dollars. The Cambodian riel (KHR) is used as small change — when a purchase is $3.50, you pay with a $5 bill and receive 6,000 riel (~$1.50) in change. The informal exchange rate is fixed at approximately 4,000–4,100 KHR per dollar and has been remarkably stable for years.

ATMs dispense USD. Most dispense in $50 and $100 bills. ABA Bank, ACLEDA, and Canadia Bank have the widest ATM networks. Withdrawal fees run $4–$5 per transaction. A fee-free US debit card (Charles Schwab, Wise) is the best way to access cash.

Banking: Opening a Cambodian bank account is relatively easy for foreigners with a valid passport and visa. ABA Bank is the most expat-friendly, with an English-language mobile app, dollar-denominated accounts, and wide ATM coverage. Bank transfers, mobile payments (ABA Pay is widely accepted), and even some cryptocurrency services are available. The banking sector is more accessible to foreigners than in Thailand or Vietnam, where opening an account can require a work permit.

Why this matters: In countries like Thailand (Thai baht), Vietnam (Vietnamese dong), or Indonesia (Indonesian rupiah), expats face constant currency conversion, fluctuating exchange rates, and the mental overhead of translating prices. In Cambodia, $5 is $5. Your savings do not erode due to local currency devaluation. Your rent does not spike because of exchange-rate swings. For people living on fixed incomes — retirees, freelancers with dollar-denominated clients — this predictability is enormously valuable.

Cultural Integration

Living well in Cambodia requires understanding its cultural landscape, which is shaped by Buddhism, the trauma of the Khmer Rouge era, and a society that is simultaneously traditional and rapidly modernizing.

Buddhism permeates everything. Approximately 97% of Cambodians are Theravada Buddhists. Temples (wats) are the heart of community life. Monks are deeply respected — women should never touch a monk or hand objects directly to one. Buddhist holidays are observed nationwide: Pchum Ben (ancestor remembrance), Khmer New Year in April, and the Water Festival in November are the biggest. Understanding these rhythms will help you connect with Cambodian neighbors and colleagues.

The Khmer Rouge period (1975–1979) is essential context. Nearly two million people — roughly a quarter of the population — died under the Khmer Rouge regime through execution, starvation, and forced labor. Every Cambodian family was affected. The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21) and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek in Phnom Penh are important sites to visit early in your time in Cambodia. Approach this history with respect and sensitivity. Cambodians are remarkably open about discussing it, but flippancy or ignorance is deeply offensive.

Khmer food deserves more recognition than it gets. Fish amok (steamed fish curry in banana leaf) is the national dish — coconut-creamy, aromatic, and unlike anything in Thai or Vietnamese cuisine. Lok lak (stir-fried beef with pepper-lime sauce) is ubiquitous and excellent. Num pang (Cambodian baguette sandwiches, a French colonial legacy) are the country’s street food staple. Morning markets overflow with fresh tropical fruit, grilled meats, and noodle soups. The food scene in Phnom Penh has expanded dramatically, with excellent Khmer, Japanese, Korean, French, and Italian restaurants alongside traditional street vendors.

Language: Khmer is the official language, and it is genuinely difficult for English speakers — a unique script, no Latin-alphabet cognates, and complex tonal pronunciation. The good news: English is widely spoken in expat-heavy areas of Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and tourist zones. Many young Cambodians speak functional English, and the business community often operates in English. You can live comfortably in BKK1 or Siem Reap without learning Khmer. But as with anywhere, learning basic phrases — hello (“susadei”), thank you (“awkun”), delicious (“chngainh”) — earns genuine warmth and opens doors.

Social etiquette: The sampeah (hands pressed together, slight bow) is the traditional greeting and a sign of respect. Feet are considered the lowest part of the body — never point your feet at a person or a Buddha image. Remove shoes before entering homes and temples. Touching someone’s head is taboo. Public displays of anger are deeply frowned upon; keeping a calm demeanor, even in frustrating situations, is essential. Cambodians value face and harmony — direct confrontation is avoided in favor of indirect communication.

Rainy season lifestyle: Cambodia has two seasons: dry (November to April) and wet (May to October). The wet season brings daily afternoon downpours — heavy, dramatic, and usually over within 1–2 hours. Mornings are often sunny. Life adapts: you plan outdoor activities for the morning, carry a rain poncho, and embrace the rhythm. The wet season is also green and lush, with fewer tourists and lower prices. Many long-term expats prefer it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I stay in Cambodia indefinitely on an EB visa?

Yes. The EB (Ordinary) visa can be extended for 12 months and renewed indefinitely, year after year. There is no limit on the number of renewals. Many expats have lived in Cambodia on consecutive EB visa extensions for 10+ years. The annual cost is approximately $290 through a visa agent. No income proof, business registration, or age restriction is required.

Is Cambodia safe for solo female expats?

Cambodia is generally safe for solo women, particularly in Phnom Penh’s expat neighborhoods and in Siem Reap. The most common safety concern is bag snatching in Phnom Penh, which affects men and women equally. Standard precautions apply: avoid walking alone late at night in poorly lit areas, use ride-hailing apps rather than unlicensed motorbike taxis, and be aware of your surroundings. The expat community is welcoming and supportive, with active women’s groups and social networks.

Do I need a work permit to freelance remotely?

Technically, anyone working in Cambodia needs a work permit. In practice, the vast majority of remote workers and freelancers on EB visas work for foreign clients without a Cambodian work permit, and enforcement has been effectively nonexistent for foreign-sourced remote work. This is a gray area — not officially sanctioned, but widely practiced and tolerated. If you are employed by a Cambodian company or serving Cambodian clients, you should obtain a work permit through your employer.

How does internet quality compare to Thailand or Vietnam?

Cambodia’s internet has improved dramatically but still lags behind Thailand and Vietnam in consistency. Fiber connections in Phnom Penh deliver 30–100 Mbps, which is sufficient for video calls and remote work. Outages are rare but occur. Coworking spaces typically have the most reliable connections. Mobile data (4G) is affordable at $5–$10 per month for unlimited plans from Smart or Cellcard. Outside Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, connectivity drops significantly.

Can I buy property in Cambodia as a foreigner?

Foreigners cannot own land in Cambodia but can own condominium units above the ground floor (the “foreign quota” is 70% of units in a building). Long-term leases on land (up to 50 years, renewable) are common for those wanting houses. Many expats use nominee structures through a Cambodian partner or company, though this carries legal risk. For most expats, renting is the pragmatic choice given the low cost and the flexibility of the market.

What about bringing a pet to Cambodia?

Importing a pet requires a veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, proof of rabies vaccination, and an import permit from the Cambodian Ministry of Agriculture. The process is relatively straightforward compared to countries like Australia or Japan. Cambodia does not impose quarantine for pets with proper documentation. Several veterinary clinics in Phnom Penh offer English-speaking services. For detailed planning, see our guide to moving abroad with pets.

Is Cambodia Right for You?

Cambodia is not for everyone. If you need world-class healthcare within driving distance, Cambodia is not your best option — Thailand or Malaysia is. If you want polished infrastructure, reliable public transport, and first-world amenities, Singapore or Japan will serve you better. If you need a formal digital nomad visa with a clear legal framework, look at Portugal, Croatia, or the Czech Republic.

But if you want the lowest possible cost of living with a genuinely comfortable quality of life, the simplest visa process in Asia, a US dollar economy, a warm and welcoming culture, and the energy of a country that is building itself in real time — Cambodia is hard to beat. The expat community is small enough that you will make real connections, not just bump into other laptop workers at coworking spaces. The food is extraordinary. The people are kind. And your money goes further here than almost anywhere else on earth.

Visit the Cambodia country page for detailed scores across cost, safety, healthcare, and quality of life. Use our comparison tool to see how Cambodia stacks up against Thailand, Vietnam, or the Philippines.

Comparing Cambodia with other Southeast Asian destinations? Read our Complete Guide to Moving to Thailand or Complete Guide to Moving to Vietnam.