Cambodia built its expat reputation on being the easiest country in Asia to stay in long-term. That's still largely true in 2026 — but the "show up and renew forever with no paperwork" era is fading. Here's the honest current picture for Americans.
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How it works: the E-class gateway
Americans enter on an E-class (Ordinary) visa — about $35, good for 30 days — and then extend it in-country. Unlike the pure tourist visa, the Ordinary/E visa can be extended for 1, 3, 6, or 12 months, and a 12-month extension runs roughly $285–$300 (more with an agent's help). You do it all inside Cambodia; there's no need for border runs.
The EB visa — the 1-year workhorse
The EB extension is the standard long-stay path, covering employees, business owners, freelancers, and their dependents. Historically you could get the first extension without much scrutiny — but this is where 2026 tightened: renewals increasingly require a valid work permit or proof of business activity. The EB itself doesn't grant the right to work, so plan for the work-permit step if you'll be staying on it.
The ER retirement visa (age 55+)
For retirees, the ER extension is the route, and the one firm requirement is being 55 or older. There's no income threshold written into law, though in practice it's wise to have income or savings evidence ready (community guidance suggests around $800–$1,500/month income or $15,000–$25,000 in savings). You enter on the E-class and convert to ER in-country before it expires; expect roughly $290–$300 a year plus agent fees.
What changed in 2026 — read this
Two realities to plan around. First, enforcement is stricter: EB renewals are being denied without proper work permits, and immigration now wants accommodation records and supporting documents. The old "anyone can renew forever, no questions" reputation is partly outdated. Second, land borders have been closed since mid-2025 due to a regional border dispute, so casual border runs aren't even an option right now. As always with visas, get current advice before you rely on any single plan.
Planning your Cambodia move?
Once your stay is sorted, I'll connect you — free — with a vetted local agent who knows Phnom Penh and Siem Reap and works with foreign renters and buyers.
This article is general information for people considering an international move — not immigration, visa, tax, legal, or financial advice. Rules, costs, and requirements change often and vary by nationality and situation, so always verify current details with official sources and a qualified professional. Stacey Scantlin is a REALTOR® with JBGoodwin who connects you with a vetted, independently licensed local real estate agent; she does not provide immigration or legal services.
Cambodia visa questions
Is Cambodia easy to get a long-stay visa for?
Still among the easiest in Asia: you enter on an E-class visa (~$35) and extend in-country, with a 12-month extension around $285–$300. But 2026 enforcement is stricter, especially on EB renewals that now often need a work permit.
Does Cambodia have a retirement visa?
Yes — the ER extension, for anyone 55 or older. There's no income threshold written into law, though having income or savings evidence ready is wise. You convert to it in-country from an E-class visa.
Do I need a work permit for a Cambodia EB visa?
Increasingly, yes. The EB is the standard 1-year path, but as of 2026 renewals commonly require a valid work permit or proof of business activity. The EB alone does not grant the right to work.
Are Cambodia border runs still possible in 2026?
Not reliably — land borders have been closed since mid-2025 due to a regional dispute. Fortunately, Cambodia's extensions are all done in-country, so border runs aren't necessary anyway.