Journey to the Land of Temples: Cambodia Visa Requirements for Burundian and Cameroonian Citizens
Cambodia, a nation famed for its ancient Angkorian temples, vibrant culture, and burgeoning tourism, continues to be a compelling destination for travelers worldwide.1 For citizens of Burundi and Cameroon, embarking on this adventure necessitates obtaining a Cambodia visa.2 Fortunately, the Cambodian government provides accessible and streamlined visa options, primarily through its online eVisa system and the traditional visa on arrival.3
CAMBODIA VISA FOR BURUNDIAN CITIZENS
Burundian citizens planning a visit to Cambodia are required to secure a visa prior to their arrival.4 The most convenient and recommended avenue for obtaining this authorization is via the official Cambodian eVisa platform.5
1. Cambodia eVisa for Burundian Citizens: The Online Convenience
The Cambodia eVisa system offers a straightforward and efficient way for Burundian citizens to apply for their tourist visa from the comfort of their home.6 This electronic process negates the need for a physical visit to a Cambodian embassy or consulate, simplifying the application significantly.7
Key Features of the Cambodia eVisa for Burundian Citizens:
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Purpose: Primarily designed for tourism, enabling visitors to explore Cambodia's sights, engage in cultural activities, and enjoy leisurely travel. Business eVisas may also be available, but the tourist eVisa is most common.
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Validity: The eVisa is typically valid for 90 days from the date of issue, allowing for a single entry into Cambodia.8
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Length of Stay: Upon entry, the eVisa generally permits a maximum stay of 30 days within Cambodia.9
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Application Process: The entire application is conducted online through the official Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation eVisa website (www.evisa.gov.kh).
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Processing Time: Applications are usually processed within 3 to 15 business days. It is strongly advised to apply well in advance of your planned travel dates (at least 15 days prior) to accommodate any potential processing delays.
Documents Required for Cambodia eVisa (Burundian Citizens):
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Valid Passport: A clear digital scan of the bio-data page of your passport. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of arrival in Cambodia and contain at least one blank page for a visa stamp.10
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Recent Digital Photograph: A clear, passport-sized color photograph (typically 2x2 inches or 35x45mm) with a white background. Ensure your face is fully visible and the photo meets standard visa photo requirements.
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Credit/Debit Card: For the secure online payment of the visa fee. The current government fee for a tourist eVisa is USD 30, plus an additional processing charge.11
2. Cambodia Visa on Arrival for Burundian Citizens:
Burundian citizens are generally eligible for a visa on arrival at Cambodia's designated international entry points.12 This option provides flexibility for travelers who may not have applied for an eVisa beforehand.
Where to Obtain a Visa on Arrival:
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International Airports: Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH), Siem Reap Angkor International Airport (SAI), and Sihanoukville International Airport (KOS).
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Land Border Crossings: Popular land borders include Poipet (from Thailand), Bavet (from Vietnam), Cham Yeam (from Thailand), and Tropaeng Kreal (from Laos). It's always wise to confirm visa on arrival availability for specific, less common border points if you plan to use them.
Documents Required for Cambodia Visa on Arrival (Burundian Citizens):
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Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry and possess at least one blank page for the visa sticker.13
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Passport-sized Photographs: You will typically need to provide one or two recent passport-sized color photographs.
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Completed Visa Application Form: These forms are readily available at the immigration counters at the point of entry. Fill them out accurately and legibly.
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Visa Fee: The fee for a tourist visa on arrival is generally USD 30. It is highly advisable to have the exact amount in US dollars cash, as credit card facilities or exact change may not always be available, especially at land borders.14
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Proof of Onward/Return Travel: While not always strictly enforced for visa on arrival, having a confirmed return or onward flight ticket can help expedite the immigration process and avoid questions from immigration officers, demonstrating your intent to leave Cambodia within the permitted stay.
CAMBODIA VISA FOR CAMEROONIAN CITIZENS
Cameroonian citizens, like their Burundian counterparts, are required to obtain a visa to enter Cambodia.15 They also have access to both the convenient eVisa system and the option of a visa on arrival.
1. Cambodia eVisa for Cameroonian Citizens: The Efficient Online Route
The official Cambodia eVisa system extends its convenience to Cameroonian citizens, offering a streamlined and efficient method to obtain a tourist visa before embarking on their journey.16
Key Features of the Cambodia eVisa for Cameroonian Citizens:
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Purpose: Primarily for tourism, allowing for a range of leisure activities and cultural exploration.17 Business eVisas are also available.
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Validity: Typically valid for 90 days from the date of issue for a single entry.
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Length of Stay: Permits a stay of up to 30 days in Cambodia.18
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Application Process: Applied online through the official Cambodian eVisa website (www.evisa.gov.kh).
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Processing Time: Generally takes 3-15 business days. Early application is strongly advised.
Documents Required for Cambodia eVisa (Cameroonian Citizens):
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Valid Passport: A scanned copy of your passport's bio-data page. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended arrival date in Cambodia and have at least one blank page.19
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Recent Digital Photograph: A clear, passport-sized color photograph with a white background, meeting standard requirements.20
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Credit/Debit Card: For the online payment of the visa fee (currently USD 30 for the government fee, plus a processing charge).
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Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate: Cameroonian citizens are required to provide proof of Yellow Fever vaccination for entry into Cambodia.21 This is a crucial health requirement.
2. Cambodia Visa on Arrival for Cameroonian Citizens:
Cameroonian citizens are generally eligible for a visa on arrival at Cambodia's international airports and land border crossings.22
Where to Obtain a Visa on Arrival:
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International Airports: Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH), Siem Reap Angkor International Airport (SAI), and Sihanoukville International Airport (KOS).
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Land Border Crossings: Including Poipet (from Thailand), Bavet (from Vietnam), Cham Yeam (from Thailand), and Tropaeng Kreal (from Laos).
Documents Required for Cambodia Visa on Arrival (Cameroonian Citizens):
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Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry and have at least one blank page.23
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Passport-sized Photographs: Usually 1 or 2 recent passport-sized photos.
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Completed Visa Application Form: Available at the immigration counter.
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Visa Fee: Approximately USD 30 (for a tourist visa). Have the exact amount in US dollars cash.
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Proof of Onward/Return Travel: Recommended to have a confirmed return or onward flight ticket.
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Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate: Mandatory for Cameroonian citizens.
General Recommendations for All Travelers to Cambodia:
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Always Verify with Official Sources: Visa regulations are subject to change. It is paramount to always consult the official website of the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (www.evisa.gov.kh) or the nearest Cambodian embassy or consulate for the most current and accurate information regarding Cambodia visa requirements and fees.
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Print All Essential Documents: Even if you obtain an eVisa, print a copy of your approved eVisa confirmation and keep it with your travel documents. For visa on arrival, having all your physical documents ready and neatly organized will significantly expedite the process at the immigration counter.
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Cambodia e-Arrival Card (Mandatory from July 2024): As of July 2024, all visitors arriving by air in Cambodia are required to submit an electronic e-Arrival Card within seven days prior to their arrival.24 This digital form replaces the traditional paper-based immigration form, health declaration, and customs declaration, consolidating them into one online submission.25 Ensure you complete this through the official website or mobile app (https://arrival.gov.kh/) to ensure a smooth entry.
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Currency: While the Cambodian Riel is the local currency, US dollars are widely accepted and often preferred for larger transactions and visa fees.26 It's advisable to carry small denominations of US dollars.
By diligently adhering to these Cambodia visa requirements and choosing the most suitable application method, both Burundian citizens and Cameroonian citizens can look forward to a smooth entry and an unforgettable adventure in the captivating Kingdom of Cambodia.