Moving to Cambodia from the USA

Checklist for Americans moving to Cambodia — the famously easy Ordinary E-class visa with EB extension, banking, leases in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, and your first 30 days.

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Visa & legal right to stay

Get an Ordinary (E-class) visa on arrival or via e-visa — $35 for 30 days
Must
Within the 30 days, use an agent to convert to an EB (Business) extension — 6 or 12 months, renewable indefinitely
Must
No income, age, or employer requirements for the EB extension

Paperwork to gather before you fly

Passport with 6+ months validity and 1 blank page
Must
Passport photos (Cambodia spec, white background)
Proof of onward travel for the initial entry (some airlines check)
International health insurance with evacuation coverage
Must

Money & banking

Open a Cambodian bank account (ABA, ACLEDA, or Wing) — straightforward with passport + lease
Must
USD is the de facto currency for anything above $5 — keep both USD and KHR
Local-source income taxed progressively to 20%; foreign-source enforcement is minimal in practice
Use Wise for USD inbound transfers

Housing

Stay in an Airbnb or serviced apartment for the first 2–4 weeks
Use Realestate.com.kh, IPS Cambodia, or expat Facebook groups for long-term rentals
BKK1, Toul Tom Poung, and Daun Penh are top Phnom Penh expat areas
Long-term leases: 1–3 months deposit + 1 month rent; 12-month lease standard
Most listings are furnished and include utilities or have a flat allowance

Healthcare

Buy international insurance with evacuation to Bangkok or Singapore
Must
Royal Phnom Penh Hospital and Raffles Medical handle most routine cases
Plan to fly to Bangkok for any serious surgery or specialist care

First 30 days on the ground

Convert your visa to an EB extension within 30 days of arrival via an agent
Must
Get a Cambodian SIM (Smart, Cellcard, or Metfone)
Download PassApp and Grab for tuk-tuks and rides
US driver's license is valid short-term; convert at the Department of Public Works for long-term
Register with the US Embassy in Phnom Penh (STEP)

FAQ

Do I really not need a job or income to stay long-term?

Correct — the EB extension has no income, age, or employer requirement. An agent renews it annually for ~$300, and there's no formal limit to renewals.

Can I buy property as a foreigner?

Foreigners can own condos above the ground floor but cannot own land directly. Long-term leases (50+ years) and Cambodian nominee structures are common workarounds.

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NextLatitude is for organization and guidance only. Visa rules, tax thresholds, and procedures change — always confirm with the relevant consulate or a licensed professional before acting. Last reviewed 2026-06-01.