Visiting Cambodia on Business: Tips to Follow
Cambodia has experienced considerable financial growth over the years. With a projected growth of 5.8% by the IMF and 6.1% by the World Bank in 2025, the economy is expected to see some prominent changes. This is a big reason why many foreign individuals are getting permits like visas for entry into Cambodia for business.
Cambodia’s economic growth, investment opportunities, and trade benefits are exactly what attracts business travelers. However, this process is more complicated than it appears which is why there is always a chance to make mistakes. So, it is always best to start the process only after learning the basics and complexities of the process.
Understanding the Business Visa
If you are looking to get entry into Cambodia for business, you will be required to get a business visa. This is going to work like your entry permit and ease the rest of the process for you. A business visa also lets you attend meetings, and conferences or take part in trade negotiations.
Application process for Cambodia business visa
Even after all the existing differences, the application process for a business visa is pretty similar to that of any other visa for Cambodia. This includes a few simple steps that lead you up to your visa. Some of the steps that you will be required to follow include:
Go to our website: Visit our portal to start the application process.
Check eligibility: Find out if your nationality is eligible to get this kind of visa before moving on to the next steps.
Find the form: Search for the application form for a Cambodian business visa and start filling it out.
Add information: Provide accurate personal data and the purpose of your visit and avoid making any possible Cambodia visa mistakes.
Upload documents: Attach scanned copies of the necessary documents. Some of the documents that you will have to provide include your valid passport (one that has at least 6 months validity beyond your stay and 2 blank pages), a recent passport-sized photograph, documents related to your business visit (invitation to attend a meeting or conference, or a potential business plan), bank statements, and anything else directed by the authority.
Make payment: Pay the application fee through a payment method that feels suitable for you. So, you can use either your debit or credit card to get a permit for entry into Cambodia on business.
Wait for approval: After this, you will have to wait for around 3 to 5 days at max to receive the visa approval letter on the email ID that you have provided on your application form. Once you get the letter, you will have to get a few copies of it and bring it with you to the airport. However, if you do not receive your online visa in time, then you will be required to contact the Helpdesk.
This process will help you get a visa that will come with a total validity of 3 months, starting from the date of issue. But the maximum stay period on this is 1 month. However, you can get an extension on your visa for long-term business stays. The visa extension options for that are 3, 6, or 12 months, with the second and third options coming with the added benefits of multiple entries.
Preparing for Your Business Trip
All trips are incomplete without proper preparation, and the same is true for a business trip to Cambodia. Failing to do this properly will make you susceptible to making Cambodia visa mistakes and others of the same kind. Some of the things that you will be required to plan for include:
Carry all documents:
Forgetting to bring the necessary documents is a common thing among many travelers. However, this can bring a lot of issues to your trip. So, remember to carry your valid passport, visa, business invitations, and any other company details.
Research about the Cambodian business culture
The business culture and etiquette tend to differ among countries, and the same is true for Cambodia. So, make sure you properly research the culture and etiquette of Cambodia’s business world. For instance, people around here value respect and politeness. This includes customary greetings like a slight bow or warm smile whenever you meet someone. Moreover, they also prefer maintaining peace and harmony over direct confrontation, so keep that in mind before you start building any business relations.
Learn the local regulations for foreign businesses
The Cambodian government doesn’t have many rules and regulations for foreign businesses, which makes it suitable for all. However, you will be required to register with the Ministry of Commerce. Other than that, you should also comply with the standard procedures that are part of the registration process. This includes selecting a suitable business entity like a 100% foreign-owned private limited company.
Key Business Hubs & Networking Opportunities
The recent economic growth in Cambodia has opened doors to many networking opportunities in the country. This is exactly what makes it even more worth it for you to get a business visa for entry into Cambodia. So, you should keep a close eye on the business hubs and events for the best opportunities are:
Major business centers in Cambodia:
Being the capital and largest city in Cambodia, Phnom Penh acts as the economic and industrial hub. Apart from that cities like Siem Reap and Sihanoukville also offer huge opportunities to anyone who is looking to run a successful business. From textile to tourism, there are multiple business options that one can explore.
Top places for networking:
Networking skills are crucial to build a successful business. This is why you should always visit the different business events and trade fairs that take part in the country. Some of the most famous ones on the list include the Cambodia Trade Expo, the Inter-Chamber Networking Event, and other industry-specific events.
Co-working spaces and business-friendly cafés:
Co-working spaces can be great for networking with fellow businessmen. On top of that, these spaces and business-friendly cafés are great to break free from the general monotony of working in a cubicle. So, you might consider visiting these places to expand your reach. Some of the best co-working spaces in the country are:
- SmallWorld in Phnom Penh
- Sahaka Coworking Space in Phnom Penh
- The Green Penthouse in Phnom Penh
Financial & Payment Tips
Running a business involves a whole lot of financial understanding. A foreign currency can make things a little more complicated. Failing to have a proper understanding of this will make you more prone to making mistakes, something that will be way more serious than the general Cambodian visa mistakes that one can make. Some of the things that you should know are:
Currency to use for business transactions
The value of Cambodian Riel is much less than USD as 4,005.78 Riel is equal to 1 USD. So, remember to keep this in your mind when making any transactions.
Setting up a local business bank account
Running a business will require you to pay for multiple things. From payments to vendors to the salary of your employees, everything will be a part of your expenses. This is exactly why it is best to open a local business bank account before carrying out your processes.
Preferred payment methods and avoiding scams
Payment scams have become extremely common in the world. This is why you need to be very attentive before you make any mistakes leading up to a scam. Make sure you always make your payments through the bank account and keep receipts for everything.
Legal & Tax Considerations for Business in Cambodia
Understanding the legal and tax regulations is a must for anyone who is getting entry into Cambodia for business. This will keep you abreast of your responsibilities, keeping you away from issues. For instance, all non-residents are required to pay a tax of 20%.
Ready to start your business after getting entry into Cambodia?
Exploring the business opportunities in Cambodia can be a great choice. This will help you become a part of the growing economy and offer you benefits at the same time. So, remember to get a business visa early and follow all the things that we discussed with you. However, if you still experience any issues or make Cambodia visa mistakes, then you can get help from our Helpdesk.
Check Eligibility for Cambodia e-Visa and apply for Cambodia e-Visa 5 days prior to your scheduled flight to Cambodia.