What Expats in Cambodia Need to Know
If you’re living in Cambodia as an expat — whether you’re a freelancer, retiree with side income, or remote employee — you’ve probably asked yourself:
“Do I need a work permit or is a business visa enough?”
The short answer: both might be required, depending on your status and activity. Let’s break it down so you can stay compliant — and avoid fines or visa issues.
Visas: Your Entry Point
Most foreigners working or earning income in Cambodia enter with a Category E (EB) visa — commonly referred to as a business visa. This visa is not a work permit itself. It only gives you permission to stay in the country for work or business purposes.
Duration
- Issued for 30 days initially
- Can be extended for 1, 3, 6, or 12 months
- Renewable without limit
Work Permits: Mandatory for Most Workers
What you need:
- Valid passport and business visa
- Proof of employment or business registration
- Employer’s approval and quota compliance
- Medical certificate
What About Freelancers & Remote Workers?
Cambodia does not have a formal status for freelancers. If you’re working independently (for clients abroad or locally), you are technically self-employed and must:
✅ Register a legal entity (e.g., sole proprietorship or company)
✅ Obtain a business visa
✅ Apply for a work permit under your own company
Retirees with Side Gigs — Are You Affected?
If you’re retired but:
- Offer consulting services
- Teach part-time
- Run a YouTube channel or monetized blog
Then yes — Cambodian law may consider you economically active. You should look into:
- Business visa
- Work permit
- Company registration (if relevant)
Employed by a Local Company?
Your employer is responsible for:
- Requesting a foreign worker quota (max 10% of workforce)
- Registering you for NSSF (social security)
- Applying for your annual work permit
What If I Don’t Get a Work Permit?
Penalties include:
- Fines
- Visa cancellation
- Future visa complications
- The government has been increasing enforcement, especially in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
Social Security Contributions (NSSF)
If you’re employed (or run a business), you’re also expected to register with Cambodia’s National Social Security Fund (NSSF).
NSSF includes:
Health coverage
Work accident protection
Retirement contributions
📌 Employers must pay 100% of health coverage since 2018.
📌 Pension contributions started at 4% of salary (shared employer/employee).
Golden Visa: A Workaround?
If you’re an investor, you may qualify for the CM2H Golden Visa:
$100,000+ investment = 10-year renewable visa
No work permit required
Citizenship possible after 5 years
This is ideal for passive investors or entrepreneurs seeking residency without formal employment.
