The Cambodian government has issued a directive requiring foreign nationals to leave the country by May 31, 2026, as part of an updated immigration enforcement measure.
The notice, signed by the Director-General of the General Department of Immigration, Lt. Gen. Som Sopheak, and approved by the Secretary of State at the Ministry of Interior, Gen. Sar Sokha, states that a waiver previously granted to African nationals will expire on that date.
According to the directive, all foreign nationals who have cleared outstanding fines are expected to exit Cambodia on or before May 31, 2026. From June 1, 2026, individuals who enter or remain in the country without authorization will be subject to arrest.
The government outlined penalties for violations, including a prison sentence of up to two years and a fine of $8,000 before removal from the country.
Authorities also indicated that enforcement will include arrests at airports and other locations, with detained individuals transferred to immigration authorities for processing under existing laws. Police operations targeting overstays are expected to begin immediately after the deadline takes effect.
Officials stated that compliance with the directive is mandatory and warned that immigration regulations will be strictly enforced going forward.
