When to Take & How to Apply for a Cambodian Business Visa (E-Class Visa Guide)
Planning to start a company, accept a job offer, or relocate your operations to Cambodia? The Cambodia E-Class Visa, often called the Cambodian Business Visa or Ordinary Visa (E), is the legal gateway for investors, entrepreneurs, employees, consultants, and digital nomads entering the Kingdom for professional purposes.
Unlike the tourist visa, the E-Class visa is designed for flexibility. It is typically valid for three months from issuance, grants an initial 30-day stay, and can be extended inside Cambodia for business, employment, job-seeking, retirement, or study purposes.
Whether you are setting up a company in Phnom Penh, managing a hospitality venture in Siem Reap, or working remotely while exploring Southeast Asia, this guide explains when to apply, how to prepare your documents, and how to extend your stay legally.
What Is the Cambodian E-Class Business Visa?
The Cambodia E-Class Visa is the country’s primary long-stay entry visa for foreigners engaging in non-tourism activities.
Purpose
According to the official Cambodian embassy resources such as the Embassy of Cambodia in Canberra, the E-Class visa covers:
- Business ownership or company formation
- Employment or technical assignments
- Media and consultancy projects
- Study or training programs
- Retirement arrangements
- Remote work supported by foreign income
It is widely used by expats and foreign professionals relocating to Cambodia.
Validity
Based on guidance from the Royal Embassy of Cambodia in Singapore, the visa is generally:
- Valid for 3 months from date of issue
- Single entry for most nationalities
- Multi-entry long-term visas may be available for select nationalities under specific bilateral agreements
Initial Stay Duration
Upon entry, you are granted 30 days, renewable through Cambodia’s immigration authorities.
Extensions are processed by the General Department of Immigration, headquartered in Phnom Penh.
Who Needs the E-Class Visa?
- Expats aged 18+ planning employment or business
- Entrepreneurs establishing Cambodian entities
- Foreign employees hired by Cambodian companies
- Digital nomads earning foreign income
- Investors and consultants
There is no formal minimum salary requirement for issuance, but proper documentation is essential.
When to Apply for Your E-Class Visa
Timing matters when applying for a Cambodian Business Visa.
Ideal Application Window
Apply 1–2 weeks before travel. Online processing typically takes 3–7 working days, while embassy applications may vary depending on location.
If you plan to:
- Launch a business in Phnom Penh
- Accept an employment contract
- Relocate for long-term professional activity
- Begin remote operations from Cambodia
You should secure the E-Class visa before departure to avoid administrative delays.
Extensions and Long-Term Planning
After your initial 30 days, you can apply for extensions inside Cambodia. These are categorized as:
- EB – Business/Employment
- EG – General/Job Seeking
Extensions range from 1 to 12 months, with fees depending on duration.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for an E-Class Visa
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
You will need:
- Passport valid at least 6 months, with two blank pages
- Completed visa application form
- One recent passport-sized photo (35x45mm or 4x6cm)
- Invitation letter from a Cambodian company
- Business registration or tax certificate copy (if applicable)
- Passport bio-data page copy
- Previous Cambodian visa (if applicable)
Invitation letters should clearly state your role, purpose of stay, and duration.
Step 2: Choose Your Application Method
There are three main routes:
1. Online (eVisa)
Apply through the official government portal:
https://www.evisa.gov.kh/
This platform is managed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
You will:
- Upload scanned documents
- Pay the visa fee (typically $36–$50 USD depending on processing and service fees)
- Receive approval via email
- Print your approval for arrival
This is the most convenient option for professionals traveling to Phnom Penh or Siem Reap.
2. Embassy or Consulate
Apply at a Cambodian embassy in your country. For example, applicants in the United States may consult the Embassy of Cambodia in Washington DC.
Processing times vary but typically range between 3–7 working days.
3. Visa on Arrival
Available at major airports such as:
- Phnom Penh International Airport
- Siem Reap International Airport
You may obtain an E-Class visa on arrival and later apply for the appropriate extension category.
Step 3: Pay the Visa Fee
Standard cost ranges:
- $35 USD official fee
- Additional processing or service fees may apply
Processing is usually completed within three business days online.
Step 4: Print and Present on Arrival
Once approved, print your eVisa confirmation and present it upon arrival. Immigration officers will issue your visa sticker upon entry.
E-Class Visa Extension Process in Cambodia
After your initial 30 days, extensions are handled by the General Department of Immigration in Phnom Penh or via licensed visa agents.
Required Documents
- Passport
- Current visa
- Completed extension form
- Passport photos
- Applicable fee
Extension Categories
| Extension Type | Purpose | Duration Options | Typical Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| EB | Business / Employment | 1, 3, 6, 12 months | $45–$300 |
| EG | Job Seeking / General | 1–6 months | Varies |
Using Visa Agents
Most expats use licensed agents for smoother processing. Service fees usually range from $10–$20 extra, but save time and reduce paperwork complications.
Costs Breakdown
| Item | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Initial E-Visa | $35–$50 |
| 1-Month Extension | $45 |
| 6-Month Extension | $160–$285 |
| 12-Month Extension | $300 |
| Agent Service | $10–$20 extra |
Costs may vary depending on processing speed and agent assistance.
Important: Work Permit Requirements
If you are employed by a Cambodian company, you must obtain a work permit Cambodia after securing your EB extension. The visa alone does not authorize employment.
Failure to secure a work permit may result in fines during inspections by Cambodian labor authorities.
Entry Points for Business Travelers
The Cambodian Business Visa is accepted at:
- Phnom Penh International Airport
- Siem Reap International Airport
- Major land borders such as Poipet and Bavet
Always carry printed visa approval documents and company invitation letters when entering.
Tips for a Successful E-Class Application
- Ensure documents are in English or Khmer
- Confirm invitation letters clearly state business purpose
- Apply at least one week before travel
- For digital nomads, maintain proof of foreign income for extension renewals
- Monitor official updates from the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Conclusion
The Cambodia E-Class Visa remains the most practical and flexible pathway for entrepreneurs, employees, and digital professionals relocating to the Kingdom. Whether launching a startup in Phnom Penh, expanding hospitality operations in Siem Reap, or managing remote work from Southeast Asia, applying through the official eVisa portal at evisa.gov.kh provides the smoothest process.
For official documentation and updated requirements, consult the Embassy of Cambodia in Canberra or your nearest Cambodian diplomatic mission.
By understanding visa categories, extension rules, and work permit obligations, you can build your Cambodian venture with confidence and remain fully compliant under immigration law.
