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Cambodia

Cambodia Expat Guide 2026 — Visa, Cost of Living, and Why Phnom Penh Works

Why Cambodia attracts expats: USD economy, easy long-stay visas, low costs, and a surprisingly liveable capital in Phnom Penh.

8 min read

The case for Cambodia

Cambodia is consistently underrated on the expat circuit. Phnom Penh has faster internet than most of Bangkok, a USD economy that eliminates currency risk, and monthly costs 30–40% lower than Thailand for a comparable lifestyle. The expat community is smaller but tight — mostly NGO workers, teachers, and a growing startup contingent.

Visa — the most relaxed in SEA

Cambodia offers an e-visa on arrival (30 days, extendable) and an ER "ordinary" visa (also 30 days) that can be extended indefinitely at the immigration office in Phnom Penh for around $290 per year. There is no income requirement, no financial proof needed, and extensions are processed within days.

The 1-year business visa (EB visa) is the standard long-stay solution. It costs approximately $285–350 per year depending on the agent. Most expats renew annually with no complications.

Cost of living

Phnom Penh budget: $700–900/month covers a decent 1-bedroom in BKK1, street food and local restaurants, motorbike rental, fast internet, and health insurance. Mid-range lifestyle (Western dining, gym, air-conditioned apartment) runs $1,400–2,000/month.

The USD economy means no exchange rate anxiety. ATMs dispense USD and KHR, with USD accepted everywhere.

Siem Reap as a base

Siem Reap is a slower, cheaper alternative. Monthly costs run 20–30% below Phnom Penh. The downside: smaller job market, less infrastructure, and the city is heavily tourism-dependent

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