Gateway to Angkor: Cambodia Visa for Burundian Citizens and Cambodia Visa for Cameroonian Citizens

Cambodia, a nation celebrated for its awe-inspiring Angkor Wat temple complex, pristine coastlines, and a vibrant cultural tapestry, offers an unforgettable experience to intrepid travelers. For individuals holding passports from Burundi and Cameroon, understanding the specific visa requirements is a crucial step towards embarking on this journey. This article will detail the pathways available for obtaining a Cambodia visa for Burundian citizens and a Cambodia visa for Cameroonian citizens, ensuring a smooth and informed travel preparation.

Cambodia Visa for Burundian Citizens: Your Path to Discovery

For Burundian citizens planning a visit to Cambodia, both the convenient e-Visa and the traditional Visa on Arrival options are generally available, providing flexibility for diverse travel preferences and planning timelines.

1. Cambodia e-Visa for Burundian Citizens:

The e-Visa is often the preferred method for its simplicity and the ability to secure your travel authorization online before you even leave Burundi. This can significantly reduce wait times and potential hassles upon arrival.

Application Process: Burundian citizens can apply for an e-Visa through the official Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation website (www.evisa.gov.kh). The online application requires you to fill out a form with your personal and passport details, upload a scanned copy of your passport's bio-page (ensure your passport has at least six months of validity from your intended entry date), and a recent digital passport-sized photograph with a white background.1 Payment for the visa fee is processed securely online via credit or debit card.2

Processing Time: While the official website states standard processing of around 3 business days, some reports suggest that for citizens of certain countries, including Burundi, processing could extend up to 15 days. Therefore, it is highly advisable to apply well in advance of your travel dates (e.g., at least two to three weeks) to account for any unforeseen delays or technical issues.

Validity and Stay: A tourist e-Visa for Burundian citizens is generally valid for 90 days from the date of issue and allows a single entry stay of up to 30 days in Cambodia.3

Accepted Entry Points: The e-Visa is accepted at Cambodia's major international airports, including Phnom Penh International Airport, Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, and Sihanoukville International Airport.4 It is also valid for entry at several designated land border crossings such as Cham Yeam (Koh Kong), Poi Pet (Banteay Meanchey), Bavet (Svay Rieng), and Tropaeng Kreal Border Post (Stung Treng).5 Always verify the most current list of accepted entry points on the official e-Visa website.

Fees: As of January 1, 2025, the official e-Visa fee for a tourist visa (Type T) is USD 30, and for a business visa (Type E) it is USD 35.6 Be cautious of third-party websites that may charge significantly higher service fees.

2. Cambodia Visa on Arrival for Burundian Citizens:

For travelers who prefer a more spontaneous approach or last-minute arrangements, the Visa on Arrival option is also available to Burundian citizens at key entry points.7

Availability: Visa on Arrival is facilitated at Cambodia's major international airports (Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville) and at most international land border crossings.8

Requirements: You will need a valid Burundian passport with at least six months of validity remaining, a recent physical passport-sized photograph, a completed visa application form (which will be provided at the immigration counter), and generally, proof of onward or return travel. While not always strictly enforced, having evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay is also recommended.

Fees: The fee for a tourist visa on arrival is typically USD 30, payable in US dollars cash.9 For a business visa, the fee is usually USD 35. It is highly advisable to have the exact amount in US dollars to expedite the process.

Stay Duration: A Visa on Arrival generally grants a stay of up to 30 days for tourism purposes.

Considerations: Be prepared for potential queues at immigration, especially during peak travel seasons. Having all your documents and the exact cash amount readily available can significantly speed up your entry process.

Cambodia Visa for Cameroonian Citizens: A Smooth Entry Process

For Cameroonian citizens planning a visit to Cambodia, the visa application process is designed to be straightforward, with both the e-Visa and Visa on Arrival options readily available and widely utilized. This provides considerable flexibility for travelers from Cameroon.

1. Cambodia e-Visa for Cameroonian Citizens:

The e-Visa is a highly recommended and efficient method for Cameroonian citizens to obtain their Cambodian visa prior to their departure, ensuring a more relaxed journey.10

Application Process: Cameroonian citizens can apply for an e-Visa through the official Cambodian e-Visa website (www.evisa.gov.kh).11 The application entails providing personal details, passport information (valid for at least six months beyond your intended entry date), and uploading a digital passport-style photo.12 Payment is processed securely online via credit or debit card.13

Processing Time: E-Visa processing typically takes around 3 business days. However, similar to Burundian citizens, some sources suggest it can take up to 15 days, so it's prudent to apply well in advance of your travel dates (e.g., at least two to three weeks) to avoid any last-minute complications.

Validity and Stay: A tourist e-Visa for Cameroonian citizens is generally valid for 90 days from the date of issue and allows for a single entry stay of up to 30 days in Cambodia.

Accepted Entry Points: The e-Visa is accepted at Cambodia's main international airports and several key land border crossings, as listed above. It's crucial to verify the most current list on the official e-Visa website.

Fees: The official e-Visa fee for a tourist visa (Type T) is USD 30, and for a business visa (Type E) it is USD 35.14

2. Cambodia Visa on Arrival for Cameroonian Citizens:

Cameroonian citizens also have the option of obtaining their visa upon arrival in Cambodia, which can be convenient for those with less time for pre-planning.15

Availability: This option is provided at major international airports in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville, as well as at various international land border crossings.16

Requirements: Travelers will need a valid Cameroonian passport (with at least six months of validity remaining), a recent physical passport-sized photograph, a completed visa application form (available at the immigration counter), proof of onward travel, and typically, evidence of sufficient funds for their stay.17

Fees: The cost for a tourist visa on arrival is usually USD 30, payable in US dollars cash.18 Business visas on arrival are generally USD 35.

Stay Duration: A Visa on Arrival permits a stay of up to 30 days.

Yellow Fever Vaccination: It's important to note that a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate may be required for travelers arriving from or transiting through countries with a risk of Yellow Fever transmission. Both Burundi and Cameroon are in the Yellow Fever belt, so this vaccination is likely mandatory.19

E-Arrival Card: From January 1, 2025, it is a mandatory requirement for all travelers, including those from Cameroon, to complete the Cambodia e-Arrival card within 7 days before their arrival, especially for air border crossings. This digital form streamlines the immigration, customs, and health declaration process, replacing the traditional paper forms.20

Important General Considerations for All Travelers

Regardless of whether you are a Burundian citizen or a Cameroonian citizen traveling to Cambodia, several universal guidelines apply to ensure a smooth and trouble-free entry:

Passport Validity: A fundamental requirement for all visa types is that your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of entry into Cambodia.

Blank Pages: Ensure your passport has at least two blank pages for visa stamps and immigration endorsements.

Photographs: Always carry a few recent, standard passport-sized color photographs with a white background. Even if you apply for an e-Visa, a physical copy can be useful in unexpected situations.

Proof of Onward Travel: Airlines may request proof of onward or return travel before allowing you to board your flight to Cambodia. It's wise to have a confirmed ticket or detailed itinerary.

Sufficient Funds: While not always strictly checked, it's advisable to be able to demonstrate that you have adequate financial resources to cover your expenses during your stay.

Visa Extensions: Tourist visas can often be extended for an additional 30 days by applying at the Department of Immigration in Phnom Penh.21 Overstaying your visa without a proper extension can lead to significant fines and potential deportation or future entry bans.22

Currency: The US Dollar is widely accepted throughout Cambodia for larger transactions, including visa fees.23 While the Cambodian Riel (KHR) is the official currency, USD is practically a dual currency in tourist areas.

Official Channels: Always apply for your visa through the official Cambodian government e-Visa website (www.evisa.gov.kh) or at official immigration counters/embassies to avoid scams and fraudulent services that may overcharge or provide invalid visas.

Stay Updated: Visa regulations and health requirements can change. It is highly recommended to check the latest information from the official Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation website or consult the nearest Cambodian embassy or consulate before your trip.

By carefully considering these requirements, both Burundian citizens and Cameroonian citizens can confidently prepare for and enjoy their enriching journey into the captivating land of Cambodia.