The General Department of Immigration in Cambodia has issued an official notice ordering all African nationals, including citizens of Ghana, Kenya, Cameroon, and Uganda, to leave the country by May 31, 2026, or face arrest and prosecution under immigration laws.
“The waiver granted to you will officially end on the 31st of May 2026,” the notice stated, referring to foreign nationals who had previously benefited from immigration concessions.
According to the directive, “All foreign nationals whose fines have been cleared must leave Cambodia on or before the 31st of May 2026.”
The notice further warned that anyone who remains in the country beyond the deadline will face strict penalties.
“Any foreign national who enters, remains, or is found in Cambodia from 1st of June 2026 will be arrested at the airport or at any location,” it said, adding that offenders would be required to serve “a jail term of 2 (two) years” and pay a fine of “$8,000 (Eight Thousand US Dollars)” before removal.
It also indicated that enforcement operations would intensify after the deadline, stating: “The Cambodia Police will start arresting any foreigner at any hideout in Cambodia from 1st of June 2026 for overstaying and will hand over to the immigration authorities for legal action.”
Authorities have said that the directive is part of efforts to enforce immigration compliance.
However, it is likely to raise concern among affected foreign communities currently living and working in the country.
