Business Visa (EB) for Cambodia
The Business Visa (also called EB Visa or "E-class Ordinary Visa") is required for anyone who wants to work legally in Cambodia. Unlike tourist visas, business visas can be extended indefinitely and allow you to apply for a work permit.
Getting a Business Visa
Option 1: At Entry Point
You can obtain an EB visa at airports and land borders just like a tourist visa.
Cost: $35 USD (cash only)
Requirements:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- One passport-sized photo (4x6 cm)
- State your purpose as "business" when asked
Duration: 30 days initially (extendable)
Option 2: e-Visa
The e-Visa system also offers business visas.
Cost: $42 USD
Process: Same as tourist e-Visa at evisa.gov.kh
Option 3: Embassy Application
Apply at a Cambodian embassy before traveling for a longer initial validity.
Business Visa Extensions
The EB visa can be extended for:
- 1 month: ~$45 USD
- 3 months: ~$75 USD
- 6 months: ~$155 USD
- 12 months: ~$285 USD
Where to extend: Immigration Department, Phnom Penh, or through a visa agent.
Important: Multi-entry extensions allow you to leave and re-enter Cambodia without losing your visa status.
Annual Renewal
EB visas need annual renewal. Most expats renew for 12 months at a time.
Tips for renewal:
- Start the process 2-3 weeks before expiry
- Keep copies of your previous visa extensions
- Use the same agent if you've had good service
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Working on a Tourist Visa This is illegal. You need an EB visa to be eligible for a work permit. Authorities conduct workplace inspections.
Letting Your Visa Lapse Overstaying results in $10/day fines. Even if your work permit is valid, an expired visa means you're overstaying.
Visa Runs If you need to switch from a tourist visa to EB, you must exit Cambodia and re-enter. Many people do a "visa run" to Vietnam or Thailand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch from Tourist to Business Visa?
No, you cannot convert a tourist visa to an EB visa inside Cambodia. You must exit and re-enter on an EB visa.
Do I need a work permit for remote work?
If you're being paid by a foreign company and not working for Cambodian clients, it's a gray area. Many digital nomads operate this way on tourist visas, but it's not officially legal. An EB visa is the safer option for long-term stays.
Can my employer sponsor my visa?
No, employers cannot directly "sponsor" your visa. You obtain and maintain your EB visa independently. However, they can assist with the separate work permit process.
How long can I stay on an EB visa?
Indefinitely, as long as you keep renewing. Many expats have lived in Cambodia for years on continuously renewed EB visas.
Next Steps
Once you have your EB visa, you'll need a Work Permit to be legally employed in Cambodia.