Unlocking the Angkor Kingdom: Navigating Cambodia Visa for Namibian Citizens and Cambodia Visa for Nepali Citizens

The Kingdom of Cambodia, a nation steeped in ancient history and blessed with captivating natural beauty, continues to beckon travelers from across the globe.¹ From the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor Wat to the vibrant culture of Phnom Penh and the serene coastal areas, Cambodia offers a truly unique Southeast Asian experience.² For individuals planning a trip from Africa or South Asia, specifically from Namibia or Nepal, understanding the specific visa requirements is a crucial first step. This article provides a detailed guide to obtaining a Cambodia visa for Namibian citizens and a Cambodia visa for Nepali citizens, highlighting the various application methods and necessary documentation.

Navigating Entry: Cambodia Visa for Namibian Citizens

For citizens of Namibia, obtaining a visa for Cambodia is a necessary step, as they are not eligible for visa-free entry.³ However, the Cambodian government provides convenient options through both the electronic visa (eVisa) system and a visa on arrival, offering flexibility for Namibian travelers.

Key Visa Options for Cambodia Visa for Namibian Citizens:

1. Electronic Visa (eVisa): This is the most recommended and convenient method for obtaining a Cambodia visa for Namibian citizens. The application is processed entirely online through the official Cambodian eVisa portal (evisa.gov.kh).⁴

   • Purpose: The eVisa is typically issued for tourism (Visa T) or business (Visa E) purposes.⁵ It allows for a single entry into Cambodia.
   • Duration of Stay: The eVisa permits a maximum continuous stay of 30 days from your date of entry into Cambodia.
   • Validity: The eVisa is valid for 3 months (90 days) from the date of issue, meaning you must enter Cambodia within this 90-day period.
   • Application Process:
     • Visit the official eVisa website (evisa.gov.kh).⁶
     • Complete the online application form with accurate personal details, passport information, and travel itinerary.
     • Upload scanned copies of the required documents, including your passport bio-page (passport must be valid for at least 6 months from arrival) and a recent passport-sized digital photograph (meeting specific requirements for size, background, and clarity).
     • Pay the visa fee (currently USD 30 for a Tourist eVisa, USD 35 for a Business eVisa, plus a processing fee, usually USD 6) securely online using a credit or debit card.
     • Once approved (typically within 1 to 3 business days), the eVisa certificate will be sent to your email.⁷ You must print this certificate and present it upon arrival in Cambodia.
   • Entry Points: The eVisa is valid for entry at specific international airports (Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville) and certain major land border crossings (e.g., Poi Pet, Bavet, Cham Yeam, Trapeang Kriel).⁸ It is crucial to confirm that your chosen entry point supports the eVisa system.

2. Visa on Arrival: Namibian citizens are also eligible for a visa on arrival at Cambodia's international airports (Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville) and major land border crossings.⁹

   • Purpose: Typically for tourism or short business visits.
   • Duration of Stay: Allows for a maximum stay of 30 days.
   • Process: Upon arrival, travelers will need to fill out a visa application form, provide one recent passport-sized photograph, present a passport valid for at least six months, and pay the visa fee (currently USD 30 for a Tourist Visa, USD 35 for Business, payable in cash, preferably USD). While convenient for spontaneous trips, obtaining an eVisa in advance can help avoid queues and streamline the entry process at immigration, especially during peak travel times.¹⁰

3. Embassy/Consulate Application: For specific travel needs not covered by the eVisa or visa on arrival (e.g., specific long-term visa categories), Namibian citizens would need to apply for a traditional visa at a Cambodian embassy or consulate. As there is no Cambodian diplomatic mission in Namibia, applicants would typically need to apply at the nearest embassy, possibly in a neighboring country or via mail. This process usually involves submitting a physical application form, original passport, photos, and other supporting documents, often requiring a longer processing time.

Commonly Required Documents for Cambodia Visa for Namibian Citizens:

• Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months from your intended arrival date in Cambodia, with at least one blank page.¹¹
• Recent Passport-Sized Photograph: A digital photo adhering to Cambodian visa photo requirements (colored, clear, white background).¹² Two physical photos are usually required for Visa on Arrival.
• Confirmed Return/Onward Ticket: Proof of your departure from Cambodia.
• Proof of Accommodation: Hotel booking confirmation or an invitation letter from a host in Cambodia.
• Proof of Sufficient Funds: While not always explicitly listed for eVisa, it's generally good practice to be able to demonstrate financial means to cover your stay (e.g., recent bank statements).
• E-Arrival Card: As of January 2025, all visitors flying to Cambodia are required to submit a Cambodia E-Arrival Card within seven days before their arrival.¹³ This is a separate mandatory immigration document, not a visa.
• Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate: If arriving from or transiting through a country with a risk of Yellow Fever transmission, a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate may be required by Cambodian health authorities.¹⁴

Entry Requirements: Cambodia Visa for Nepali Citizens

For citizens of Nepal, obtaining a Cambodia visa for Nepali citizens is also made convenient through both the eVisa system and visa on arrival. Nepali nationals are not eligible for visa-free entry.

Key Visa Options for Cambodia Visa for Nepali Citizens:

1. Electronic Visa (eVisa): This is a highly recommended and efficient method for obtaining a Cambodia visa for Nepali citizens.¹⁵ The application is completed online via the official Cambodian eVisa portal (evisa.gov.kh).

   • Purpose: The eVisa is generally available for tourism (Visa T) and business (Visa E) purposes. It allows for a single entry.
   • Duration of Stay: The eVisa permits a maximum stay of 30 days from your date of entry.¹⁶
   • Validity: The eVisa is valid for 3 months (90 days) from the date of issue, meaning you must enter Cambodia within this 90-day period.
   • Application Process:
     • Access the official eVisa website (evisa.gov.kh).¹⁷
     • Fill out the online application form with accurate personal and passport details.
     • Upload a clear scanned copy of your passport's bio-data page (passport must be valid for at least 6 months from arrival) and a recent digital passport-sized photo.¹⁸
     • Pay the non-refundable visa fee (USD 30 for Tourist, USD 35 for Business, plus processing fees, usually USD 6) securely online using a credit or debit card.¹⁹
     • Upon approval (typically within 1 to 3 business days, though some sources mention up to 3-5 business days), print the eVisa certificate received via email and present it to immigration upon arrival in Cambodia.
   • Entry Points: The eVisa is accepted at the same international airports (Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville) and designated land border crossings as mentioned for Namibian citizens.²⁰

2. Visa on Arrival: Nepali citizens are also eligible for a visa on arrival at Cambodia's international airports and major land border checkpoints.

   • Purpose: Typically for tourism or short business visits.
   • Duration of Stay: Allows for a maximum stay of 30 days.
   • Process: Travelers will need to complete a visa application form provided at the entry point, submit one passport-sized photograph, present a passport valid for at least six months, and pay the visa fee (USD 30 for Tourist, USD 35 for Business, payable in cash, preferably USD). This can be a convenient option for spontaneous trips, but securing an eVisa in advance is often preferred to save time and ensure a smoother arrival process.

3. Embassy/Consulate Application: For specific travel needs not covered by the eVisa or visa on arrival (e.g., long-term visas), Nepali citizens would need to apply for a traditional visa at a Cambodian embassy or consulate. The Cambodian Embassy in New Delhi, India, would likely be the nearest diplomatic mission for Nepali citizens.

Commonly Required Documents for Cambodia Visa for Nepali Citizens:

• Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended arrival date in Cambodia, with at least one blank page.²¹
• Recent Passport-Sized Photograph: A digital photo meeting Cambodian visa photo requirements.²² Two physical photos are generally needed for Visa on Arrival.
• Confirmed Return/Onward Ticket: Proof of your planned departure from Cambodia.
• Proof of Accommodation: Hotel booking confirmation or an invitation letter from a host in Cambodia.
• Proof of Sufficient Funds: It is advisable to have evidence of adequate financial resources to cover your stay.
• E-Arrival Card: All travelers entering Cambodia by air are required to submit an E-Arrival Card within seven days before arrival.

General Considerations for All Travelers to Cambodia:

• Accuracy and Completeness: Always ensure that all information provided in your visa application is accurate and matches your passport exactly. Any discrepancies can lead to delays or rejection.²³
• Apply in Advance: While eVisa processing is relatively quick, it's prudent to apply at least 1-2 weeks before your intended travel date to account for any unforeseen issues or requests for additional information.
• Official Channels: Always use the official Cambodian eVisa website (evisa.gov.kh) for applications. Beware of unofficial third-party websites that may charge inflated fees or provide inaccurate information.
• Purpose of Visit: Ensure you apply for the correct visa type that aligns with your reason for travel. Engaging in work activities on a tourist or business visa is strictly prohibited.
• Passport Validity: The "six months validity" rule is critical and strictly enforced.
• E-Arrival Card: Remember to complete the mandatory E-Arrival Card if entering Cambodia by air, even if you are using an eVisa or planning for a visa on arrival.

By understanding these clear requirements and options, obtaining a Cambodia visa for Namibian citizens and a Cambodia visa for Nepali citizens becomes a manageable process, paving the way for an unforgettable journey through the historical wonders and vibrant culture of the Kingdom of Cambodia.