🛂 Visa Options for Foreign Business Owners in Cambodia
If you’re a foreign investor or entrepreneur starting a business in Cambodia, understanding the work permit and visa requirements is essential. Whether you own a private limited company, operate in a Special Economic Zone (SEZ), or are launching a consultancy, you must comply with Cambodia’s labor and immigration regulations. This 2025 guide breaks down the different visa types, work permit process, and compliance steps for foreign business owners.
As of 2025, most foreign business owners enter Cambodia using an Ordinary Visa (E-Class) and then apply for extensions depending on their status.
🔹 Common Visa Types:
| Visa Type | Description | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| E-Class (Ordinary Visa) | Initial entry visa for business/work | 30 days |
| EB Extension | For business owners, freelancers, and investors | 6–12 months |
| EG Extension | For job seekers or first-time business applicants | 1–6 months |
| ER Extension | For retirees (not for business use) | 12 months |
| ES Extension | For students | 6–12 months |
✅ Most business owners apply for the EB extension after entering on an E-Class visa.
🧾 Work Permit Requirements for Foreign Company Owners
Owning a business doesn’t exempt you from needing a work permit if you are actively managing or working within the company.
✅ You’ll Need:
- Valid passport with business visa (EB extension)
Company registration documents (MoC certificate, tax patent, etc.)
Company appointment letter (showing your director/manager role)
Work permit application form (via Ministry of Labor system)
Health check certificate (from approved clinic)
Passport-size photos (4x6cm)
Payment of work permit fee
🔗 Related: Company Registration in Cambodia – Cost, Timeline, and Documents
💵 Work Permit Costs (2025 Estimate)
| Item | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| Work permit application (1 year) | ~$100–$150 |
| Medical check (one-time) | ~$20–$35 |
| Online processing / service fee (optional) | ~$20–$50 |
📝 The Ministry of Labor may audit companies and impose fines for non-compliance. Always register your work permit if you’re active in your own business.
📍 Where to Apply
You can apply online at the Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training portal:
🌐 https://fwcms.mlvt.gov.kh
You’ll also need to report your presence at your local Sangkat office and renew annually.
⚖️ Legal Risks of Not Having a Work Permit
Foreigners actively involved in business without a valid work permit may face:
Fines ($125–$900+)
Denial of visa renewals
Company inspection or suspension
Deportation in serious cases
💡 Even if you are the sole owner and not on payroll, you still need a permit if you’re working in Cambodia.
🧠 FAQs
Q: I’m just an investor, not working in the company. Do I still need a permit?
👉 If you don’t actively manage or work, and you’re only attending meetings or collecting dividends, no permit is required. But documentation must reflect this.
Q: Can I apply for a visa extension and work permit before company registration is complete?
👉 You must complete company registration first to apply under business status.
Q: How do I get a Cambodian residence card?
👉 Cambodia does not yet offer a permanent residence card, but long-term EB visa extensions are renewable indefinitely.
📚 Related Business Setup Guides
📧 Need Help Applying?
We help business owners and investors secure EB visas, work permits, and labor compliance services across Cambodia.
