May 29 (THEWILL) — The General Department of Immigration under the Cambodian Ministry of Interior has issued a sweeping directive ordering all African nationals, including citizens of Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Cameroon, Uganda and other countries, to leave the country on or before May 31, 2026
The directive was contained in a circular issued by the Director-General of the General Department of Immigration, Lt. Gen. Som Sopheak, and approved by the Secretary of State at the Cambodian Ministry of Interior, Gen. Sar Sokha.
According to the circular, the waiver previously granted to African nationals will officially expire on May 31, 2026, after which strict enforcement actions will commence against any foreign nationals found in the country without compliance clearance.
“All foreign nationals whose fines have been cleared must leave Cambodia on or before 31st of May 2026,” the government stated.
The circular further warned that any foreign national who enters, remains, or is found within Cambodia from June 1, 2026, will face immediate arrest at airports or any location across the country.
It added that offenders would be subjected to a two-year jail term and a monetary penalty of $8,000 (Eight Thousand US Dollars) before being permitted to exit the country.
“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 and shall: serve a jail term of 2 (two) years; and pay a penalty of $8,000 before being allowed to leave Cambodia,” the statement read.
The Cambodian authorities further disclosed that security agencies will begin nationwide arrests of foreigners found in hideouts or in violation of the order from June 1, 2026, with arrested individuals to be handed over to immigration officials for prosecution under applicable laws.
“All concerned are hereby informed to strictly comply with this notice. The Royal Government of Cambodia will not tolerate any violation of our immigration laws. Your cooperation is highly appreciated,” the circular added.
The development has sparked concerns among affected foreign communities, particularly African nationals residing in Cambodia for business, education, and employment, many of whom now face uncertainty ahead of the enforcement deadline.
As of press time, there has been no additional public clarification on whether exemptions or diplomatic considerations will apply to any category of affected foreign nationals.
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