Cambodia Orders African Nationals To Leave Or Risk Jail And $8,000 Fine

The Royal Government of Cambodia has announced a new immigration order directing African nationals living in the country to leave by May 31, 2026, or face arrest and strict penalties.

The directive was released by the General Department of Immigration under the Ministry of Interior in a notice given to African residents from countries such as Ghana, Kenya, Cameroon, Uganda, and others.

According to the notice, a temporary waiver that allowed certain foreign nationals to stay in Cambodia will end on the stated date.

Authorities said anyone who has settled outstanding fines must exit the country before the deadline, warning that staying beyond May 31, 2026, would lead to serious consequences.

They stated that any foreigner found in the country from June 1, 2026, could be arrested immediately, whether at the airport or elsewhere.

The government further explained that those affected could face up to two years in prison and a fine of $8,000 before being allowed to leave.

The notice said that “all foreign nationals whose fines have been cleared must leave Cambodia on or before 31st of May 2026.”

 “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.

“Offenders shall serve a jail term of 2 (two) years; and pay a penalty of $8,000 (Eight Thousand US Dollars) before being allowed to leave Cambodia.”

Authorities also said enforcement would not stop at the border, adding that police would begin arresting undocumented foreigners across the country once the deadline passes.

“The Cambodia Police will start arresting any foreigner at any hideout in Cambodia from 1st of June 2026 for overstay and will hand over to the immigration authorities for legal action,” it said.

The notice urged all affected individuals to comply fully, stressing that immigration laws will be strictly enforced without exception.

“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,” it added.

The notice was signed by Lt. Gen. Som Sopheak, head of the General Department of Immigration, and approved by Gen. Sar Sokha, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Interior.

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