Cambodia Orders African Nationals to Leave Before June 1
The Royal Government of Cambodia has issued a stern immigration directive ordering African nationals benefiting from an immigration waiver programme to leave the country before the end of May 2026 or face arrest, imprisonment, and heavy financial penalties.
In an official notice released by Cambodia’s General Department of Immigration under the Ministry of Interior, the government stated that the waiver previously granted to African nationals, including citizens of Ghana, Kenya, Cameroon, Uganda and others, would officially expire on 31 May 2026.
The notice, signed by the Director General of the General Department of Immigration, Lt. Gen. Som Sopheak, and approved by Gen. Sar Sokha, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Interior, warned that all affected foreign nationals must comply strictly with the directive.
According to the statement, all foreigners whose immigration fines have already been cleared are required to leave Cambodia on or before 31 May 2026.
The Cambodian authorities further declared that any foreign national found entering, remaining, or residing in the country from 1 June 2026 would face immediate arrest either at airports or at any location within the country.
The notice outlined severe penalties for violators, including a jail term of two years and a financial penalty of 8,000 US dollars before being permitted to leave Cambodia.
In addition, Cambodian police authorities announced plans to begin a nationwide crackdown on immigration offenders from 1 June 2026.
The notice specifically stated that foreigners found hiding or overstaying in the country would be arrested and handed over to immigration authorities for legal action.
“The Royal Government of Cambodia will not tolerate any violation of our immigration laws,” the notice stated, while urging all concerned individuals to cooperate fully with the authorities.
The immigration department also provided contact details for affected persons seeking further clarification or assistance through its headquarters in Phnom Penh.
The development is expected to generate concern among African communities residing in Cambodia, particularly among those with unresolved immigration issues or overstayed visas.
