In a significant move to boost tourism recovery, Cambodia has unveiled a landmark visa exemption pilot program exclusively for Chinese nationals. The Cambodian Ministry of Tourism announced on December 3 that Chinese tourists will enjoy visa-free entry from June 15 to October 15 next year.
Under the newly approved initiative, Chinese travelers arriving directly from China can stay in Cambodia for up to 14 days without requiring pre-arrival visa applications or paying associated fees. The program permits multiple entries throughout the four-month trial period, though travelers must complete electronic arrival documentation upon entry.
The strategic decision reflects Cambodia’s commitment to revitalizing its tourism sector, which saw approximately 4.8 million international visitors in the first ten months of 2025. Chinese tourists constituted about one million of these arrivals, signaling strong recovery momentum despite not yet reaching pre-pandemic levels. In 2019, Cambodia welcomed 2.3 million Chinese visitors, representing nearly one-third of all international tourist arrivals.
Tourism Minister Huot Hak emphasized the broader economic implications, noting on November 27 that increasing Chinese tourism not only stimulates the hospitality industry but also generates cross-sector investment opportunities. The current visa options for Chinese visitors—including visa-on-arrival, e-visa, and embassy-issued visas—will remain available alongside this new exemption program.
This targeted approach demonstrates Cambodia’s recognition of China’s critical role in its tourism economy and aligns with regional trends of facilitating easier travel for high-volume tourist markets.