Cambodia Visa Requirements for English Teachers
Everything you need to know about Tourist, E-class, and work permit visas.
Visa Types at a Glance
There are three main visa options for teachers entering Cambodia.
| Visa Type | Cost | Duration | Extendable | Work Permit | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa (T-class) | $30 | 30 days | Once (30 days) | No | Initial arrival, short visits |
| Ordinary Visa (E-class) | $35 | 30 days | 1, 3, 6, or 12 months | Yes | Teaching, working, long-term stay |
| e-Visa (Tourist) | $36 | 30 days | Once (30 days) | No | Online application before arrival |
The Recommended Path for Teachers
Most teachers follow this exact path. It's the simplest, cheapest, and most reliable way to get working legally in Cambodia.
- Apply for a Tourist Visa (T-class) — either on arrival at Phnom Penh or Siem Reap airport ($30, cash), or online as an e-Visa ($36). This gives you 30 days.
- Job hunt during your first 2-3 weeks — use Facebook groups, walk-ins, and job boards. Most schools in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap hire year-round.
- Accept a position and convert to E-class — your school handles most of the paperwork. The E-class visa costs $35 and is required before applying for a work permit.
- Get your work permit— costs $100-$300. Your school usually arranges this through an agent. You'll need passport photos and a copy of your TEFL certificate.
- Extend your E-class visa — choose 1, 3, 6, or 12 month extensions. The 12-month extension is the best value at around $285.
Pro Tip
Bring extra passport photos (at least 6). You'll need them for visa applications, work permits, and bank accounts. Get them taken at home — they're cheaper and higher quality.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work on a Tourist Visa in Cambodia?
Technically no. To work legally, you need an E-class (Ordinary) visa and a work permit. Many teachers arrive on a Tourist Visa and convert to E-class once they have a job offer.
How much does a work permit cost in Cambodia?
A work permit costs approximately $100 to $300 depending on the employer and processing method. Many schools include this in their hiring package and handle the paperwork for you.
Can I do visa runs to reset my Tourist Visa?
While this used to be common, Cambodia has tightened enforcement. Repeated visa runs can result in denial of entry. If you plan to stay long-term, get an E-class visa properly.
What happens if I overstay my visa?
You'll be fined $10 per day of overstay. In extreme cases, you may face deportation and a ban from re-entering. Always keep track of your visa expiry date.
Do I need a visa to visit from the UK or USA?
Yes. UK, US, and most other nationalities need a visa to enter Cambodia. You can get a Visa on Arrival at the airport or apply for an e-Visa online before departure.
What's next?
Now that you understand visas, figure out your budget.