Expat Guide to Cambodia
Complete guide to relocating and building a life in Cambodia. From visas to housing, healthcare to daily logistics—everything 100,000+ expats have learned about making the move.
Overview
Cambodia has attracted a growing expat community over the past two decades. What started as primarily NGO workers and adventurous entrepreneurs has evolved into a diverse community including retirees, digital nomads, teachers, and business owners.
The country offers an attractive combination: low cost of living, easy long-term visa, warm weather year-round, and a welcoming local culture. It's less developed than Thailand but offers a unique experience for those willing to embrace some challenges.
Is Cambodia Right for You?
Cambodia is best suited for expats who:
- ✓ Value low cost of living over infrastructure
- ✓ Appreciate a frontier/developing environment
- ✓ Can handle heat and basic services
- ✓ Want easy, long-term visa options
Essential Resources for Expats
Before You Move
Preparation makes the transition smoother. Here's a checklist of tasks to complete before relocating:
Initial Budget
Plan for $3,000-5,000 in startup costs:
- First month rent + deposit: $600-1,600
- Visa + 12-month extension: $320-350
- Basic furnishings (if needed): $200-500
- Emergency fund: $1,000-2,000
For a detailed breakdown of monthly expenses, see our Cost of Living Guide and Trip Cost Calculator.
Visa & Residency
Cambodia has one of the easiest long-term visa systems in Southeast Asia:
- Business Visa (E-visa): Get on arrival for $35
- 12-Month Extension: Apply through travel agent, $285-320
- Annual Renewal: Renew every year, indefinitely
No complex requirements, no sponsorship needed, no exit required. The Business Visa is suitable for retirees, remote workers, and anyone not working locally.
Work Permit Requirement
If you plan to work for a Cambodian company or open a business, you'll need a Work Permit in addition to the Business Visa. Your employer typically handles this. See our Work Permit Guide for 2026 requirements.
Housing
Finding housing is straightforward. Most expats rent apartments or houses. Leases are typically 6-12 months with 1-2 months deposit.
Popular Neighborhoods
| Neighborhood | City | Rent Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| BKK1 (Boeung Keng Kang) | Phnom Penh | $500-1,500 | Most popular expat area with cafes, restaurants, and services |
| Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market) | Phnom Penh | $300-800 | Young expats, good value, vibrant market area |
| Riverside | Phnom Penh | $400-1,000 | Central location along the Mekong, touristy but convenient |
| Wat Bo | Siem Reap | $250-600 | Quiet residential area popular with long-term expats |
| Old Market | Siem Reap | $300-700 | Walking distance to everything, above bars can be noisy |
Finding Housing
- Facebook Groups: "Apartments for Rent in Phnom Penh"
- Websites: Khmer24.com, CamboHomes.com
- Agents: Many agents in expat areas
- Walk around: "For Rent" signs are common
Interested in buying? Foreigners can own condos above ground floor. See our Condo Investment Guide for details on the 200+ developments available.
Pro Tip
Stay in an Airbnb or hotel for 2-4 weeks while you search. This lets you explore neighborhoods and negotiate in person. Never rent sight unseen.
Healthcare
Healthcare quality varies significantly. Private hospitals and clinics in Phnom Penh offer good care for common issues. Serious conditions often require medical evacuation to Bangkok or Singapore.
Healthcare Options
- Private Hospitals: Royal Phnom Penh, Sunrise Japan Hospital
- International Clinics: Good for routine care and minor issues
- Local Pharmacies: Many medications available without prescription
- Medical Evacuation: Bangkok is 1 hour flight for serious cases
Health Insurance Essential
International health insurance is strongly recommended. Include medical evacuation coverage. Plans like Cigna Global, Allianz, or IMG offer good coverage for expats. See our Health & Vaccines Guide.
Banking & Finance
Cambodia uses USD as its primary currency, making finances simpler for Western expats.
Banking Options
- Local Banks: ABA Bank (expat-friendly), ACLEDA, Canadia
- Account Opening: Passport and visa usually sufficient
- USD Accounts: Standard, ATMs dispense USD
- International Transfers: Wise, Remitly, bank transfers
Day-to-Day Finance
- Cash is king—always carry USD
- Credit cards accepted at larger businesses
- Mobile payment apps growing (Wing, ABA Pay)
- ATMs charge $4-5 per withdrawal
Schools & Education
Phnom Penh has several international schools following British, American, or French curricula. Siem Reap has fewer options.
International Schools (Phnom Penh)
- International School of Phnom Penh (ISPP): American curriculum
- Northbridge International School: IB curriculum
- Lycée Français René Descartes: French curriculum
- iCAN British International School: British curriculum
Fees range from $5,000-20,000/year depending on the school and grade level.
Daily Life
Getting Around
- Tuk-tuks: Main transport, negotiate or use apps
- Motorbike: Many expats ride, no license enforced
- Grab/PassApp: Ride-hailing apps available
- Car rental: With driver is common and affordable
Shopping & Groceries
- Supermarkets: Aeon, Lucky, Makro (Western products)
- Local Markets: Fresh produce, much cheaper
- Online Shopping: Growing but limited
Internet & Utilities
- Fiber internet: $25-50/month for 50-100 Mbps
- Mobile data: $10-15/month unlimited
- Electricity: $0.20-0.25/kWh (can add up with AC)
- Water: $10-20/month
Popular Expat Destinations
Most expats settle in one of these cities. Each has its own character and community:
Explore all destinations to find your ideal home base.
Need Legal Help with This?
Our licensed Cambodian law firm partners offer free initial consultations on visas, property, company registration, and residency.
Explore Legal Services →Challenges to Expect
Cambodia isn't for everyone. Be prepared for:
- Heat: Hot and humid year-round, AC is essential
- Infrastructure: Power cuts, flooding, poor roads
- Bureaucracy: Paperwork can be slow and frustrating
- Noise & Pollution: Cities can be loud and dusty
- Limited Healthcare: Serious issues require evacuation
- Cultural Differences: Patience required
Trial Period Recommended
Consider a 1-3 month trial before committing. Rent a furnished apartment, experience daily life, and see if Cambodia fits before making permanent plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
More Resources for Expats
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