Working in Cambodia
From teaching English to tech startups, Cambodia offers diverse employment opportunities for foreigners. Learn about work permits, job sectors, and how to work legally.
Working Overview
Cambodia's economy has been growing rapidly, creating opportunities for foreigners in various sectors. However, working legally requires a work permit—something many overlook until problems arise.
The most common employment paths for expats include teaching English, NGO work, hospitality management, and increasingly, tech and startup roles. Entrepreneurs also find Cambodia attractive due to relatively low setup costs and growing markets.
Legal Requirement
Working without a permit is illegal. Enforcement has increased in recent years. Penalties include fines, deportation, and potential bans on re-entry. Your employer is responsible for obtaining your work permit.
Work Permits
All foreigners must have a work permit and employment card to work legally in Cambodia. The process is straightforward when working with a legitimate employer.
The Process
Get Business Visa
Apply for E-class visa at embassy or on arrival
Find Employment
Secure a job offer from a registered company
Employer Applies
Company submits work permit application to MLVT
Medical Check
Complete required health examination
Receive Documents
Work permit and employment card issued (1-2 months)
Costs & Timeline
- Work permit fee: ~$100/year
- Employment card: ~$100/year
- Processing time: 1-2 months
- Medical exam: ~$50
Detailed Guide
For comprehensive work permit information including 2026 MLVT requirements, see our dedicated Work Permits Guide.
Job Sectors for Expats
Different sectors offer varying levels of opportunity and compensation:
| Sector | Availability | Salary Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| NGOs & Development | High | $1,500-5,000 | Many international organizations based in PP |
| English Teaching | High | $1,000-2,500 | Always in demand, TEFL helpful |
| International Schools | Medium | $2,000-4,000 | Teaching license required |
| Hospitality/Tourism | Medium | $800-2,500 | Hotels, tour companies, restaurants |
| Finance/Banking | Low | $2,000-6,000 | Growing sector, experience required |
| Tech/Startups | Medium | $1,500-5,000 | Growing scene, especially fintech |
| Real Estate | Medium | $1,000-3,000+ | Commission-based opportunities |
Where to Find Jobs
- CamHR: Largest local job board
- Bong Thom: Popular Khmer/English job site
- LinkedIn: Growing in use, especially for senior roles
- Facebook Groups: "Jobs in Cambodia", sector-specific groups
- Networking: Many positions filled through connections
Salaries
Salaries vary significantly between local hires and expat packages. Expats typically earn 2-4x local salaries for equivalent positions.
| Role | Local Salary | Expat Package |
|---|---|---|
| English Teacher (Language School) | $300-500 | $1,000-2,000 |
| Marketing Manager | $400-800 | $1,500-3,000 |
| Software Developer | $500-1,200 | $2,000-4,000 |
| Hotel Manager | $400-800 | $1,500-3,000 |
| NGO Program Manager | $600-1,200 | $2,000-5,000 |
| Senior Executive | $1,000-2,500 | $3,000-10,000 |
Note: Expat packages often include housing allowance, flights, health insurance, and other benefits not reflected in base salary figures.
Teaching English
Teaching is the most accessible job for newcomers. Demand is high, and positions are available year-round.
Types of Teaching Jobs
- Language Centers: $10-20/hour, flexible schedules
- Private Schools: $1,000-2,000/month, full-time
- International Schools: $2,000-4,000/month, teaching license required
- Private Tutoring: $15-30/hour, self-marketed
- Online Teaching: Work from home, various platforms
Requirements
- Minimum: Bachelor's degree (any field) + TEFL certificate
- Preferred: Teaching experience, education degree
- International schools: Teaching license from home country
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 →Starting a Business
Cambodia attracts entrepreneurs with relatively low setup costs and growing markets. However, navigating regulations requires professional help.
Business Structures
- Sole proprietorship: Requires Khmer partner (risky)
- Limited company: Can be 100% foreign-owned in certain sectors
- Representative office: For foreign companies testing the market
- Branch office: Extension of foreign parent company
Costs & Timeline
- Company registration: $500-2,000 (legal fees)
- Minimum capital: $1,000 (on paper)
- Timeline: 1-3 months
- Annual compliance: $500-1,500 (accounting, taxes)
Get Legal Help
Always use a reputable legal firm. Business law in Cambodia can be complex, and mistakes are costly to fix. Avoid "cheap" registration services that cut corners.
Remote Work
Cambodia has become popular with digital nomads and remote workers, though the legal situation is somewhat gray.
The Reality
Many digital nomads work remotely on tourist visas, which is technically not legal but widely tolerated if you're not working for Cambodian clients or companies. The Business Visa (E-class) provides more legitimacy, even without a formal work permit.
Coworking & Infrastructure
- Internet: Fiber available in cities, 50-100 Mbps common
- Coworking: $5-15/day, multiple options in PP and Siem Reap
- Cafes: Many nomad-friendly with good WiFi
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Guides
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