Cambodia announces deadline for African nationals, threatens jail time for overstays

Cambodia Announces Deadline for African Nationals, Threatens Jail Time for The Royal Government of Cambodia, through the General Department of Immigration, has issued a formal notice declaring that immigration waivers for all African nationals currently in the Kingdom will expire on May 31, 2026.

The directive, released by the Ministry of Interior, applies to citizens of Ghana, Kenya, Cameroon, Uganda, and all other African nations. Authorities have made it clear that no further extensions will be granted beyond that date.

According to the official notice, all foreign nationals who have had outstanding fines cleared must depart Cambodian territory on or before the May 31 deadline.

Officials are warning of severe consequences for anyone found in violation of the order. Starting June 1, 2026, any African national who enters, remains in, or is discovered within Cambodia will face immediate arrest at airports or any other location.

The government has stipulated that violators will be required to serve a two-year jail term and pay a penalty of $8,000 (eight thousand US dollars) before being permitted to leave the country.

In a further escalation, the Cambodian National Police have been instructed to begin active operations from June 1, 2026, to locate and arrest any foreign national hiding in Cambodia for overstaying their visa. Those arrested will be handed over to immigration authorities for immediate legal proceedings.

The Royal Government concluded its statement with a firm warning that it “will not tolerate any violation of our immigration laws,” urging all concerned individuals to strictly comply with the notice.