Cambodia Orders Foreign Nationals to Leave Country Before May 31

The Cambodian government has directed all foreign nationals currently residing in the country to leave on or before May 31, 2026, warning that strict penalties will be imposed on anyone found remaining after the deadline.

The directive was contained in an official notice issued by the Director-General of Cambodia’s General Department of Immigration, Lt. Gen. Som Sopheak, and approved by the Secretary of State of the Cambodian Ministry of Interior, Gen. Sar Sokha.

According to the notice, the waiver previously granted to African nationals will officially expire on May 31, 2026.

“All foreign nationals whose fines have been cleared must leave Cambodia on or before the 31st of May 2026,” the statement read.

The government warned that any foreign national found entering or remaining in Cambodia from June 1, 2026, would face immediate arrest either at airports or other locations across the country.

Authorities stated that offenders would serve a two-year jail term and pay an $8,000 penalty before being allowed to leave the country.

The notice further revealed that Cambodian police would begin operations to arrest foreigners staying illegally or hiding within the country from June 1, handing them over to immigration authorities for prosecution.

“All concerned are hereby informed to strictly comply with this notice. The Royal Government of Cambodia will not tolerate any violation of our immigration laws,” the circular added.

The Cambodian government also appealed for full cooperation from all affected individuals.