Getting your Cambodia eVisa approved on the first try depends on having the right documents in the correct format. This guide details every requirement, from passport validity rules to photo specifications, so your application is not delayed by avoidable mistakes.
Passport Requirements
Your passport is the most critical document in your eVisa application. Cambodia has strict rules about passport validity and condition.
Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of entry into Cambodia. For example, if you plan to arrive on September 1, 2026, your passport must not expire before March 1, 2027. Applications with insufficient validity are automatically rejected.
Condition: Your passport must be in good physical condition. Damaged passports – those with torn pages, water damage, or illegible text – may be rejected both at the eVisa application stage and at the border.
Blank pages: You need at least one blank page in your passport for the entry and exit stamps. If your passport is nearly full, consider renewing it before applying.
Name matching: The name on your eVisa application must match your passport exactly. Include middle names if they appear on your passport. Do not use nicknames or abbreviations.
Photo Specifications
The passport photo you upload with your eVisa application must meet specific requirements. Non-compliant photos are the single most common reason for application delays.
Size and format:
- Dimensions: 4 cm x 6 cm (passport photo standard)
- File format: JPEG or PNG
- File size: under 1 MB
- Resolution: at least 600 x 400 pixels
Background and lighting:
- Plain white background
- Even lighting with no harsh shadows
- No filters or digital alterations
Subject requirements:
- Face clearly visible, looking directly at the camera
- Neutral facial expression (smiling is acceptable)
- Both eyes open and visible
- No hats, sunglasses, or head coverings (religious head coverings are permitted if they do not obscure the face)
- No headphones or other accessories
Common rejection reasons:
- Background is off-white, gray, or has patterns
- Photo is cropped from a group shot
- Face is partially obscured by hair or accessories
- Image is blurry or pixelated
- Photo is too old (should be taken within the last 6 months)
If you are unsure about your photo, most passport photo services can provide a digital version that meets eVisa specifications.
Other Required Documents
In addition to your passport and photo, you will need:
Passport information page scan: Upload a clear, complete scan or photo of your passport’s biographical page. This is the page with your photo, name, date of birth, passport number, and the machine-readable zone (MRZ) at the bottom.
Scan requirements:
- Entire page must be visible, including borders and MRZ text
- Text must be legible – no glare, shadows, or blur
- Color scan preferred (black and white may be accepted)
- JPEG, PNG, or PDF format
- File size under 2 MB
Email address: A working email that you check regularly. All correspondence, including the approval notification, is sent by email.
Credit or debit card: For payment of the USD 36 fee. Accepted cards include Visa, Mastercard, and JCB. Prepaid cards may work but are not guaranteed.
Financial Requirements
Cambodia does not officially require proof of funds for tourist visa applicants. However, immigration officers at the border may ask about your financial means, particularly if you are traveling on a one-way ticket or have an unusual travel itinerary.
Recommended to carry:
- Sufficient cash for your stay (USD is widely accepted in Cambodia)
- A credit or debit card
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking confirmation)
- Return or onward flight ticket
These are not required for the eVisa application itself, but having them available at the border can smooth your entry process.
Special Cases
Minors (under 18): Children need their own eVisa and passport. A parent or guardian can complete the application on their behalf. Some border crossings may ask for a birth certificate or consent letter from the other parent if the child is traveling with only one parent.
Dual nationals: Apply using the passport you will use to enter Cambodia. If you hold passports from two countries, you must use the same passport for the eVisa and at the border.
Previous visa overstays: If you have previously overstayed a Cambodian visa, this may affect your application. Overstays are recorded in the immigration system. A previous overstay does not automatically disqualify you, but it may result in additional scrutiny.
Business travelers: The eVisa (Type-T) is for tourism only. If your purpose of travel is business, meetings, conferences, or work, you need a Type-E (business) visa. Applying for the wrong visa type can result in denial of entry. See our guide on Cambodia visa types for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a temporary or emergency passport for the eVisa?
Temporary passports may not be accepted for the eVisa application. Contact the Cambodian embassy in your country for guidance. You may be able to obtain a visa on arrival with a temporary passport at some entry points.
Do I need a return ticket to apply?
No, a return ticket is not required for the eVisa application. However, immigration officers may ask about your departure plans at the border.
What if my passport name has special characters?
Enter your name exactly as it appears in the machine-readable zone (MRZ) at the bottom of your passport information page. Special characters are typically transliterated in the MRZ.
Can I apply if my passport expires in less than 6 months?
No. The 6-month validity requirement is strictly enforced. Renew your passport before applying for the eVisa.
Do I need travel insurance for the eVisa?
Travel insurance is not required for the eVisa application, but it is strongly recommended. Cambodia has limited public healthcare, and medical evacuation can be extremely expensive.
