Visa-Free Travel to Cambodia for Chinese Tourists: A New Era of Exploration

Published on December 4, 2025

The Kingdom of Cambodia has unveiled a new pilot program that will allow Chinese tourists to travel to Cambodia without the need for a visa for four months in 2026. The Ministry of Tourism made the announcement this morning, confirming that the visa exemption trial will run from June 15 to October 15, 2026. During this time, Chinese nationals can stay in Cambodia for up to 14 days without applying for a visa or paying any visa fees, making it easier for Chinese travellers to explore the country.

This move is part of Cambodia’s efforts to boost tourism from China, one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing outbound travel markets. The visa exemption initiative is expected to encourage more Chinese visitors to explore Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historic landmarks.

Easing Travel for Chinese Tourists to Cambodia

Cambodia has long been a popular destination for Chinese tourists, thanks to its ancient temples, including the world-famous Angkor Wat, vibrant cities like Phnom Penh, and picturesque beaches. The new pilot visa exemption program aims to simplify travel for Chinese nationals and make visiting Cambodia even more attractive.

For travelers from China, the visa process can sometimes be seen as a hurdle, and this policy change will eliminate the need for paperwork and associated costs for a limited period. The exemption allows Chinese nationals to stay in Cambodia for up to two weeks, offering flexibility for tourists on short holidays or business trips.

Cambodia’s Key Attractions for Chinese Tourists

With the visa exemption program in place, Cambodian tourism authorities are hoping to see a significant increase in Chinese visitors to the country. Cambodia is home to a wide variety of attractions that appeal to international tourists, and Chinese travelers are no exception.

Angkor Wat, located in Siem Reap, is undoubtedly the biggest draw for visitors, including those from China. As one of the largest religious monuments in the world, Angkor Wat is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Cambodia’s rich history and culture. In addition to Angkor Wat, there are numerous other temples within the Angkor Archaeological Park, including Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Srei, that offer travelers an immersive experience into Cambodia’s ancient past.

Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s bustling capital, also offers a variety of cultural and historical attractions, such as the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, which provides a sobering look into the country’s turbulent history. The city is a vibrant hub for tourists seeking a blend of cultural exploration and urban experiences.

For those interested in nature and relaxation, Cambodia offers beautiful coastal destinations like Sihanoukville and Kep, where travelers can enjoy pristine beaches, seafood delicacies, and laid-back coastal vibes.

Boosting Cambodia’s Tourism Industry

The visa exemption program is expected to have a positive impact on Cambodia’s tourism industry. China is a major source of international visitors for Cambodia, with thousands of Chinese nationals traveling to the country each year. In 2019, Cambodia welcomed over 2 million Chinese tourists, and the government is aiming to increase this number significantly.

By introducing the visa exemption trial for a limited time in 2026, the government is likely hoping to build stronger ties with China’s growing tourism market. This initiative will also help Cambodia stand out as a competitive and accessible destination for Chinese tourists, particularly as other Southeast Asian countries implement similar policies to attract international visitors.

The Cambodian Ministry of Tourism has expressed its hope that the program will lead to longer-term benefits, encouraging Chinese tourists to visit not only for leisure but also for business opportunities, educational exchanges, and cultural engagements.

Details of the Visa Exemption Trial

The visa exemption program will apply exclusively to Chinese nationals traveling directly from China to Cambodia. The trial period is set for June 15 to October 15, 2026, and is limited to tourist visits for a duration of up to 14 days. During this period, Chinese tourists will be able to visit Cambodia without having to go through the visa application process or pay any visa-related fees.

To qualify for the exemption, travelers must meet certain requirements, such as holding a valid passport and arriving at Cambodian entry points through approved channels. The visa exemption will be valid only for leisure travel, and visitors wishing to stay beyond 14 days or engage in work or business-related activities will need to follow the regular visa procedures.

The program will be assessed based on the volume of Chinese tourists during the trial period, and the Cambodian authorities will use this data to evaluate whether to extend or expand the policy in the future.

Potential Impact on Cambodia’s Economy and Tourism Infrastructure

The trial visa exemption for Chinese tourists is expected to have a broader economic impact on Cambodia. With an increase in visitors from China, the hospitality and tourism sectors in Cambodia are likely to see a boost. Hotels, restaurants, transport services, and cultural tours could all benefit from the influx of tourists.

Additionally, the program will provide a valuable opportunity to assess the infrastructure and services available for Chinese tourists. This could include improvements to the quality of services and the availability of Chinese-language materials or customer support, making it easier for tourists from China to enjoy their stay.

The Cambodian government is expected to closely monitor the success of the trial and assess how it impacts tourist numbers, the local economy, and tourism-related businesses in order to refine the program for future years.

Conclusion: A Step Towards Stronger Tourism Ties

Cambodia’s announcement of a pilot visa exemption program for Chinese tourists represents an important step in strengthening tourism ties between Cambodia and China. The initiative is designed to make travel easier for Chinese nationals, while also promoting Cambodia as a top travel destination in Southeast Asia.

With a rich historical and cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant cities, Cambodia is well-positioned to attract a growing number of tourists from China. The visa exemption program offers a unique opportunity for Chinese travelers to explore Cambodia’s key tourist attractions without the hassle of visa applications, potentially increasing the flow of visitors during the pilot period.

As the program moves forward, the Cambodian government is optimistic that the trial period will provide valuable insights, laying the groundwork for future tourism growth from China.