Cambodia Retirement Visa: The Ultimate 2025 Guide for Expats and Long-Stay Travelers
Key Takeaways
- Cambodia does not offer a standalone “retirement visa” but instead provides an ER visa extension under the Ordinary Visa (Type E) category.
- The ER visa extension is valid for 12 months, renewable annually, and does not permit employment.
- To qualify, applicants must be 55 years or older, unemployed (retired), and able to show proof of retirement income.
- While there is no official income requirement, retirees should demonstrate at least $800–$1,000/month in income.
- You must enter Cambodia on an Ordinary (E) visa, not a tourist visa, before applying for the ER extension.
- Visa extensions are processed locally, either through licensed visa agents or at the Department of Immigration in Phnom Penh.
- Health insurance is strongly recommended, although not mandatory.
- Cambodia offers an affordable lifestyle, expat-friendly culture, and visa renewals that are less stringent than neighboring countries.
- Total estimated visa cost per year (2025):
- Government fee: KHR 1,480,000 (~$360 USD)
- Agent services: KHR 1,650,000–2,500,000 (~$400–600 USD)
Official Resources:
- Cambodia Immigration Department
- Cambodia eVisa Portal
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
🇰🇭 Why Retire in Cambodia?
While Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines often headline retirement destinations in Southeast Asia, Cambodia is a quietly rising star. With its low living costs, welcoming local population, relaxed pace of life, and surprisingly modern amenities, retirees are increasingly looking to Cambodia for long-term residence.
Cambodia is also among the easiest countries in Asia for long-stay visas. Unlike countries with complex paperwork and strict income requirements, Cambodia’s ER visa extension is accessible, renewable, and doesn’t require frequent border runs.
Top Reasons to Retire in Cambodia
- ✔️ Affordable cost of living: Rent, food, and healthcare are much cheaper than Western countries.
- ✔️ Climate: Tropical and warm year-round.
- ✔️ Cultural richness: Home to Angkor Wat, ancient temples, and vibrant Buddhist heritage.
- ✔️ Friendly locals: Khmer people are known for their hospitality.
- ✔️ Visa flexibility: ER visa is renewable and straightforward.
- ✔️ English usage: Widely spoken in major cities and tourist towns.
Popular retirement spots like Kampot, Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, and Kep have thriving expat communities, international restaurants, and riverside villas at a fraction of Western costs.
Personal Perspective: Why I Chose Cambodia
After retiring from a 30-year teaching career in the UK, I toured several Southeast Asian countries looking for a place that combined peace, affordability, and a sense of community. Thailand felt too touristy. Vietnam was dynamic, but I struggled with the language. Cambodia, though? It felt like home the moment I landed in Kampot. The slow river life, kind locals, and manageable cost of living made it the perfect place to start my next chapter.
🛂 How to Apply for the Cambodia ER Retirement Visa
Step 1: Enter Cambodia with the Right Visa
Start by entering Cambodia with an Ordinary E Visa (not Tourist Visa T class). You can get the E Visa:
- On arrival at international airports or land borders
- Online via eVisa Portal
- At a Cambodian embassy or consulate
💡 Cost: KHR 164,000 (~$40 USD) for 30 days
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
You’ll need:
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Passport-sized photo
- Letter stating you are retired and not seeking employment
- Proof of retirement income (pension, savings, annuity, or bank statement)
- Rental agreement or local residence declaration
- Optional: medical certificate and police clearance
Step 3: Apply for the ER Extension
Once in Cambodia, apply for the 12-month ER extension:
- Through an agent (easiest)
- Or at the Immigration Department in Phnom Penh
🕐 Processing time: 7–14 working days
💵 Fee: KHR 1,480,000 (~$360 USD) government fee + optional agent fee
💰 Cambodia Retirement Budget Breakdown
| Expense | Phnom Penh | Kampot/Siem Reap | KHR Equivalent |
| Rent (1BR apartment) | $350 | $250 | KHR 1.0M–1.4M |
| Food & groceries | $250 | $200 | KHR 800K–1M |
| Utilities & internet | $75 | $50 | KHR 200K–300K |
| Transportation (Grab, scooter) | $50 | $40 | KHR 160K–200K |
| Health insurance | $150 | $150 | KHR 600K–700K |
| Visa & legal fees (monthly) | $50 | $50 | KHR 200K |
| Entertainment/travel | $100 | $80 | KHR 320K–400K |
| Total (Monthly) | $1,025 | $820 | KHR 3.4M–4.2M |
🧠 Pro Tip: Many retirees live well on $900–$1,200/month depending on location and lifestyle.
🏥 Healthcare & Insurance in Cambodia
Public hospitals are limited in Cambodia, but private international clinics in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap offer quality care.
Private Clinics & Hospitals:
- Royal Phnom Penh Hospital
- Sen Sok International
- Central Hospital (Siem Reap)
- Sunrise Japan Hospital
Health Insurance Providers for Expats:
- SafetyWing (nomad-friendly)
- Cigna Global
- Pacific Cross
- Aetna International
🧳 Many retirees go to Thailand or Vietnam for major procedures due to better hospital infrastructure.
📍 Best Cities to Retire in Cambodia
🇰🇭 Phnom Penh
The capital offers modern amenities, shopping malls, hospitals, and restaurants. Great for social retirees who want access to everything.
🇰🇭 Kampot
Laid-back riverside living, boutique cafes, and a close-knit expat community. Excellent for peaceful, nature-filled retirement.
🇰🇭 Siem Reap
Home to Angkor Wat. Artistic, cultural, and affordable with good nightlife and quiet residential neighborhoods.
🇰🇭 Kep
Coastal town with French colonial vibes. Famous for crab markets and quiet beaches. Very relaxed and scenic.
🧾 Taxes & Property Ownership
Taxes
- Cambodia currently does not tax foreign pensions.
- Only local Cambodian-earned income is taxable.
- No capital gains tax on foreign assets.
Property Ownership
- Foreigners can’t own land, but can own strata-title condos.
- Long-term land leases (50 years+) are common.
📋 Use a legal advisor for large property purchases or long-term leases.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work on an ER Visa?
No. The ER Visa is strictly for retirees who are not engaged in employment or business.
Can my spouse get a visa?
Yes. They can apply for a dependent ER extension.
Is a medical check required?
Not officially, but some visa agents may request it as part of documentation.
Can I get permanent residency?
Not through the ER visa, but long-term stay and good conduct may lead to PR eligibility.
What if I’m under 55?
Apply for an EB or EG visa (business or general) and later switch to ER when eligible.
🔗 Official Government Resources
- Cambodia Immigration Department
- Cambodia eVisa Portal
- Cambodia Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- General Department of Taxation
🧭 Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a retirement destination that offers simplicity, low costs, cultural depth, and real human warmth — Cambodia delivers.
With a visa process that’s refreshingly straightforward and a country that welcomes foreigners with open arms, Cambodia is an ideal place for retirees over 55 who value peace, comfort, and a vibrant expat life. Cambodia can also be a great place for digital nomads to retire in Cambodia.
From the jungles of Kampot to the bustling streets of Phnom Penh, Cambodia offers a slow and meaningful lifestyle that retirees truly cherish.
Start your retirement journey here: www.immigration.gov.kh
