The Cambodian General Department of Immigration has issued a strict directive requiring Kenyan and other African nationals residing in Cambodia to vacate the country by May 31, 2026. Failure to comply with this order could result in arrest, imprisonment, and hefty fines.
Policy Enforcement and Immigration Crackdown
The notice specifies that the previous visa waiver for African nationals, including citizens of Kenya, Ghana, Cameroon, and Uganda, will expire on the deadline. All affected foreign nationals, whose immigration-related fines have been cleared, must leave Cambodia on or before the specified date. After May 31, individuals found within the country without proper documentation will face immediate arrest, with law enforcement authorities prepared to enforce strict compliance.
Effective June 1, 2026, Cambodian police will initiate operations targeting foreigners suspected of overstaying their visas or residing illegally. The government has stated that it will not tolerate violations of immigration laws, aiming to regulate and control foreign residency within its borders. Violators risk a two-year jail term and an $8,000 fine (approximately Ksh.1 million), which must be paid before departure, according to the notice.
The directive, attributed to Lieutenant General Som Sopheak of Cambodia’s General Department of Immigration and approved by General Sar Sokha of the Ministry of Interior, is expected to impact hundreds of African nationals living and working in Cambodia. Many have traveled there for employment, business, and other opportunities. The government urges those affected to comply promptly and contact the immigration department for assistance during the transition period.
