An introduction to the rising demand for foreign workers in Cambodia and the visa and work permit process.
Foreign employees looking to work in Cambodia must obtain a valid visa and work permit. The most commonly used visa for business-related purposes is the E Visa (Business Visa), which is the first step toward legally working in Cambodia. Once in Cambodia, foreign workers must also apply for a work permit, which is required for long-term employment.
The E Visa, commonly referred to as the Business Visa, is the primary visa for foreign nationals entering Cambodia for business or work purposes. The E Visa allows the holder to stay in Cambodia for 30 days initially, with the option to extend for longer periods once in the country.
Foreign workers who have secured employment with a company in Cambodia or foreign businesspeople entering the country for work-related purposes are eligible for the E Visa.
The E Visa is initially valid for 30 days, but it can be extended for up to 12 months through the Cambodian Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training (MLVT). Once extended, the visa allows multiple entries and exits, making it suitable for business travelers and employees alike.
The Work Permit is a legal requirement for foreign nationals who intend to work in Cambodia for an extended period. After obtaining the E Visa, foreign employees must apply for a work permit through their employer.
Foreign workers employed by Cambodian companies, multinational corporations, or NGOs operating in Cambodia must have a valid work permit. Workers must meet the qualifications and experience required for the job.
The work permit is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. Employers are responsible for ensuring that the permit remains valid throughout the employee’s time in Cambodia.
Hiring foreign employees in Cambodia involves a range of responsibilities for employers. Employers are required to assist with the visa and work permit applications, ensure compliance with Cambodian labor laws, and maintain proper documentation.
Employers play a critical role in securing both the E Visa and the work permit for their foreign employees. Below is an overview of the employer’s responsibilities in the application process.
Employers must gather several key documents to complete the visa and work permit application process for foreign employees in Cambodia. These documents include:
The process of applying for a work permit in Cambodia requires careful attention to detail and adherence to immigration laws. Below is a step-by-step guide to securing a work permit for foreign employees.
The cost of securing a work permit in Cambodia is approximately USD 300 to USD 400 per year, depending on the industry and the nature of the employment. Employers typically cover the cost of the work permit as part of their obligation to the employee.
The application process for a work permit typically takes 15 to 30 business days, depending on the complexity of the application and the responsiveness of the immigration authorities.
Employers must ensure that their foreign employees are compliant with Cambodian immigration laws throughout their employment. This includes adhering to labor quotas, maintaining proper records, and ensuring that all work permits and visas are renewed on time.
Cambodian law restricts the number of foreign workers a company can hire to 10% of the total workforce. This quota is divided into three categories: 3% for executives, 6% for technical staff, and 1% for unskilled workers. Employers must ensure that they do not exceed these quotas when hiring foreign employees.
Employers must also comply with ongoing reporting requirements to the Ministry of Labor and the Department of Immigration. This includes submitting annual reports on the number of foreign employees in the company and renewing work permits before they expire.
Navigating Cambodia’s visa and work permit regulations can be time-consuming and complex for businesses. AYP offers comprehensive Professional Employer Organisation (PEO) and Employer of Record (EOR) services in Cambodia to assist companies in hiring foreign talent without the administrative burden of managing visas and work permits.
With AYP’s services, we handle everything from securing the initial E Visa to applying for work permits and ensuring compliance with Cambodian immigration laws. Our experienced team ensures that your foreign employees are legally employed and that your business remains fully compliant with all local regulations. We take care of the complexities so that you can focus on growing your business.
