Cambodia Orders African Nationals to Leave by May 31 or Face Jail, $8,000 Fine

Phnom Penh — The Royal Government of Cambodia has issued a sweeping immigration directive ordering African nationals currently residing in the country to depart on or before May 31, 2026, or risk arrest, imprisonment, and steep financial penalties.

The warning is contained in an official notice released by Cambodia’s General Department of Immigration under the Ministry of Interior. The directive specifically references African nationals — including citizens of Ghana, Kenya, Cameroon, Uganda, and others — who are residing in the Kingdom under temporary waivers or overstayed immigration arrangements.

According to the notice, previously granted immigration waivers allowing certain foreign nationals to remain in Cambodia will formally expire at the end of May.

“The waiver granted to you will officially end on 31st of May 2026,” the document states.

Authorities further instructed that all foreign nationals who have settled outstanding immigration fines must leave Cambodia no later than the stated deadline.

The scope of the order suggests it could affect a significant number of African residents, particularly those who regularized their status under temporary relief measures but have not secured renewed authorization.

Cambodian authorities signaled that enforcement would begin immediately after the expiration date.

The notice warns that any foreign national found in Cambodia from June 1, 2026, without valid immigration status will face immediate arrest — whether at airports, border checkpoints, or other locations within the country.

Those apprehended, according to the directive, will face:

- A two‑year prison sentence  

- A monetary penalty of $8,000  

- Deportation after serving the sentence and paying the fine  

In addition, the government announced that nationwide enforcement operations will commence once the grace period ends.

“The Cambodia Police will start arresting any foreigner at any hideout in Cambodia from 1st of June 2026 for overstay and will hand over to the immigration authorities for legal action,” the statement said.

The directive emphasizes strict compliance, warning that Cambodia will not tolerate violations of its immigration laws.

“All concerned are hereby informed to strictly comply with this notice. The Royal Government of Cambodia will not tolerate any violation of our immigration laws,” the statement added.

The document was issued by Lt. Gen. Som Sopheak, Director General of the General Department of Immigration, and approved by Gen. Sar Sokha, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Interior.

Immigration analysts note that sudden policy shifts of this scale can create diplomatic and humanitarian implications, particularly for migrants who may lack immediate means to relocate.

As the May 31 deadline approaches, affected nationals face urgent decisions — comply with the directive and exit voluntarily, or risk criminal prosecution under Cambodian immigration law.