US Mulls Cambodia Travel Ban Amid Visa, Security Concerns

[geovalin]

The White House

 

 

The United States is weighing new travel restrictions on Cambodia, placing it among 36 countries at risk of being added to an expanded visa ban list, according to a report by The Washington Post.

 

A leaked diplomatic cable signed by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reveals that Washington has set a 60-day deadline for the listed countries, including Cambodia, to improve civil document security, reduce visa overstays, and enhance cooperation on deportations—or face full or partial entry suspensions for their citizens.

 

The move forms part of the Trump administration’s broader effort to tighten border controls. Earlier this month, similar restrictions were imposed on 15 countries, among them Myanmar and Laos. The new list spans Africa, Asia, and the Pacific, and includes nations such as Angola, Ethiopia, Ghana, Syria, and Tanzania.

 

Cambodia was already placed on the “yellow list” under Executive Order 14161—announced in March—signalling a need for reforms, but offering a grace period to comply. Countries that fail to meet the benchmarks risk escalation to “orange” or “red” tiers, which entail stricter limitations.

 

So far, Cambodian authorities have not publicly responded to the latest report. However, earlier statements from the Foreign Ministry expressed confidence that the country’s cooperation with the US—particularly on deportations—would ensure a positive review.

 

Local analysts have criticised the move. Dr Chheng Kimlong of the Asian Vision Institute called it “unfair” and based on outdated information, noting that Cambodia is a peaceful and lawful nation committed to international standards.

 

Should the restrictions be enforced, thousands of Cambodians who travel, study, or live in the United States could face serious disruption, raising concerns over the impact on bilateral relations.

 

The next 60 days will be crucial for Cambodia and the other nations on the list, as Washington prepares to finalise its decision on who remains welcome—and who gets shut out.

 

-2025-06-17