Cambodia has introduced a sweeping new regulation that will see property owners fined for hosting foreigners who reside in the country illegally. The sub-decree, signed by Prime Minister Hun Manet on 5 January and made public on Wednesday, sets penalties of four million riel (around $1,000) for each undocumented resident found in collective housing.

The measure comes amid heightened scrutiny of illegal migration, following the deportation of more than 100 Thai nationals through the Poipet border last March. Officials say the decree is designed to strengthen public order and security across the Kingdom.

The rules apply to managers and owners of “collective residential premises” — a broad category that includes guesthouses, apartments, boreys, condos, resorts, dormitories, pagodas, factories and even orphanages. Only properties managed by the armed forces and national police are exempt.

Under the new law, property managers must keep detailed registries of all residents, in paper or electronic form, and submit them to local authorities within 24 hours. They are required to verify foreigners’ legal documents before granting accommodation and must provide building security layouts to officials when requested.

The decree also introduces strict surveillance obligations. Security camera footage must be stored for at least 90 days, while entry and exit records must be retained for a full year.

Authorities who deliberately conceal illegal residents will face disciplinary action, including dismissal from public service, alongside possible criminal charges.

The Ministry of Interior will oversee enforcement, delegating responsibilities to provincial and municipal administrations. Officials say the move reflects Cambodia’s determination to curb illegal migration and ensure safety in residential communities nationwide.

-2026-01-08

Interesting legal move! Might this work in Thailand? Maybe not if it's not enforced of course, or an incentive to look the other way is offered.

The world is going to the dogs, but certainly, many tens of thousands of Chinese need to be evicted from Cambodia, and Laos, and Thailand, and Myanmar, and the Philippines, and...etc.