Cambodia launches visa-free trial for Chinese tourists

Cambodia has introduced a trial visa exemption for Chinese citizens, allowing them to enter the country without a visa until 15 October. The move is designed to boost tourism and strengthen ties with China, which remains Cambodia’s largest source of international visitors.

Under the scheme, Chinese passport holders can stay for up to 14 days per visit and make multiple entries during the trial period. Tourism Minister Huot Hak told Chinese media outlets that Cambodia was “ready to welcome” visitors and emphasised the country’s hospitality. More than 330,000 Chinese tourists arrived in the first four months of 2026, highlighting the market’s importance.

The policy mirrors similar strategies in neighbouring countries. Thailand has repeatedly extended visa-free entry for Chinese travellers, most recently offering stays of up to 30 days to revive its tourism sector after pandemic downturns. Vietnam has also eased entry rules, granting Chinese citizens visa exemptions for short visits and expanding electronic visa options to attract more regional visitors.

Officials in Phnom Penh say the Cambodian trial will help assess the impact of visa-free travel on arrivals and spending. The government hopes the scheme will encourage repeat visits and longer stays, while easing congestion at border checkpoints.

The trial comes as Cambodia seeks to reposition itself in a competitive regional tourism market. With Thailand and Vietnam already benefiting from relaxed entry rules, Cambodia’s move is seen as an effort to keep pace and capture a larger share of Chinese outbound travel.

Whether the exemption becomes permanent will depend on the results of the trial. For now, the government is betting that easier access will translate into more visitors, more investment and a stronger tourism industry.

-2026-06-16