Cambodia Visa-Free Trial 2026: Mainland China, Hong Kong & Macao Citizens Get 14-Day Stays – No Fees, Multiple Entries June to October – Full Guide
- VISASUPDATE
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 9 hours ago
Cambodia is rolling out the red carpet for Chinese travelers in 2026! The Royal Government of Cambodia has launched a four-month visa-free pilot program specifically targeting passport holders from Mainland China, Hong Kong SAR, and Macao SAR.
Effective June 15, 2026, to October 15, 2026, eligible Chinese nationals can enter Cambodia without a visa, stay up to 14 days per visit, make multiple entries, and pay zero visa fees — all to supercharge tourism recovery and hit ambitious visitor targets.
This trial excludes Taiwan passport holders and requires only a simple digital Cambodia e-Arrival Card before travel. Here's your complete, no-fluff guide to take advantage of this exciting opportunity.
Key Details of the Cambodia Visa-Free Pilot for Chinese Nationals
Duration: June 15, 2026 – October 15, 2026 (exactly 4 months, covering peak summer and shoulder seasons)
Eligible Passports: Ordinary passports from People's Republic of China (Mainland), Hong Kong SAR, and Macao SAR
Stay Allowed: Up to 14 days per entry (single visit)
Multiple Entries: Yes — unlimited during the pilot period
Visa Fee: Completely waived (no application or entry fee required)
Requirements: Complete the Cambodia e-Arrival Card online before departure (simple digital form for arrival declaration)
Exclusions: Taiwan passport holders; business or long-stay purposes may still need regular visas
Purpose: Tourism, leisure, short business meetings, family visits
The policy was first announced in December 2025 by the Ministry of Tourism, gazetted in January 2026, and confirmed as a trial to boost arrivals from China's massive outbound market.
Why Cambodia Is Doing This – Tourism Boost Targets
Chinese visitors are Cambodia's top long-haul source market historically (over 2 million pre-pandemic). Numbers dropped sharply post-COVID but are rebounding — about 1 million Chinese arrivals from Jan–Oct 2025.
The visa waiver aims to:
Restore flights (90+ weekly from Guangzhou, Kunming, Chongqing, etc.)
Fill hotels in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap (Angkor Wat), and Sihanoukville beaches
Support jobs in hospitality, transport, and retail
Push total international arrivals past 5 million in 2026
Test for a possible permanent visa-free policy from 2027 if spending and arrivals hit targets
This aligns with Cambodia's "Kingdom of Wonder" push — think ancient temples, vibrant markets, pristine islands, and affordable luxury.
Who Can Benefit? Ideal Travelers for This Pilot
Mainland Chinese planning quick getaways to Angkor Wat or Phnom Penh
Residents of Hong Kong and Macao looking for quick getaways in Southeast Asia
Families, couples, or groups wanting multiple short trips (e.g., one week in Siem Reap, another in coastal Kep)
First-time visitors testing Cambodia without visa hassle
Business travelers for short meetings or site visits
Pro Tip: Combine with nearby destinations — fly into Siem Reap, explore temples, then hop to Thailand or Vietnam (check their visa rules).
How to Prepare & Enter Cambodia Visa-Free (Step-by-Step)
Hold a valid PRC, Hong Kong SAR, or Macao SAR passport (valid for at least 6 months recommended)
Book flights/hotels for dates between June 15 – October 15, 2026
Complete the Cambodia e-Arrival Card online (via official app/site) before your flight — takes minutes
Arrive at Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, or Sihanoukville airport/port
Present passport — no visa stamp needed; get entry stamp for up to 14 days
Enjoy your stay! Extend or re-enter if needed (multiple entries OK)
No advance visa application, no fees at the border — just smooth entry.
Comparison: Normal vs. Pilot Visa Rules for Chinese Nationals
Aspect | Normal (Outside Pilot) | During Pilot (Jun 15 – Oct 15, 2026) |
Visa Required | Yes (e-Visa or on arrival) | No |
Stay Duration | Up to 30 days (extendable) | Up to 14 days per entry |
Fee | USD 30–36 | Zero |
Multiple Entries | Possible with visa | Unlimited during 4 months |
Application | Online or at border | Only e-Arrival Card |
Eligible Passports | All PRC | Mainland + HK + Macao (excl. Taiwan) |
Huge savings in time and money!
Potential Impact & What Happens After October 15, 2026
If the pilot succeeds (high arrivals, good spending in provinces), Cambodia may push for permanent visa-free access for Chinese nationals starting 2027 — possibly longer stays or year-round.
This follows global trends: many ASEAN countries offer visa-free or simplified entry to Chinese tourists to capture post-pandemic travel boom.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Taiwan included?
No — the policy excludes Taiwan passport holders.
Can I stay longer than 14 days?
Not under this pilot — apply for regular visa/extension if needed.
Do I need travel insurance?
Recommended (not required) — covers health, cancellations.
What about COVID rules?
As of 2026, no testing/quarantine for most; check latest before travel.
Where to check official updates?
Ministry of Tourism Cambodia: tourism.gov.kh Official e-Arrival: arrival.gov.kh or app
Planning a trip? Book early — flights from China are filling fast with this news!
Cambodia's four-month visa-free trial is a golden window for Mainland, Hong Kong, and Macao Chinese travelers to discover (or rediscover) the temples of Angkor, the beaches of Koh Rong, and the energy of Phnom Penh — hassle-free and cost-free.
Mark your calendars for June 15, 2026 — your easy Southeast Asia adventure starts here!
Need more Asia visa guides, travel alerts, and destination tips? Explore our full collection here: Global Visa Updates