Lift of the ban on entry to Cambodian territory for travelers

On Wednesday, May 20, the Cambodian Ministry of Health issued an official statement announcing the lifting of the ban on entry to Cambodian territory for travelers coming from France, as well as the five other countries previously affected by this measure implemented on April 14. These countries include Iran, Spain, Italy, Germany, and the United States.

As the COVID-19 health crisis reached significant proportions in certain countries, particularly in Europe, the Cambodian government decided, on April 14, to close its borders to nationals from France, Italy, Germany, Spain, Iran, and the United States. Today, the country's borders are reopening, and travelers are allowed to enter, whether by air, land, or sea, under certain conditions, however.

Strict conditions for entry to Cambodian territory

To enter Cambodia, regardless of the mode of transport (land, sea, or air), all travelers, whether Cambodian nationals or foreigners, must provide two certificates upon arrival:

1. A health certificate issued in the country of origin no more than 72 hours before arrival in Cambodia, confirming that the traveler is not infected with COVID-19.
2. A health insurance certificate that covers expenses during the entire stay, with a minimum coverage of $50,000 USD.

These two requirements do not apply to holders of an A or B visa, which are often granted to embassy officials.

Mandatory quarantine

Once these two certificates have been presented and validated upon arrival, travelers will be directed to a waiting area where COVID-19 testing will be conducted by the Pasteur Institute of Cambodia. Travelers will then need to wait for the results. Two possible scenarios will follow:

1. If you and all accompanying travelers test negative for COVID-19, you will be allowed to proceed to your accommodation (hotel, guesthouse, etc.) and remain there for 14 days. A follow-up test will be required on the 13th day. It should be noted that the authorities may monitor your quarantine.
2. If one or more travelers test positive for COVID-19, they will be transferred to a hospital for treatment, while those who tested negative will be placed in quarantine for 14 days in a facility determined by the Interministerial Committee for COVID-19 Control.

These quarantine measures will remain in effect until further notice. We will, of course, keep you updated on this blog as the situation evolves.