Cambodia: Officials extend lockdown measures in several provinces and tighter domestic restrictions nationwide through Aug. 19 /update 31

Event

Cambodian officials have extended tighter domestic restrictions through at least Aug. 19 due to COVID-19 activity. A nightly 21:00-03:00 curfew is in effect; exemptions are in place for medical reasons, emergencies, and persons working in other essential fields and industries. Food establishments cannot provide dine-in services or sell alcohol. Authorities ban gatherings of more than 10 people and require prior approval for such events, with exemptions such as family members living in the same residence and company meetings. Schools and some nonessential businesses, like bars, cinemas, museums, and theaters, are closed. Authorities encourage people to remain at home unless engaging in essential activities. The government may extend closures to other businesses at short notice, depending on changes in COVID-19 activity.

Authorities have also extended lockdown measures in Banteay Meanchey, Battambang, Koh Kong, Oddar Meanchey, Pailin, Preah Vihear, Pursat, and Siem Reap provinces through Aug. 19. Restrictions on interprovincial travel will be in effect; some flights may continue to operate in the affected regions. The central government allows local officials to impose curfews and designate red, orange, and yellow zones. Local authorities may introduce additional curfews and other localized restrictions at short notice in the coming days.

Business and gathering restrictions remain in effect in Phnom Penh through at least Aug. 26. Facemasks are mandatory in public areas. Gatherings of more than 15 people are banned, with certain exemptions. Schools and some nonessential businesses, like bars, cinemas, museums, and theaters, remain closed. Restaurants must operate according to health protocols. A nightly 22:00-03:00 curfew is in effect Aug. 13-19.

Authorities will likely maintain security protocols, such as checkpoints, to enforce restrictions in specific areas, especially within orange and red zones. Commercial disruptions will likely continue in localities where enhanced measures are in effect.

International Travel Restrictions
The issuance of tourist visas, visa-on-arrival services, and visa-free travel remain suspended. Authorities allow online applications for short-term travel visas; however, only individuals traveling for essential reasons may receive such passes. The short-term visas are valid for three months and allow the holder to stay in the country for up to 30 days. Applicants for short-term travel visas must provide proof of medical insurance coverage of at least USD 50,000 and a medical certificate from local health authorities issued no more than 72 hours before travel stating the individual is free from COVID-19. The traveler must also purchase a USD 90 health insurance package from Forte Insurance and produce documentation demonstrating that the trip is for essential reasons. Inbound foreign nationals must pay a USD 2,000 deposit to cover potential COVID-19 related costs. Arrivals must take COVID-19 tests upon arrival and quarantine for 14 days at a government-designated facility; individuals who test positive for the Delta variant must quarantine for 21 days.

Advice

Follow all official immigration and health screening instructions, particularly if traveling from affected locations. Abide by national health and safety measures. Allow additional time for immigration and health screenings at all ports of entry. Consider delaying travel if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays.

Resources

World Health Organization (WHO)
Electronic Visa Application
Ministry of Foreign Affairs