Immigration authorities warn affected foreigners, including Ghanaians, to comply with waiver expiration or risk arrest from June 1
The Government of Cambodia has issued a strict directive ordering all African nationals currently living in the country to leave on or before May 31, 2026, or face arrest, prosecution, and heavy penalties.
According to an official notice from Cambodia’s General Department of Immigration under the Ministry of Interior, the decision affects foreign nationals who had been allowed to stay under a temporary immigration waiver arrangement, which is now set to expire at the end of May.
The order reportedly affects citizens from several African countries, including Ghana, Kenya, Cameroon, and Uganda, among others residing in Cambodia under the special arrangement.
Authorities warned that any foreign national who remains in the country from June 1, 2026, would be treated as an immigration offender and could face immediate arrest either at the airport or within any part of the country.
The directive further stated that offenders may face up to two years in prison and a fine of about $8,000 before being allowed to leave Cambodia.
The immigration department emphasized that all affected individuals must ensure they resolve any outstanding immigration issues and exit the country before the deadline, adding that enforcement operations will begin immediately after the expiration date.
Officials also noted that security agencies will begin tracking and arresting overstayers from June 1, urging full compliance with the order to avoid legal consequences.
The development has sparked concern among African nationals living in Cambodia, many of whom are now making urgent travel arrangements ahead of the deadline.
Authorities have not yet indicated any extension or review of the directive.
