Cambodia is very particular about their visas and giving work permits to foreign nationals. To get a foreign work permit in Cambodia, you must have an E-class visa, valid for 30 days. Therefore, if you are applying for a Cambodia work permit online, it is essential to know the categories of E-class visa extensions:
1. EB Visa:
This is the most common E-class visa issued to foreign nationals who wish to work in Cambodia. Anyone working, starting a business, or a freelancer wanting to stay in the country for more than a month, should opt for this Cambodia work visa.
2. EP Visa:
If you haven’t yet landed a job but are actively searching for one, this is the right foreign work permit Cambodia. This visa is valid beyond the initial 30-day stay under the E-class visa. Foreigners who cannot find steady employment are not permitted to stay beyond the extension of three months.
3. EG Visa:
With a flexible validity to choose from, this is a general work permit in Cambodia for those searching for employment. It can be up to one, three, or six months.
4. ER Visa:
If you have retirement plans in this beautiful country, you should apply for this type of visa. You will be required to show enough documents that support your retirement in the home country and financial stability to live here. These are granted to those above 55 years of age.
5. ET Visa:
Those who work in specific trades and industries come under this category. This is a technician visa extension.
An important thing to note here is Cambodia’s work permits are divided into two categories: Temporary and Permanent. Temporary visas are issued to technical staff, management specialists, skilled workers, service providers, and other labourers. In comparison, a permanent work permit is for the immigrants recognised by the Ministry of Interior. These include foreign investors, spouses, and other dependents recognised by the Council for the Development of Cambodia.
You cannot directly apply for a Cambodia work permit online unless you have an employment card issued by the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training (MLVT). An employer has to secure this foreign work permit in Cambodia for their employees residing outside the country. Here’s what an employer should have to get work visas for foreign employees in Cambodia:
a) Certificate of incorporation with valid company stamp
b) Registered business address
c) Foreign employee quota approval
d) Tax patent with company stamp
e) Approval from the Ministry of Commerce
f) Articles of incorporation of the company
As an employee, here is the list of documents related to Cambodia work visa requirements:
a) Name, gender, date of birth, and height
b) Valid passport
c) Identity card
d) Residential address proof
e) Education certificates
f) 3 Photos
g) Health certificate
h) Copy of E-visa
i) Year in which expatriate received their E-visa
j) Details about job role in the company (weekly hours, salary, form of salary payment)
When applying for a work visa, it is crucial to begin in advance, and have the application process sorted before you land in the country. Even though there is an option to apply for foreign work permit in Cambodia at the Phnom Penh airport upon arrival, it is always better to get it done beforehand. Steps to apply for a Cambodia work permit includes:
a) Get a valid E-visa from your employer.
b) If you do not have an employer to sanction your E-visa, you will have to apply for a self-employed work permit Cambodia.
c) Collect your documents and go to your nearest Cambodian Embassy.
d) For the Cambodia work permit online applications, visit the Ministry of Labour’s Foreign Workers Centralized Management System.
e) Submit the application form issued by the Ministry of Interior.
f) Pay the fees.
g) Wait for the processing of the working permit.
1. Do you need a visa to work in Cambodia?
As per the Ministry of Labour, Cambodia work permit is necessary for foreign nationals to work in the country legally. Due to the rising number of illegal immigrants, the government has issued strict regulations regarding foreign work permit Cambodia.
2. How much does a work permit cost in Cambodia?
Work permit in Cambodia costs up to $80-100. Going via a work permit agency in Cambodia will cost more because of the agent’s additional fees.
3. How long is Cambodia’s work permit valid?
A Cambodia work visa is valid for a year. Regardless of the issue date, the visa is valid till December 31 of the same year of issuance.
4. How can I extend my Cambodia work permit?
A foreign national arriving on an E-class visa can extend it for 3, 6, or 12 months. For that, you will have to file an application at the immigration department of the Ministry of Interior.
5. Do Indians require a visa for Cambodia?
Yes, a Cambodia work visa for Indians is necessary to work in the country. You can apply for a Cambodia visa on arrival. You will be permitted to stay in the country for 30 days by providing valid documents and confirmed return tickets.