With its tropical weather, welcoming locals, low cost of living, and rich culture, Cambodia has become a dream retirement destination for expats around the world. According to the Annual Global Retirement Index, Cambodia ranks among Southeast Asia’s most affordable countries for retirees in 2026.
If you plan to retire in Cambodia, this guide explains everything you need to know about the Cambodia Retirement Visa (ER Visa)—including eligibility, documentation, cost of living, and the step-by-step process to apply successfully.
Why Retire in Cambodia?
Cambodia offers a relaxed lifestyle, modern amenities, and a vibrant expat community. The capital city, Phnom Penh, and popular destinations like Siem Reap and Kampot are filled with modern apartments, international restaurants, and reliable healthcare services—ideal for retirees seeking comfort and convenience.
Top reasons retirees choose Cambodia:
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Affordable cost of living compared to neighboring Thailand and Vietnam
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Easy visa extensions for long-term stays
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Access to high-quality healthcare facilities in major cities
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Friendly English-speaking locals and expat-friendly communities
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Availability of international banks and modern services
What Is a Cambodia Retirement Visa (ER Visa)?
The Cambodia Retirement Visa, officially known as the ER Visa, is a long-term extension of the Ordinary (E) Visa that allows retirees to live in Cambodia for up to one year.
Unlike a tourist visa, the ER Visa allows multiple entries and long-term residence for non-working foreigners. Applicants must first enter Cambodia with an Ordinary E Visa and then extend it to an ER Visa at the Department of Immigration or through a professional visa agency.
Key Eligibility Criteria for the Cambodia Retirement Visa
To qualify for the Cambodia ER Visa, applicants must meet specific eligibility conditions:
Age Requirement
You must be 55 years or older to apply for a Cambodia retirement visa.
Employment Restriction
Applicants must be retired and not engaged in any employment or business activities in Cambodia. Working under an ER visa is strictly prohibited and can lead to penalties.
Proof of Retirement
Applicants must provide documentary proof of retirement status, such as:
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Pension or retirement card
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Official retirement letter from employer or government
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Passport showing retirement-related visa stamps from other countries
Financial Stability
Though Cambodia does not enforce a fixed income requirement, retirees must demonstrate adequate financial means to support themselves—such as pension deposits or bank statements.
Documents Required for Cambodia Retirement Visa
Here’s the checklist of documents you’ll need when applying for a Cambodia Retirement Visa in 2026:
From the Applicant:
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Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
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Recent passport-size photographs
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Proof of retirement (pension statement, retirement letter, etc.)
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Financial proof (bank statement or pension certificate)
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Proof of residence in Cambodia (rental agreement or lease)
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Health certificate (if requested)
Note: All documents must be submitted either to the Cambodian Department of Immigration or a licensed visa consultancy.
How to Apply for a Cambodia Retirement Visa in 2026 (Step-by-Step Process)
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Enter Cambodia with an Ordinary (E) Visa
Apply for an E Visa (not a Tourist Visa) before traveling to Cambodia. This visa is valid for 30 days and can be extended. -
Prepare the Required Documents
Gather all necessary retirement-related documents, including pension proof, passport copies, and residence details. -
Submit the ER Visa Extension Application
Apply for the ER extension at the General Department of Immigration in Phnom Penh or through an authorized visa agency. -
Pay the Applicable Visa Fee
The one-year ER visa extension costs approximately the same as other long-term E visa extensions. -
Receive the Visa Approval
Once approved, you will receive a one-year ER Visa with multiple entries, allowing you to freely travel in and out of Cambodia.
Visa Validity, Extensions, and Multiple Entries
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Validity: 1 year (renewable annually)
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Entry Type: Multiple entries allowed
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Extension: Can be renewed every year without the need to leave Cambodia
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Processing Time: Usually takes 5–10 business days
Cost of Living and Renting in Cambodia for Retirees
One of the main reasons retirees love Cambodia is its affordability.
Average Rental Prices
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Phnom Penh (Capital City): $400–$800/month for a furnished apartment
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Siem Reap: $250–$500/month
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Kampot or Battambang: $200–$400/month
Serviced apartments often include cleaning services, swimming pools, fitness centers, and security facilities.
Lifestyle and Daily Expenses
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Monthly groceries: $150–$250
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Dining out: $5–$10 per meal
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Health insurance: $30–$60/month
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Utilities & Internet: $50–$80/month
Important Rules & Legal Considerations
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ER Visa holders cannot work or run a business in Cambodia.
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Violating visa conditions may lead to fines or deportation.
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Always carry your passport and visa copy for local verification.
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Ensure your visa is extended before expiry to avoid penalties.
Risks of Applying Without Professional Help
Many applicants make mistakes by applying through unauthorized agents or submitting incomplete documentation. Common risks include:
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Rejection due to missing or incorrect documents
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Overpayment to fraudulent intermediaries
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Delays in processing due to legal non-compliance
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Wrong visa type leading to penalties
Using a verified visa consultancy ensures compliance with Cambodian immigration laws and avoids potential legal issues.
Why Choose Our Cambodia Visa Service
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100% secure and transparent visa process
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Experienced team specializing in Cambodia retirement and long-term visas
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Guidance on documentation, renewals, and compliance
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Trusted by over 500,000+ global applicants
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Real-time support for Australian and global retirees
Conclusion & Call to Action
Cambodia’s warm hospitality, affordable lifestyle, and relaxed pace make it a perfect destination for retirement in 2026. With the Cambodia ER Visa, you can enjoy peaceful living without the hassle of complicated paperwork.
Don’t risk delays or rejections—let experts handle your application.
Apply for your Cambodia Retirement Visa today through our trusted platform and start your next chapter of life in paradise.
