Cambodia Issues Deadline for Kenyans, Ugandans, Ghanaians to Leave Country

The Royal Government of Cambodia has issued an official notice directing African nationals living in the country to leave before the end of May 2026, following the expiry of a waiver granted to them.

In the notice issued by the General Department of Immigration under the Ministry of Interior, Cambodian authorities stated that the waiver granted to citizens from several African countries, including Ghana, Kenya, Cameroon and Uganda, will officially end on 31st of May 2026.

The document, dated under reference number “1662/GDI,” warned that all affected foreign nationals must comply with immigration regulations or risk arrest, imprisonment and financial penalties beginning June 1, 2026.

“The Royal Government of Cambodia, through the General Department of Immigration, Ministry of Interior, wishes to inform all African nationals, including citizens of Ghana, Kenya, Cameroon, Uganda and others that the waiver granted to you will officially end on 31st of May 2026,” the notice stated.

Africans Ordered to Leave Cambodia

The Cambodian immigration department further declared that all foreign nationals whose fines have been cleared must leave Cambodia on or before 31st of May 2026.

“Tougher enforcement measures would begin immediately after the deadline lapses,” Authorities indicated.

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Jail Terms and Heavy Penalties Announced

According to the notice, any foreign national who enters, remains, or is found in Cambodia from 1st of June 2026 will be arrested at the airport or at any location.

The notice added that those found violating the directive shall serve a jail term of 2 (two) years and pay a penalty of $8,000 (approximately Ksh 1.03 million) before being allowed to leave Cambodia.

Cambodian authorities also warned that nationwide crackdowns targeting immigration offenders would commence from June 1.

“The Cambodia Police will start arresting any foreigner at any hideout in Cambodia from 1st of June 2026 for overstaying and will hand them over to the immigration authorities for legal action,” the statement read.

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Government Warns Against Violating Immigration Laws

The notice stressed that the government would not tolerate breaches of immigration laws after the waiver period expires.

“All concerned are hereby informed to strictly comply with this notice. The Royal Government of Cambodia will not tolerate any violation of our immigration laws,” the document stated.

Officials further appealed for cooperation from all affected nationals.

“Your cooperation is highly appreciated,” Cambodia said.

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Photo Illustration of Requirements for Visa Application. PHOTO/ Courtesy