Cambodia Sets Strict Exit Deadline for African Citizens

By Babatunji Wusu

The Royal Government of Cambodia has launched a strict immigration crackdown, ordering African nationals to leave the country within days. An official notice from the General Department of Immigration confirmed that a special waiver will end on 31 May 2026. This sharp warning directly affects residents from several countries, including Ghana, Kenya, Cameroon, and Uganda.

Local authorities made it clear that anyone staying past the deadline will face severe punishment. According to the official document, “All foreign nationals whose fines have been cleared must leave Cambodia on or before 31st of May 2026.” Anyone who ignores the Cambodia immigration directive faces immediate detention by law enforcement officers.

The state announced that people found without valid paperwork from 1 June 2026 will face up to two years in prison. Officials will also issue a heavy fine of 8,000 US dollars before deporting the individuals. The notice explained, “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.”

To enforce the new policy, security forces plan to search local areas for undocumented residents as soon as the month ends. The document added, “The Cambodia Police will start arresting any foreigner at any hideout in Cambodia from 1st of June 2026 for overstay and will hand over to the immigration authorities for legal action.” Leaders urge full compliance with the Cambodia immigration directive, stating they have no patience for visa overstays. They believe this Cambodia immigration directive will help restore order to the national border system.

What steps can embassies take to better assist citizens when a foreign government issues a sudden exit deadline?