Cambodia has issued a directive ordering all African nationals, including citizens of Ghana, Kenya, Cameroon, and Uganda, to leave the country by May 31, 2026, or face arrest and prosecution under immigration laws.
The notice, issued by immigration authorities, states that the waiver previously granted to affected foreign nationals will expire on May 31, 2026.
“The waiver granted to you will officially end on the 31st of May 2026,” the directive said.
It further instructed that all foreign nationals who have completed payment of fines or resolved outstanding immigration issues must depart the country on or before the deadline.
“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,” it warned.
The statement added that offenders would face prosecution, including a possible two-year jail term and an $8,000 fine, before deportation.
Authorities also indicated that enforcement operations would intensify after the deadline, with police mandated to arrest overstaying foreigners at any location within the country.
“The Cambodia Police will start arresting any foreigner at any hideout in Cambodia from 1st of June 2026 for overstaying and will hand over to the immigration authorities for legal action,” it stated.
The directive forms part of efforts by Cambodian authorities to enforce immigration compliance and regulate foreign residency in the country.
