Background
On February 12, 2026, the General Department of Immigration (GDI) implemented directives from senior officials within the Ministry of Interior, including the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior and the Director General of the GDI, to expel foreign nationals who violated immigration laws. This action follows ongoing efforts to control illegal immigration and related offenses.
Scope of Application
The expulsion affected a total of 448 foreign nationals involving six nationalities: Vietnam, China, Kenya, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Pakistan. This enforcement operation focused on nationals involved in illegal presence and criminal activities linked to border crossing violations and unauthorized work.
Key Provisions or Decisions
- 448 foreign nationals were expelled from Cambodia, including 30 women.
- Among those expelled were 319 Chinese nationals associated with online scams.
- 48 Vietnamese nationals were removed related to illegal border crossing and unauthorized employment.
- Expulsions were executed through international airport checkpoints at Phnom Penh International Airport (Techo International Airport) and the international border gate at Poipet.
Implications for Investors, Businesses, or Compliance
This enforcement action underscores the government’s commitment to maintaining lawful immigration and combatting internet-based crimes and unauthorized labor. Businesses and individuals engaging foreign nationals must ensure compliance with Cambodian immigration laws to avoid penalties or operational disruptions.
Official Source
Official communication channels of the General Department of Immigration:
• TikTok
• Telegram
• Facebook
• immigration.gov.kh
