Background
Between 21 and 23 February 2026, the General Department of Immigration (GDI) of Cambodia carried out a coordinated operation to expel 1,090 foreign nationals from Cambodian territory. This action was conducted under the high-level guidance of the Ministry of Interior authorities, including the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior and senior officials of the Ministry.
Scope of Application
The operation targeted foreign nationals from 17 different countries who were found to be in violation of Cambodian immigration laws. Violations included illegal border crossing, residing without valid permits, and unauthorized employment. The nationalities involved included China, India, Pakistan, Indonesia, Kenya, Brazil, Bangladesh, Nepal, Taiwan, Liberia, Cameroon, Uganda, Sierra Leone, Malaysia, Ghana, Nigeria, and Myanmar.
Key Provisions or Decisions
The expulsions were conducted through special flights and via international airport police checkpoints. Among those expelled, significant numbers were identified as connected to online fraud activities (“online scams”): 494 Chinese nationals and 168 Myanmar nationals. The procedures strictly followed the legal process mandated by the Royal Government of Cambodia, with no exemptions for those implicated in fraudulent schemes.
Implications for Investors, Businesses, or Compliance
This enforcement demonstrates Cambodia’s continued commitment to upholding immigration laws and combating technology-enabled crime. It underscores the importance for foreign nationals and businesses to comply fully with immigration and labor regulations to avoid legal sanctions and removal. The operation aims to protect domestic safety and maintain law and order in the Cambodian territory.
Official Source
See the General Department of Immigration official Facebook post: https://www.facebook.com/GDIOfficial/posts/pfbid02jpWFqk15Zor18Mc67YKoXP9eWZcsiWG8jK8W6f51YahsuCPAYKTsA1qpwsrGk5T9l
