Background
On 24 February 2026, following high-level directives from the Ministry of Interior leadership, the General Department of Immigration (GDI) conducted a large-scale enforcement operation resulting in the expulsion of 816 foreign nationals from the Kingdom of Cambodia.
Scope of Application
The enforcement targeted foreign nationals involved in violations such as illegal border crossing, overstaying visas, unauthorized employment, and participation in online scam activities. The 816 expelled persons included 63 women of 14 different nationalities, among which were Chinese, Ghanaian, Cameroonian, Nigerian, South Korean, Bangladeshi, Pakistani, Ugandan, Indonesian, Myanmar, Indian, Zimbabwean, Kenyan, Malaysian, and Nepali citizens.
Key Provisions or Decisions
Among those expelled, 494 Chinese nationals were specifically linked to online scam cases. Other expelled individuals were involved in illegal border crossing and unlawful work activities. The operation applied strict legal procedures under Cambodian law, focusing on combating cybercrime and maintaining public security.
Implications for Investors, Businesses, or Compliance
The operation underscores Cambodia’s commitment to enforcing immigration law and addressing technology-enabled crimes, signaling a rigorous compliance environment for foreign nationals working or residing in Cambodia. Businesses should ensure proper legal status for foreign employees and comply with immigration regulations to avoid legal repercussions.
Official Source
Information sourced from the official Facebook page of the General Department of Immigration: https://www.facebook.com/GDIOfficial/posts/pfbid02bkedLkMgGgQzmukwkh66o1jVPchfC2tB4dVTvWahH6AStqjQKB71SySiZdDGqVksl
