Background
Between February 25 and 28, 2026, the General Department of Immigration (GDI) implemented an expulsion campaign targeting foreign nationals involved in illegal activities and immigration offenses in Cambodia. This operation was conducted under the guidance of senior officials from the Ministry of Interior and the GDI leadership, aiming to uphold public safety and enforce immigration laws.
Scope of Application
The expulsions covered a total of 1,501 foreign nationals from 20 different countries, including China, Ghana, Syria, Uganda, Taiwan, Myanmar, Indonesia, Laos, India, Pakistan, Kenya, the Philippines, Bangladesh, Singapore, Vietnam, Japan, Nigeria, Cameroon, Nepal, and Korea. Among them, 658 Chinese nationals were notably linked to online scam activities. The broader group included individuals involved in illegal border crossing, lack of valid travel documents, and unauthorized employment inside Cambodia.
Key Provisions or Decisions
The expulsion actions were carried out in strict compliance with Cambodian legal measures aimed at eliminating technology-facilitated crimes and maintaining national security. Special flights were arranged through the international airport police checkpoint to deport those involved. The measures reflect sustained government policy to cleanse the country of illicit actors and uphold lawful immigration practices.
Implications for Investors, Businesses, or Compliance
This operation signals Cambodia’s commitment to rigorous immigration control and enforcement against crimes affecting national and regional security. Businesses and investors should note the enforcement environment and ensure compliance with Cambodia’s immigration laws and regulations to avoid legal complications. The campaign reinforces the importance of lawful employment and visa adherence for foreign nationals operating in Cambodia.
Official Source
General Department of Immigration official Facebook post: https://www.facebook.com/GDIOfficial/posts/pfbid06LMWUu7ftwHRmBs5ZvrYJgDj1ivFYB1N7WX7GAi5esUuuazxY3gDDcpXUWyDB8Zgl
