In a revolutionary move aimed at stimulating tourism, Cambodia has unveiled plans to waive visa requirements for Chinese nationals in 2026. From June 15 to October 15, Chinese visitors will be able to enter Cambodia without a visa for stays of up to 14 days. This bold decision is set to open the door for seamless travel between the two countries, eliminating bureaucratic barriers and fueling unprecedented growth in Cambodia’s tourism sector. With China being a key source of tourists, this policy is expected to significantly boost visitor numbers and enhance the overall travel experience.
In a bold move to attract more international visitors, Cambodia has announced plans to waive visa requirements for Chinese nationals for a limited period in 2026. This decision is part of a trial program designed to stay competitive with neighboring Southeast Asian destinations that have already implemented similar measures.
Starting June 15, 2026, and running through October 15, 2026, Chinese nationals will be able to enter Cambodia without the need for a visa for a stay of up to 14 days. This policy aims to simplify travel and encourage an influx of Chinese tourists, who have historically been a significant part of Cambodia’s tourism industry. Under the new rules, travelers will only need to complete an e-arrival card upon entering the country, streamlining the process and minimizing paperwork for tourists.
The Cambodian Ministry of Tourism’s announcement underscores the country’s commitment to regaining its position as a top destination for international travelers, particularly from China. The move aligns with broader trends in the region, as several Southeast Asian countries have already taken steps to facilitate easier entry for Chinese nationals. Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore are among the countries that have already waived visa requirements for Chinese travelers, aiming to boost their own tourism sectors and capitalize on the growing Chinese outbound tourism market.
As of the first 10 months of 2025, Cambodia welcomed approximately 4.8 million foreign visitors. Of this total, around one million were Chinese nationals, marking a strong presence from the world’s most populous nation. However, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the country saw an even larger influx, with Chinese tourists accounting for a third of total international arrivals in 2019. The Cambodian government hopes that waiving the visa requirement will help revive these numbers, pushing Chinese visitor numbers back to pre-pandemic levels and beyond.
Before the pandemic, China was a major source of tourism for Cambodia, with many Chinese travelers drawn to the country’s rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning natural landscapes. The country’s famed Angkor Wat temples, bustling capital of Phnom Penh, and idyllic coastal areas continue to attract visitors, and the Cambodian government is eager to see these sectors thrive again with the help of Chinese tourists.
In addition to the visa waiver, Chinese nationals can still opt to use other visa options for entry, including visa-on-arrival, e-visa, or the traditional tourist visa. This flexibility allows for a range of entry options depending on the specific needs and preferences of travelers.
Cambodia’s new visa policy is a direct response to the regional competition for Chinese tourists. Countries in Southeast Asia have long recognized the potential of this lucrative market, and Cambodia’s initiative to remove visa requirements places it on equal footing with its neighbors. By simplifying the entry process, Cambodia hopes to capture a larger share of the Chinese tourism market and boost its overall economic recovery in the post-pandemic world.
In addition to Cambodia, other nations in the region are also making efforts to revive their tourism industries by targeting the Chinese market. The Philippines, for example, recently resumed its e-visa program for Chinese nationals after a two-year suspension, providing another avenue for Chinese travelers to visit the country.
As Southeast Asia continues to rebound from the pandemic, Cambodia’s strategic move is expected to not only increase the number of Chinese tourists but also foster closer ties between the two nations. With a growing number of Chinese nationals looking for international travel experiences, Cambodia is positioning itself as an attractive destination for those seeking a blend of rich culture, historical significance, and scenic beauty.
Cambodia’s move to waive visa requirements for Chinese nationals in 2026 will open the door for seamless travel, removing barriers and driving unprecedented tourism growth by attracting more Chinese visitors.
In conclusion, Cambodia’s decision to waive visa requirements for Chinese nationals for the summer and autumn of 2026 marks a significant step in the country’s efforts to reinvigorate its tourism sector. As other Southeast Asian nations continue to woo Chinese travelers with similar policies, Cambodia is setting the stage to be a leading destination in the region, attracting tourists and fueling economic growth in the process. With the promise of hassle-free travel, Cambodia is positioning itself as a must-visit destination for Chinese tourists in the years to come.
The post Cambodia Unveils Revolutionary Move To Waive Visa Requirements For Chinese Nationals In 2026 Opening The Door For Seamless Travel and Unprecedented Tourism Growth appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
