Cambodia Orders African Nationals to Leave by May 31 or Face Arrest, Deportation

The General Department of Immigration in Cambodia has issued a directive ordering all African nationals residing in the country, including citizens of Ghana, Kenya, Cameroon, and Uganda, to leave the country by May 31, 2026, or face arrest, imprisonment, and deportation under the country’s immigration laws.

According to an official notice circulated by Cambodian immigration authorities, the temporary waiver previously granted to some foreign nationals will expire at the end of May.

“The waiver granted to you will officially end on the 31st of May 2026,” the statement said.

The directive further stressed that all affected foreign nationals who have settled their immigration-related fines and penalties are required to exit Cambodia before the deadline.

“All foreign nationals whose fines have been cleared must leave Cambodia on or before the 31st of May 2026,” the notice added.

Authorities warned that anyone found remaining in the country from June 1, 2026, onward would face severe legal consequences.

“Any foreign national who enters, remains, or is found in Cambodia from 1st of June 2026 will be arrested at the airport or at any location,” the statement cautioned.

Under the enforcement measures outlined in the notice, offenders could face a two-year prison sentence and an $8,000 fine before being deported from the country.

The immigration department also revealed that nationwide enforcement operations would begin immediately after the deadline expires.

“The Cambodia Police will start arresting any foreigner at any hideout in Cambodia from 1st of June 2026 for overstaying and will hand over to the immigration authorities for legal action,” the notice stated.

Cambodian authorities say the move forms part of a broader effort to tighten immigration enforcement and ensure compliance with residency regulations.

The announcement is, however, expected to generate anxiety amon many African migrants and foreign workers currently living and operating businesses in Cambodia, especially those struggling to regularise their immigration status before the deadline.