Cambodia Orders All Africans to Leave the Country by May 31 or Face Arrest

Cambodia has ordered all African nationals living in the country to leave by 31 May 2026, warning that anyone who remains after the deadline will face arrest and prosecution under immigration laws.

The directive, issued by the General Department of Immigration, ends a waiver that had allowed African nationals to remain in Cambodia despite visa irregularities. Authorities said individuals who have settled outstanding immigration fines must leave before the deadline. 

From 1 June, police will begin detaining foreigners found overstaying or hiding in the country. Offenders could face up to two years in prison and fines of up to $8,000 before deportation.

Human rights groups say many of those affected are victims of trafficking rather than deliberate immigration offenders. In recent years, citizens from Kenya, Ghana, Cameroon, Uganda and other African countries have travelled to Southeast Asia after receiving fraudulent job offers linked to customer service, casinos and technology firms.

Many victims reported being held in guarded compounds after arriving in the region. Some said their passports were confiscated and that they were forced to work in online scam operations. Reports have also described intimidation, physical abuse and debt bondage.

Cambodia’s decision comes amid increasing international concern over transnational crime networks operating in the region. Cambodia, together with neighbouring Myanmar and Laos, has been identified as a centre for cybercrime and human trafficking operations. Criminal groups have been accused of attracting foreign workers with promises of well-paid jobs before forcing them into exploitative conditions.

For African nationals stranded in Cambodia, the order creates further uncertainty. Many do not have the money to pay immigration penalties or cover the cost of returning home. Kenyan nationals and others have repeatedly appealed to their governments for assistance, citing abuse and severe financial hardship. 

Those unable to leave before the deadline could face detention and imprisonment.

Cambodian authorities say the measure is necessary to enforce immigration laws.