Visa Restrictions Tighten Between Cambodia and Thailand

Seven-Day Limit Imposed on Travelers

Cambodia has reduced visa durations for Thai visitors to seven days, prompting Thailand to mirror the policy starting June 9, 2025, according to the Foreign Ministry. For Thais entering Cambodia by land, the stay has dropped from 14 days for passport holders and 15 days for border pass holders, signaling a sharp escalation in diplomatic tensions between the two nations.

Thailand Matches Cambodia’s Move

Adjusted Stays for Cambodian Visitors

In response, Thailand has shortened Cambodian visitors’ land entry stays to seven days, down from 60 days for passport holders and 15 days for border pass users, effective immediately. However, Cambodians arriving by air can still stay up to 60 days, while Thailand will extend air entry for Thais to 60 days from Tuesday, June 10, 2025, reflecting a complex adjustment amid ongoing disputes.

Uncertain Duration of Restrictions

No Timeline Set for Reversal

Foreign Ministry spokesman Nikorndej Balankura, director-general of the Department of Information, noted that neither country has specified how long these visa restrictions will last. He suggested that discussions for an extension could occur once tensions ease, though resolving the border conflict remains a higher priority than adjusting visa policies in the near term.

Additional Security Measures Proposed

Power and Internet Cuts on the Table

Nikorndej revealed that Thai security officials will recommend to the National Security Council the disconnection of electricity and internet services to Cambodian regions with casinos and scam operations. They also plan to regulate supplies that could fuel technology misuse or cross-border crime, aiming to pressure Cambodia while safeguarding Thailand’s interests in 2025.

Hope for Diplomatic Resolution

Bilateral Talks Scheduled Soon

Despite the tightened measures, Nikorndej expressed optimism for a peaceful, long-term solution through bilateral channels, including the Joint Boundary Committee, set to meet in five days on June 14, 2025. This approach underscores both nations’ commitment to resolving underlying issues, potentially easing travel restrictions in the future.