Cambodia has announced tighter oversight of foreign nationals living in the country as part of a broader effort to strengthen national security and restore confidence among tourists and investors. The move comes at a time of ongoing border clashes with Thailand, which have affected tourism flows and raised regional security concerns. The directive was issued by the Ministry of Interior and shared during a recent conference in Phnom Penh.
The Cambodian Ministry of Interior has instructed the General Department of Immigration to enhance monitoring of foreign residents and strengthen entry and exit procedures. Secretary of State Keat Chantharith announced the measures while addressing a conference in the capital, according to The Khmer Times.
Chantharith said the decision aims to prevent immigration-related crimes and improve overall security. He stressed the importance of closer supervision of foreign nationals living and working in Cambodia. Authorities will also increase inspections of residences and locations suspected of sheltering undocumented individuals.
During the conference, the General Department of Immigration reviewed its key achievements in 2025 and outlined its strategic goals for 2026. Officials highlighted progress in immigration management, border control and cooperation with law enforcement agencies.
Chantharith praised immigration officers for delivering positive results over the past year. He said effective immigration control remains a priority for maintaining public order and safeguarding national interests.
Looking ahead, the department plans to focus on stronger data management, better coordination with security agencies and more regular checks on foreign residents across the country.
The interior ministry has urged all legal foreign residents to keep their documentation updated and comply with immigration rules. Chantharith warned that authorities will impose strict penalties on those who fail to follow the regulations.
Officials said the updated measures are essential for identifying overstayers and preventing illegal activities linked to undocumented migration. Regular inspections will target properties believed to house individuals without valid permits.
The ministry stated that these actions are designed to support Cambodia’s tourism policies and create a stable environment for foreign investment.
Tourism in Cambodia has declined in recent months due to ongoing clashes along the Thai-Cambodian border and reputational damage linked to scam centres operating within the country. Several illegal online gaming hubs have reportedly become targets during border skirmishes.
In December, Cambodia’s defence ministry accused Thailand’s military of carrying out an air strike near Poipet, a major border town known for its casino complexes and heavy cross-border movement. The incident marked another escalation in the long-running border dispute between the two countries.
Earlier in the same month, a Thai F-16 jet struck a casino in Cambodia. The Royal Thai Army claimed the site was used as a drone control and rocket launch base. Cambodia’s interior ministry later said previous Thai strikes had damaged at least four casinos in other parts of the country.
Authorities have not released images or detailed assessments of damage to gaming facilities in Poipet. Cambodian officials have also avoided directly linking the alleged air strikes to specific casino properties in the town.
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