Understanding Cambodia's Dual Citizenship Registration

Cambodia has formalized its stance on dual nationality through Sub-Decree No. 225, providing much-needed clarity for the expat community. While the country has long been a favorite for remote workers due to its low cost of living, the legal framework for holding multiple passports was previously a gray area. The current law explicitly recognizes dual citizenship but introduces a mandatory requirement for all dual nationals to declare and register their foreign passports with the General Department of Identification.

Who needs to take action

This policy primarily affects long-term residents, investors, and those who have acquired Cambodian nationality through marriage or naturalization. If you hold a Cambodian passport alongside a foreign one, you must register to remain compliant.

For digital nomads on standard E-class visas, these changes mostly serve as a roadmap for the future. If you are looking at permanent settlement through the Cambodia My 2nd Home (CM2H) program or long-term residency of five to seven years, these rules define your eventual path to citizenship.

Requirements and pathways

The government has established clear, albeit expensive, fast-track routes for those looking to skip the standard residency timelines.

• Investment: A commitment of at least KHR 4 billion (approximately $1 million) in approved projects.
• Donation: A contribution of KHR 12 billion (approximately $3 million) to the national budget.
• Naturalization: Standard applicants must demonstrate Khmer proficiency, provide a clean criminal record, and undergo health checks.

Failure to register a foreign passport can lead to administrative penalties and may complicate business registrations or property ownership. Most naturalization applications are now reviewed within 45 working days, though the final approval requires a Royal Decree and an oath before the Supreme Court.

Stay updated on the latest nomad news to track how these regulations evolve.

Read our full Cambodia guide for the complete picture.