Health and medical requirements for Cambodia eVisa travelers

Cambodia Health Requirements

Essential health information for eVisa travelers

Health Requirements for Cambodia eVisa Travelers

When planning your trip to Cambodia with a Cambodia eVisa, it's essential to understand the health requirements and medical considerations for entry. While Cambodia has relaxed many of its previous health restrictions, travelers should still be aware of current regulations, recommended vaccinations, and health precautions to ensure a safe and healthy journey.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about health requirements for eVisa holders, including COVID-19 regulations, vaccination recommendations, travel insurance, and medical facilities available in Cambodia.

Current COVID-19 Travel Requirements

Updated information as of 2023

As of April 2023, Cambodia has significantly eased its COVID-19 travel restrictions, making entry more straightforward for international visitors with an eVisa.

No Mandatory COVID-19 Requirements

Cambodia no longer requires the following for entry:

  • COVID-19 vaccination proof: Vaccination certificates are not mandatory for entry
  • Pre-departure testing: No need for negative PCR or rapid antigen tests before travel
  • Mask mandates: Wearing masks is not required in public spaces or during travel
  • Quarantine: No quarantine period required upon arrival
  • COVID-19 insurance: Not mandatory, though travel insurance is still recommended

Health Screenings at Entry Points

While formal COVID-19 requirements have been lifted, travelers should be aware that:

  • Health screenings may still be conducted at airports and border crossings
  • Temperature checks may be performed at entry points
  • Travelers showing symptoms of illness may be subject to additional screening
  • Health authorities reserve the right to implement measures if necessary

Recommended Precautions

Although not required, it is advisable to:

  • Be up-to-date with COVID-19 vaccinations before travel
  • Carry hand sanitizer and maintain good hygiene practices
  • Monitor local health guidelines during your stay
  • Have adequate travel insurance covering medical emergencies

Vaccination Requirements and Recommendations

Mandatory Vaccinations

Cambodia does not require specific vaccinations for entry for most travelers. However, there is one important exception:

Yellow Fever Vaccination

Yellow fever vaccination is required for travelers arriving from or transiting through countries with risk of yellow fever transmission. This includes:

  • Countries in sub-Saharan Africa
  • Countries in tropical South America
  • Any country where yellow fever is endemic

If you're arriving from a yellow fever risk country, you must present a valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate upon arrival. This certificate becomes valid 10 days after vaccination and remains valid for life.

Recommended Vaccinations

While not mandatory, the following vaccinations are strongly recommended for travelers to Cambodia:

Routine Vaccinations

  • Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR): Ensure you're up-to-date
  • Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis: Booster if needed
  • Varicella (Chickenpox): If not previously infected
  • Polio: Booster recommended for some travelers
  • Influenza: Annual flu vaccine

Travel-Specific Vaccinations

  • Hepatitis A: Recommended for all travelers
  • Hepatitis B: Especially for longer stays
  • Typhoid: Important for travelers eating outside major hotels
  • Japanese Encephalitis: For extended rural stays
  • Rabies: For travelers who may encounter animals

Travel Insurance and Medical Coverage

Is Travel Insurance Required?

Travel insurance is not mandatory for entering Cambodia with an eVisa. However, it is strongly recommended for all travelers.

Why You Should Have Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is crucial when visiting Cambodia because:

  • Limited medical facilities: Cambodia's healthcare system does not meet international standards
  • Medical evacuation costs: Serious medical emergencies may require evacuation to Thailand or Singapore
  • Out-of-pocket expenses: Medical treatment can be expensive for foreigners
  • Emergency coverage: Accidents and illnesses can occur unexpectedly

Recommended Coverage

Your travel insurance should include:

  • Medical treatment coverage: Minimum $100,000 USD recommended
  • Emergency medical evacuation: Essential for serious conditions
  • Repatriation coverage: In case of serious illness or death
  • 24/7 emergency assistance: Access to medical advice and support
  • Coverage for pre-existing conditions: If applicable
  • Adventure activities: If planning activities like zip-lining or diving

Medical Facilities in Cambodia

Understanding Cambodia's healthcare system helps you prepare:

  • Major cities (Phnom Penh, Siem Reap): Have international clinics with English-speaking staff
  • Rural areas: Limited medical facilities available
  • Serious conditions: May require evacuation to Bangkok or Singapore
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities, though medication availability varies

Essential Health Precautions for Cambodia

Food and Water Safety
  • Drink only bottled or purified water
  • Avoid ice in drinks unless from reliable sources
  • Eat thoroughly cooked food
  • Avoid raw vegetables and unpeeled fruits
  • Choose busy, reputable restaurants
Mosquito-Borne Diseases
  • Use insect repellent with DEET
  • Wear long sleeves and pants at dawn/dusk
  • Sleep under mosquito nets
  • Stay in air-conditioned or screened rooms
  • Consider malaria prophylaxis for rural areas
General Health Tips
  • Wash hands frequently
  • Use hand sanitizer
  • Avoid contact with animals
  • Protect against sun exposure
  • Stay hydrated in tropical heat

Medications and Medical Supplies

Bringing Medications to Cambodia

If you need to bring prescription medications to Cambodia:

  • Keep medications in original packaging: With pharmacy labels clearly visible
  • Carry a doctor's note: Explaining your condition and medication requirements
  • Bring sufficient supply: Pharmacies may not stock your specific medication
  • Check controlled substances: Some medications may be restricted or prohibited
  • Declare at customs: If bringing large quantities

Recommended Medical Supplies to Pack

Consider bringing a basic medical kit including:

  • Pain relievers (paracetamol, ibuprofen)
  • Anti-diarrheal medication
  • Antihistamines for allergies
  • Bandages and antiseptic
  • Insect repellent with DEET
  • Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
  • Oral rehydration salts
  • Motion sickness medication
  • Any personal prescription medications

Finding Pharmacies in Cambodia

  • Pharmacies are readily available in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap
  • Many pharmacies have English-speaking staff
  • Some medications available over-the-counter that require prescriptions elsewhere
  • Quality and authenticity of medications can vary
  • Best to bring essential medications from home

Health Declaration and e-Arrival Card

All travelers arriving by air in Cambodia must complete an e-Arrival Card which includes a health declaration section.

What is the e-Arrival Card?

The e-Arrival Card (CeA) is a digital form that consolidates:

  • Immigration information
  • Health declaration
  • Customs declaration

How to Complete the e-Arrival Card

  1. Timing: Must be completed within 7 days before arrival in Cambodia
  2. Access: Available on the government website or mobile app
  3. Information needed: Personal details, travel information, and health status
  4. Confirmation: You'll receive a QR code confirmation
  5. At arrival: Present the QR code to immigration officials

Health Questions on the Form

The health declaration section may ask about:

  • Recent illness symptoms
  • Contact with infectious diseases
  • Countries visited in the past 14 days
  • General health status

Important: Answer all health questions truthfully. False declarations can result in entry denial or penalties.

Emergency Contact Numbers in Cambodia

Service Contact Number Notes
Police 117 Emergency police assistance
Fire & Rescue 118 Fire emergencies and rescue services
Medical Assistance (Phnom Penh) 119 Ambulance services in Phnom Penh only
Medical Assistance (Outside Phnom Penh) Contact hospitals directly Ambulance services limited outside the capital

International Clinics in Major Cities

Phnom Penh International Clinics:

  • Royal Phnom Penh Hospital
  • Raffles Medical Phnom Penh
  • International SOS Clinic
  • Calmette Hospital (public with some international services)

Siem Reap Medical Facilities:

  • Royal Angkor International Hospital
  • Angkor Hospital for Children (pediatric care)

Important: Keep your travel insurance contact number readily available for medical emergencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Cambodia does not require COVID-19 vaccination for entry. As of April 2023, vaccination certificates are not mandatory for travelers entering Cambodia with an eVisa. However, staying up-to-date with vaccinations is recommended for your own health and safety.

No, travel insurance is not mandatory for Cambodia eVisa holders. However, it is strongly recommended due to limited medical facilities in Cambodia and the potential need for medical evacuation. Comprehensive travel insurance should cover medical treatment, emergency evacuation, and repatriation.

While no vaccinations are mandatory for most travelers (except Yellow Fever if arriving from endemic countries), it's recommended to be up-to-date with routine vaccinations and consider travel-specific vaccines such as Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, and Japanese Encephalitis depending on your travel plans and length of stay.

Yes, health screenings may be conducted at entry points including airports and land border crossings. These may include temperature checks and basic health questionnaires. Travelers showing symptoms of illness may be subject to additional screening by health authorities.

Yes, you can bring prescription medications to Cambodia. Keep medications in their original packaging with clear labels, and carry a doctor's note explaining your medical condition and prescribed treatment. Declare medications at customs if bringing large quantities. Be aware that some controlled substances may be restricted.

In a medical emergency, contact 119 (in Phnom Penh) or go directly to an international clinic. Outside Phnom Penh, contact hospitals directly as ambulance services are limited. Always contact your travel insurance provider immediately for serious medical issues, as they can arrange appropriate care and evacuation if needed.

For more information about traveling to Cambodia, visit our FAQ page or contact our support team.

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