Cambodia Processes Over 1,100 Foreigner Marriage Applications in First Six Months of 2026

In the first six months of 2026, a total of 1,154 foreign nationals (52 women) from 36 nationalities applied to register their marriages with Cambodian citizens, according to the Department of Combating Human Trafficking and Protecting Minors of the National Police General Commissariat. The department also reported that during the same period, 1,169 individuals (43 women) were evaluated and forwarded to the One-Stop Service Inter-Ministerial Working Group for further procedural examination. These measures are in place to ensure marriages are conducted legally and to prevent human trafficking under the guise of marriage. As per the Sub-Decree on "Formulation and Procedures for Marriage Between Cambodian Citizens and Foreign Nationals," foreigners wishing to marry Cambodian citizens must be physically present in Cambodia and provide a valid passport with a visa, a certificate of single status (or widowhood), a criminal record clearance, proof of occupation issued by their home country, and a health certificate. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and the Ministry of Interior will review and assess these documents within a maximum of five working days. Following the review, both parties must submit an application to the Commune/Sangkat office of the Cambodian party's permanent residence, along with their birth certificate, certificate of single status (or widowhood), and health certificate. Commune/Sangkat registrars will then review and decide within three working days, after which a marriage announcement will be prepared for public display for 10 days at the embassy or representative office of the foreign national's country and at the Commune/Sangkat office. If no objections or oppositions are raised during the public notice period, the couple can proceed with their marriage. They must then appear in person before the Commune/Sangkat registrar to sign a contract and register their marriage, accompanied by two adult witnesses, for the marriage to be legally recognized.