Cambodia
The laws most likely to catch a visitor off guard. What is legal at home can be a serious crime here — each rule links to its official source.
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Crimes targeting tourists in Cambodia often involve drugged drinks; do not accept drinks from strangers or leave drinks unattended, and methanol poisoning from bootleg alcohol has caused deaths.
§ US State Dept — CambodiaCannabis
Cambodia has a zero-tolerance drug policy; possession, trafficking, and manufacturing of any illegal drugs — including cannabis, methamphetamine, heroin, and MDMA — are serious offenses even in very small quantities.
Long jail sentences including life in prison, with no reduction for good behavior.
§ US State Dept — CambodiaCustoms & Cash
Import and export of Cambodian riel is prohibited; declare foreign currency over US$10,000 on entry — on exit you may take out foreign currency only up to the amount you declared on arrival.
§ US State Dept — CambodiaAlcohol
Deaths and serious illness have been caused by alcoholic drinks containing methanol in Cambodia; methanol cannot be identified by taste or smell — buy drinks only from licensed stores, bars, restaurants, and hotels, and avoid homemade or streetside alcohol.
§ US State Dept — CambodiaDriving
Drivers must obtain an International Driving Permit; accidents are common due to poor roads and intoxicated driving, and driving outside cities is best limited to 6:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
§ US State Dept — CambodiaConnectivity
LGBTQ+ Safety
Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Cambodia with no restrictions on relations or LGBTQ events, though same-sex marriage is not legal and societal discrimination occurs, especially outside cities.
§ US State Dept — CambodiaPublic Conduct
Cambodia criminalizes defamation and lèse-majesté: criticism or insults of the King by any means — including online and on social media — can bring 1 to 5 years in prison.
1 to 5 years in prison for insulting or criticizing the King, including posts made online or via social media.
§ US State Dept — Cambodia