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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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Drugs

RESTRICTED

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 — Cambodia

Cannabis

PROHIBITED

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 — Cambodia

Customs & Cash

RESTRICTED

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 — Cambodia

Alcohol

RESTRICTED

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 — Cambodia

Driving

GOOD TO KNOW

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 — Cambodia

Connectivity

PROHIBITED

Drone use is strictly prohibited in Cambodia.

§ US State Dept — Cambodia

LGBTQ+ Safety

GOOD TO KNOW

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 — Cambodia

Public Conduct

PROHIBITED

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
LawLert is an independent app and is not affiliated with any government. It summarizes laws from official government and U.S. State Department sources for general information only. This is not legal advice, and laws change. Always confirm with official sources and local authorities before you travel.