Cambodia issues a tough warning to African migrants, threatening arrests, jail terms and fines over immigration violations

The Royal Government of Cambodia, through the General Department of Immigration under the Ministry of Interior, has issued a stern warning to African nationals residing in the country, directing affected foreigners to leave before June 1, 2026, or face arrest, imprisonment and heavy financial penalties.

Also read: 105 Nigerians reportedly killed in South Africa amid rising tensions

The directive, contained in an official immigration notice circulated on Thursday, specifically referenced nationals from Ghana, Kenya, Cameroon, Uganda and other African countries allegedly benefiting from a temporary waiver arrangement scheduled to expire at the end of May.

According to the notice, all foreign nationals who have settled outstanding immigration fines are expected to depart Cambodia on or before June 1, 2026.

The government warned that from June 1, 2026, any affected foreign national found entering, remaining or residing in Cambodia would face immediate arrest either at airports or other locations across the country.

Authorities stated that offenders would serve a two-year jail term and pay an $8,000 penalty before being permitted to leave the country.

The Cambodia African migrants warning further disclosed that police and immigration operatives would begin intensified enforcement operations targeting suspected immigration violators and overstayers across the country.

“The Cambodia Police will start arresting any foreigner at any hideout in Cambodia from 1st of June 2026 for overstay and will hand over to the immigration authorities for legal action,” the notice stated.

The announcement has generated widespread concern among African migrant communities, many of whom rely on Cambodia for business, study and employment opportunities.

Immigration analysts noted that the development reflects a broader tightening of immigration enforcement policies in several Asian countries amid rising concerns over undocumented migration and visa overstays.

The Cambodia African migrants warning also triggered debate online, with some observers questioning the severity of the proposed penalties and the possible diplomatic implications for relations between Cambodia and affected African nations.

Despite the growing reactions, Cambodian authorities insisted that strict compliance with immigration regulations remained essential for national security and public order.

The notice stressed that the Royal Government of Cambodia would not tolerate any breach of immigration laws and urged all affected persons to cooperate fully with enforcement directives.

Also read: Ghana police arrest eight Nigerians in anti-drug raids

The latest development comes as several countries across Asia continue reviewing migration controls, border enforcement mechanisms and visa compliance procedures in response to changing global migration patterns.