The General Department of Immigration has launched a new digital “v-Pass” system to make travelling to and from Cambodia easier. Starting July 1, 2025, the pilot test for the system is officially underway
Tourists can enjoy a smoother entry into Cambodia with the introduction of the v-Pass (visitor pass) system, which replaces the previous passport stamp or QR code sticker, according to the General Department of Immigration (GDI).
GDI rolled out the pilot scheme, which is described as an “innovative border checkpoint system”, on July 1, 2025. With the v-Pass, once a visitor has passed through immigration, their digital v-Pass will be sent to the email address provided on their e-arrival card or e-arrival application, or at (https://arrival.gov.kh).
In a social media post on July 2, Cambodia Tourism Board said, “Tourists can use it [v-Pass) by presenting their passport for entry and departure; keep your digital v-Pass ready on their device for verification during their stay.”
Thourn Sinan, Chairman of IMCT Co Ltd and the Pacific Asia Travel Association Cambodia chapter, told Kiripost that the v-Pass system is a “noteworthy innovation”. He added that it replaces traditional passport stamps and QR code stickers with a more streamlined border control system that has the potential to enhance the efficiency and security of border crossings.
For tourists, this could mean a smoother, faster entry process, which is a positive factor in their overall experience, he said.
“This new system could serve as a positive step towards modernising Cambodia’s tourism infrastructure. It may also help improve the country’s image as a forward-thinking and welcoming destination, especially in a competitive regional market,” he said.
Regarding current challenges, such as border tensions with Thailand, Sinan believes the v-Pass could be part of a broader strategy to attract tourists by emphasising Cambodia’s commitment to technological advancement and efficient border management.
Steve Lidgey, General Manager at Travel Asia a la Carte, said the move forms part of Cambodia’s digitalisation drive and a means of collecting arrival data, and has no impact on the visiting tourist. He added that as long as the email sending process goes smoothly, guests will have a record, as there will no longer be an entry stamp in their passport.
However, Lidgey noted that the move will not serve to attract tourists. “The only benefit to the visitor is two fewer stamps in the passport (arrival and departure), which is convenient for frequent travellers who can quickly fill their passport pages. And it might save 30 seconds of what is usually a slow entry into Cambodia.”
Sourcet: Kiri Post
