Cambodia Rejects Fake WeChat Rumors About Border Closure and Entry Ban for Foreigners Under 40
Phnom Penh, Cambodia – Cambodia’s General Department of Immigration (GDI) has officially dismissed false reports circulating on Chinese social media platform WeChat claiming that the country had temporarily closed its borders and banned foreigners under the age of 40 from entering the Kingdom.
In a clarification statement released on May 26, immigration authorities confirmed that the information spreading online was completely inaccurate and misleading.
According to the GDI, the rumors originated from a Chinese-language post published on WeChat on May 25. The post falsely claimed that Phnom Penh International Airport had suspended all incoming travel and that land border checkpoints would impose strict new restrictions beginning May 26, 2026.
The viral message also alleged that all foreign nationals under 40 years old would be denied entry into Cambodia, regardless of whether they possessed valid visas or business documents.
Immigration Authorities Deny All Claims
Cambodia’s immigration department strongly rejected the allegations, stating that no such policy exists and that immigration officers had never received instructions to prohibit travelers under 40 from entering the country.
Officials emphasized that Cambodia’s border operations continue as normal, with airports and international land checkpoints remaining fully operational for tourists, investors, business travelers, and foreign workers.
The GDI explained that current immigration measures are only aimed at strengthening national security and preventing illegal border crossings, not restricting legitimate travelers.
“There has been no closure of Cambodia’s borders and no age-based entry ban,” the statement clarified.
Tourism and Business Travel Continue Normally
Authorities also stressed that Cambodia remains open to international visitors and continues encouraging foreign investment and tourism.
The government said foreign tourists, investors, entrepreneurs, traders, and workers are still welcomed into Cambodia under standard immigration procedures.
Major international border checkpoints by air and land are reportedly operating without disruption, with no policy changes affecting normal travel activities.
Cambodia Expands Travel Incentives for Chinese Visitors
At the same time, the Cambodian government is moving forward with efforts to attract more Chinese tourists through a temporary visa exemption initiative.
Under the pilot program, Chinese citizens traveling directly from China will be allowed to stay in Cambodia for up to 14 days without a visa.
The trial program is scheduled to run for four months, from June 15 to October 15, 2026, as part of broader tourism recovery and economic promotion efforts.
Public Urged to Avoid Spreading False Information
The General Department of Immigration urged the public not to believe or share unverified reports circulating on social media platforms.
Authorities encouraged people to rely only on official announcements from government institutions for accurate and up-to-date information regarding Cambodia’s immigration and border policies.
The clarification comes amid growing concerns over misinformation online, particularly regarding travel regulations and international border controls.
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