This page provides general guidance for those interested in the tourism industry in Cambodia. Regulations and fees change — always verify the latest requirements with the official ministries and seek professional legal or accounting advice before starting a business.
Tourism Business — License with the Ministry of Tourism
To operate a tour operator, travel agency or certain other tourism businesses legally in Cambodia, you generally need a Tourism License issued by the Ministry of Tourism (MOT) or the relevant Provincial Department of Tourism, in addition to company registration.
Typical steps (overview)
- Register your company with the Ministry of Commerce (see next section) and obtain the Certificate of Incorporation.
- Complete tax registration with the General Department of Taxation.
- Prepare required documents (company documents, lease or location certificate, identity documents, photos, compliance declarations, etc.).
- Arrange the required security / guarantee deposit with a recognised bank (amount depends on the type of tourism activity — inbound, outbound, domestic, travel agent, etc.).
- Apply for the Tourism License online via the official tourism licensing portal or at the Ministry / Provincial Department of Tourism.
- Await review and decision (official guidance often cites around 28 working days for a complete application).
Useful official / related links:
- Online tourism licensing information and applications are commonly handled through portals linked to the Ministry of Tourism (search for the current official site such as cambodiatourismindustry.org or the MOT online services).
- Ministry of Tourism of Cambodia — official communications and Facebook pages for announcements.
Deposit amounts, exact document lists and fees are set by Prakas (ministerial regulations) and can change. Confirm current requirements directly with MOT or a qualified local advisor.
Licensing & Registration — Ministry of Commerce
Before applying for a tourism-specific license, you normally need a legally registered company. Company registration is handled by the Ministry of Commerce (MoC).
How to register a business (overview)
- Decide on the legal form (most common for tourism businesses is a Private Limited Company; sole proprietorship and other forms also exist).
- Reserve / check company name availability (Khmer name is required).
- Prepare required documents (identification of shareholders/directors, articles of association / statutes, registered office address proof such as a lease, etc.).
- Submit the application through the official online business registration system of the Ministry of Commerce.
- Pay the prescribed registration fees.
- Upon approval, receive the Certificate of Incorporation. Tax registration is typically integrated or follows closely via the single-window / CamDX-related processes.
Official portal: https://businessregistration.moc.gov.kh/
The process has been digitised and is largely online. Authentication may involve CamDigiKey or other government digital identity systems. Requirements for foreign shareholders, notarisation and supporting documents should be confirmed on the official site or with a local lawyer/accountant.
After company and tax registration, additional licences (tourism, labour, signage, etc.) may still be required depending on your activities.
Tourism Association
The main private-sector body representing tourism businesses in Cambodia is the Cambodia Tourism Association (CATA).
- Website: https://www.cata.org.kh/ (also referenced as cata.org.kh)
- Role: Acts as a voice for tourism businesses and related industry associations, organises events, networking, advocacy and capacity-building activities.
- Contact details and membership information are available on the official website.
Other specialised associations may exist for hotels, restaurants, guides or specific sectors. Membership is voluntary but can be useful for networking, information and professional standards.
Travel Agencies
Licensed travel agencies and tour operators are the recommended way for visitors to book tours, transport and packages. Always check that an agency holds a valid Ministry of Tourism licence.
Examples of established agencies and operators (for reference only — do your own research and verify current licensing):
- Agencies and DMCs based in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap that offer inbound tours, Angkor packages, multi-day itineraries and tailor-made trips.
- Members of CATA (Cambodia Tourism Association) — the association directory or membership list on cata.org.kh is a good starting point to find reputable companies.
- Specialist operators focusing on responsible tourism, community-based tourism, adventure, or niche interests (birding, cycling, etc.).
When choosing an agency, look for clear pricing, experienced guides, proper insurance, and transparent terms. Reading recent independent reviews and asking for the MOT licence number is advisable.
This website does not endorse specific commercial agencies. The list above is illustrative only.
Accommodations & Other
Hotels, guesthouses, resorts and homestays must generally obtain the relevant tourism establishment licence / classification from the Ministry of Tourism (or provincial department) in addition to company registration and other local permits.
Below are examples of accommodation types and well-known options across major destinations (illustrative only — availability, standards and pricing change; always check current reviews and book through official channels):
Phnom Penh
- Riverside and city-centre hotels ranging from international chains to boutique properties.
- Popular areas: Riverside, BKK1, near the Royal Palace and Central Market.
Siem Reap
- Wide choice from luxury resorts with pools and spas to boutique hotels and guesthouses close to Pub Street or in quieter neighbourhoods.
- Many properties offer free tuk-tuk service to the temples or can arrange reliable drivers.
Sihanoukville & Islands
- Mainland hotels and resorts; island bungalows and resorts on Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem ranging from simple to mid-range and higher-end.
Kampot & Kep
- Riverside guesthouses and boutique hotels in Kampot; seaside resorts and smaller properties in Kep.
Battambang
- Colonial-style hotels and comfortable guesthouses in the town centre and near the river.
Mondulkiri (Sen Monorom)
- Eco-lodges and simple guesthouses suited to nature and ethical elephant experiences.
Other provinces
- Ratanakiri, Kratie, Kampong Cham, Preah Vihear area and smaller towns mainly offer guesthouses and basic-to-mid-range hotels. Community homestays are available in selected locations.
For the latest licensed establishments, classification information and official tourism statistics, refer to Ministry of Tourism publications and the provincial tourism departments.
Important Disclaimer
The information on this page is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute legal, tax or professional advice. Procedures, fees, deposit amounts and document requirements are subject to change by the Royal Government of Cambodia. Always consult the official websites of the Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Tourism and relevant provincial departments, and consider engaging a qualified local lawyer or business advisor before registering or operating a business.