In a bid to achieve a hassle-free experience for international visitors flying into Cambodia, the Kingdom is set to introduce an electronic visa payment system from September 1. The announcement was made by Prime Minister Hun Manet at a dinner on Friday in the capital.
At a gala dinner event organised by the Cambodian Oknha Association and the Cambodian Housing Developers Association, last week, Mr Hun Manet explained that the move to introduce electronic payments for visa fees at the three international airports was being done to increase foreign tourist numbers.
The new system would eliminate the need for foreign tourists to wait in queues to make cash payments. Earlier they needed to manually fill out paper forms at embassies or consulates or stand in queues to make cash payments on arrival.
The premier further said that he had coordinated with the Ministry of Economy and Finance to hold meetings at the three airports. “Applying for an on-arrival visa and an outside visa, which is already done, uses all the electronics, so tourists and arrivals do not need to use cash anymore,” he said.
Mr Hun Manet also emphasised that the new management system was devised and developed by homegrown experts and not foreign professionals. He also implored all those in the industry particularly the personnel manning the airport gates to greet visitors with a hospitable welcome and that good hospitality is key to attracting more tourists.
“The electronic visa payment system will enhance tourists’ travel experience by reducing wait times, streamlining the visa application process, and providing greater convenience,” Thourn Sinan, Chairman, Pacific Asia Travel Association Cambodia Chapter, told Khmer Times on Monday. It will lead to smoother entry procedures, improved efficiency, and a more positive first impression of the country, ultimately enhancing the overall travel experience for visitors to Cambodia, he added.
This convenience is particularly appealing to travellers who prioritise efficiency and ease of travel, explained Jeremie Clement, General Manager, Peninsula Phnom Penh. Electronic payments provide a secure and transparent method of transaction, minimising the risks associated with carrying cash.
This is particularly beneficial given that previously, tourists had to pay for their visas in cash, and only in USD. This modernisation aligns Cambodia with global travel standards, making the country a more attractive destination for international tourists, he added.
“Challenges often arise when tourists expect Cambodia to mirror the standards of their home countries,” said Clemy Balasoto, Tripoflight Sales Marketing Director. “Cambodia has its own set of policies and procedures, which can differ from those in more developed nations,” she added.
The main notable flaw in the experience of foreign tourists in Cambodia is the lack of reliable public transportation, she said.
While Cambodia offers a rich cultural and historical experience, getting around can be challenging for visitors. Tourists often face difficulties with language barriers, price negotiations and the reliability of these services. The absence of a well-developed, comprehensive public transportation system can lead to frustration and inconvenience.
