On 31 March 2025, the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training (“MLVT”) issued Notification 009/25 (“Notification”) extending the deadline for work permit applications. This extension is due to delays in submitting requests for the extension of work permit applications, ensuring that those who have not yet applied can do so on time.
Through this Notification, the MLVT has delayed the submission deadline for renewal of work permit applications until 30 April 2025, being one month after the original deadline.
Please note that the obligation applies to foreign national whose name appears on patent tax certificate, self-employed foreign national and every employer in Cambodia employing foreign employees, including representative offices, branches, private or public limited companies, non-governmental organizations and associations.
Non-compliance with the requirements for obtaining work permits for foreign employees may subject employers to fines imposed by the MLVT, amounting to a maximum of KHR 12.6 million (approximately USD 3,150) per foreign employee. If there are five or more foreign employees working without work permits, the labour inspector may impose a maximum administrative fine of KHR 63 million (approximately USD 15,750), being five times the administrative fine imposed by the MLVT. Fines may be imposed in triple in the event of repeated offenses. Additional sanctions, as imposed by the Labour Law, include terms of imprisonment from six days to one month for any person who hires or retains a foreigner not holding a work permit.
Further, based on Joint Prakas 498 on the Monetary Fines for Those who Violate the Labour Law dated 31 July 2023, a foreign national who conducts business in Cambodia including self-employed person without a work permit is subject to a monetary fine of KHR 50.4 million (approximately USD 12,600).
Unless you have done so already, we strongly recommend that employers with foreign employees submit foreign employee work permit applications by the above extended deadline.
If you would like our assistance with the work permit application or if you have any questions or concerns regarding this reminder, please contact us on labor.kh@dfdl.com.
The information provided here is for information purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice. Legal advice should be obtained from qualified legal counsel for all specific situations.
