Background
On 9 March 2026, residence management officers stationed at commune and sangkat administrative police posts under district and municipal police inspectorates in Battambang Provincial Police delivered residence books (K2) and family books (K4) directly to residents at their homes for use in necessary day-to-day administrative matters.
The General Department of Identification also restated the administrative purpose of both documents and where residents may request them.
Scope of Application
The residence book is used as a police administrative measure to collect information on the number of people residing at a dwelling or place of residence. It may be issued only to an individual, family, or group of families who are the owner or tenant currently residing permanently at a given residence, even if that individual or family has more than one residence.
The family book is used to certify family relationship status among persons of Khmer nationality, including spouses, biological children, and adopted children.
Residents may request issuance of residence books and family books at the commune or sangkat administrative police post for the place where they permanently reside.
Key Provisions or Decisions
The residence book does not constitute proof of ownership of a residence and may not be used to claim or certify housing ownership.
The family book also does not constitute proof of ownership of a residence and may not be used as a document to claim or certify housing ownership.
The update further indicates that local police administrative units are actively distributing these documents to residents for practical administrative use.
Implications for Investors, Businesses, or Compliance
This clarification is relevant for compliance, due diligence, and administrative verification because it distinguishes household registration and family relationship records from documents evidencing property ownership. Businesses, service providers, and administrative users should not treat residence books or family books as proof of title to housing or real property.
The notice also provides a reference point on the competent authority for applications, namely commune and sangkat administrative police posts at the applicant’s place of permanent residence.
Official Source
General Department of Identification, Facebook post dated 9 March 2026, regarding delivery of residence books (K2) and family books (K4) in Battambang province and clarification of their administrative use.
