Background
The General Department of Immigration (GDI) implements Cambodia’s immigration control mechanisms, including deportation and repatriation procedures for foreigners found in breach of entry, residence, or work conditions. Deportation operations can be executed in coordination with foreign diplomatic missions and through airport enforcement checkpoints when repatriation is arranged by authorities.
The GDI Investigation Department applies administrative procedures to address cases involving online fraud and unauthorized employment, and can coordinate directly with concerned embassies to facilitate return flights. These operational routines connect immigration enforcement, airport police checkpoints, and diplomatic cooperation as part of Cambodia’s response to cross-border criminality that involves foreign nationals.
Key Developments
On 25 May 2026 the GDI carried out an operation to remove 160 Chinese nationals, including five women, who were identified as linked to online scams or who were staying and working in Cambodia without authorization. The removals were implemented on a special repatriation flight and processed through the airport police checkpoint at Techo International Airport.
Enforcement Actions
The GDI stated that the Investigation Department conducted the relevant inquiries and applied deportation procedures following recommendations from senior Ministry of Interior leadership. The department coordinated with the Chinese embassy as part of the repatriation process for the affected individuals.
Institutional Role
The General Department of Immigration enforces administrative controls over foreign arrivals, stays, and employment authorization and collaborates with other ministries and law-enforcement units at international airports to operationalize deportations. Diplomatic engagement with a foreign mission is a standard mechanism used to confirm identity and arrange onward travel during repatriation operations.
