Veterans in Cambodia
Simple renewable retirement extensions and a very low cost of living, with limited healthcare.
Entering Cambodia
Tourist or ordinary (E) e-visa, or visa on arrival, for about 30 days. If you plan to stay long term, enter on an E (ordinary) visa. An e-Arrival card is required before arrival.
Long-stay and retirement visas
- ER (retirement) extension, converted in-country from an E visa. Issued for 1, 3, 6 or 12 months and renewable. Generally 55+ with proof of retirement income. No work allowed.
- EB (business) extension for those who work.
VA care and benefits in Cambodia
No VA facility. Foreign Medical Program reimbursement. There is no Federal Benefits Unit service for Social Security in Cambodia.
Healthcare
Limited. Royal Phnom Penh Hospital and Sunrise Japan Hospital in Phnom Penh, and Royal Angkor International in Siem Reap. Serious cases go to Bangkok.
Where veterans live
- Phnom Penh: Services, U.S. Embassy, VFW Post 11575 (Mayaguez Memorial).
- Siem Reap: Angkor Wat, quieter.
- Kampot / Kep: Riverside and coast, very low cost.
Cost of living
Roughly USD 900–1,400 a month. Costs vary a lot by city and lifestyle. Health insurance is not included.
Money, language and time
Cambodian riel (KHR) and U.S. dollar · Khmer · UTC+7
Buying property
No land ownership for foreigners. Strata-title condos above the ground floor are allowed.
Watch out for
Online "job" scam compounds, especially Sihanoukville and border areas. Weak healthcare. Land disputes.
Veteran organizations
VFW Post 11575 in Phnom Penh. See veteran organizations abroad.
Common questions
Can veterans retire in Cambodia?
Yes. The ER retirement extension can be renewed for up to 12 months at a time, usually for those 55 and older with proof of retirement.
Is there a VFW post in Cambodia?
Yes. VFW Post 11575 (Mayaguez Memorial) meets in Phnom Penh.
Last reviewed November 2026. See something out of date? Tell us.