Cambodia forum

Visa on arrival at SR airport

Roving_Roo

noodle lady
Posts: 45

Hi,

It is well known that the border officials at the Poipet / Aranyaprathet border ask for 1,000 Baht rather than the official US$20, but I heard yesterday that upon flying in to Siem Reap airport the officials there also asked someone for 1,000B (refusing US$ as payment). I was under the impression that the airport took US$20 without a problem for the visa on arrival charge. Has anyone else had this happen? Is this a change on the part of the airport or is this the officials pocketing the excess?

Thanks for your views.

Rachel

#1 Posted: 9/7/2007 - 17:34
AmandaJordan

backpacker
Posts: 12

Hi rachel,

I was just there about a month ago and was charged US$20 without a problem. There may be some officials trying to scam people but as long as you are aware of what it should cost you shouldn't have a problem.

#2 Posted: 9/7/2007 - 21:22
Roving_Roo

noodle lady
Posts: 45

Hi Amanda,

Thanks for your reply. I was wondering if this had happened to other people, but perhaps this was a one off. My friend did say that he knew the visa was only US$20, but the official wouldn't back down. I hope this wont become common place like in Poipet.

#3 Posted: 10/7/2007 - 19:51
huow

newbie
Posts: 2

Hi,you should have no problem in SR and PP airports: official formalities are applied i.e. 20USD for a visa.

You may be asked for a "donation" by a immigration or customs officer.
You can refuse (keep your smile); you should have no trouble.

#4 Posted: 11/7/2007 - 04:37
huow

newbie
Posts: 2

Official site of SR airport:
http://www.cambodia-airports.com/siemreap/en/info.asp?s=formalities

#5 Posted: 11/7/2007 - 04:40
ernieh

noodle lady
Posts: 49

Hi,

I arrived to Siem Reap from Pakse, Laos with Lao Airlines and paid $20 US for my 1 month tourist visa.
Border crossings are notorious for charging extra (ie. overtime fee). If you wan't to save time and frustration I would recommend that you pay the extra money and fly.

#6 Posted: 12/7/2007 - 15:11
Roving_Roo

noodle lady
Posts: 45

Hi guys,

Thanks for your responses. I am familiar with Cambodian border crossings and extra tea monies charged and live in Siem Reap so know the airport quite well, but as I have a business visa I don't have the hassle of visa on arrival.

I was wondering if many others had had the same experience at airports, as my friend had.

Sounds like it was just someone trying their luck which paid off in this case.

Thanks again.

Rachel

#7 Posted: 12/7/2007 - 20:31