Acquiring Cambodian Citizenship by Descent

Eligibility Criteria (2025)

✅ Individuals born anywhere to at least one parent who is a Cambodian citizen at the time of birth are eligible for citizenship by descent.
✅ The Cambodian parent must have retained citizenship and not renounced it prior to the applicant’s birth.
✅ Applicants must register their intent to claim Cambodian nationality with a Cambodian embassy, consulate, or the Ministry of Interior if in Cambodia.

✅ Applicant’s birth certificate (legalized/apostilled and translated into Khmer if necessary).
✅ Cambodian parent’s birth certificate or citizenship certificate issued by the Cambodian Civil Registry or Ministry of Interior.
✅ Valid identification of the Cambodian parent (e.g., Cambodian passport or national ID card).
✅ Applicant’s valid passport or equivalent identification document.

📍 Gather all required documents, ensuring they are legalized and translated into Khmer as needed.
📍 Submit the application to the nearest Cambodian embassy or consulate (if abroad) or the Ministry of Interior (if in Cambodia).
📍 Attend an interview or provide additional verification if requested by authorities.
📍 Await processing, which may take 3-6 months depending on the completeness of the application.
📍 Upon approval, receive a certificate of citizenship and apply for a Cambodian passport.

📌 Cambodia permits **dual citizenship**, allowing applicants to retain their original nationality alongside Cambodian citizenship.
📌 Processing times and requirements may vary; consult the nearest Cambodian embassy or the Ministry of Interior for the latest updates.
📌 More details can be found in the **Law on Nationality of Cambodia (1996)**, assumed current in 2025 unless amended.

Visa Falcon is here to help you confidently navigate the world of travel visas. Check the latest visa requirements for 197+ countries.