Living in Angkor: the ultimate expat guide

The Angkor region's economy revolves primarily around tourism and hospitality, which accounts for approximately 50% of local employment. Since the post-pandemic recovery, international arrivals have surged, creating renewed demand for skilled professionals in hotels, restaurants, tour operations, and related services.

Key Employment Sectors

Beyond tourism, expatriates find opportunities in English teaching (salaries range from USD 700–1,500/month), NGO and development work, hospitality management, and increasingly in digital and remote work. The region's growing infrastructure has attracted entrepreneurs opening cafés, guesthouses, and co-working spaces.

Work Permits and Visas

Foreign nationals must obtain an E-class (Ordinary) visa, initially valid for 30 days and extendable for 1, 3, 6, or 12 months. Employment requires both a work permit and an employment card issued by the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training (MLVT). The process takes 7–15 business days, and employers must register through the Foreign Workers Centralised Management System (FWCMS). Annual work permit fees are approximately USD 200.

Employment Overview

Sources: Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training, LivingCost.org 2025

While the Angkor region itself has limited higher education options, Cambodia's university landscape has expanded significantly in recent years. Most institutions are concentrated in Phnom Penh, a 6-hour bus ride or 35-minute flight from Siem Reap, though local and online options are growing.

Universities Accessible from the Region

The Royal University of Phnom Penh (RUPP) is Cambodia's oldest and most prestigious public university, offering programs in sciences, humanities, and social sciences. Pannasastra University of Cambodia (PUC) provides English-language instruction and has campuses including one in Siem Reap, focusing on business, law, and international relations. The American University of Phnom Penh (AUPP) offers U.S.-style education with dual-degree programs in partnership with universities like Fort Hays State University and the University of Arizona.

Admission and Tuition

International students typically need a valid passport, high school diploma (with equivalency certification from the Ministry of Education), and English proficiency documentation. Tuition at private universities ranges from USD 1,500–4,000 per year for undergraduate programs. Public universities offer lower fees but instruction is primarily in Khmer. Many institutions accept rolling admissions and provide scholarship opportunities for outstanding students.

Sources: Pannasastra University of Cambodia, American University of Phnom Penh

The Angkor region has become increasingly popular among retirees seeking an affordable, culturally rich lifestyle in a welcoming environment. Cambodia's straightforward visa process and low cost of living make it an attractive retirement destination.

The ER Retirement Visa

Foreign nationals aged 55 or older can apply for the ER (Retirement) visa extension, which permits stays of up to 12 months with unlimited renewals. Applicants must first enter Cambodia on an E-class visa (USD 35 on arrival), then extend it at the Immigration Department or through a visa agent. Requirements include proof of retirement (pension statements or social security documentation) and demonstrated financial stability of approximately USD 800–1,000/month. The extension fee is around USD 290–300 per year. The ER visa does not permit employment but allows property ownership (apartments, not land) and unlimited entries with 6-month or annual extensions.

Healthcare for Retirees

Royal Angkor International Hospital provides international-standard care with English-speaking staff, though at Western prices (consultations from USD 35). Neak Tep Hospital offers quality care at lower costs (USD 20–30 per visit). For serious conditions, many expats travel to Bangkok (1-hour flight) or Singapore. Dental care is excellent and affordable, with cleanings from USD 30 and implants around USD 1,000. International health insurance is strongly recommended.

Sources: Acclime Cambodia, Royal Angkor International Hospital

Siem Reap offers a growing selection of international schools catering to expatriate families, with curricula ranging from British and American to French and Waldorf-inspired programs. Most schools accept students from preschool through primary levels, with secondary options more limited.

Top International Schools

The International School of Siem Reap (ISSR) is a Cambridge-accredited institution offering the British curriculum from ages 2–16, with tuition ranging from USD 1,500–5,200 per year. Tree House International School follows the British Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and Key Stage framework for children up to age 11, with fees of USD 2,000–5,000 annually. The École Française de Siem Reap (EFSR) provides French Ministry of Education curriculum with fees from USD 3,540–4,860 per year.

Alternative Options

Bambujaya School offers a bilingual Waldorf-inspired program (English/Khmer) at USD 4,980 annually. Hope International School provides Christian education through grade 10 with fees of USD 2,730–7,040. Most schools require entry assessments for English proficiency and charge one-time enrollment fees of USD 200–750.

Sources: International School of Siem Reap, Move to Cambodia

Housing in the Angkor region is remarkably affordable, with options ranging from traditional Khmer houses to modern apartments and serviced residences. Most expats settle in Siem Reap city center, near the Old Market (Psar Chas), along Sivatha Boulevard, or in the quieter Wat Bo and Sala Kamreuk areas.

Popular Neighborhoods

The Old French Quarter and riverside areas offer colonial architecture, restaurants, and proximity to Pub Street nightlife. Wat Damnak provides a quieter village atmosphere with easy temple access. Svay Dangkum and areas near the new airport road suit those seeking modern amenities and proximity to international schools.

Rental Prices

Rental agreements typically require one to two months' deposit, with annual leases offering better rates than short-term arrangements. Furnished apartments are common, and utilities are often billed separately at USD 30–60/month depending on air conditioning usage.

Sources: Numbeo 2025, Expat.com

Living in the Angkor region means having the world's largest religious monument as your backyard. Beyond the temples, the area offers diverse cultural experiences, natural attractions, and a lively social scene.

The Temples of Angkor

The Angkor Archaeological Park contains over 1,000 temples spanning 400 square kilometers. Angkor Wat itself covers 162 hectares and features stunning sunrise views, intricate bas-reliefs, and towering spires. Bayon Temple in Angkor Thom is famous for its enigmatic stone faces, while Ta Prohm (the "Tomb Raider temple") showcases nature reclaiming ancient structures. Day passes cost USD 37, three-day passes USD 62, and seven-day passes USD 72.

Beyond the Temples

Tonle Sap Lake, Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake, offers floating village tours and birdwatching at Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary. The Phare Cambodian Circus presents nightly performances combining acrobatics, music, and storytelling. Pub Street in the Old Market area provides restaurants, bars, and nightlife. Cooking classes, pottery workshops, and silk farm visits offer hands-on cultural experiences. Golf enthusiasts can play at three international-standard courses, including one designed by Sir Nick Faldo, with weekday rates from USD 57.

Sources: UNESCO World Heritage Centre, Phare Circus

Daily life in the Angkor region combines Southeast Asian charm with surprising convenience. The pace is relaxed, costs are low, and the expat community is welcoming. Most errands can be accomplished on foot, by bicycle, or via the ubiquitous tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis.

Transportation

Tuk-tuks are the primary mode of transport, with short rides costing USD 1–3. The PassApp and Grab apps provide reliable ride-hailing services with transparent pricing. Many expats purchase or rent motorbikes (USD 50–80/month) or bicycles for daily commuting. The newly upgraded roads include dedicated cycle lanes along the river, making cycling practical and pleasant. The Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport connects the region to major Asian hubs, while buses to Phnom Penh take 5–6 hours and cost approximately USD 9–15.

Lifestyle and Conveniences

Supermarkets like Lucky Mall and local markets provide both imported and local goods. High-speed internet (50+ Mbps) costs around USD 20–45/month, and mobile data plans are affordable at USD 5–10/month. Cambodia operates on a dual-currency system (USD and Cambodian Riel), making transactions simple for foreigners. Cashless payments via QR codes are increasingly common in urban areas.

The Angkor region ranks among the most affordable destinations in Southeast Asia, with the cost of living approximately 27–40% lower than in Western Europe, Australia, or North America. Most expats report living comfortably on USD 650–1,000 per month.

Monthly Budget for a Single Person

Monthly Budget for a Family of Four

Sources: Numbeo 2025, GoCambo 2025