Cambodia, unlike neighbouring Thailand and several other countries in the region, allows for 100% foreign ownership of most types of companies established in Cambodia. There are a few restricted industries and activities, such as buying land and certain natural resources. This type of company is called a Private Limited Company (Co., Ltd.), which allows for 100% foreign ownership and limited liability.
Cambodia has a streamlined online system for company registration, which is managed by the Ministry of Commerce (MOC), and certificates of incorporation can be issued within days.
Corporate tax in Cambodia is low, and although monthly tax filings and annual audits are required for most companies, the collection of tax is streamlined with online systems.
Expats and non-resident foreigners establish companies in Cambodia for all types of business activities, from large consulting and e-commerce firms to foreign restaurants and cafés.
Establishing a foreign-owned company in Cambodia doesn’t automatically grant the owner the right to actually work in Cambodia, to work in Cambodia the foreign investor or owner will need both a visa and a work permit.
Most foreign entrepreneurs start with a Business Visa E Class with an EB Extension, this is the most common visa for foreigners either working in Cambodia as a business owner or employee.
If you are simply the owner of the company but not performing any business activities in Cambodia, then you might not necessarily need a work permit, but the moment you engage in any type of work activities in Cambodia, then you should have a work permit in addition to your visa.
