Cambodia Denies Ordering Africans to Leave the Country by 31 May

Cambodia has dismissed reports that African nationals had been ordered to leave the country by 31 May, describing the claims as false and fabricated.

The Cambodian government rejected online reports alleging that all Africans living in the country had been instructed to depart or face arrest and prosecution. Officials said the claims were based on a fake “official notice” that had been circulated on social media and reported by several outlets.

The document claimed that the General Department of Immigration had directed African nationals residing in Cambodia to leave by the end of May 2026. It also alleged that those who failed to comply could face imprisonment and substantial fines. The Ministry of Interior stated that no such order had been issued.In a statement released on Friday, 29 May, the General Department of Immigration said the reports did not come from any government authority. Ministry spokesperson Touch Sokhak described the claims as “fake news fabricated to distort the situation and mislead domestic and international audiences”. 

Authorities urged the public and foreign residents to rely only on official government channels for immigration information. The reports had caused concern among African nationals living in Cambodia, including students, traders and professionals working in sectors such as education, tourism and business. 

Many feared the alleged directive could affect their legal status and future in the country. The government’s response confirmed that no changes had been made to immigration rules affecting African residents.