The Cambodian government, through its Ministry of Interior, has dismissed viral online reports claiming that African nationals have been ordered to leave the country before May 31 or face a two-year jail term and an $8,000 fine
“It is fake news fabricated to distort the situation and mislead domestic and international audiences,” the ministry said.
The false reports, which began circulating on May 28, 2026, across various social media platforms and blogs, claimed that Cambodia had officially revoked an immigration waiver for African citizens and would begin arresting anyone remaining past the deadline.
The viral posts specifically named countries like Ghana, Kenya, Cameroon, and Uganda, triggering widespread panic and confusion among Africans living both in Cambodia and abroad.

However, Cambodian authorities have officially clarified that the information is entirely false and misleading.
According to a government statement, Cambodia has not issued any blanket deportation orders targeting African nationals as a group. Authorities also denied claims that African citizens face automatic imprisonment or financial penalties.
While Cambodia maintains strict immigration laws regarding visa overstays and undocumented residency, officials emphasised that these viral online claims do not reflect any official policy against African nationals, who remain welcome under standard legal immigration frameworks.
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