Cambodia Optimistic About US Visa Considerations Amid Potential Restrictions

Cambodia anticipates favorable consideration under potential US visa restrictions due to its cooperation in repatriating citizens. The US may categorize 43 countries into three lists, with Cambodia on the least restrictive Yellow list. Officials remain optimistic about positive outcomes given the strong bilateral relations and the government’s efforts to facilitate deportation processes.

Cambodia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed confidence regarding potential new US visa restrictions, anticipating a favorable outcome based on its cooperation in repatriating citizens subject to US removal orders. Recent reports have indicated that the Trump administration may impose travel limitations on 43 countries, categorizing them into three color-coded lists: Red, Orange, and Yellow, depending on the severity of the restrictions.

The Kingdom of Cambodia, along with 20 other nations, has reportedly been classified on the Yellow list, which signifies the least stringent restrictions. The Red category will prohibit entry from 11 nations, including Afghanistan and North Korea, while the Orange category will enforce heavier restrictions on another 11 countries, including Russia and Myanmar.

Countries listed under Yellow must address unspecified concerns within 60 days to avoid being downgraded to more severe categories. These concerns likely pertain to the deportation of Cambodian citizens who have committed offenses in the United States.

Chum Sounry, spokesperson for Cambodia’s foreign ministry, indicated that the ministry has not yet received official notifications regarding the situation and is currently gathering information through diplomatic channels. He confirmed Cambodia’s commitment to aiding in the repatriation process, ensuring cooperation with US authorities.

Sounry stated that Cambodia has consistently issued travel documents and conducted necessary interviews to expedite removals, indicating that no significant obstacles currently hinder this process. He reiterated that, given Cambodia’s proactive cooperation and positive bilateral relations with the US, the country remains optimistic about a favorable review of its efforts.

There are no current statistics regarding the exact number of Cambodians awaiting deportation, though a figure of 1,747 was reported in November 2024 by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The Cambodian government remains hopeful that its efforts in this matter will lead to a positive outcome under the new visa guidelines.

In conclusion, Cambodia is proactively addressing potential US visa restrictions, demonstrating full cooperation in managing the repatriation of its citizens. With the country’s placement on the Yellow list—the least restrictive category—officials are optimistic that their collaborative efforts will be favorably recognized by US authorities. Maintaining strong bilateral relations is crucial as Cambodia prepares to respond to the upcoming changes in travel policy.

Original Source: vietnamnews.vn