Cambodian Foreign Employee Quota Application for 2027 – Advance Preparation Reminder

August 12, 2026

With July behind us, we are looking ahead to the final quarter of the calendar year and want to remind clients that anyone planning to employ foreign workers in 2027 should begin reviewing their requirements and preparing for the upcoming foreign employee quota application process.

Under Cambodian labor regulations, entities employing foreign nationals are required to obtain an annual foreign employee quota approval from the Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training (“MLVT”). This quota approval is the basis for the foreign employees’ subsequent work permit and employment card applications and renewals.

Although the MLVT has not yet issued an official notice, based on past practice, we expect that the 2027 foreign employee quota application period will be open from September 1 to November 30, 2026. We therefore encourage employers to begin their workforce planning and document preparation to ensure timely submission.

Key points for employers

• Companies intending to employ foreign nationals in 2027 should assess their projected workforce requirements and determine the number of foreign employees required for the coming year, both current employees and any new recruitments required.
• Businesses anticipating that their foreign employee numbers may go beyond the standard quota limitation (i.e. 10% of their Cambodian employees) should consider their workforce planning in advance and assess whether additional approvals may be required.

Recommended actions to take now

To avoid last minute issues, employers should:

• Review their current employee headcount;
• Confirm the number of foreign employees expected in 2027;
• Update employee records and organizational information;
• Identify any planned expatriate recruitment for the coming year; and
• Prepare supporting information for the quota application process.

How Andersen in Cambodia can assist

Our team can provide the following services for a smooth and seamless process:

• Preparation and submission of the 2027 foreign employee quota application;
• Preparation and submission of the 2027 foreign employee additional quota application;
• Preparation and submission of work permit applications; and
• Liaising with the MLVT throughout the application process.

Should you require assistance with your 2027 foreign employee quota application, please feel free to contact the undersigned or your usual Andersen in Cambodia adviser.

Andersen in Cambodia

This client alert is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Specific advice should be sought based on your particular circumstances.