Cambodia Poker Legal Guide: Must-Read for Foreign Players
Want to play poker legally in Cambodia? This guide helps you avoid legal pitfalls and enjoy the game safely!
📜 Basic Legal Rules:
- Foreigners Only: Cambodian law prohibits citizens from gambling, but licensed casinos can serve foreigners. Must have a valid foreign passport.
- Age Limit: Must be 21 years old, present passport upon entry.
- Legal Venues: Poker can only be played in licensed casinos or poker clubs (like Nanhai Honor Poker Club, DV Club in Sihanoukville).
- Strictly Forbidden to organize or participate in cash poker games in public places (hotel rooms, private residences, etc.).
✅ How to Choose Legal Venues:
- Look for License: Choose venues with a casino license issued by Cambodia’s Ministry of Economy and Finance.
- Recommended Venues:
· Sihanoukville: Nanhai Honor Poker Club (premium), DV Club (24/7 low stakes), Queenco Poker Club
· Phnom Penh: NagaWorld Integrated Resort
· Poipet/Bavet border casino zone
• Verification Tips: Check official websites, call to confirm, look for displayed casino licenses on-site.
🛡️ Safe Gaming Tips:
- Required Documents: Original foreign passport
- Bankroll Management: Only bring “entertainment funds” you can afford to lose
- Safety First: Buy chips only at casino cage; store valuables in hotel safe
- Game Etiquette: Understand local rules; tip dealer $1-$2 after winning pots
⚠️ Important Notes:
- Taxes: No personal income tax on gambling winnings
- Prohibited Actions:
· Providing gambling opportunities to Cambodian citizens
· Playing in unlicensed venues
· Bribery or cheating
• Visa: Tourist visas allow legal casino entry, but cannot use gambling activities to apply for long-term residence
🎯 Responsible Gaming:
- Set time and loss limits
- Avoid playing under alcohol influence
- Treat poker as entertainment, not income source
❓ FAQ:
- Can Cambodians play? → No, illegal.
- Is online poker legal? → Not explicitly regulated, recommended to use internationally licensed platforms.
- Are low-stakes games safe? → Completely legal in licensed casinos (like DV Club’s $1/$2).
- Tournaments outside casinos? → May have free or recreational tournaments (no cash prizes).
📋 5 Steps for Legal Play:
- Confirm eligibility (non-Cambodian passport)
- Choose licensed venues
- Follow local rules
- Set budget, play responsibly
- Keep documents secure
Cambodia offers a legal poker environment for foreign players, but always comply with laws and prioritize safety!
