How to Get a Phone and SIM Card in Cambodia – Easy Guide for Tourists and Expats in 2025
Whether you’re visiting the Angkor temples in Siem Reap, enjoying the coastline of Sihanoukville, or settling in Phnom Penh as an expat, having a working phone and local SIM card in Cambodia is essential in 2025. Reliable mobile connectivity is no longer a luxury it’s a necessity for navigation, communication, mobile payments, ride-hailing, and internet access on the go.
The good news? Cambodia offers one of the most accessible and affordable mobile ecosystems in Southeast Asia. With competitive data plans, wide network coverage, and SIM cards available within minutes, staying connected has never been easier.
Overview of Cambodia’s Mobile Network Providers
Cambodia’s telecom sector is well-developed, with 4G LTE coverage available in all major cities and emerging 5G services being rolled out in 2025.
Major Mobile Network Operators:
| Operator | Coverage Strength | Services Offered |
|---|---|---|
| Metfone | Excellent nationwide, strong in rural areas | Affordable plans, good data speed |
| Smart Axiata | High-speed urban coverage | Popular among tourists, modern 5G rollout |
| Cellcard | Balanced coverage and pricing | Great for both calls and data |
| qb | Smaller footprint | Limited coverage but affordable options |
All major providers offer SIM registration kiosks, top-up services, and multilingual support in most retail outlets. According to OpenSignal’s Cambodia Mobile Experience Report, Smart Axiata and Metfone consistently rank high in network performance.
Buying a Phone in Cambodia: Options and Tips
If you don’t already own an unlocked phone, buying one locally is straightforward. Cambodia offers a mix of brand-new and second-hand smartphones through various channels.
Where to Buy Phones:
- Authorized retailers: Samsung, Apple, Huawei stores in Phnom Penh malls (e.g., AEON Mall)
- Local markets: Central Market and Russian Market (for budget and used phones)
- Online platforms: Khmer24 and Shop168
Popular Phone Brands:
- Samsung – Mid-range and flagship Galaxy models
- Apple – iPhones are available but priced higher than in Western countries
- Huawei & Xiaomi – Budget-friendly with strong local support
| Condition | Price Range (USD) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| New | $100–$1200+ | Warranty, latest models | Expensive upfront |
| Used | $50–$400 | Budget-friendly | Limited support, possible defects |
Pro Tip: Always ask for an IMEI check and invoice to verify authenticity and warranty eligibility. Authorized dealers like iOne and Panda Mobile in Phnom Penh are reliable options.
How to Get a SIM Card in Cambodia
Getting a local SIM is simple but government regulations require SIM registration with a valid passport or Cambodian ID.
SIM Card Options:
- Prepaid: Pay-as-you-go, flexible and popular with travelers
- Postpaid: Monthly billing, suitable for expats
- Tourist SIMs: Short-term plans with high data volume
Steps to Get a SIM Card:
- Visit an official store, phone shop, or convenience store
- Present your passport for registration
- Choose a data or call package
- SIM will be activated on the spot (within minutes)
Providers like Smart and Metfone have retail outlets in Phnom Penh International Airport for instant setup upon arrival.
Comparing SIM Card Plans and Prices
Cambodia offers competitive mobile data rates, often cheaper than in neighboring countries.
Sample Prepaid Plans (2025 Estimate):
| Provider | Plan Name | Data & Call Bundle | Price (USD) | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metfone | Super Data 10 | 20GB + 100 mins local calls | $10 | 30 days |
| Smart Axiata | Tourist SIM | 30GB data + 500 mins calls | $5–$10 | 7–15 days |
| Cellcard | XO Plan | 10GB + unlimited on-net calls | $5 | 7 days |
How to Top-Up:
- Via scratch cards (sold at convenience stores and phone shops)
- Mobile apps: e.g., SmartNas and Metfone app
- Online wallets: Wing, ABA Pay, or Pi Pay
Tip: Tourist SIMs are best for short-term stays. Expats may benefit from postpaid plans with better long-term value.
Using Your Phone and SIM Card in Cambodia
Once you have your SIM card, setting up mobile internet is typically automatic. In rare cases, manual APN configuration may be required (provided on provider websites or in-store).
Network Coverage:
- Urban Areas (Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville): Excellent 4G and growing 5G availability
- Rural Areas: Metfone offers the most consistent service outside cities
Mobile Payments and Wallets:
Cambodia is rapidly embracing cashless payments. Popular mobile apps include:
- Pi Pay – QR-based mobile wallet
- Wing Money – Transfer money, pay bills, top up SIMs
- ABA Mobile – Digital banking with e-commerce integration
Learn more about Cambodia’s cashless economy via ADB’s Fintech in Southeast Asia Report.
Roaming vs. Local SIM:
- Roaming is expensive and not always reliable
- Local SIMs offer significantly better rates and access to local services like Grab (ride-hailing)
Practical Tips for Tourists and Expats
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Where to Buy | Airport kiosks, official stores (e.g., Smart, Metfone) |
| Avoid Scams | Only purchase from licensed resellers or stores |
| Keep SIM Secure | Use dual-SIM phones or carry a SIM ejector tool |
| Customer Support | Smart: 1200 |
Important: In 2025, unregistered SIM cards may be deactivated without notice. Always ensure your number is correctly linked to your passport.
Conclusion
Getting a phone and SIM card in Cambodia is a straightforward and budget-friendly process. Whether you’re staying for a few days or planning a longer stay, having local connectivity will significantly enhance your experience from booking tuk-tuks and navigating temples to enjoying seamless internet access.
Choose the right mobile provider based on your needs, register your SIM properly, and explore the rich culture and beauty of Cambodia with peace of mind.
Ready to connect? Visit official outlets or explore Smart Axiata or Metfone for current SIM offers and plans tailored to your stay.
