Cambodia Counsel

The registration and operation of non-governmental organizations in Cambodia is governed by the Law on Associations and Non-Governmental Organizations (Royal Kram No. KS/RKM/0815.010, promulgated August 12, 2015, known as “LANGO”). LANGO has not been amended since promulgation; draft amendments were discussed during 2022–2023 but were not enacted as of 2025.

Types of NGOs in Cambodia

Two distinct types of NGOs exist in Cambodia:

  • Local NGOs: Must be founded and principally controlled by Cambodian nationals. The director and chief of finance must both be Cambodian. Local NGOs register with the Ministry of Interior (MOI). They must first obtain approval from local authorities where they propose to operate (Sub-district Chief, District Governor, and Provincial or Municipal Governor).
  • International (Foreign) NGOs (INGOs): Must register with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFA) by entering into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with MOFA. After registration, the INGO must sign a Project Agreement with MOFA before commencing activities. INGO registrations may be established for a three (3) year duration, renewable before expiry.

Ongoing Compliance Obligations

The Ministry of Interior has reiterated and enforced LANGO compliance requirements in 2024 and 2025. All registered NGOs and associations must:

  • Disclose bank accounts: All Cambodian bank accounts must be disclosed to the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Economy and Finance within 30 days of registration and upon opening any new account.
  • Report changes within 15 days: Any changes to the organization’s statutes, office address, leadership, or bank account information must be reported to the Ministry of Interior within 15 days of the change (Ministry of Interior Notification No. 571, February 19, 2025).
  • Annual reporting: Organizations must submit annual activity reports and annual financial reports to the Ministry of Interior.
  • Operate within registered statutes: Organizations must carry out activities only within the scope of their registered statutes. Activities outside the approved scope require a statute amendment and re-approval.

Digital Registration

The Ministry of Interior piloted an online NGO registration system in 2024 and has expanded it in 2025. Implementation has been uneven, particularly for smaller and community-based organizations. Organizations should confirm current registration and renewal procedures directly with the Ministry of Interior, as requirements may vary.

CDC Registration for Duty-Free Imports

An NGO wishing to import duty-free materials in support of its programs must also register with the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC). The CDC periodically requires registered NGOs to complete reporting forms to maintain this status.