Buying Bitcoin in Cambodia is possible through various platforms – from global online exchanges and mobile apps to peer-to-peer marketplaces and even local regulated exchanges. This guide will walk you through the options, payment methods, safety tips, legal considerations, and what to expect in terms of fees and KYC (identity verification). The goal is to provide a practical, step-by-step overview for beginners in Cambodia.
Platforms and Exchanges Available in Cambodia
- Global Cryptocurrency Exchanges (Online) – Major international exchanges like Binance, Bybit, OKX, Bitget, and KuCoin are popular among Cambodian users . These platforms allow you to buy Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies through their websites or mobile apps. While they don’t have physical offices in Cambodia, they are accessible online (note: some exchange websites were blocked in late 2024, but their mobile apps still function ). These exchanges primarily operate in USD or other major currencies, but many support Khmer Riel (KHR) indirectly via peer-to-peer trading or local payment partners. For example, Binance and Bybit offer peer-to-peer (P2P) marketplaces where you can trade crypto using KHR with local sellers .
- Peer-to-Peer Marketplaces – A P2P marketplace connects buyers and sellers directly, with crypto held in escrow for safety. Binance P2P, Bybit P2P, OKX P2P, and dedicated platforms like Remitano are widely used in Cambodia . On these platforms, sellers post ads with accepted payment methods (e.g. bank transfer, Wing, TrueMoney), and buyers can choose an offer, pay the seller directly in KHR or USD, and receive Bitcoin (or usually USDT, a stablecoin, which can then be exchanged to BTC) once the seller confirms payment . P2P platforms support a variety of local payment methods, making it easy to use Cambodian banks or e-wallets (more on these below). This grassroots method is how the majority of Cambodians obtain Bitcoin today . Transactions are typically done through mobile apps or websites with escrow protection to prevent fraud.
- Local Cambodian Exchanges (Licensed) – Cambodia has started licensing domestic crypto exchanges under a regulatory “sandbox.” Two notable platforms are BYEX and Royal Group Exchange (RGX). These are officially approved by the Securities and Exchange Regulator of Cambodia (SERC) . BYEX (Phnom Penh-based) and RGX (backed by the Royal Group conglomerate) offer trading of Bitcoin and many other digital assets within a regulated environment . They accept local currency and are tailored to Cambodian users. For example, BYEX is marketed as “the most trusted exchange in Cambodia” and is SERC-approved . RGX launched in January 2024 with over 100 cryptocurrencies listed . These exchanges have web portals and mobile apps (e.g., BYEX has an app on iOS/Android) for trading. Because they comply with local regulations, they require full KYC and follow strict compliance (ensuring user security and adherence to anti-money laundering rules ). Note: Due to National Bank of Cambodia (NBC) restrictions, local banks in Cambodia are not yet allowed to directly integrate with crypto exchanges . This means funding your account on these local exchanges might involve intermediate steps (like depositing via a payment service or stablecoins) rather than a simple bank transfer, at least until banking rules evolve.
- In-Person and OTC Methods – Buying Bitcoin in person is less common but possible. There are currently no known Bitcoin ATMs in Cambodia , so you can’t just insert cash into a machine to get BTC. However, you could arrange an in-person trade: for example, meeting a trusted seller who accepts cash and can transfer Bitcoin to your wallet on the spot. This carries risks (safety and scams), so it’s generally only recommended if you personally know the seller or through reputable OTC services. One local OTC service is Pursa.co, which allows buying crypto with Wing cash-in (they claim to offer anonymous trades with no ID, but use caution and expect higher fees for such services) . Overall, most beginners will find online platforms or P2P marketplaces more convenient and safer than in-person cash trades.
Mobile Apps vs. Desktop: Nearly all major exchanges and wallets have mobile apps, which is great news in a mobile-first country like Cambodia. Binance, Bybit, OKX, Remitano, etc., all provide smartphone apps that let you complete the entire purchase process – from account signup and KYC to browsing P2P offers and managing a crypto wallet. These apps are available on iOS and Android (make sure to download the official apps). Desktop or web platforms offer more screen space for advanced trading, but for basic buying/selling, apps are very beginner-friendly. Notably, Binance even offers a Khmer language interface on its platform , which can make navigation easier for Cambodian users. In summary, you can choose whichever interface you are more comfortable with – both mobile and desktop will give you access to the same exchanges and features.
Payment Methods Supported in Cambodia
Several payment methods can be used to pay for Bitcoin in Cambodia. Here are the most common ones and how they fit into the crypto purchase process:
- Local Bank Transfers (ABA, ACLEDA, etc.): Bank transfer is a popular way to pay local crypto sellers. Many Cambodian crypto users have accounts with banks like ABA Bank, ACLEDA, Canadia, or others. On P2P platforms, sellers often accept domestic bank transfers in either Khmer Riel or USD (Cambodia uses both currencies). For example, an ABA to ABA transfer in KHR is instant and usually free or very low-cost, making it convenient for a crypto trade. Sellers on Binance P2P frequently list “Bank Transfer (Cambodia)” as a payment method, and this can include transfers to any major bank . Tip: When using bank transfers, it’s wise to avoid mentioning anything crypto-related in the transfer reference/remark, as banks have policies against crypto transactions . Instead, just use the reference the seller asks for (often an order number or your name). Bank transfers are relatively safe and traceable, but remember that banks themselves are not “crypto-friendly” officially – NBC’s 2019 directive prohibits financial institutions from directly facilitating crypto trade . In practice, however, P2P trades are person-to-person, so they still go through (many Cambodians have used ABA for P2P crypto deals for years) .
- Mobile E-Wallets (Wing, Pi Pay, TrueMoney, etc.): Mobile payment services are extremely popular in Cambodia and are commonly used to buy Bitcoin via P2P. Wing Money and TrueMoney are two prominent examples, each with nationwide agent networks and instant transfer capabilities. Sellers may prefer these wallets because they allow quick transfers just by phone number. Wing (now a licensed bank) enables instant wallet-to-wallet transfers; many P2P offers on Binance and Bybit accept WingMoney as payment . Pi Pay is another wallet (merged with SmartLuy) that some sellers might accept, though Wing and TrueMoney are more widely used . Using an e-wallet is as simple as opening the app, entering the seller’s phone number or scanning their QR code (for KHQR transfers), and sending the exact amount. These services charge minimal fees (often a tiny percentage or flat few hundred riel). They also support KHR currency, which is convenient. Note: You will need to have funds in your mobile wallet (you can top-up via cash at agents or link from a bank). Also, similar to banks, wallet providers implement KYC and monitor for suspicious activity , so treat these like bank transfers in terms of discretion.
- Cash Deposits: If you don’t have digital banking, one workaround is depositing cash to the seller’s account. For instance, you could visit a Wing Cash Xpress agent or a bank branch and deposit physical cash into the seller’s account (with seller’s name/account provided in the P2P order). Once done, you mark the P2P trade as paid and the seller releases the crypto. This method is a bit more effort but effectively lets you use cash to buy Bitcoin. Ensure the seller’s details are correct if doing this. Always do such deposits within official P2P escrow trades – never send cash to someone without an escrow in place.
- Credit/Debit Cards: Some exchanges allow direct purchase of Bitcoin with a Visa or MasterCard. On Binance, for example, you can buy crypto using a credit or debit card by paying in USD (the bank will convert from KHR if your card is in KHR) . This method can be quick for small amounts, but be mindful of fees: card processors or exchanges typically charge 3–5% for card purchases, which is much higher than bank transfer fees. Also, your bank might flag or block international crypto-related charges as a precaution. If you have an international USD credit card, this option is available but usually not the most cost-effective for larger sums. Many beginners try a small card transaction (e.g., $50) just to see how it works, then later move to P2P for better rates.
- KHQR and Bakong: The Cambodian banking system has a unified QR code standard called KHQR, and an inter-bank mobile app called Bakong (the central bank’s digital payment system). These can also be used in crypto purchases. For example, Bybit’s P2P supports KHQR payments – which means you can scan a seller’s QR code (linked to their bank or wallet) to pay. Bakong itself is not a cryptocurrency (it’s more like a central bank digital wallet), but if a seller provides a Bakong QR code or account, you could transfer KHR through that network as well. Binance P2P even lists “Bakong” as a payment option for some sellers . Essentially, KHQR/Bakong are just new convenient ways to execute a local currency transfer between banks or wallets, so they fall in the same category as bank/e-wallet transfers – fast and free.
- International Transfers: This is rarely needed for individuals, but theoretically you could do a SWIFT transfer to an exchange (for instance, sending USD to a global exchange’s bank account). Given the simpler local methods available, a slow and fee-heavy SWIFT wire is not practical for most. Stick to local methods or cards for funding.
In summary, local digital payments are the lifeblood of buying Bitcoin in Cambodia. According to industry observations, Cambodian buyers often pay sellers via instant ABA bank transfers, Wing or TrueMoney e-wallet top-ups, even cash in some cases . These methods are fast and widely accessible. Make sure whichever method you use, you follow the seller’s instructions exactly (e.g., payment reference code, amount) and only transact within the secure escrow of a reputable platform.
Comparison of Top Crypto Platforms in Cambodia
To help you choose, here’s a side-by-side comparison of the top platforms for buying Bitcoin, highlighting their features relevant to Cambodian users:
| Platform | Type | KHR Support & Payment Methods | Fees & KYC Requirements | Beginner-Friendly? |
| Binance | Global exchange + P2P | Indirect KHR support (via P2P). Accepts local Bank transfers, Wing/TrueMoney, etc. on P2P . Also card purchases (USD) . | ~0.1% trading fee ; P2P trading itself has no platform fee (just tight spreads). KYC required (ID verification) for all features. | Yes – huge liquidity, Khmer language UI available . Mobile app and website are robust, but the multitude of features can be a bit overwhelming for first-timers (has a simplified “Lite” mode). |
| Bybit | Global exchange + P2P | Full KHR support via P2P. Offers free KHR deposits through P2P with methods like ABA bank, ACLEDA, WingMoney, TrueMoney, KHQR . (No direct fiat onramp, P2P is the channel.) | ~0.1% spot trading fee . No deposit fee for P2P (market-driven rates). KYC required for withdrawals and higher limits. | Yes – clean interface and a fast sign-up. P2P section is easy to use for local payments. App available. Offers advanced trading options too, but beginners can ignore those. |
| Remitano | P2P marketplace (escrow) | KHR support via local trades. Sellers accept bank transfers, Wing, Pi Pay, cash etc. (Remitano specifically targets local markets and is available in Khmer language). | Remitano charges a fee included in the trade price (usually a small %). It also has a 0.5% fee if you post your own ad. KYC is required for larger transactions (to increase limits), but small trades might be possible after phone/email verification. | Yes – very simple buy/sell interface focused on beginners. Good for those who want a straightforward P2P experience. However, liquidity/number of offers may be lower than Binance’s P2P. |
| BYEX | Cambodian exchange (SERC licensed) | Supports KHR and USD deposits/withdrawals (likely via local bank or Wing transfer – as a regulated entity it can facilitate local currency). Being Cambodia-based, it’s tailored to local users’ needs. | Trading fees around 0.1–0.2% (estimated; check BYEX’s fee schedule). No deposit fee for local transfers (possibly minor bank fees). Full KYC required (Cambodian ID or passport) due to regulation. | Yes – designed for locals, with Khmer/English support. It’s relatively new, so volume might be lower. But it offers a compliant way to invest, which can give peace of mind. |
| Royal Group Exchange (RGX) | Cambodian exchange (SERC licensed) | KHR support (platform is in KHR/USD). Likely funding via bank deposit or Wing (RGX is working on bridging traditional finance with crypto ). No P2P – it’s a direct exchange. | Competitive trading fees (check RGX site for exact rates). KYC mandatory (as with any licensed exchange). Strong compliance focus (backed by Royal Group) . | Moderately – the platform aims to be user-friendly and secure . As a newcomer, their mobile app and website may still be improving. Good option if you prefer a locally regulated environment despite potentially lower liquidity. |
Note: The global exchanges (Binance, Bybit, etc.) are not licensed in Cambodia, but they are widely used via their online platforms. The local exchanges (BYEX, RGX) are legal domestically but may have fewer users until they gain traction. As a beginner, you can choose a global platform for liquidity and convenience, or a local one for a fully regulated experience – or even use a combination (e.g., buy small amounts on a local exchange while learning, then later use Binance P2P for better prices).
Safety, Ease of Use, and Beginner Tips
Buying Bitcoin involves real money, so prioritizing safety and ease of use is important. Here are some tips and considerations:
- Use Trusted Platforms with Escrow: Stick to well-known exchanges or P2P services that offer an escrow system. Escrow means the Bitcoin is held by the platform and only released to you after you have paid the seller (and vice versa) – this protects both parties from fraud. Platforms like Binance P2P, Bybit P2P, and Remitano have built-in escrow for every trade . Avoid direct trades (e.g., someone offering to sell via Facebook group) without escrow; at the very least use a mediator or do very small test trades, but it’s generally risky.
- Enable Security Features: When you create an account on an exchange, set up two-factor authentication (2FA) (using an app like Google Authenticator) and a strong, unique password. This helps secure your account from unauthorized access. Also, verify your email and consider setting anti-phishing codes if the platform offers it. Exchanges store your crypto online, so securing your login is crucial. On P2P platforms, never release payment or crypto without confirming the other side has fulfilled their part – follow the platform’s instructions carefully.
- KYC and Identity Verification: While it might be tempting to look for “no ID” methods, using a platform that requires KYC (Know Your Customer) verification is actually safer for beginners. Verified platforms have accountability and are more likely to be legitimate. Completing KYC (submitting your ID, a selfie, etc.) also raises your trading limits and gives you access to support if something goes wrong. It’s an extra step, but it’s worth it. Remember that legitimate exchanges will never ask for your login password or 2FA codes during KYC – be wary of phishing attempts.
- Start Small and Learn: If you’re new to crypto, consider buying a small amount of Bitcoin first (say $20 or $50) to familiarize yourself with the process. This way, if you make a mistake or feel uncertain, the stakes are low. All the above platforms allow small trades – some P2P sellers have a minimum order (e.g. $10 equivalent in KHR), which is quite accessible. Use this initial trade to learn how to place an order, how the payment works, and how to transfer the Bitcoin to your personal wallet (if you choose to withdraw it).
- Use a Personal Wallet for Storage: Exchanges and online platforms are fine for buying and selling, but for long-term holding of Bitcoin, consider moving your coins to a personal wallet that you control (e.g., a mobile wallet app or hardware wallet). “Not your keys, not your coins” is a common saying – meaning if you leave your BTC on an exchange, you’re trusting that platform entirely. As a beginner, you can leave small amounts on the exchange while you plan to trade them, but for larger investments, learn to use a Bitcoin wallet. There are user-friendly mobile wallets like Trust Wallet, Exodus, or even Binance’s built-in wallet – these give you control of your funds. Always back up your recovery phrases offline for any wallet you use.
- Check Reviews and Community Feedback: Before using a platform, especially lesser-known ones, do a quick check online. For local Cambodian exchanges like BYEX/RGX, see if there are community discussions or reviews about their service and reliability. For P2P trades, check the seller’s reputation score, completion rate, and how long they’ve been active. Binance P2P, for instance, shows how many orders a seller has completed and their percentage of positive feedback. Choose reputable sellers/buyers even if their price is a tiny bit higher – the smoother experience is worth it.
- Be Mindful of Scams: Unfortunately, where money goes, scams follow. Be skeptical of any offer that seems too good to be true (e.g., someone offering Bitcoin far below market price or a “special investment scheme” that guarantees profit if you buy BTC through them). Common scams include: fake exchanges (always double-check the URL of websites and only download apps from official app stores), phishing messages pretending to be support staff, or Ponzi schemes misusing Bitcoin’s name. In Cambodia, authorities have warned about fraudulent crypto projects in the past . Stick to the known methods described in this guide and you’ll be fine.
- Ease of Use Factors: Some platforms are geared towards beginners – for example, Remitano has a very straightforward interface, and Binance has a “Lite” mode on its app. Also consider language support: if you’re more comfortable in Khmer, Binance’s Khmer translation and Remitano’s Khmer site might be beneficial . Local exchanges might offer Khmer customer support as well. Using a platform in a language you understand well can prevent costly mistakes. Even if the trading platform is in English, you can find many Khmer-language tutorials and communities (Facebook groups, Telegram channels) where fellow Cambodian users share tips on using these apps.
- Customer Support: Prefer platforms that have responsive support channels. Binance, for instance, has 24/7 chat support. A local platform might have phone or email support in Cambodia. Knowing you can reach out in case of an issue adds to peace of mind. If you ever face a payment issue in a P2P trade (e.g., you paid but the seller hasn’t released the crypto), you can usually appeal to the platform’s support and have them mediate – another reason to use established platforms with active support teams.
By following these safety and usability tips, even a newcomer can navigate buying Bitcoin with confidence. Take your time to understand each step, and soon the process will feel as easy as any online banking transaction.
Legal and Regulatory Considerations in Cambodia
Cryptocurrency in Cambodia exists in a legal grey area. It’s important to be aware of the regulations (or lack thereof) so you know your rights and responsibilities:
- Not Legal Tender: First, Bitcoin (and other crypto) is not recognized as legal tender in Cambodia. The official currencies are Khmer Riel and US Dollar. You cannot use Bitcoin to pay for goods and services in shops legally (and merchants generally won’t accept it). Crypto is viewed as a digital asset or commodity, not as money, by Cambodian regulators.
- Government Warnings: The National Bank of Cambodia (NBC), along with the securities regulator and police, issued a joint statement in 2018 declaring that the “propagation, circulation, buying, selling, trading and settlement” of cryptocurrencies without a proper license are illegal activities . This was largely aimed at companies or schemes dealing in crypto (some specific scams were named), as at the time no licensing framework existed. Essentially, the government was warning the public of risks and saying unlicensed crypto businesses are not allowed. Practically speaking, individuals buying and holding Bitcoin for personal investment have not been prosecuted, but they do so at their own risk because there’s no legal protection if something goes wrong. The statement also highlighted risks like volatility, hacking, and lack of investor protection – meaning if you lose money to a scam or exchange failure, there’s no recourse under Cambodian law.
- Current Enforcement: As of 2024, Cambodia began cracking down on unlicensed crypto exchanges in one tangible way – by blocking access to their websites. In late 2024, the Telecommunication Regulator of Cambodia ordered ISPs to block 102 domain names of crypto platforms, including major ones like Binance and Coinbase . However, their apps remain accessible and many users bypass website blocks via VPNs or simply stick to mobile apps . This indicates that while authorities are enforcing compliance on a high level, they are not outright arresting users for trading – instead, they’re pushing exchanges to come under a regulatory framework. Indeed, only two companies (as noted earlier: BYEX and RGX) have been given approval to operate in the “FinTech Regulatory Sandbox” as of 2024 . Binance has even signed an MoU with SERC to help develop future regulations , suggesting that a legal framework is in progress.
- Licensed Exchanges and Protections: If you choose to use the licensed local exchanges (BYEX, RGX), know that they are monitored by SERC. While Cambodia doesn’t yet have comprehensive crypto laws, these exchanges operating in the sandbox must follow certain rules (reporting, capital requirements, consumer protection measures) set by the regulator. This could provide more safety in case of disputes. Always read the user agreement – it should specify which laws apply. Cambodia is still developing its stance, so keep an eye on news from SERC or NBC for any new regulations or licensing requirements for individuals or businesses.
- Banking Rules: In 2019, the NBC issued a directive effectively banning banks and payment providers from offering cryptocurrency transactions . This is why you won’t find a Cambodian bank that lets you directly buy crypto or a wallet like Wing openly advertising crypto buying. Recently (Dec 2024), NBC introduced a new regulation (Prakas) that allows banks to handle certain “crypto assets” in a limited way – specifically stablecoins and tokenized securities (considered low-risk “Group 1” assets), but not volatile cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin for their own accounts . Banks could potentially apply to offer crypto services to clients in the future under this framework , but as of now, no major bank is openly doing so. The main point here: your bank isn’t going to help if you have an issue with a crypto trade, and they might freeze transfers if they suspect they’re crypto-related (though in practice, person-to-person transfers are usually fine as long as you don’t mention crypto).
- Taxes: Cambodia does not currently have specific taxes on cryptocurrency holdings or gains. There’s no capital gains tax for individuals on investments generally. That said, this could change in the future. If you trade very large amounts or crypto becomes a significant part of your business, consider consulting a local accountant or tax advisor. For now, hobbyist crypto investors haven’t had tax reporting requirements, but again, stay updated with the Ministry of Economy and Finance announcements in case regulations emerge as crypto use grows.
- Holding vs. Trading: It is not illegal to simply hold Bitcoin in a private wallet. Many Cambodians do so quietly. The legal concern is more about unlicensed trading operations or if someone tried to use Bitcoin in lieu of currency in the economy. As an individual buyer, you should use the available platforms responsibly (and comply with their KYC requirements, which in a way aligns you with global AML laws). Also, avoid using crypto for anything illicit (which should go without saying) – Cambodian law enforcement has been cracking down on scams and money laundering rings that involved crypto . This is another reason why KYC and regulated channels are encouraged by authorities.
- Future Outlook: Cambodia’s regulators have shown interest in blockchain and even worked on a central bank digital currency (Bakong) to modernize payments . The existence of licensed exchanges and cooperation with Binance suggests a more open approach is coming, albeit slowly and cautiously. We might see more exchanges getting licenses and clearer rules on crypto in coming years. For now, proceed with caution: understand that when you buy Bitcoin, you’re operating in a space not yet fully protected by Cambodian law. It’s important to keep records of your transactions (screenshots, receipts) in case policies change and you need to prove how you acquired your crypto or if banks question a large withdrawal/deposit.
In summary, buying and holding Bitcoin in Cambodia is tolerated but operates at your own risk. Use reputable platforms that follow international standards (so that you remain on the right side of AML laws), and keep yourself informed. As long as you stay prudent and aware, you can legally own Bitcoin – just remember that you won’t have the same legal protections as, say, having money in a bank account. Always stay updated with the latest directives from SERC and NBC.
Fees, Limits, and KYC Requirements for Each Method
When planning your Bitcoin purchase, consider the costs involved, any limits on transactions, and the identification documents you might need. Here’s what to expect:
- Exchange and Trading Fees: Most exchanges charge a small fee for trading. For example, Binance and Bybit have a 0.1% fee on spot trades (i.e. if you buy $100 of BTC, the fee is $0.10) . Some exchanges offer fee discounts if you use their native token (BNB on Binance) or for high-volume traders, but as a beginner, 0.1% is standard. P2P trades often have no explicit fee – instead, the seller may set a slightly higher price as their profit. In practice, the spread on P2P for common methods like bank or Wing is very low (often around 0.2% or less difference from market rate) . Dedicated P2P platforms like Remitano include a fee in the price or charge around 1% for acting as middleman. Always check the final price you’re paying versus the current market price of Bitcoin to understand the implicit fees.
- Deposit/Withdrawal Fees: If you deposit money via bank transfer to a local exchange, there might be no fee from the exchange side, but your bank might charge a small domestic transfer fee (often zero for ABA internal transfers, a dollar or two for interbank). E-wallet top-ups similarly cost only a small fee (Wing to Wing is free for small amounts and only a tiny fee above certain thresholds). Credit card purchases typically incur the highest fees – around 3% (this is charged by payment processors or the exchange’s partner handling card transactions). Withdrawal of fiat (if you sell Bitcoin for cash out) can also incur fees: a local exchange might charge, say, 1% or a flat fee for withdrawing to your bank. If you withdraw Bitcoin from an exchange to your personal wallet, there’s a blockchain network fee (miners fee), which varies with network congestion – it could be a few dollars worth of BTC; exchanges usually let you know this fee beforehand. For beginners who are just buying and holding, you might not need to withdraw to a personal wallet immediately, but factor it in if you plan to.
- Limits on Transactions: Limits can come from both the platform and the payment method:
- Platforms: Before KYC, many exchanges impose low limits. For instance, an exchange might allow unverified users to trade only $300 worth of crypto. Once you complete KYC, limits increase dramatically (you could move thousands of dollars per day, depending on the platform’s tier). Binance’s P2P, for example, requires KYC verification to even start trading now, and then your limits depend on your payment method and profile. Remitano might let you do very small trial trades without full ID, but to do more, you’ll need to verify.
- Payment methods: Wing and other e-wallets have tiers – e.g., a basic Wing account might only handle a few hundred USD until you upgrade it by providing ID (which essentially is KYC on Wing’s side). Banks often have daily transfer limits via their app (ABA might limit say $5,000/day in app transfers by default, unless you request higher). These limits are usually high enough not to bother small investors. If you plan to trade very large amounts, you may need to do multiple transactions over multiple days or coordinate with your bank for larger one-time transfers.
- P2P Advertisers: Each seller on P2P will set a min and max they are willing to trade. For example, a seller might say min KHR 100,000 ($25) and max KHR 4,000,000 ($1,000) for a single order. You cannot place an order above or below their range. If you want to buy a large amount, you may split it across several sellers/orders. This is actually a good practice for risk management as well.
- KYC Requirements: Know Your Customer (KYC) is now a standard part of using crypto platforms, even in Cambodia. Expect to provide:
- Personal info: Full name (as on ID), date of birth, address, etc.
- Government ID: Passport, national ID card, or driver’s license. Some platforms in Cambodia might accept the Cambodian National ID card; global ones definitely accept passports. You will usually need to upload photos of the document.
- Selfie / Liveness Check: Often you must take a selfie or short video within the app to verify you are a real person and match your ID.
- Proof of address: Less common for basic trading, but some exchanges ask for a utility bill or bank statement showing your address for higher-tier verification.
All the major exchanges and local exchanges will require KYC. This is for your security and to comply with international regulations. SERC-licensed exchanges definitely require it at account opening. While it might feel invasive, reputable platforms keep your data secure (check their privacy policy). If a platform doesn’t ask for any ID, it’s either an OTC service like Pursa (which has its own risks and usually low limits) or it might be a red flag that it’s not above-board. Also note: if you avoid KYC by using only P2P and then something goes wrong (e.g., dispute with a seller), the platform might not be able to help you if you’re not a verified user.- Hidden Fees (Exchange Rates): Always check how the exchange rates are being calculated. For example, if you pay in KHR, consider the KHR/USD rate being used in the trade. Some platforms might show prices in USD but you pay in KHR – ensure they use a fair USD-KHR conversion. Typically on P2P, the offer is directly in KHR per Bitcoin or per USDT, so it’s straightforward. If using a credit card in KHR, your bank will convert KHR to USD at their rate (which could be 1-2% worse than market). These small conversion spreads are another “cost” to be mindful of.
- Platform-Specific Limits/Fees:
- Binance: No fee for P2P trades themselves, but if you use Binance Convert (instant swap) or card, there might be a spread. Withdrawal of BTC might cost a fee (e.g. ~0.0002 BTC). Daily withdrawal limit for a fully verified user is huge (like 100 BTC or equivalent) – essentially not a concern for normal users .
- Bybit: P2P similar story (no direct fee). Trading and withdrawal fees are comparable to Binance. Bybit often has promotions for free deposit via P2P. Daily withdrawal limit depends on KYC level (Level 1 allows up to 50 BTC/day as of last info).
- Remitano: Has a 1% fee for the taker (the person who takes an offer) built into the price. They sometimes have higher prices for convenience. Identification needed for higher daily limits (they might allow around $250 without full ID, and more with ID).
- Local Exchanges: BYEX/RGX likely have fee schedules like stock exchanges. Because they are new, check their official site for details – they could have promo periods with lower fees. KYC is a must from the start on these.
- Wing/Pi Pay Fees: Just to quantify, Wing’s fee for sending money: Sending to another Wing account is free for amounts under 100 USD per transaction (and a small fee above that, e.g. 0.1% or capped at a certain amount). Cashing out from Wing (to cash) has a fee, but if you’re just using Wing to pay a seller and that seller also keeps it in Wing or cashes out themselves, you only pay the sending fee (often negligible). Pi Pay top-up via cash might cost a small fee at the kiosk, but sending Pi Pay to Pi Pay is free. TrueMoney likewise has low fees for sending wallet to wallet.
- Beware of Maximum Limits for Cash: If you ever plan to cash out large amounts of Bitcoin by selling for cash in Cambodia, note that there are cash transaction reporting thresholds. Banks will report cash deposits or withdrawals above certain large amounts as part of standard anti-money-laundering practice (usually around $10,000). It doesn’t mean it’s illegal, it’s just recorded. Splitting transactions to avoid this is also generally frowned upon by regulators. For most small crypto investors, this won’t be an issue, but it’s good to know the broader financial rules.
In essence, plan your trades according to the limits and fees that apply to you. If you’re only buying $100 of Bitcoin, fees will be minimal and any platform will accommodate you. If you’re aiming to invest thousands, ensure your chosen platform and payment method can handle that in a smooth and cost-effective way (often P2P bank transfer is best for larger sums to avoid percentage fees). Always double-check fee information on the platform’s official support pages – many have a breakdown for deposit/withdrawal costs.
Happy buying, and welcome to the world of Bitcoin! By using the information in this guide, you should be well-equipped to purchase Bitcoin in Cambodia safely and confidently. Remember to stay informed and take things one step at a time. Good luck and សំណាងល្អ! (Somnang laor! – “good luck” in Khmer)
Sources:
- CCN News – Cambodia’s Crypto Crackdown and exchange access
- Datawallet – Best Crypto Exchanges in Cambodia (2025)
- Eric Kim Blog – How Cambodians use P2P marketplaces with Wing, ABA, etc.
- B2B Cambodia/Khmer Times – Official stance on unlicensed crypto activity
- Ledger Insights – NBC’s 2024 regulations on cryptoassets (stablecoin vs crypto)
- Standard Insights – Role of Wing/TrueMoney and NBC’s 2019 ban
- Datawallet – Trading fees and features of top exchanges
- CoinATM Radar – Bitcoin ATM availability in Cambodia .