Moving to a New Address in Cambodia: Step-by-Step Guide for Changing Your Residence Book.
If you’ve moved to a new address in Cambodia, you may be wondering if you need to update your residence book. This guide will help you understand why it’s important, what documents are required, and how to go through the process.
What Is a Residence Book?
A residence book is a record kept by the police to track the number of people living in each household. It includes the details of residents, but it does not serve as proof of homeownership. The book can be issued to an individual or family residing permanently, whether they own or rent the property.
Do You Need to Update Your Residence Book When Moving?
Yes, if you change your address—whether moving within the same village or commune, or relocating to a different province or city, like Phnom Penh—you must update your residence book to reflect your new address.
Steps to Change Your Residence Book
According to Instruction No. 001 from the General Department of Identification of the Ministry of Interior (issued July 22, 2020), follow these steps:
1. Visit Your Current Commune or Sangkat Administrative Police Station
- Eligibility: The person applying must be a Cambodian citizen with Khmer nationality.
- Location: Go to the Commune/Sangkat Administrative Police Station in the area of your current permanent residence.
- Request the Application Form: Ask for the form to apply for moving your residence book, and specify the details of your new address.
- Required Documents:
- Family book (certificate)
- Residence book (certificate)
- Birth certificate or birth certificate copy
- National ID card (copy)
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
2. Take the Permit to Your New Commune or Sangkat Administrative Police Station
- Submit the Permit: Once you have received the permit from your current Commune/Sangkat Administrative Police Station, bring it to the Commune/Sangkat Administrative Police Station in your new area.
- Additional Documents: Include the following to register for a permanent residence permit in the new location:
- Family book (confirmation)
- Residence book (confirmation)
- Birth certificate or copy
- National ID card (copy)
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
Note: Your name will automatically be removed from the residence list of your previous address after registering at the new location.
Important Points to Remember
According to Proclamation No. 2884 by the Ministry of Interior, the authority to issue, duplicate, and update residence books, family books, and certificates has been transferred from district or khan police inspectors to the Commune/Sangkat Police Station level. This change aims to make the process more convenient for citizens.
Why This Change Matters
Dr. Touch Sokhak, Deputy Spokesperson for the Ministry of Interior, explained that this update aligns with the Cambodian government’s policy under Prime Minister Hun Manet and Deputy Prime Minister Sar Sokha. Their goal is to simplify procedures and provide better service to the public.
This step-by-step guide should help you understand how to update your residence book when you move. By following these steps, you can ensure that your residence information remains accurate and up-to-date with local authorities.
Source: https://www.facebook.com/gdi.gov.kh/posts/864510032520689