Cambodia has become an app-driven society where a local phone number unlocks essential services. Popular applications like PassApp for ride-hailing, Nham24 for food delivery, and Wing for mobile payments all require a Cambodian phone number with SMS verification for account creation. International visitors often wonder: “Can I get a local number easily, and do I really need one just for PassApp?” The short answer is yes—getting a Cambodian number is simple, and it’s necessary for accessing these widely-used local services that make travel more convenient.
I. Can Tourists Get a Local Cambodian Phone Number?
Yes, tourists can easily obtain a local Cambodian phone number by purchasing a physical SIM card. You’ll receive a +855 number that enables app registrations for PassApp, Nham24, and Wing, receives SMS verification codes, and allows local calls if needed. No residency is required, but you must present your passport for mandatory government registration. The entire process takes just a few minutes at airports or telecom stores throughout Cambodia.
II. Where to Get a Cambodian SIM Card
You have two convenient options for obtaining a SIM card with a local phone number.
Airport Kiosks (Phnom Penh or Siem Reap)
The most convenient option for immediate connectivity is purchasing at airport arrival areas. You’ll find kiosks from Smart Axiata, Cellcard, and Metfone immediately after clearing customs. Plans start around $5-10 and include data plus a working phone number. Staff help install and activate the SIM on the spot, making it ideal for immediate PassApp registration and ride booking to your hotel.
City Telecom Stores
For more flexible plans and potentially better pricing, visit official stores in Phnom Penh or other cities. Smart Stores, Cellcard Centers, and mobile retailers in malls or markets offer wider plan selections. You still need your passport for registration, but the SIM is activated immediately. City stores work well if you’re already settled and want to compare options or need specific data packages for longer stays.
III. Setting Up Your Cambodian Number: Step-by-Step
The activation process is straightforward and takes just minutes.
- Bring your passport to the airport kiosk or city store for mandatory registration
- Choose a plan that includes data plus voice/SMS capabilities
- Install the SIM card yourself or have staff insert it into your phone
- Verify activation by checking that your phone displays a +855 number
- Start using it immediately to register for PassApp, receive SMS verification codes, and access mobile data or make local calls
Most providers offer English-speaking staff who guide you through the process, especially at major airports and tourist areas.
IV. Why PassApp Specifically Requires a Local Number
PassApp is Cambodia’s dominant ride-hailing service, similar to Uber or Grab, but it only works with Cambodian phone numbers. The app requires a +855 number to create an account, sends SMS verification codes during registration, and enables driver contact via calls or messages. International numbers from other countries won’t work with PassApp’s verification system—only local Cambodian numbers are accepted. This restriction applies to most Cambodian-specific apps as they’re designed primarily for the domestic market.
V. Using Your Home Number for International Apps
You can maintain your international identity while using local services. WhatsApp and Telegram work perfectly with your home country number, and you simply use Cambodian mobile data from your local SIM to stay connected. This dual approach means you keep your international contacts and messaging history intact while gaining access to Cambodia-specific ride-hailing, food delivery, and payment apps that require local verification.
VI. Dual SIM Strategy for Cambodia
If your phone supports dual SIM capability (eSIM plus physical SIM), you can optimize connectivity.
Your Cambodia eSIM maintains your home number with data turned off, preserving your original number for important international calls and messages. Your physical SIM slot holds the Cambodian SIM for local app access, SMS verification, and mobile data usage.
This configuration gives you both local access to Cambodian services and international continuity for your existing contacts, without needing to carry two phones or constantly swap SIM cards.
VII. FAQs
Do I need ID to get a SIM card?
Yes, passport presentation is mandatory for SIM registration due to government regulations. All telecom providers must verify your identity before activating the service.
How long does the number stay active?
Most prepaid SIMs remain active as long as you maintain a small balance or recharge periodically. Check with your provider about validity periods.
Can I keep the number for future trips?
Yes, you can preserve the number by keeping a minimal balance active. This allows you to reuse the same number on return visits without re-registration.