A recent meeting between Cambodia’s Stung Treng and Laos’ Attapeu provincial administrations. STA
In an effort to cut costs and streamline border crossings, residents in Stung Treng province have been advised to switch from using the Cambodia-Laos border pass to a newly initiated border card.
This transition eliminates the need for repeated border pass applications when crossing and aids database management for border authorities, as conveyed by provincial spokesman Men Kung on November 6.
“Stung Treng provincial authorities encourage permanent residents of the province who intend to cross into Laos to obtain a border card at the One Window Service Office. This requires attaching their national ID card, birth certificate, family book and two photos,” he stated.
Kung explained that the new border card is priced at just 20,000 riel ($5) and provides a full year of usability. This means that it’s a one-time expense for a longer-lasting alternative to the previously issued border passes.
“Therefore, the border card will be systematically issued to Stung Treng province residents, offering extended service life compared to the border pass. As a result, individuals won’t need to reapply when crossing the Cambodia-Laos border,” he explained.
Kung clarified that residents in close proximity to the border can directly request a border card at the Trapeang Kriel International Border Gate, eliminating the need to visit the provincial One Window office.
He also noted that individuals residing in other provinces will continue to use their passports for standard border crossings.
Yong Kim Eng, president of the People’s Centre for Development and Peace, stressed that the choice of border card for Cambodia-Laos border crossings is not the primary concern. Instead, he emphasised that provincial authorities must prioritise a card that offers the most convenience to people.
“It is beneficial to simplify processes for the people’s convenience without introducing further complexities. However, should the introduction of a new card adversely impact the people, the provincial authorities ought to explore alternative remedies,” he said.
He added that if it becomes evident that the border card incurs excessive costs and processing times, the authorities must devise measures or solutions to mitigate the challenges associated with using this new card.
The provincial administration issued a directive on November 4 regarding the use of the Cambodia-Laos border card and discontinuation of border passes. The announcement indicated that residents of Stung Treng province are eligible to apply for the new border card and transition from their current border passes to the updated card.
