Scams are rife at many of Cambodia’s borders, including the largest crossing with Thailand at Poipet.To avoid the scams, start by ignoring anyone who says they want to “help” you get through the border. There may be a quarantine or medical desk at the border, which is also a scam, so walk right past it.
Once you get to the actual border agent, they will likely tack some type of “fee” (bribe) onto the cost of the visa, often $5-8. If you repeatedly refuse to pay, they may eventually let you through, but how long you want to fight them on it is up to you.One way to largely avoid the bribes is to get your visa in advance, which is now very simple with the e-visaoption. There’s a $6 processing fee for the e-visa, so it probably won’t save you any money, but it will save you the hassle.Additionally, some bus companies deal with the border crossing for their passengers, which usually removes all the hassle, though they might charge an extra fee.
Either way, taking a bus to a destination within Cambodia, rather than just to the border, will also save you a lot of hassle and money. If your bus doesn’t go past the border, you’ll have to arrange onward transportation once you cross, where prices are inflated.