The Burmese government strictly controls travel to and within the country. A passport and visa are required for all travelers entering Burma. On June 1, 2012, the Government of Burma announced a visas-on-arrival program in order to facilitate investment in the country. More information about the program can be found on the Embassy of Burma to the United States’ website.
Please be aware that the rules regarding this relatively new program are complex and not fully codified. While certain classes of business travelers have reportedly been able to obtain visas on arrival under this program, Burmese Immigration Officials have refused entry to some travelers who believed they were eligible to enter the country without a visa. Until the Government of Burma further defines the program’s qualifications, travelers are advised not to consider the visas-on-arrival program a viable alternative to a visa.
Please also note that the visa-on-arrival program is not intended for tourists seeking tourist visas. Some local tour agencies prepare visa applications for tourists for a fee before the tourists arrive at Yangon International Airport. Tourists with pre-arranged visa applications must obtain authorization from the Burmese Ministry of Immigration in order to get a visa upon arrival.
Individuals may conduct initial exploratory business meetings on a Tourist visa but are advised to obtain a Business visa before engaging in any other business activities. Travelers who overstay their visa are required to pay a fine of $3 per day upon departure at the Airport Immigration Office. An over-stay greater than 30 days increases the fee to $5 per day. Children over seven years and listed in the passport of a parent must hold separate visas.
- For more information on traveling to Burma please visit: travel.state.gov.
- Information about the current business visa requirements as well as other information may be obtained from the Embassy of the Union of Myanmar in Washington, DC, or the Permanent Mission of Myanmar to the United Nations in New York. Overseas inquiries may be made at the nearest Myanmar Embassy or Consulate.
- Embassy of the Union of Myanmar
2300 S Street, NW
Washington, DC 20008
Telephone: 202- 332-3344/4350
Website: www.mewashingtondc.com - Permanent Mission of Myanmar to the United Nations
10 East 77th Street
New York, NY 10021
Telephone: 212-535-1311
U.S. companies requiring Burmese travel to the United States should note that visa bans apply to certain individuals and that clearance of some visa applicants can take considerable time. Travelers are encouraged to apply for visas well in advance of any proposed travel.
