Message for U.S. Citizens: Domestic and International Travel Update

THE EMBASSY OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA IN RANGOON IS TRANSMITTING THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION THROUGH THE AMERICAN LIAISON NETWORK AS A PUBLIC SERVICE TO U.S. CITIZENS IN BURMA. PLEASE DISSEMINATE THIS MESSAGE TO ALL U.S. CITIZENS IN YOUR ORGANIZATION OR NEIGHBORHOOD.

13 May 2020

Flights:  International commercial flights are not permitted to fly through May 15. This ban on commercial flights could be extended.  For U.S. citizens wishing to depart Burma, Myanmar Airways International (MAI) continues to operate a limited number of relief flights from Yangon to Seoul. A limited number of domestic commercial flights also continue to operate. These flights are scheduled to continue operating at their current frequency through the rest of May.

Road Travel: U.S. citizens are also able to travel by private car between some cities and regions in Burma. Local curfews require travel during the day. Also, local governments have created check points at locations across Burma, including along major traffic arteries and at hospitals. U.S. citizens encountering check points should be prepared to explain their purpose of travel, and present their U.S. passports with a Burmese visa, their current address, and contact information.

Masks: Starting today, the Yangon regional government requires that all persons wear masks when they leave their home. The Yangon government intends to enforce this directive by issuing a 5,000 MMK fine for violations. Other state and regional governments, including Mandalay, have issued similar directives.

Local Restrictions: Strict COVID-19 public-health restrictions remain in force across much of Burma. These restrictions include the temporary closure of non-essential businesses, curfews, mandatory quarantines, lockdowns of certain neighborhoods, and requiring people to wear a mask when outside of their residence. Restrictions and enforcement differ widely across Burma. Criminal penalties exist and are being applied for violating COVID-19-related restrictions. You should contact your ward or township administrator for more details on local restrictions. Your hotel manager or landlord can help you contact your ward or township administrator.

Embassy Assistance

We encourage you to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive the latest updates in your country, as well as the days and hours of American Citizen Services.