Most foreign nationals need a visa to enter Myanmar. The eVisa system covers over 100 eligible countries, with US, UK, Canadian, and Australian passport holders all requiring a visa. A valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity is the primary requirement for all applicants.
Who Needs a Visa for Myanmar?
Nearly all foreign nationals require a visa to enter Myanmar, whether for tourism, business, or transit. The Myanmar eVisa system provides the most convenient option for eligible travelers, allowing the entire application process to be completed online.
Citizens of ASEAN member states may have different arrangements, including visa exemptions for short stays. However, most Western travelers including citizens of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and European Union countries must obtain a visa before or upon arrival.
General Requirements for All Applicants
Every Myanmar eVisa applicant must meet these baseline requirements:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity from the intended date of arrival
- Recent passport photo in color, measuring 4.6 cm x 3.8 cm, taken within the last 3 months
- Valid email address for receiving the eVisa approval letter
- Credit or debit card for paying the visa fee online
- Accommodation proof such as hotel reservation confirmation
- Return or onward ticket demonstrating intent to leave Myanmar within the visa validity period
Tourist eVisa Requirements
The tourist eVisa is designed for leisure travel, sightseeing, and visiting friends or family. Additional requirements include:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Passport validity | Minimum 6 months from arrival date |
| Photo | Color, 4.6 x 3.8 cm, taken within 3 months |
| Accommodation | Hotel booking confirmation (not residential address) |
| Return ticket | Confirmed return or onward travel booking |
| Financial means | Sufficient funds for duration of stay |
Business eVisa Requirements
Business travelers face additional documentation requirements beyond the standard tourist visa criteria:
- Letter of invitation from a registered Myanmar company, addressed to the applicant, stating the purpose and timeframe of the visit
- Company registration certificate of the inviting Myanmar company
- Business eVisa requisition letter from the applicant’s employer or organization
- Company extract confirming the inviting company’s registration status
Note: NGOs and INGOs are not eligible to issue business visa invitation letters. The inviting company must be registered in Myanmar Companies Online (MyCO).
US Citizens: Specific Information
US passport holders are eligible for both tourist and business eVisas to Myanmar. Key points for American travelers:
- A visa is required for all US citizens visiting Myanmar
- The eVisa application costs $50 USD (government fee) for tourist visas
- Processing typically takes 3 working days
- The eVisa allows stays of up to 28 days (tourist) or 70 days (business)
- A visa on arrival may be available but the eVisa is strongly recommended for guaranteed entry
UK Citizens: Specific Information
British passport holders must obtain a visa before traveling to Myanmar. The UK government’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office advises checking the latest entry requirements before travel, as conditions may change. The eVisa is the recommended option for UK citizens visiting Myanmar for tourism or business.
Countries NOT Eligible for eVisa
Some nationalities are not eligible for the Myanmar eVisa and must apply through a Myanmar embassy or consulate. These include citizens of certain countries that have specific diplomatic arrangements with Myanmar. If your country is not listed as eVisa-eligible, contact the nearest Myanmar diplomatic mission for visa application procedures.
Documents to Carry When Traveling
Upon arrival in Myanmar, you should have the following ready for the immigration officer:
- Printed eVisa approval letter
- Passport with at least 6 months validity
- Hotel reservation confirmation
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Business travelers: copy of invitation letter
- Evidence of sufficient funds for your stay
Special Circumstances
Minors (Children Under 18)
Each traveler, including children and infants, must have an individual eVisa. A parent or guardian should submit the application on behalf of the minor.
Dual Nationals
Applicants with dual citizenship should apply using the passport they intend to travel with. The eVisa is linked to a specific passport number.
Journalists and Media
Journalists and media professionals may require a different type of visa. The eVisa does not cover journalistic activities. Contact the Myanmar embassy for appropriate visa arrangements.
Passport Photo Specifications
The passport photo for your Myanmar eVisa application must meet strict specifications. Photos that do not comply are a leading cause of application delays and rejections. Follow these guidelines carefully:
- Dimensions: 4.6 cm wide x 3.8 cm tall (passport size)
- Color: Must be in color, not black and white
- Recency: Taken within the last 3 months
- Background: White or light-colored background
- Expression: Neutral facial expression with both eyes open
- Headwear: No hats or head coverings (religious head coverings may be acceptable if they do not obscure the face)
- Glasses: No tinted glasses; clear prescription glasses are acceptable if they do not cause glare
- Quality: Sharp focus, proper exposure, no pixelation or digital artifacts
Supporting Documents for Business Travelers
Business visa applicants must provide additional documentation beyond the standard requirements. All business documents should be in English or accompanied by certified English translations.
The invitation letter from the Myanmar company must be printed on company letterhead and include the applicant’s full name (matching passport), the purpose and duration of the visit, and the inviting company’s full details including registration number. The company registration certificate must be a current document from Myanmar Companies Online (MyCO) showing the company’s active registration status.
Applicants should note that NGO and INGO organizations cannot issue business visa invitation letters. Only commercial entities registered in Myanmar can sponsor business eVisa applications.
Does a US citizen need a visa for Myanmar?
Yes, all US citizens need a visa to visit Myanmar. The most convenient option is the eVisa, which can be applied for entirely online through the official government portal.
Can a US citizen get a visa on arrival?
While visa on arrival may be available for US citizens, it is strongly recommended to apply for an eVisa in advance to guarantee entry and avoid potential delays at the airport.
Can Americans visit Myanmar now?
Yes, American citizens can visit Myanmar. The country’s eVisa system is operational and accepting applications from US passport holders for both tourist and business travel.
How long is the passport validity requirement?
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your intended date of arrival in Myanmar. Applications with passports that expire sooner will be rejected.
