Whether you’re planning a brief stay or exploring monastic retreats, this guide walks you through everything about Myanmar’s tourist visa: types, application steps, fees, recent updates and unique options you won’t find elsewhere.
Myanmar e-Visa: Essentials You Should Know
The Myanmar e-Visa is the most common entry permit for tourists. It’s valid for 90 days from issue and allows a continuous stay of up to 28 days, according to the official Myanmar e-Visa portal{:target=”_blank”}.
Eligibility Requirements
- Ordinary passport holders from eligible countries
- Passport valid for at least six months beyond arrival date, as specified by Australia’s Smartraveller entry requirements{:target=”_blank”}
- Purpose of visit must be tourism
Step-by-Step Application
- Complete the online form at the official portal
- Upload a recent digital photo and passport scan
- Pay the fee by credit card or PayPal
- Receive your e-Visa by email (typically delivered within 24 – 72 hours according to iVisa’s processing time overview{:target=”_blank”})
Fees & Processing Times
- Standard processing: about 24 – 72 hours
- Rush options available for an extra charge
- Recent fee increase for most visa categories, as reported by the Myanmar Times on visa fee changes{:target=”_blank”}
Beyond the Standard Tourist Visa
Myanmar offers several special-entry options and exemptions you might not know about.
Meditation Visa for Long-Term Retreats
If you intend to stay at a meditation center or monastery for more than 28 days, apply for a meditation visa. Issued through designated Buddhist organizations, this permit allows extended residence for spiritual practice; full details are available from E-TravelSecure’s meditation visa guide{:target=”_blank”}.
Visa on Arrival for Chinese & Indian Nationals
From August 30, 2023, to August 29, 2025, citizens of China and India may obtain a visa on arrival at Yangon and Mandalay airports:
– Fee: US $50
– Maximum stay: 28 days
This temporary measure is outlined in the Irrawaddy’s report on the visa-on-arrival scheme for Chinese and Indian travelers{:target=”_blank”}.
ASEAN Visa Exemption
Under the ASEAN Visa Facilitation Framework{:target=”_blank”}, nationals of Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam can enter visa-free for up to 14 days by air. Singaporeans enjoy 30 days without a visa when arriving by air.
Entry Points & Land Crossings
Your e-Visa or on-arrival visa grants access via major airports and certain land border checkpoints:
– Yangon, Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw International Airports
– Tachileik, Myawaddy and Kawthaung on the Myanmar–Thailand border
“Always have a printed copy of your visa and passport; authorities frequently spot-check at checkpoints outside tourist hubs,” travel expert Alan Armitage said.
Important Updates & Security Notes
- Tourist e-Visa services were suspended in April 2025 and resumed on April 22, 2025, as confirmed by Kayak’s travel restrictions update for Myanmar{:target=”_blank”}.
- Security checkpoints in outlying regions require valid passports and visas at all times, per the U.S. State Department’s Myanmar travel advisory{:target=”_blank”}.
- Dual nationals and those of Burmese heritage face potential military conscription under the People’s Military Service Law, outlined in the BBC’s coverage of the Myanmar Military Service Law Explained{:target=”_blank”}.
Wrapping Up: Ready to Discover Myanmar?
With your visa secured, you’re free to explore Yangon’s colonial architecture, trek Myanmar’s emerald hills, or find stillness in a centuries-old monastery. Keep your documents handy, confirm the latest entry rules before travel, and prepare for a journey that few places can match.