Travel Advisory for Republic of the Union of Myanmar
This page provides a comprehensive comparison of official government travel advisories for Republic of the Union of Myanmar from multiple trusted international sources including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, France, Spain, Ireland, and Japan. Each government assesses travel risks independently based on their own intelligence, diplomatic relationships, and risk assessment criteria. By comparing these different perspectives, travelers can make more informed decisions about their safety and security when visiting Republic of the Union of Myanmar.
The information below is aggregated from official government sources and analyzed to provide you with a unified view of the current travel situation. Last updated: 2026-08-23
AdvisoryAtlas.com Risk Level
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
Range: Level 3 to Level 4
AdvisoryAtlas.com Safety Index
5
Safety Index Score
Overview
Myanmar presents extreme safety risks due to ongoing armed conflict, political instability, and arbitrary law enforcement, leading to a "Do Not Travel" advisory from most foreign governments. The security situation is highly volatile, with risks of detention, violence, and limited consular assistance for foreigners.
Detailed Advisory Summary
Myanmar's current travel advisory is overwhelmingly "Do Not Travel" due to severe and widespread risks across the country. Since the February 2021 military coup, the nation has been embroiled in escalating armed conflict between the military regime and various opposition groups, resulting in significant civilian casualties, displacement, and widespread insecurity. Bombings, clashes, and airstrikes are frequent, even in urban centers, and the military's response often involves harsh crackdowns, curfews, and arbitrary detentions.
Foreign nationals face a high risk of arbitrary arrest and detention, with limited access to legal representation or consular services. The regime's enforcement of laws is unpredictable, and criticism of authorities, even online, can lead to severe penalties. Landmines and unexploded ordnance pose a significant threat, particularly in conflict zones and border regions.
Travelers are strongly advised to avoid all but essential travel, minimize movement, stay informed via local media, and adhere strictly to local authority instructions, including curfews and movement restrictions. The healthcare infrastructure is severely strained and inadequate, necessitating comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation. Many countries' embassies have extremely limited capacity to assist citizens in Myanmar.
Scams, particularly those involving fraudulent job offers leading to forced labor in "scam centers" in border areas, are a serious concern. Travelers should be wary of offers that seem too good to be true. Additionally, strict laws govern photography, religious customs, and digital communications, with potential for severe penalties for violations.
Foreign nationals face a high risk of arbitrary arrest and detention, with limited access to legal representation or consular services. The regime's enforcement of laws is unpredictable, and criticism of authorities, even online, can lead to severe penalties. Landmines and unexploded ordnance pose a significant threat, particularly in conflict zones and border regions.
Travelers are strongly advised to avoid all but essential travel, minimize movement, stay informed via local media, and adhere strictly to local authority instructions, including curfews and movement restrictions. The healthcare infrastructure is severely strained and inadequate, necessitating comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation. Many countries' embassies have extremely limited capacity to assist citizens in Myanmar.
Scams, particularly those involving fraudulent job offers leading to forced labor in "scam centers" in border areas, are a serious concern. Travelers should be wary of offers that seem too good to be true. Additionally, strict laws govern photography, religious customs, and digital communications, with potential for severe penalties for violations.
Risk Level Summary by Government Source
| Source | Risk Level | Updated | Official Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Global Affairs Canada | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-07-29 | View Source → |
| U.S. Department of State | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-07-09 | View Source → |
| Ministère des Affaires Étrangères | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-08-14 | View Source → |
| Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-08-04 | View Source → |
| Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-04-07 | View Source → |
| Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-05-07 | View Source → |
| Department of Foreign Affairs (Ireland) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-02-24 | View Source → |
| Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-07-21 | View Source → |
| Auswärtiges Amt | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-07-09 | View Source → |
| New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-02-24 | View Source → |
| Département fédéral des affaires étrangères (DFAE) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-02-23 | View Source → |
| Regjeringen (Norway) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-05-27 | View Source → |
| Nederland Wereldwijd (Netherlands) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-08-25 | View Source → |
| Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-07-09 | View Source → |
| BMEIA (Austria) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-08-12 | View Source → |
| 0404 (Korea) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-07-30 | View Source → |
| Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Finland) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-07-07 | View Source → |
Safety and Security Analysis
Vaccination Information
Required Vaccines
- Yellow fever: required if arriving from a country with risk of transmission or transiting for more than 12 hours.
Recommended for Most Travelers
- Routine vaccinations (e.g., MMR, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Polio, Pertussis)
- Hepatitis A
- Typhoid
- Hepatitis B
- Rabies (especially for children or those in rural areas)
Recommended for Some Travelers
- Japanese encephalitis (for long-term travelers or those in rural areas)
- Malaria prophylaxis (depending on itinerary and time of year)
- Measles (ensure up-to-date vaccination)
- Chikungunya
- Zika virus
- Avian Influenza (for those with high risk of exposure)
Consult a travel health professional or international vaccination center well in advance of travel for personalized advice. Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date. Be aware of diseases transmitted by mosquitoes, contaminated food/water, and animals.
Visa Information
Visa Types
| Type | Requirement | Stay Limit | Cost | Conditions | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist | e-Visa / Embassy | 28 days | Check Embassy | Passport valid for 6+ months. |
|
| Business | e-Visa / Embassy / Visa on Arrival (limited) | 70 days (single entry) | Check Embassy | Requires invitation from Myanmar entity; passport valid for 6+ months. |
|
| Meditation | Check Embassy | Unspecified | Check Embassy | For long-term study at monasteries/meditation centers. |
|
Entry & Legal Compliance
- Passport Validity Needed: 6 months
- Blank Pages Required: 1
- Dual Citizenship Policy: Not Recognized
- Proof Of Onward Travel: Not strictly enforced, but recommended.
- Currency Limit Declaration: $10,000 USD
- Drone Usage Law: Prohibited without prior authorization; penalties include arrest and confiscation.
Emergency Contacts
- Police: 199
- Fire: 191
- Medical Assistance: 192
- SOS International Clinic (Yangon): +95 (0)1 657 922 / +95 (0)9 420 114 53637
- Ar Yu International Hospital (Yangon): +95 (0)1 9376 200 / +95 (0)9 7678 111 22 / +95 (0)9 7678 111 33 / +95 (0)9 7678 111 44400
- Pun Hlaing Hospital (Yangon): +95 (0)9 77 288 99 22 / +95 (0)9 77 288 99 11
- Samitivej International Clinic (Yangon): +95 (0)1 656 732 / +95 (0)1 660 545 / +95 (0)9 424 274 3019
- Yangon Tourist Police: +95 (0)1 378479 / +95 (0)1 379991
- Yangon Traffic Police HQ: +95 (0)1 298651
- Yangon Traffic Police Sub-HQ (with free ambulance): +95 (0)500005
- Naypyidaw Traffic Police: 067-413854
- Yangon Rescue Organization (YRO): 09-421166787 / 09-260614464
- Myanmar Ambulance Network: 09-5401677
- Canadian Embassy (Emergency): +1 613 996 8885
- Irish Embassy, Thailand (Emergency): +66 2 016 1360
- Australian Embassy, Yangon (Consular Emergency Centre): +61 2 6261 3305
- New Zealand Embassy Yangon: +95 9 403 323 982
- Austrian Embassy Bangkok (Duty Officer): +66819036516
- Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs Contact Center: +31 247 247 247
- Dutch Embassy Myanmar: +95 12 31 75 75
Common Scams & Tourist Traps
- Beware of job offers that seem too good to be true, especially for online work or in border regions, as they may lead to forced labor in scam centers.
- Be cautious of gem and jewelry scams; purchase only from licensed merchants and obtain proper documentation.
- Avoid unsolicited offers of friendship or business partnerships from strangers, as they may be a prelude to scams or kidnapping.
- Be aware of fraudulent websites offering e-Visas; always use official government portals.
Cultural Etiquette in Republic of the Union of Myanmar
Do
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, covering shoulders and knees.
- Remove shoes and socks before entering pagodas and monasteries.
- Respect religious customs and traditions; avoid public displays of affection.
- Use your right hand for giving and receiving items.
- Greet locals respectfully; learn basic phrases if possible.
Don't
- Do not photograph military installations, security personnel, or demonstrations.
- Do not touch anyone on the head, as it is considered the most sacred part of the body.
- Do not point your feet towards people or religious images.
- Do not criticize the government or military publicly or on social media.
- Do not wear clothing with images of Buddha or tattoos of Buddha below the waist.
- Do not engage in public displays of affection.
- Do not use your left hand to give or receive items.
Advisory Comparison by Government Source
Global Affairs Canada
Updated: 2026-07-29
Canada advises avoiding all travel to Myanmar due to politically motivated violence, terrorism, kidnapping, arbitrary arrests, and civil unrest linked to the ongoing armed conflict. The military coup in February 2021 has led to a significantly worsened political and security situation. Consular assistance is extremely limited. Canadians are urged to leave if possible, and to register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service. Risks include clashes, airstrikes, human rights abuses, and potential shortages of necessities due to disrupted supply chains. Arbitrary enforcement of laws and detention without due process are significant concerns. Demonstrations can turn violent, and landmines are a serious risk in rural and border areas. Canadians are responsible for their own safety and security.
U.S. Department of State
Updated: 2026-07-09
The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory for Myanmar due to armed conflict, unrest, arbitrary enforcement of laws, poor health infrastructure, landmines, and crime. The military coup has led to widespread violence and protests that can turn violent. U.S. government employees may be restricted from traveling within the country. Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) are used, and landmines and unexploded ordnance are prevalent. Arbitrary enforcement of laws affects foreigners, including potential detention and denial of consular access. Healthcare is limited, and conscription laws apply to males and females. Scam centers are a significant threat, trapping foreign nationals.
Ministère des Affaires Étrangères
Updated: 2026-08-14
France Diplomatie strongly advises against all travel to specific regions including Kachin, Shan, Kayah, Kayin, Rakhine, Chin states, Sagaing, Magway regions, and border areas due to intense fighting between the Burmese army and ethnic armed groups, and the presence of explosive devices. The rest of the country is advised against except for imperative reasons, with a recommendation to use air travel. The security situation remains critical, marked by political instability, humanitarian crisis, and widespread armed conflict. Urban centers experience heightened security presence and arbitrary arrest risks, while rural and border areas are particularly degraded. Online scam centers operating in border regions are a significant concern, trapping foreign nationals.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
Updated: 2026-08-04
The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all travel to specific states and regions including Chin, Kachin, Kayah, Kayin, Mon, Rakhine, Sagaing, Magway, Tanintharyi (excluding Myeik), and parts of Shan and Bago. FCDO advises against all but essential travel to other areas. The conflict is increasingly volatile, with potential for rapid deterioration of the security situation and travel restrictions. Terrorist attacks cannot be ruled out, and attacks may be indiscriminate. There is a risk of arbitrary detention, and dual nationals may be subject to military conscription. Crime, including petty theft and scams, is prevalent. Unexploded weapons and landmines are a serious risk in rural areas. Mobile phone and internet services are subject to disruption and control.
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Updated: 2026-04-07
Smartraveller advises Do Not Travel to Myanmar overall due to a dangerous security situation, civil unrest, and armed conflict. Travel to Yangon is advised against except for non-essential travel. The situation is unpredictable, with potential for instability and attacks on locations frequented by foreigners. Widespread detentions, including of foreigners, and arbitrary detention risks are highlighted. Australians may be subject to military conscription if considered Myanmar citizens. Foreign nationals are trafficked into Myanmar for fraudulent activities, facing poor conditions and mistreatment. Medical facilities are stretched, and medication can be fake. Local laws are strict regarding photography, religious customs, and communications, with severe penalties for violations. Crime rates have increased significantly since the coup.
Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores
Updated: 2026-05-07
Spain places a strong emphasis on the upcoming phased elections starting in December 2025, warning of significant risks of protests and violence across 102 municipalities. Spanish citizens are advised to stockpile essential goods, including water and non-perishable food, to prepare for sudden mobility restrictions.
The advisory also highlights a recent surge in cholera outbreaks during the summer of 2024, specifically mentioning hospitalizations in Yangon. This underscores the critical need for strict food and water hygiene, alongside the overarching advice to avoid all non-essential travel.
The advisory also highlights a recent surge in cholera outbreaks during the summer of 2024, specifically mentioning hospitalizations in Yangon. This underscores the critical need for strict food and water hygiene, alongside the overarching advice to avoid all non-essential travel.
Department of Foreign Affairs (Ireland)
Updated: 2026-02-24
Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade strongly advises against all travel to Myanmar due to significant ongoing violent conflict, including aerial bombings and gun battles, across most of the territory. Many areas are under martial law with curfews and bans on public gatherings. The situation remains tenuous and unstable, with frequent explosions and attacks, including in civilian areas. Internet and phone networks are frequently disrupted. Irish citizens are advised to be extremely vigilant, avoid public gatherings, monitor local media, and follow local authorities' instructions. Consular assistance from the Irish Embassy in Bangkok is very limited. There is a risk of arbitrary detention and politically motivated violence.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
Updated: 2026-07-21
Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued Level 3: Advise Against Travel for specific regions including parts of Rakhine, Chin, Kachin, Karen states, and areas under martial law, and Level 2: Advise Against Non-Essential Travel for the rest of the country. The situation is highly volatile, with ongoing clashes between the military and democratic forces, including airstrikes and bombings. The country is facing a national conscription law. Border areas are particularly unstable with risks of landmines and organized crime, including scam centers that exploit foreigners. Travelers are warned about the potential for increased security measures and clashes around upcoming elections. Photography of military sites and personnel is prohibited.
Auswärtiges Amt
Updated: 2026-07-09
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Updated: 2026-02-24
New Zealand advises Do Not Travel to Myanmar overall, and Avoid Non-Essential Travel to Yangon due to ongoing civil unrest, armed conflict, and a volatile security and political situation. The military coup has led to increased violence, many deaths and injuries, curfews, and martial law in some areas. There is a risk of arbitrary detention and limited access to legal representation. Internet and telecommunications are disrupted, and basic services are unreliable. Armed conflict between various groups is widespread, with unpredictable attacks including IEDs. Mandatory military service may apply to dual nationals. Travelers should remain vigilant, monitor media, and follow local authorities' instructions. Consular assistance is limited.
Département fédéral des affaires étrangères (DFAE)
Updated: 2026-02-23
Switzerland advises against tourist travel and any non-essential travel to Myanmar due to high security risks throughout the country. The situation remains uncertain even after the military-organized elections. State of emergency and martial law are in effect in many areas, granting broad powers to security forces and potentially leading to arbitrary arrests of foreigners. The country does not recognize dual nationality. Regular attacks occur nationwide, and border areas are particularly unstable with risks of landmines and organized crime, including scam centers exploiting foreigners. Medical care is limited, and supply shortages can occur. Political and religious critiques are punishable.
Regjeringen (Norway)
Updated: 2026-05-27
Nederland Wereldwijd (Netherlands)
Updated: 2026-08-25
The Netherlands advises Do Not Travel to large parts of northern, western, and eastern Myanmar (including the Golden Triangle) due to dangerous security conditions, fighting, and the presence of criminal organizations. The rest of Myanmar is under an orange travel advisory (travel only if necessary, not for holidays). Since the 2021 coup, the security situation has been poor with daily fighting, attacks, and bombings. Curfews and stricter rules are in place in many areas, with potential for harsh military responses. Arbitrary arrests and imprisonment are possible. Drugs are strictly prohibited with severe penalties. LGBTQI+ individuals may face harsh punishments and discrimination.
Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy)
Updated: 2026-07-09
Italy advises against travel to Myanmar, with the exception of strictly necessary trips to Yangon and its immediate surroundings. The country is experiencing severe political instability since the February 2021 coup, with violent armed clashes occurring in most states and regions. Explosive devices and firearms attacks are frequent, targeting military and public facilities, and potentially affecting foreigners. Arbitrary arrests and detentions are a risk, as are disruptions to essential services like healthcare, banking, and communications. Travelers are strongly advised to carry sufficient cash (USD or EUR in pristine condition) and to have comprehensive travel insurance. Specific regional areas are subject to particular caution due to ongoing conflict and the presence of criminal organizations.
BMEIA (Austria)
Updated: 2026-08-12
Austria's BMEIA warns against all travel to Myanmar (Level 4) due to regular bomb attacks and violent clashes with firearms, often targeting public places. Martial law has been imposed in several regions, subjecting offenders to military jurisdiction. Night curfews are in place, and security authorities are suspicious of Western foreigners. Consular assistance is extremely limited, and travel insurance may be invalidated. The country has a history of internal conflict, and the situation has worsened since the 2021 coup, with active conflicts and potential for further deterioration. Travelers are advised to use the Reiseregistrierung (travel registration) service.
0404 (Korea)
Updated: 2026-07-30
Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Finland)
Updated: 2026-07-07
Finland highlights the intrusive nature of the regime's security apparatus, warning that authorities actively search passengers' phones and computers upon departure from the country. This makes carrying any politically sensitive material highly dangerous.
The advisory also underscores the severe penalties for drug offenses, noting that Myanmar is a major producer of opium and synthetic drugs. Finnish citizens are reminded that even the possession of minute quantities of narcotics can lead to exceptionally harsh prison sentences or the death penalty.
The advisory also underscores the severe penalties for drug offenses, noting that Myanmar is a major producer of opium and synthetic drugs. Finnish citizens are reminded that even the possession of minute quantities of narcotics can lead to exceptionally harsh prison sentences or the death penalty.
Important: This is an aggregated summary from multiple government sources. Always consult official government travel advisory websites before making travel decisions.
About Travel Advisories for Republic of the Union of Myanmar
This comprehensive travel advisory page for Republic of the Union of Myanmar aggregates official government warnings and recommendations from eight major international sources. Each country's foreign affairs department maintains its own travel advisory system based on unique assessment criteria, intelligence gathering, and diplomatic considerations.
The United States Department of State, Global Affairs Canada, UK Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), Australia's Smartraveller, France's Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Spain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs, and Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs each provide independent assessments of travel risks to Republic of the Union of Myanmar.
By comparing these multiple perspectives, travelers can gain a more complete understanding of the current situation in Republic of the Union of Myanmar and make better-informed decisions about their travel plans. Remember to always check the official government websites directly before finalizing any travel arrangements.
Last updated: 2026-08-23