Burma/Myanmar Travel Warning Advice issued by Australian Government Urges High
Degree of Caution
Advice levels
Myanmar overall, exercise a high degree of caution
Rakhine State (except resort areas at Ngapali
Beach), reconsider your need to travel
Northern and Central Shan State and Kachin State,
reconsider your need to travel
Areas bordering China, Laos, Thailand, Bangladesh
and India, reconsider your need to travel
Conditions can change suddenly
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Latest advice, 08 Apr 2016
The level of the advice has not changed.
We continue to advise Australians to exercise a high degree of caution in
Myanmar overall. Higher levels apply in some parts of the country.
Summary
·We advise you to exercise a high degree of caution in Myanmar
overall due to the uncertain security situation and possibility of further
civil unrest. You should pay close attention to your personal security at all
times. Monitor the media and other sources about possible new security risks.
Entry
and exit
Australians
require a visa to enter Myanmar. Visa information for travellers from Australia
is available on the ‘Visa’ section of the website of the Embassy of The
Republic of the Union of Myanmar in Canberra. The Myanmar Government
has introduced an eVisa program which allows tourists and business travellers
to apply for visa pre-approval online via the website
of the Ministry of Immigration and Population. You should be aware
of unauthorised websites that may claim to offer this service. We caution
against using links in emails or other websites to access the official site.
Border crossings
Travel to
or from Myanmar by land border crossing is possible, but is restricted to a
limited number of crossing points, which are within areas in which we advise
you to reconsider your need to travel. These are:
Customs and currency
Customs
regulations are restrictive, and officials strictly limit what is brought into
the country. There are strict rules governing the export of local gems,
antiques and images of Buddha. In the past, customs authorities have been sensitive
about the entry of communications equipment. If you are entering Myanmar with
prescription medication, you should carry a copy of your prescription, a letter
from your doctor and carry all medication in its original packaging.
Safety and security
Protests
and organised assemblies of people are permitted only with prior permission.
Local authorities have limited experience in dealing with legal protests and
may not always respond predictably. You should avoid protests and
demonstrations as they may become violent. You should also avoid areas cordoned
off by security forces. Avoid taking photographs of demonstrations, the military
or police as this may not be tolerated by authorities.
Terrorism
We
continue to receive reports that terrorist elements in the region are planning
attacks that could take place in any location within Myanmar, including Yangon.
Crime
There is a
risk of crime, including mugging, petty theft and burglary. There have been
incidents of violent crime directed against foreigners. Local law enforcement
officials have a limited capacity to respond to crimes.
Money and valuables
Before you
go, you should consider how you are going to access your money. You should
bring enough cash to cover your expenses for the duration of your stay.
Local travel
Unmarked
landmines are a danger in parts of Myanmar, particularly in the border areas.
Driving
You must
have a valid Myanmar driver’s licence to drive cars and motorcycles in Myanmar.
It is illegal to drive cars or motorcycles in Myanmar on an Australian or
International Driving licence. If you choose to hire cars, motorcycles or any
other motorised vehicle, talk to your travel insurer to confirm if these
activities are covered by your insurance policy.
Public transport Public
transportation within Myanmar, including air, bus, river and rail travel, often
does not meet international safety standards. Fatal accidents have occurred.
Search and rescue assistance capabilities are limited.
Local safety standards The safety
standards you might expect of service providers, such as hotels, restaurants,
retail outlets, transport and tour operators, including for adventure activities,
are not always met. If you intend to participate in adventure activities, you
should check if the activity is covered by your insurance policy. You should
always use available safety equipment, such as lifejackets or seatbelts, even
if others don't. Companies hiring motorbikes rarely have helmets available for
rent. Most locally purchased helmets do not meet Australian safety standards.
If appropriate safety equipment is not available, you should use another
provider.
Internet and telephone
services While
communication services in Manmar are improving, internet service is unreliable
and not readily available in many parts of the country. The telephone network
is also unreliable and limited to cities and large towns. It is difficult and
costly to make international calls. International GSM roaming is now available
for a limited number of Australian mobile phone carriers. It is now possible to
send or receive text messages from some Australian mobile phone carriers to
mobile phones inside Myanmar.
Airline safety The safety
record of domestic airlines is not publicly available, nor is information on
the oversight of maintenance standards of domestic airlines by local
authorities. This lack of transparency raises concerns about airline safety.
You should be aware that airlines operating in Myanmar sometimes use aircraft
from outside their own fleet. Passengers are not advised in advance when this
is the case.
Laws
You are
subject to the local laws of Myanmar, including ones that appear harsh by
Australian standards. If you’re arrested or jailed, the Australian Government
will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you
out of trouble or out of jail. Research laws before travelling, especially for
an extended stay.
Local customs
People in
Myanmar are deeply respectful of their religious and cultural traditions.
Visitors should remove shoes and socks before entering religious buildings and
compounds. Wearing short-sleeved garments and shorts is not common and may
cause offence, especially when visiting Buddhist pagodas.
Information for dual nationals
The
Government of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar does not recognise dual nationality.
This may limit the ability of Australian officials to provide consular services
to Australian/Myanmar dual nationals who are arrested or detained. We strongly
advise you to travel on your Australian passport at all times.
Health
We
strongly recommend that you take out comprehensive travel
insurance that will cover any overseas medical costs, including
medical evacuation, before you depart. Confirm that your insurance covers you
for the whole time you'll be away and check what circumstances and activities
are not included in your policy. Remember, regardless of how healthy and fit
you are, if you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. The
Australian Government will not pay for a traveller's medical expenses overseas
or medical evacuation costs.
Medical facilities
The
standard of medical facilities in Myanmar is extremely limited, particularly
outside Yangon. You should avoid any surgical procedures, (including dental
work) due to the danger of infection, including hepatitis and HIV/AIDS, from
unsterile dental and medical instruments. In certain serious cases private
hospitals are not permitted to accept foreign patients. In the event of a
serious illness or accident, medical evacuation to a destination with the
appropriate facilities (usually Bangkok, Singapore or Australia) would be
necessary. Costs for medical evacuation could well be in excess of AUD$25,000.
Upfront cash payment may be required prior to receiving medical treatment or
undertaking medical evacuation.
Health risks The
mosquito-borne diseases malaria, dengue fever, chikungunya fever and Japanese
encephalitis are endemic in many areas of Myanmar. We recommend you take
measures to avoid mosquito bites, including using insect repellent at all
times, wearing long, loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing and ensuring your accommodation
is mosquito proof.
Where to get help
Depending
on your enquiry, your best option may be to first contact your family, friends,
airline, travel agent, tour operator, employer or travel insurer. Your travel
insurer should have a 24 hour emergency number.
88 Strand Road
Kyauktada Township
Yangon, Myanmar
Telephone: (95 1) 251 810
Facsimile: (95 1) 246 159
Email: austembassy.yangon@dfat.gov.au
Website: www.myanmar.embassy.gov.au
Additional
information
The
monsoon season is from May to October. Heavy rains can cause flooding and
landslides. Severe weather can often precede the monsoon season.
·Protests and organised assemblies of people are permitted
only with prior permission. Local authorities have limited experience in
dealing with legal protests and may not always respond predictably. You should
avoid all demonstrations and street rallies as they may turn violent. You
should avoid taking photographs of demonstrations, the military or police as
this may not be tolerated by authorities.
·We advise you to reconsider your need to travel to Rakhine State,
including the capital Sittwe, Mrauk-U and areas near Ngapali Beach, given
serious civil unrest and ongoing tensions. If travelling to Ngapali Beach which
is rated as exercise a high degree of caution, we recommend you fly there.
·We advise you to reconsider your need to travel to Kachin State and
northern and central areas of Shan State, due to ongoing tensions and sporadic
armed conflict between ethnic groups and military forces.
·We advise you to reconsider your need to travel to the areas
bordering China, Laos, Thailand, Bangladesh and India, including the authorised
land border crossings in these areas. Armed groups operate in these areas and
there is an ongoing risk of ethnic conflict, banditry and unmarked landmines.
·Bomb attacks have taken place in major cities across
Myanmar, including in Yangon, Mandalay, and Nay Pyi Taw. In recent years, a
number of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) have exploded or been identified
in areas frequented by tourists and expatriates. Further attacks could occur.
·See Travel Smart for general advice for all
travellers.
·Be a smart traveller. Before heading overseas:
·
organise comprehensive travel
insurance and check what circumstances and activities are not
covered by your policy,
·
register your travel and contact details, so we
can contact you in an emergency
·
subscribe to this travel advice to receive email
updates each time it's reissued
Visas
Travel to and within Myanmar is strictly
controlled by government authorities. Australians have been deported and
detained for visa offences.
As visa and other entry and exit
conditions (such as currency, customs and quarantine regulations) can change at
short notice, you should always contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of The Republic of the Union
of Myanmar for the most up to date information.
Make sure your passport has at least six
months' validity from your planned date of return to Australia.
·Muse (Shan State) – Ruili (China border)
·Tamu (Sagaing Region) – Morei (India border)
·Tachilek (Shan State) – Mae Sai (Thailand border)
·Myawaddy (Kayin State) – Mae Sot (Thailand border)
·Tiki (Tanintharyi Region) – Sunarong (Thailand border)
·Kawthoung (Tanintharyi Region) – Ranong (Thailand border)
See the Safety and security section for more information.
Border crossings may close with little or no notice.
Travel by road within Myanmar to and from
land border crossings is subject to restrictions. The condition of roads in mountainous
border areas can be very poor and therefore dangerous. See the Local travel section for more details.
If you choose to use these land border
crossings, you must obtain a valid entry visa from the nearest Embassy or Consulate of The Republic of the Union
of Myanmar prior to travel. In order to enter or exit through the Muse-Ruili or
Tamu-Morei border crossings, you will need to obtain additional permission
through a tour company or your nearest Embassy or Consulate of The Republic of the Union
of Myanmar prior to travel.
Customs officials may hold undeclared
items for collection upon departure.
Foreign currency in excess of USD$10,000
must be declared upon arrival. Failure to do so could result in imprisonment.
For the latest advice on customs
regulations, exports and imports, contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of
the Republic of the Union of Myanmar.
Civil
unrest/political tension
Acts of political violence can occur. Bomb
attacks have taken place in major cities in Myanmar, including in Yangon,
Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw. Attacks have occurred or have been planned in public
areas frequented by tourists and expatriates, including shopping centres,
supermarkets, restaurants, markets, hotels, transportation hubs, and on public
transport, including taxis. In October 2013, there were a number of small
explosions in Yangon, Taungoo and Sagaing in which one foreign national was
injured. Further attacks could occur at any time.
In the past, there have been incidents of
politically motivated violence, resulting in casualties, on or around public
holidays such as Armed Forces Day (27 March), the Water Festival (Thingyan) and
Myanmar New Year (both in April) and Martyrs Day (19 July). Other significant
events, including the anniversary of the 1988 uprising (8 August) and the
anniversary of demonstrations led by monks to protest for political reform (26
September) have traditionally seen an increase of police and security forces in
Yangon and elsewhere in the country.
Ngapali
Beach: We advise you to exercise a high degree of
caution when travelling to resort areas at Ngapali Beach in Rakhine State. If
you choose to travel to Ngapali Beach we strongly encourage you fly directly to
the resort area. You should monitor local developments in case the security
situation changes.
Remainder
of Rakhine State: We advise you to reconsider your need to
travel to the remainder of Rakhine State, including the state capital Sittwe,
popular tourist destination Mrauk-U and the town of Thandwe near Ngapali Beach,
due to the risk of further serious civil unrest. In March 2014, there were
violent protests directed against the staff and offices of international
organisations in Sittwe, Rakhine State. Protests continue to occur.
Inter-communal violence in central and
northern Rakhine State has led to widespread displacement and segregation. In
mid-2012, authorities announced a curfew across much of Rakhine (including the
Sittwe and Mrauk-U) and sent additional security personnel to the area in
response to inter-communal violence and the burning of homes. In late 2014, the
curfew was lifted in the majority of Rakhine townships, however tensions remain
high, protests occur and can escalate quickly. Curfews and restrictions on
movement can be imposed at short notice.
Kachin
State and the northern and central areas of Shan State: We advise you to reconsider your need to travel to these areas due to
ongoing tensions and conflict between ethnic groups and military forces.
Skirmishes occurred throughout 2014 and into 2015. Tensions in northern Shan
State and the central area of Shan State escalated in 2015 , with skirmishes
occurring over a larger area. Martial law has been lifted in the Kokang
Self-Administered Zone but local authorities still impose restrictions on
travel in the Kokang region. There is an ongoing risk of outbreaks of armed
conflict in Kachin State, Northern Shan State and the central areas of Shan
State. Authorities can and do impose curfews and travel restrictions at short
notice.
China,
Laos, Thailand, Bangladesh and India border areas: We advise you to reconsider your need to travel to these borders, including
to the authorised land border crossings. Armed groups operate in these areas
and there is an ongoing risk of ethnic conflict, banditry and unmarked
landmines. In mid-2015 and late 2014, the roads from Myawaddy to Hpa-An were
temporarily closed after low level conflict between ethnic groups and military
forces occurred in the area. In late 2014, the border crossing from Mae Sot to
Myawaddy was temporarily closed after improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were
located in the border town of Myawaddy.
The security situation along Myanmar’s
extensive border varies considerably. If you choose to travel to border areas,
you should carefully assess the current security situation and familiarise
yourself with local curfews and travel restrictions. Movement should be limited
to main highways and urban areas.
Terrorism is a threat throughout the
world. See our Terrorist Threat Overseas bulletin.
There is a growing number of automatic
teller machines (ATMs) throughout Myanmar that are connected to the international
banking system and accept foreign cards and provide limited cash advances on
credit/debit cards. International money transfers are now available through
numerous banks in Yangon. Travellers who choose to use ATMs in Myanmar should
monitor their transaction records. Credit cards are accepted in a growing
number of establishments in Myanmar. Power outages and unreliable internet
services can impact on the availability of credit card services.
You should be aware that banks, money
changers and commercial establishments in Myanmar occasionally refuse foreign
currency on the basis of reports of counterfeit currency in circulation. US
currency is widely accepted at commercial establishments, but notes with marks,
folds, creases or tears are not accepted. Other foreign currencies and
travellers' cheques are rarely (if at all) accepted for payment at hotels or
for the purchase of goods or services, including airline tickets. .
It is illegal to exchange money except
through authorised money changers, which can be found at Myanmar’s
international airports, at banks and in government stores.
Foreign currency (US dollars, Singapore
dollars and Euros) can be exchanged for local currency, the Myanmar Kyat (MMK).
There is no legal way to change Australian dollars to MMK.
Your passport is a valuable document that
is attractive to criminals who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.
It should always be kept in a safe place. You are required by Australian law to
report a lost or
stolen passport online or contact the nearest Australian Embassy,
High Commission or Consulate as soon as possible.
In some cases, the Government may also restrict
the length of validity or type of replacement passports.
Foreigners are frequently required to
present their passport and visa to authorities, including for domestic air and
rail travel and when staying at hotels.
Travel within Myanmar is restricted to
officially designated tourist areas. There are limitations on how travellers
can access some destinations. Travellers intending to visit areas beyond
popular tourist destinations should seek advice regarding access permits from
the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism counters located at Yangon and Mandalay
international airports. The Ministry of Immigration and Population includes a
list of restricted destinations on their website.
Due to the Government of the Republic of
the Union of Myanmar’s restrictions on the travel of Australian Embassy
officials, providing emergency consular assistance to travellers in remote
areas may be restricted or delayed.
Driving
Driving in Myanmar is dangerous because of
aggressive driving practices, poorly maintained vehicles and roads, livestock
on the road and the lack of street lighting. While Myanmar law requires
vehicles to travel on the right-hand side of the road, there is a combination
of both left-hand and right-hand drive vehicles in use throughout the country.
This adds to the already hazardous driving conditions.
It is common practice for pedestrians to
walk on roads. A driver involved in an accident with a pedestrian is always
regarded to be at fault and is likely to be detained. It is illegal to leave
the scene of an accident.
Australian Embassy staff have been advised
to avoid driving at night in the countryside of Myanmar wherever possible. This
includes travelling on the Yangon-Nay Pyi Taw highway. In addition to the
driving hazards listed above, many drivers travelling in regional areas do not
use their headlights at night. For further advice, see our road travel page.
Outside of major cities, military and
immigration checkpoints on roads are common.
The Australian Government does not provide
information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.
See instead the Aviation Safety
Network website for information on aviation safety in Myanmar.
Please also refer to our air
travel page for information on aviation safety and security.
Australian consular officers do not
usually receive timely notification of the detention, arrest or deportation of
Australian citizens in Myanmar. If you are arrested or jailed you should request immediate
contact with the Australian Embassy.
Penalties for drug offences are severe and
include the death penalty. See our Drugs
page.
The death penalty may also apply for other
serious offences, including murder, human trafficking and treason.
Homosexual acts are illegal. Penalties
include fines and imprisonment for up to ten years. See our LGBTI
travellers page.
Photographing military personnel and
installations is illegal.
It is illegal to enter and exit Myanmar
with religious materials. It is illegal to preach or to distribute religious
materials without written approval from authorities.
The mistreatment of images of Buddha is
considered a serious offence under local law, and is punishable by
imprisonment. Travellers with tattoos of Buddha should keep these covered at
all times.
It is illegal to drive cars or motorcycles
in Myanmar on an Australian or International Driving Licence. You must hold a
valid local driving licence.
It is illegal to leave the scene of a road
accident.
Customs regulations on prohibited imports
and exports are often unclear and can change. You should seek further advice
regarding import and export from your nearest Embassy or Consulate of the Republic of the Union
of Myanmar. See also Entry and exit.
Some Australian criminal laws, such as
those relating to money laundering, bribery of foreign public officials,
terrorism, forced marriage, female genital mutilation, child pornography, and
child sex tourism, apply to Australians overseas. Australians who commit these
offences while overseas may be prosecuted in Australia.
Local customs
There are conservative standards of dress
and behaviour and you should take care not to offend. If in doubt, seek local
advice.
It is considered seriously offensive to
touch or pat a child or adult on the top of the head.
Our Dual nationals page provides further information.
It is important to consider your physical
and mental health before travelling overseas. We encourage you to consider
having vaccinations before you travel. At least eight weeks before you depart,
make an appointment with your doctor or travel clinic for a basic health
check-up, and to discuss your travel plans and any implications for your
health, particularly if you have an existing medical condition. The World
Health Organization (WHO) provides information for travellers and
our health page also provides useful information for
travellers on staying healthy.
Medical facilities
Most pharmaceutical products on sale in
Myanmar have been smuggled into the country, and many are counterfeit or
adulterated. You should bring adequate supplies of your medications for the
duration of your stay. You should also carry a copy of your prescription, a
letter from your doctor and carry all medication in its original packaging.
Water-borne, food-borne and other
infectious diseases (including HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, typhoid, rabies and
tuberculosis) are prevalent with more serious outbreaks occurring from time to
time. We advise you to boil all drinking water or drink bottled water with
intact seals, and avoid ice cubes and raw and undercooked food. Seek medical
advice if you have a fever or are suffering from diarrhoea.
The Australian Department of Health
recommends that Australians travelling to Myanmar should make sure they are up
to date with routinely recommended vaccinations against polio, including a
booster dose if required, as per the Australian
Immunisation Handbook. Please see your doctor if you are unsure
whether you are fully vaccinated for polio.
Australian travellers planning to visit
Myanmar and staying for periods greater than 4 weeks, are encouraged to carry
documented evidence of having received a dose of polio vaccine within 12 months
prior to arrival. If you do not have documented evidence of polio vaccination
within this 12 month period, you may be encouraged to be vaccinated prior to
departure from Myanmar.
Further information is available from the Australian Department
of Health polio website.
To complain about tourism services,
contact the service provider directly.
The Consular Services Charter explains what the
Australian Government can and can’t do to assist Australians overseas. For
consular assistance, see contact details below:
Australian
Embassy, Yangon
Kyauktada Township
Yangon, Myanmar
Telephone: (95 1) 251 810
Facsimile: (95 1) 246 159
Email: austembassy.yangon@dfat.gov.au
Website: www.myanmar.embassy.gov.au
See the Embassy website for information about opening
hours and temporary closures that may affect service provision.
If you are travelling to Myanmar, whatever
the reason and however long you'll be there, we encourage you to register with
the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. You can register
online or in person at any Australian Embassy,
High Commission or Consulate. The information you provide will help
us to contact you in an emergency - whether it is a natural disaster, civil
disturbance or a family issue.
In a consular emergency if you are unable
to contact the Embassy you can contact the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on
+61 2 6261 3305 or 1300 555 135 within Australia.
Natural
disasters, severe weather and climate
Cyclones can occur between April and
October. In the event of a tropical cyclone or typhoon, monitor local media reports
and follow the instructions of local emergency officials. You can monitor the
latest information at the Myanmar Department of Meteorology and Hydrology
website. You should identify your local shelter if one is available. In some
areas, adequate shelter from a severe cyclone may not be available. If you are
staying in a hotel, you should familiarise yourself with evacuation plans. For
further information, see our severe
weather page.
Most of Myanmar is in a zone of
significant earthquake risk. Earthquakes have in the past caused damage to a
number of major cities in Myanmar, including Yangon. Our Earthquakes bulletin provides further information
on travel in earthquake prone areas.
All oceanic regions of the world can
experience tsunamis, but in the Indian and Pacific Oceans there is a more
frequent occurrence of large, destructive tsunamis because of the many large
earthquakes along major tectonic plate boundaries and ocean trenches. See the Tsunami Awareness
brochure.
If a natural disaster occurs, travellers
should follow instructions from local authorities, monitor media and weather
reports, and check with tour operators before travelling to affected areas.
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