singapore travel advisory to myanmar

• Ministry of Health

News Highlights

14th Jul 2021

Category: Press Releases Highlights

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Latest update

We continue to advise:

Do not travel to Myanmar due to the dangerous security situation and the threat of civil unrest and armed conflict.

Myanmar (PDF 430.75 KB)

Asia (PDF 2.21 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 192 (Yangon General Hospital).

Call 199 or contact the local police.

Advice levels

Do not travel to Myanmar.

Do not travel to Myanmar due to the dangerous security situation and the threat of civil unrest and armed conflict.

See Safety .

• Explosions and other security incidents occur in Yangon and frequently in other parts of the country. Attacks are unpredictable in their location and intensity. Attacks may be planned against locations frequented by foreigners, including public spaces and civilian infrastructure, such as hotels and serviced apartments, restaurants, bars, shopping malls, schools, petrol stations and supermarkets. Minimise movement, especially on anniversaries and national days of significance. Monitor media for updates. We advise you to read the ' Full advice - Safety - Security situation and Armed conflict sections ' for more information.
• Since the Myanmar military assumed control of the country, there's been a significant increase in the level of violence, with many deaths and injuries. There have been widespread detentions, including of foreigners. Australians may be at risk of arbitrary detention.
• There are active conflicts between armed groups and security forces across many States and Regions, especially in the northwest and southeast of the country. Armed groups operate along Myanmar's borders with China, Thailand, Laos, Bangladesh and India. This includes official border crossings. There are also unmarked landmines and the use of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). If you choose to travel to these areas despite the risks, carefully assess the security situation, including curfews and travel restrictions.
• If, despite our advice, you remain in Myanmar, you should stay at home during curfew hours and follow stay-at-home orders. Avoid using any routes through known traffic checkpoints and any travel adjacent to regime-affiliated businesses and government buildings. Monitor the media and keep in close contact with friends and family. The economic and business environment remains unpredictable. The Australian Embassy's ability to deliver consular assistance, including in an emergency, may be limited.
• Heightened security arrangements are in place for Australian officials. Australian officials follow protocols for staff movements and use enhanced security measures, including for travel outside Yangon.
• There've been a number of cases where foreign nationals have been trafficked into Myanmar (either directly into Yangon or via a neighbouring country) and forced to work in online scamming or other fraudulent activity, with poor pay and living conditions, restrictions on movement, and severe mistreatment. Exercise caution concerning offers of employment that appear 'too good to be true'.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Medical facilities in Myanmar are severely stretched by the security situation, particularly outside Yangon. Hospitals have closed or ceased providing services at short notice. Medical evacuations may be delayed or not possible. Talk to your travel or insurance provider. Be particularly cautious if you have an existing medical condition.
• Medication sold in Myanmar can be fake. Ensure you have enough legal medication for the duration of your stay.
• Common insect-borne diseases include malaria, dengue, chikungunya and Japanese encephalitis. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Consider taking anti-malarial medicine. Ensure all your vaccinations are up to date before travel.
• Many animals in Myanmar carry rabies. It's fatal without immediate treatment. Don't feed, pat or tease dogs or monkeys. Get medical assistance immediately if an animal bites or scratches you.
• Polio is a risk. Hepatitis-A and typhoid also occur. If you're staying for more than four weeks, carry proof of your polio vaccination. Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases such as hepatitis, typhoid, cholera and tuberculosis are common. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food. HIV/AIDS is common. Take steps to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Myanmar authorities often don't tell consular staff about Australians they've arrested, detained or deported. If you're arrested or jailed ask to contact the Australian Embassy immediately.
• A 2010 conscription law has come into effect following an announcement by the military administration. If local authorities consider you to be a citizen of Myanmar, you may be required to serve in the armed forces. The length of service can depend on criteria such as age, occupation, and whether there is a state of emergency. Myanmar does not recognise dual nationality. You may not be exempt from this law if you are an Australian-Myanmar dual national holding an Australian passport.
• Myanmar has strict communications laws, including laws being considered to prohibit the use of VPNs. Financial or criminal penalties may apply. Don't post negative comments about individuals or Myanmar on social media.
• Myanmar has strict religious laws. It's illegal to take religious materials in or out of the country without approval. Preaching or handing out religious material without approval is also illegal. There's also a law against 'insulting religion', including mistreating images of Buddha. Cover any Buddha tattoos. People in Myanmar are deeply respectful of their religious and cultural traditions. Don't wear shorts or sleeveless tops, especially at religious sites. Always remove your shoes and socks before entering a site.
• Customs rules are restrictive. Seek prior permission to import drones or radio equipment. Drones have been seized by customs officials and tourists have been arrested for operating drones. There are also strict rules about exporting gems, antiques and images of Buddha. Check items are legal before you buy them.
• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Punishments include the death penalty. Same-sex relations and adultery are illegal. Be careful when taking photos. It's illegal to photograph military personnel or sites.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• If you decide to travel to Myanmar despite our advice, there are international flights to and from Yangon and Mandalay. Book directly with airlines or through your travel agent.
• You must stay in registered hotels and guesthouses. Register your address with immigration authorities if you're staying more than 90 days. Inform the authorities if you change hotels or will be away from your address.
• The military administration restricts travel in parts of the country, including to and from land border crossings. The Australian Embassy's ability to provide consular service, including in an emergency, may be extremely limited. States and regions of Myanmar are affected by armed conflict. If you intend to travel, check the restricted area list with local authorities. Carry your passport or Foreigners Registration Card. Officials may ask to see it.
• Driving cars or motorbikes on an Australian or international licence is illegal. Apply for a local licence through the  Road Transport Administration Department (Burmese) .
• Don't drive in the countryside at night, including on the Yangon–Naypyitaw–Mandalay highway and National Highway 1 linking Yangon and Mandalay. There are reports of attacks on these expressways. Don't leave the scene of an accident. Public transport, including buses, boats and trains, fail to meet international safety standards. Fatal accidents have occurred, especially on overnight trips.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the  Australian Embassy in Yangon .
• Our ability to provide consular services in Myanmar may be limited.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Security situation.

The Myanmar military assumed control of the country and declared a state of emergency on 1 February 2021. There has been a significant increase in violence, with many deaths, injuries and arrests. 

There have been widespread detentions, including of foreigners. Australians may be at risk of arbitrary detention. Do not take photos of protests, and military personnel or sites.

Martial law is in place in areas of Myanmar, including some areas of Yangon. Avoid townships under martial law. Exercise caution if you need to be there.

A curfew is in place from 1am to 3am in the Yangon region. Curfew timings may differ in other regions and may change at short notice. Daily internet outages, restrictions and regular power outages may occur unexpectedly in Yangon and other parts of the country. 

Heightened security arrangements are in place for Australian officials. Australian officials follow protocols for staff movements and use enhanced security measures at all times, including for travel outside of Yangon. 

There are disruptions to basic services, including banking, communications, power and public health. Have arrangements in place for your essential needs. Services such as transport, travel and fuel may be affected.

If, despite our advice, you choose to remain in Myanmar, you should minimise movement and stay at home during curfew hours. Follow stay-at-home orders. The economic and business environment remains unpredictable. The Australian Embassy's ability to deliver consular assistance, including in an emergency, may be limited.  Maintain heightened security awareness , monitor the media, and keep in close contact with friends and family.

Australians in need of emergency consular assistance should contact the Australian Government 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre at +61 2 6261 3305 (or 1300 555 135 if calling from Australia). 

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Armed conflict

There are active conflicts involving armed groups and security forces across Myanmar. Explosions and other security incidents targeting security forces occur within Yangon and in other parts of the country. Attacks have resulted in civilian and military casualties and are unpredictable in their location and intensity.

Attacks may be planned against locations that are also frequented by foreigners such as hotels, apartments, restaurants and public spaces.

Armed conflict includes:

• active fighting between armed groups
• targeting of civilian infrastructure, including hotels and serviced apartments, restaurants, bars, shopping malls, schools, petrol stations and supermarkets
• use of artillery, mortars and surface-to-surface missiles
• improvised explosive devices and unmarked landmines
• civil unrest, violence and abductions
• attacks on days of national significance
• aerial bombings and air strikes from helicopters and fixed wing aircraft

If despite our advice, you choose to travel to higher risk areas:

• minimise movement and plan your trip carefully including communications
• find out about local information such as curfews and travel restrictions
• stay on main highways and in urban areas, noting even these may be dangerous

The use of Improvised Explosive devices (IEDs) and attacks has occurred across most parts of the country. Most IEDs and attacks have targeted military and government buildings, police stations and military-affiliated businesses. The public remains at risk, including in urban areas. 

Security forces are present in urban areas, including Yangon, which increase around days of significance and visits of regime and foreign officials. Checkpoints and barricades with armed security personnel are common and road/bridge access can change without notice. To the extent possible, avoid using any routes through known traffic checkpoints and any travel adjacent to regime-affiliated businesses and government buildings.

Rakhine and southern Chin State

Armed conflict between armed groups and military forces is occurring in northern and central Rakhine.

Risks to civilians due to the conflict have included being kidnapped, detained and killed by armed groups and killed or injured in clashes and artillery and air strikes, including in Sittwe. Telecommunications have been cut in northern and central Rakhine, and road links to other parts of Myanmar have been severed due to ongoing fighting. Armed groups have used explosive devices in Rakhine State, including on main roads. Travellers have been kidnapped from public buses and ferries. Familiarise yourself with local curfews and travel restrictions.

Fighting between rival ethnic groups, and between armed groups and Myanmar security forces in Shan States has increased since October 2023. The fighting has resulted in civilian casualties and displacement. Civilians including foreigners have been attacked along main roads, displaced, and killed or injured by landmines.

Kachin State

Kachin is also affected by conflict. Since the coup, there has been an influx in troop numbers and violent clashes. Civilian infrastructure, including roads and bridges, are often cut off or targeted for attack.

Kayin and Kayah States

There is conflict and violence across Kayin and Kayah states with increased troop numbers and violent clashes. Myanmar military forces have regularly employed airstrikes and heavy artillery. Numerous attacks have occurred in urban areas, with significant damage to civilian infrastructure, including religious buildings, health centres, and civilians. There is a large, displaced population in both states. Access is unpredictable, with numerous roadblocks and checkpoints. Many roads are completely cut off due to ongoing fighting. Telecommunications, electricity and internet connectivity disruptions occur regularly across the southeast of Myanmar.  

Sagaing, Magway and Chin States

Conflict and violence is ongoing across Sagaing, Magway and Chin States affecting urban areas and resulting in large numbers of civilian displacement. Instances of violence and attacks are unpredictable in location, scale and severity. Internet and communication services are heavily restricted in some areas. Security forces are actively monitoring road and transportation routes and often restrict movement.

Mon State and Tanintharyi Region

Conflict in Kayah and Kayin has spilled over into Mon and Tanintharyi. Roadblocks and checkpoints are present, and there is an increased military presence and conflict in select townships. Internet connectivity disruptions occur regularly. 

Myanmar’s Border Areas

Security along Myanmar's large border varies. Armed groups operate in border areas including at land border crossings. Several border crossings remain closed.

Terrorist and anti-regime attacks in Myanmar, carried out by a range of actors, have targeted government buildings, including military-affiliated regime schools, hospitals, hotels, shopping centres and public transport.

Since the military takeover, the incidence of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and attacks has increased and resulted in a highly volatile environment where violence occurs across the entire country. While security forces or administrative elements appointed by the ruling council are the primary targets, civilian-used infrastructure and public spaces may be targeted. There is a high threat of clashes between armed groups and the military in major urban centres and the threat to the public remains high.

To stay safe:

• take official warnings seriously and follow local instructions
• be alert to possible threats, especially in public places
• report any suspicious activity or items to the police
• monitor the news for any new or emerging threats

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case there's a secondary attack.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Civil unrest and political tension

Protest activity is infrequent but can occur randomly. Protests and organised assemblies of people are not permitted. National dates of significance may see rallies and silent strikes and there's a higher likelihood of opposition attacks, including:

• Independence Day (4 January)
• the anniversary of the 2021 coup (1 February)
• Armed Forces Day (27 March)
• Martyrs’ Day (19 July)
• the anniversary of the 1988 uprising (8 August)
• the anniversary of demonstrations led by monks (26 September)

These events often see an increase in police and security forces presence in Yangon and elsewhere. Tensions may be heightened. Exercise caution and:

• minimise movement and avoid all political gatherings and protests
• avoid areas cordoned off by security forces, areas of known or possible unrest, facilities and vehicles linked to security forces and the military administration
• don't take photographs of rallies, the military or police
• follow instructions of local authorities, including stay-at-home orders, and curfews
• monitor the media and other news sources for possible unrest
• be extra careful around public holidays and other important dates and events such as elections

Be alert to rapid changes in restrictions, including on the use of communication devices and VPNs.

Crime rates in Myanmar, while once lower than other countries in the region, have dramatically increased since the coup. Economic pressure may increase the crime rate further.

You could encounter:

• petty theft

To help protect yourself against theft:

• pay close attention to your belongings, particularly in crowded areas
• hold bags and backpacks in front of you or in ways that make them harder to snatch

When using credit cards or ATMs:

• avoid exposed locations – choose ATMs in banks and shopping centres 
• check for skimming devices before use
• protect your PIN
• monitor your bank records

Report any theft straight away to local police. See  Local contacts

Exercise caution in relation to offers of employment that appear 'too good to be true'. Foreign nationals have been trafficked into Myanmar (either directly into Yangon or via a neighbouring country) and forced to work in online scamming or other fraudulent activity, with poor pay and living conditions, restrictions on movement, and severe mistreatment. Some victims have had their passports confiscated and been held for ransom.

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas whilst travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk.   

Reporting indicates that kidnapping has increased in Myanmar since 2021, especially in rural areas where criminal groups engage in a range of illicit activities. Criminal kidnappers target a range of victims for financial gain. 

If, despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping, our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations will be limited.  

To reduce the risk of kidnapping:  

• always be alert to your personal security and surroundings  
• get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk  
• check your accommodation has appropriate security measures  
• avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone  
• notify family or friends of planned travel, and share your location   
• avoid talking about your money or business affairs  
• use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours  
• avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone  

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Paying a ransom to terrorist groups will likely break Australian counter-terrorism financing laws.  

More information:  

• Kidnapping  

Climate and natural disasters

Myanmar can experience  natural disasters  and  severe weather , including:

• severe storms
• earthquakes

The monsoon season is from May to October, bringing:

• widespread flooding , including flash floods

Disruptions to services are likely during severe weather events, including:

• electricity
• communications

Cyclones can happen between April and October. Confirm the location of your local shelter as soon as possible.

Check the  Myanmar Department of Meteorology and Hydrology  for news on conditions.

Earthquakes

Earthquakes occur in Myanmar.

Past earthquakes have damaged major cities in Myanmar, including Yangon and Bagan.

Myanmar's exposure to earthquakes makes destructive tsunamis more likely.

If there's a natural disaster:

• take official warnings seriously
• don't enter areas affected by flooding, landslides or other natural disasters without advice from local authorities
• know your hotel's evacuation plans
• keep your passport in a safe, waterproof place
• keep in contact with friends and family
• monitor the media, other local news and the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• follow the advice of local authorities

Travel insurance

If you choose to remain in, or travel to, Myanmar despite our advice, make sure you have comprehensive  travel insurance  for the duration of your stay. 

Confirm what your policy covers, including activities, care, and health and travel disruptions. Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Most Australian policies won't cover you for travel where the travel advice is 'do not travel'.

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need
• arrange appropriate medical supplies

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

Counselling services

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (HealthDirect Australia)

Health risks

Medical facilities in Myanmar are severely stretched, particularly outside Yangon. Hospitals have closed or ceased providing services at short notice. Medical evacuations may be delayed or not possible.

Some  COVID-19  restrictions continue to apply in Myanmar, including on entry into Myanmar. Stay-at-home orders have been used in the past to curb transmission.

You can find  information on COVID-19 in Myanmar  on the Ministry of Health and Sports website (Burmese). 

If authorities assess you have COVID-19, you may be required to isolate at home or be quarantined at a local facility.

Polio and other vaccine-preventable diseases

Check the  Australian Immunisation Handbook (Department of Health and Aged Care) if you chose to travel to Myanmar despite our advice.

Make sure you're up to date with recommended vaccinations, including  polio (Department of Health and Aged Care). You may need a booster.

Speak with your doctor. If you're not sure if you're vaccinated for polio, ask. Also check your need for vaccines for:

• hepatitis A

Insect-borne diseases

In many areas, insect-borne diseases are widespread. These include:

• dengue fever
• chikungunya
• Japanese encephalitis

To protect yourself from disease:

• ensure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria
• get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis before you leave Australia

HIV/AIDS  is common in Myanmar. Take precautions if you engage in activities that expose you to the virus.

Rabies  can be fatal. It's found in various animals in Myanmar.

Never feed, pat or tease dogs or monkeys.

If a dog, monkey or other animal bites or scratches you, get treatment as soon as possible.

• Infectious diseases

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common and include:

• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid uncooked and undercooked food, such as salads

Get urgent medical help if you think you have food poisoning, or if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Myanmar. Take enough legal medicine for your trip. 

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating: 

• what the medication is 
• your required dosage 
• that it's for personal use 

Get advice from a  Myanmar embassy or consulate  on quantity restrictions that may apply.

Be aware that medications for sale in Myanmar are often fake.

More information: 

• Medication  

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of medical facilities in Myanmar is extremely limited, particularly outside Yangon. Hospitals have closed or ceased providing services at short notice.

Avoid any surgical procedures, including dental work. Unclean medical instruments can cause infections such as:

Emergency medical care, including ambulances, is often not available. An ambulance service (often without a paramedic) is attached to most private hospitals. Each has its own phone number.

Private hospitals may not be able to accept foreign patients. You may need to pay cash up-front before receiving medical treatment.

If you become seriously ill or experience a major injury, a medical evacuation may be delayed or not possible. 

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws should you choose to travel to, or remain, in Myanmar despite our advice.

In February 2024, the military administration announced a 2010 conscription law would be enacted. If local authorities consider you are a citizen of Myanmar, you may be subject to serve in the armed forces. The length of service can depend on criteria such as age, occupation, and whether there is a state of emergency. Myanmar does not recognise dual nationality. You may not be exempt from this law if you are an Australian-Myanmar dual national holding an Australian passport.

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.

Myanmar authorities don't always notify consular staff about Australians arrested, detained or deported from Myanmar. If you're  arrested or jailed , ask to contact the Australian Embassy immediately.

Penalties for drug offences are severe and include the death penalty.

• Carrying or using drugs

Traffic accidents

It's illegal to leave the scene of an accident. Drivers involved in an accident with another vehicle are usually detained if there are injuries. A driver involved in an accident with a pedestrian is always at fault, regardless of what happened. Authorities are likely to detain the driver.

Legal cases to resolve traffic disputes can be long. They can affect your visa status. Drivers often expect a cash payment to settle the matter at the time of the accident.

You could be charged costs for injuries or damaged vehicles. The embassy can't help you negotiate. However, they can give you a list of lawyers who may be able to assist.

Myanmar has the death penalty for serious offences, including murder, treason, and drug-related crimes.

These activities are illegal in Myanmar:

• engaging in same-sex sexual acts or adultery
• taking photos of military personnel or sites
• entering or leaving Myanmar with religious materials without Customs approval
• preaching or handing out religious materials without written approval
• 'insulting religion', including mistreating images of Buddha - if you have a tattoo of Buddha, keep it covered
• defaming or threatening someone using a telecommunications network
• operating drones around sensitive areas such as, government or religious buildings

It's also illegal to:

• rent a private home if you're on a tourist visa — tourists must stay in registered accommodation
• drive a car or motorcycle without a valid local driving licence
• leave the scene of a road accident
• drink alcohol in public places such as parks, religious buildings or compounds

Don't post negative comments about individuals or Myanmar on social media.

Customs laws on banned imports and exports can be unclear and change without notice. Ask a Myanmar embassy or consulate  about the latest rules.

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law

Dual citizenship

Myanmar doesn't recognise dual nationality.

If you're a dual citizen, this limits the  consular services  we can provide if you're arrested or detained.

Always travel on your Australian passport.

• Dual nationals

Local customs

People in Myanmar are deeply respectful of their religious and cultural traditions.

Standards of dress and behaviour are modest.

It's considered offensive to touch or pat anyone on the top of the head.

Respect local customs and take care not to offend. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Avoid wearing sleeveless tops and shorts in Myanmar, especially when visiting religious sites. It may cause offence.

Always take off your shoes and socks before entering religious sites.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

You need a visa to enter and stay in Myanmar. Entering without a visa can result in a prison sentence.

Contact the nearest Immigration Office to extend your visa if you intend to lengthen your stay in Myanmar.

If you choose to travel, despite our advice, you can obtain further information and apply for a tourist or business visa at your nearest  Myanmar embassy  or the  Ministry of Immigration and Population  website.   

The Australian Embassy is not able to support individual visa applications.

You can't use e-Visas at seaports. 

Be aware of unauthorised websites that claim to offer e-Visas. Some websites will provide a genuine visa for an extra fee, but others are fake.

Be careful about using links in emails or other websites to access the official site. Use official Myanmar government services to arrange your visa to avoid being scammed.

The local government strictly controls travel to parts of Myanmar, including through visa conditions. Authorities have deported or detained Australians for visa offences.

You should maintain a valid visa at all times.

If you overstay your visa, authorities won't let you leave until you pay a fine. You might also be:

• blacklisted, so you can never return

If you break other visa conditions, authorities could arrest or deport you.

Meet your visa conditions at all times.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest  embassy or consulate  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Border requirements

Ensure you have a valid visa prior to travel and meet Myanmar's entry requirements. The Australian Embassy cannot support your request to board an incoming flight.

The following entry requirements apply:

• you'll be subject to a thermal screening conducted by the airport health authorities upon arrival to Myanmar. You'll need to meet the cost of testing, isolation and medical treatment costs, including COVID-19, during your stay in Myanmar. 
• if you develop signs or symptoms of COVID-19 during your stay in Myanmar, you must report to health authorities

Confirm entry requirements directly with your nearest  Myanmar Embassy or Consulate  and the Ministry of Health and Sports, as quarantine protocols are subject to change at short notice.

Departing Myanmar

There are international flights departing Yangon and Mandalay. Book directly with airlines or through your travel agent.

Border crossings

Travel to or from Myanmar by land border crossings can be unpredictable. Crossings can be opened or closed without prior notice.

Since November 2016, foreigners have not been allowed to travel to the Muse (Shan State)-Ruili (China) border crossing.

See  Safety

Other formalities

Staying in myanmar.

You must stay in registered hotels and guesthouses.

If you plan to stay for more than 90 days, you must register your address with immigration authorities. You must also obtain a Foreigners Registration Card.

Let Immigration know if you change hotels or will be away from your registered address.

Customs regulations are restrictive. Officials limit what you can bring into the country.

Declare foreign currency over $US10,000 or equivalent when you arrive and depart Myanmar. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash. If you don't, you could be jailed.

Customs authorities are sensitive about some communications equipment such as:

• radio equipment

If you don't declare restricted or banned items, customs may confiscate them. You may be able to collect undeclared items when you leave the country.

Strict rules control the export of:

• Buddha images

If you plan to take something home, check it's legal before you buy it.

• Embassy of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar
• Customs Department (Myanmar Customs Department)

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Office on 131 232
• If you’re overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTQIA+ travellers  

The local currency is the Myanmar Kyat (MMK).

Cash is widely used. Foreign currency is sometimes refused because of people using fake notes.

A limited number of shops and businesses accept US Dollars as payment. Notes with pen marks, folds or tears, and old notes are often refused.

Other foreign currencies and travellers' cheques are rarely accepted.

It's illegal to exchange foreign currency except through authorised money changers. Find official money changers at Myanmar's international airports and in banks.

The banking sector has experienced widespread disruption, with many banks closed and some ATMs out of operation. Restrictions are in place regarding the use of foreign currencies, including using foreign currency bank accounts and limits on the amount of USD that can be held in cash. Ensure you comply with requirements.

There are daily and weekly limits on cash withdrawals from ATMs. Plan your travel accordingly. Some ATMs accept international cards. 

Ask your bank if your card will work in Myanmar.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at:

• restaurants

You should confirm before travel if intending to pay for hotels or restaurants with a credit or debit card. Vendors often charge additional fees for credit or debit card transactions.

Some businesses will not accept international cards, e.g. Mastercard, Visa or American Express.

Frequent electricity will not accept international cards, e.g. Mastercard, Visa or American Express.

International money transfers to Myanmar may be restricted.

Local travel

The military administration controls travel within parts of Myanmar, including to and from land border crossings.

If despite our advice you plan to travel within Myanmar, check movement restrictions with local authorities. Visit the  Ministry of Labour, Immigration and Population  website for a list of restricted areas.

A curfew is in place across Myanmar. Stay at home during curfew hours.

Movement restrictions, including stay-at-home orders, curfews and quarantines, may be imposed at short notice (see  Safety ). Monitor the media closely. 

Australian Embassy staff need to seek approval to undertake official travel within Myanmar. This may affect our ability to provide consular assistance.

Landmines and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs)

Unmarked landmines and IEDs make parts of Myanmar dangerous. These devices are used in:

• areas of conflict
• near borders
• city and urban areas

Landmine locations may not be marked. Stay on established roads.

Myanmar New Year and Water Festival

Myanmar's Water Festival (Thingyan) and New Year is celebrated in April each year. There's an increased risk of road accidents due to:

• drunk drivers
• overcrowded vehicles

In past years, crime has increased during the festival. Pay attention to your personal security.

Many services close down for Thingyan, including:

• supermarkets
• government offices

Roads are sometimes closed in Yangon and other regional centres. Plan ahead.

Identification

Travellers are often asked to show their passport and visa to authorities. This often occurs:

• for domestic air travel
• for train travel
• when staying at hotels

Foreigners who stay in Myanmar for more than 90 days have to show their Foreigners Registration Card.

Local safety standards

The safety standards you might expect of service providers are not always met. This applies to:

• transport and tour operators, including for adventure activities

Operators may not provide suitable safety equipment. Maintenance and safety standards may be poor or non-existent.

If you plan to do an adventure activity:

• check if your insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Internet and telephone services

Communication services in Myanmar are restricted in many parts of the country.

Internet services are available but are unreliable outside cities and large towns. Restrictions on internet access apply, including to social media and messaging applications.

The phone network is also unreliable and limited outside of cities and large towns.

You can send and receive text messages only from some Australian mobiles to mobile phones inside Myanmar. Many travellers buy a local pre-paid SIM card. 

If you're subscribing for urgent travel advice updates by SMS, ensure you can receive text messages on your phone number.

The military administration has in the past, suspended telecommunications services in response to the security situation without prior notice . 

Driving permits

It's illegal to drive cars or motorbikes using an Australian or international driving licence.

You must have a valid Myanmar driver's licence.

You can apply for this through the  Road Transport Administration Department Myanmar .

Road travel

You're more likely to be killed in a car accident in Myanmar than in Australia.

Roads in Myanmar are dangerous because of:

• traffic congestion
• aggressive driving practices
• poorly maintained vehicles and roads
• people and livestock on the road
• lack of street lighting

Roads in mountainous border areas can be particularly poor. Many drivers in regional areas don't use their headlights at night.

Vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road. However, both left-hand and right-hand drive vehicles are used throughout the country. This adds to the dangerous driving conditions.

Australian Embassy staff are advised to avoid travelling by car in the countryside at night. This includes travelling on the Yangon-Naypyitaw-Mandalay highway and National Highway 1, linking Yangon and Mandalay. There are reports of attacks on these expressways. 

Military and immigration checkpoints on roads are common, including in Yangon and other major cities.

If you plan to drive:

• check your travel insurance covers you
• get a local licence
• become familiar with Myanmar traffic laws
• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check with your travel insurer whether your policy covers you when riding a motorbike.

Companies that hire motorbikes often don't supply helmets. Most helmets bought locally don't meet Australian safety standards.

Always wear a helmet.

Registered taxis have red licence plates and are easy to find.

Agree on the fare with the driver before your trip.

Take extra care if using taxis at night. Availability of taxis are limited near curfew. Allow adequate time to return to your accommodation prior to curfew.

Many taxis are in poor condition.

Registered rideshare services operate in Yangon.

Public transport

Public transport  doesn't meet international safety standards. This includes:

Fatal accidents have occurred, especially at night.

Search and rescue resources are very limited.

Domestic airlines may sometimes implement travel restrictions due to the security environment. Changes to travel protocols and flight availability may occur at short notice.

The safety record of domestic airlines is not available. There is no data about how well local planes are maintained. This lack of transparency raises concerns about airline safety.

Airlines operating in Myanmar sometimes use aircraft from outside their own fleet. When this happens, passengers are not told in advance.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Myanmar's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer or

Call 192 (Yangon General Hospital) or an international clinic.

Medical assistance, including during emergencies, may be limited during curfew hours.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Check the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in Yangon. Our ability to provide consular services in Myanmar is extremely limited.

Australian Embassy, Yangon

Vantage Tower 623 Pyay Road Yangon, Myanmar Phone: (+95) 1 230 7410 Fax: (+95) 1 230 7425 Email:  [email protected] Website:  myanmar.embassy.gov.au Facebook:  Australian Embassy in Myanmar

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Myanmar?

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Last verified: Thursday, 18. July 2024 at 08:18 AM

Myanmar Travel Advisory

• South-Eastern Asia
• Myanmar Travel Advice

It is not safe to travel Myanmar

Local situation: 4.6 / 5.

It is not safe to travel Myanmar. We detected travel advisories from 8 sources for this specific country.

Regional Situation: 3.4 / 5

Myanmar shares a land border with 5 neighbouring states. For this region of countries (including Myanmar), the Advisory Index is 3.4 (average value over all countries). All countries have some reported advisories: Bangladesh (3.4), China (3.4), India (3.4), Laos with 3 and Thailand with 2.7 (of 5).

Current informationen on Covid-19 in Myanmar

There are currently no officially reported cases of infections with SARS-CoV-2 (or Coronavirus) in Myanmar. As reported by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control this morning (~8:30am CET).

There are currently no officially reported deaths related to this disease in Myanmar.

Source: www.ecdc.europa.eu

Advice scoring history for Myanmar

Chart of the risk level over that last 200 days. This is the daily calculated travel risk for Myanmar.

Chart of the number of sources over that last 200 days. This is the daily number of advisory sources (of any rating) that have been active on that day.

Note: Changes happening on the 28th/29th of July 2019 are related to a change in the software and number of sources processed.

Rating Details (single travel warnings)

These are the individual advisories published by other countries about the destination Myanmar from a travellers perspective. The scoring of all messages combined is the foundation for the current rating 4.6 out of 5.0 .

This is the general advisory usually covering the country as a whole.

Advisory issued by: New Zealand

Do not travel elsewhere in Myanmar due to ongoing civil unrest and armed conflict.

Source: https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/myanmar

Advisory issued by: Cyprus

Avoid non-essential travel to certain areas

Source: http://www.mfa.gov.cy/mfa/mfa2016.nsf/travel_en.html

Advisory issued by: Australia

We've reviewed our advice for Myanmar and continue to advise do not travel to Myanmar. Violence, including explosions and attacks, can occur anywhere and anytime, including in Yangon. Attacks may be planned against locations that foreigners frequent, including public spaces and civilian infrastructure. Attacks are unpredictable in their location and intensity. ...

Source: https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/myanmar

Advisory issued by: United States

Source: http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/burma-travel-advisory.html

Advisory issued by: Germany

Myanmar: Reise- und Sicherheitshinweise (Reisewarnung). The German government advises againt travelling this country.

Source: https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/de/ReiseUndSicherheit/myanmarsicherheit/212100

Advisory issued by: Canada

The Canadian goverment suggests: Avoid all travel.

Source: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/myanmar

Advisory issued by: Finland

Undvik alla resor -

Source: https://um.fi/resemeddelande/-/c/MM

Individual rating changes for Myanmar

This is the recent history of individual changes of travel advices that affected the total asessment of Myanmar. Most recent events first.

Changes from August 7th 2020

The total rating for Myanmar changed from 3.3 to 3.5 . Here are the influencing details:

The United States government increased their existing warning for Myanmar to 4.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 2.0 (by +2.0).

Changes from March 23rd 2020

The total rating for Myanmar changed from 3.1 to 3.3 . Here are the influencing details:

The Canadian government increased their existing warning for Myanmar to 4.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 3.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from March 22nd 2020

The total rating for Myanmar changed from 3.0 to 3.1 . Here are the influencing details:

The Canadian government increased their existing warning for Myanmar to 3.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 2.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from March 18th 2020

The total rating for Myanmar changed from 2.9 to 3.0 . Here are the influencing details:

The Australian government increased their existing warning for Myanmar to 5.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 4.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from March 17th 2020

The total rating for Myanmar changed from 2.8 to 2.9 . Here are the influencing details:

The Irish government increased their existing warning for Myanmar to 4.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 3.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from March 14th 2020

The total rating for Myanmar changed from 2.4 to 2.8 . Here are the influencing details:

The Australian government issued a new warning for Myanmar with a rating of 4.0.

The Danish government increased their existing warning for Myanmar to 4.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 3.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from September 25th 2019

The total rating for Myanmar changed from 0.0 to 0.0 . Here are the influencing details:

The United States government issued a new warning for Myanmar with a rating of 2.0.

The Canadian government issued a new warning for Myanmar with a rating of 2.0.

The New Zealand government issued a new warning for Myanmar with a rating of 2.0.

The Cypriot government issued a new warning for Myanmar with a rating of 3.0.

The Irish government issued a new warning for Myanmar with a rating of 3.0.

The Finnish government issued a new warning for Myanmar with a rating of 2.0.

The Danish government issued a new warning for Myanmar with a rating of 3.0.

About Myanmar

Myanmar with its capital Nay Pyi Taw is a country in Asia (South-Eastern Asia), slightly smaller than Texas (678,500 km²). The country is located Southeastern Asia, bordering the Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal, between Bangladesh and Thailand. The climate can be described as tropical monsoon; cloudy, rainy, hot, humid summers (southwest monsoon, June to September); less cloudy, scant rainfall, mild temperatures, lower humidity during winter (northeast monsoon, December to April). The landscape is central lowlands ringed by steep, rugged highlands. With a population of about 47.76 million citizens.

Burmese flag

Introduction Video

Basic Statistics and Facts

Environmental problems and natural hazzards.

These are problems Myanmar is facing. Environmental issues refer to damages of the nature due to industry and society. Natural hazzards refer to potential dangers originating in nature.

Environmental problems

• deforestation
• inadequate sanitation and water treatment contribute to disease
• industrial pollution of air

Natural hazzards

• destructive earthquakes and cyclones
• flooding and landslides common during rainy season (June to September)
• periodic droughts

Top Industries and Agricultural Products

These are the main product industries and agricultural products of Myanmar. This list indicates what this country is good at producing.

• agricultural processing
• construction materials
• natural gas

Agriculture products

• fish products

Burmese Imports and Exports

These are the main product categories of imports and exports to and from Myanmar.

Export products

• wood products

Import products

• food products� edible oil
• petroleum products
• transport equipment

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current travel advisory for myanmar.

Myanmar is currently rated at 4,6 out of a possible 5.0. Collected from 8 official sources. It is not safe to travel Myanmar.

Is it safe to travel Myanmar in 2024?

With these high scores ( 4,6 ) you should avoid all kind of travel to Myanmar and maybe pick another location. This is not a place for holidays.

How many travel advisories do you know for Myanmar?

We currently evaluate 11 official sources each morning. Today, we know of active advisories from 8 individual sources for Myanmar.

What is the current Corona virus situation in Myanmar?

There are currently no officially reported cases of infections with SARS-CoV-2 (or Coronavirus) in Myanmar. As reported by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control this morning (~8:30am CET). There are currently no officially reported deaths related to this disease in Myanmar.

What is the size of Myanmar?

Myanmar has a size of 678,500 km² or 261,970 mi² which is slightly smaller than Texas.

Common Frequently Asked Questions

For non-country specific questions, please check our global F.A.Q.

Travel safety map for Myanmar and bordering countries.

If you want to embed Myanmar travel warning information into your website or application, check out these tools.

• Is Myanmar safe to travel?
• What's the safety situation in Myanmar?
• Are there security warnings for Myanmar?

2020-03-10: Integrated data from European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (COVID-19/ SARS-CoV-2/ Coronavirus).

2019-09-01: Added timeline charts for risk level and number of advisories.

2019-07-29: Added two more sources (Finland and Denmark). Affects country ratings.

2019-07-15: South-Sudan was missing and was added today.

2019-05-18: Performance improvements for API users.

2019-03-23: Introduced professional API with more data.

2019-02-13: Added three more sources (Cyprus, Ireland and Malta). Affects country ratings.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Myanmar travel advice

Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)

Last updated: July 15, 2024 12:32 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, myanmar - avoid all travel.

Avoid all travel to Myanmar due to the risk of politically motivated violence and civil unrest. If you are in Myanmar, you are at risk of arbitrary enforcement of local laws, which could lead to arrest and detention. You should leave now if you can do so safely.

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Martyrs' Day

There may be heightened tensions in Myanmar on and around July 19, 2024, Martyrs' Day. There is a heightened risk of protests, and a possibility of increased violence and armed clashes across the country.

Expect an increased presence of security forces and tightened security measures, like road closures and checkpoints in urban centers, including Yangon.

The security situation could change rapidly.

If you're in Myanmar:

• do not travel to townships under martial law
• limit your travel and outdoor activities
• ensure you have enough food, water and basic necessities
• avoid all demonstrations and gatherings
• follow the advice of local authorities

Armed clashes

Since October 27, 2023, there has been an escalation of conflict in several parts of Myanmar. Multiple armed resistance groups have attacked regime security forces in Mandalay and Sagaing regions, and the following states:

• Kayah (formerly Karenni)

There has also been an increase in the number of attacks and regime airstrikes resulting in civilian casualties. The armed conflict is expected to continue and could expand to other states and regions and escalate. The security situation is highly volatile and additional violent attacks could occur at any time across the country.

Violent clashes between regime security forces and armed groups have resulted in:

• significant internal displacement
• disrupted access to supplies, cash and goods
• border crossing closures

If you are in Myanmar:

• exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings
• expect heightened presence of security forces
• expect increased travel disruptions and roadblocks
• use your judgement to decide the best time and the safest means of exit if you need to move to a safer location
• monitor international media to stay informed about the latest developments and decrees

Disruptions to supply chains and the closing of border crossings in Myanmar may result in shortages of necessities.

• Keep a supply of water, food, medicine and cash on hand.

Political situation

On February 1, 2021, the Myanmar military detained officials from the elected government and declared a state of emergency, effectively seizing control of the country's governance. Martial law has been imposed in several townships. Curfews are in effect at specific locations and gatherings are banned.

Demonstrations take place regularly across the country, particularly in Yangon and Mandalay. Security forces have been using excessive and lethal force against protesters in several locations. This has resulted in multiple casualties.

Civil unrest and acts of politically motivated violence may occur anywhere and at any time, particularly leading up to and during days or events of national significance. Improvised explosive devices have been used throughout the country, including in major cities such as Yangon, Mandalay, and Nay Pyi Taw. Further attacks targeting public venues frequented by foreigners, such as shopping malls, markets, hotels, bars and restaurants are possible.

The political situation remains unpredictable and could deteriorate further.

• maintain a high level of vigilance at all times
• avoid unnecessary movement, especially on occasions of national significance
• regularly review your security practices
• follow political and social developments carefully
• monitor media to stay informed on the evolving situation
• plan to have adequate water and food supplies for at least 4 days
• charge your mobile phone in case of internet, communication and power outages
• expect roadblocks, searches and a heavy military presence

Arbitrary enforcement of local laws

Myanmar's military regime arbitrarily enforces local laws, and may carry out random and arbitrary detentions without due process. If you are in Myanmar, you are at risk of arbitrary detention.

If you travel to or remain in Myanmar despite these risks:

• stay indoors
• maintain a low profile when going outside
• avoid concentrations of police and security forces
• comply with the regulations and guidelines from local authorities

Border areas with Thailand, China, Laos, Bangladesh and India

The security situation along the border varies and can change quickly.

Clashes between the military and armed groups are ongoing in several border regions. This has caused the displacements of hundreds of thousands of civilians to neighbouring countries.

Landmines are also a danger, particularly in border areas. Unmarked landmines can be found in many border regions and pose a significant risk to your safety.

If you travel to border areas despite this advisory:

• exercise extreme caution
• avoid concentrations of police and security forces as well as large gatherings
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Chin (Paletwa Township), Kachin, Rakhine, and northern Shan States

Fighting between Myanmar regime military forces and non-state armed resistance groups is occurring in these areas and has resulted in a significant number of deaths, the displacement of hundreds of thousands of civilians as well as disruptions to road and rail connections.

In August 2017, there were coordinated attacks on police and security forces in northern Rakhine state. Since December 2018, serious armed clashes between ethnic armed groups and the military have been occurring in parts of northern and central Rakhine State, including in the tourist destination of Mrauk U. Detonations of improvised explosive devices have taken place in Sittwe Township and on the road between Sittwe and Mrauk U.

Violence in the area is ongoing and the situation is volatile. The security situation can deteriorate suddenly and unexpectedly. Be vigilant and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Travel restrictions

Travel to parts of the country, including to and from land border crossings, are strictly controlled by the Government of Myanmar. As such, there are some parts of the country where Canadian Embassy officials are not allowed to travel freely without permission from the Myanmar government. The Canadian Embassy's ability to deliver consular assistance, including in an emergency, may be limited or delayed in these areas.

The Ministry of Hotels and Tourism maintains lists of permitted and restricted areas. Consult these lists prior to travelling to Myanmar, especially if you plan on travelling outside of popular tourist destinations.

Inter-communal violence

Inter-communal violence occurs. More than 200 people have been killed in religious violence since June 2012, and more than 140,000 have been displaced (mostly in Rakhine State). Attacks against religious buildings, shops, and homes have taken place in several areas, including the regions of Bago and Mandalay, resulting in injuries, deaths and displaced persons. Tensions remain high, and further violence is possible. Curfews and restrictions may be imposed or changed on short notice.

Incidents of violence, which resulted in injuries and damage to property, occurred in Mandalay in early July 2014. In late March 2014, violent protests targeting the staff and offices of international organizations took place in Sittwe, Rakhine State.

Security forces

The presence of police and security forces is likely to increase in Yangon and elsewhere in Myanmar on significant dates, including the anniversary of demonstrations led by monks to protest for political reform (September 26) and the anniversary of the 1988 uprising (August 8).

Violent crime

There have also been incidents of violent crime against foreigners including muggings.

Exercise a high level of personal security awareness at all times.

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching occur. Scams involving gems and jewellery occur. Merchants sell lower-quality items at inflated prices with promises that the items can be resold later at a profit. The guarantees that merchants offer are not always honoured. The Government of Canada cannot assist in obtaining refunds for purchases made.

• Ensure that your personal belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure at all times
• Carefully consider all purchases if you are not knowledgeable about gems and jewellery

Demonstrations

Demonstrations can occur and have the potential to suddenly turn violent. They can lead to significant disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings
• Follow the advice of local authorities
• Monitor local media

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Water activities

Exercise caution at beach resorts in Ngwesaung, Chaungtha and Ngapali as there are strong underwater currents and riptides. There are no lifeguards and drownings have occurred.

Scuba diving

Exercise caution when considering diving excursions in Myanmar. Rented diving equipment may not meet internationally acceptable safety standards and may not be maintained adequately.

Water safety abroad

Tourists trekking in remote parts of the country have experienced difficulties with military authorities, even after obtaining prior permission.

Tourist facilities

Tourist facilities are adequate in Bagan, Inle Lake, Mandalay, Ngapali Beach, Yangon and Taunggyi, but limited elsewhere. Good hotel facilities exist in Nay Pyi Taw, but transportation is limited. Foreign tourists rarely visit Nay Pyi Taw and may be viewed with suspicion. Foreigners can expect to pay several times more than locals for accommodations, domestic flights and entry to tourist sites throughout the country.

Communications

Telephone services are unreliable in Yangon and are difficult to find in other areas. Long-distance calls can be extremely expensive. There are Internet cafés in Yangon; identification is required, access to certain websites is restricted and records of which websites users have visited are kept. While some websites were unblocked in 2011, many remain inaccessible. Electronic communications, including email, may be monitored by local authorities.

Public transportation

Public transportation within Myanmar, including air, rail and sea travel, often does not meet international safety standards. Railway equipment tends to be outdated, and fatal accidents have occurred. Boat and ferry accidents causing deaths are common. Vessels may be in poor condition and overloading is a common problem.

Road safety

Travel is restricted outside major cities to designated tourist areas only. Permission from local authorities is required to visit certain areas. Military checkpoints on roads are common.

The general condition of automobiles does not meet minimal international standards. There is a combination of both left-hand and right-hand drive vehicles in use throughout the country. Driving can be hazardous, especially after dark. Some roads can become impassable, particularly during the rainy season. Drivers have little regard for traffic regulations and do not follow safe-driving practices. It is common for pedestrians and livestock to walk on roads. A driver involved in any accident with a pedestrian is always at fault and is liable to be detained.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Myanmar authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave from Myanmar.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: required  Business visa: required

A visa is required for tourism and business purposes and is valid for 28 days. It should be obtained prior to travel at a Myanmar diplomatic mission. An eVisa option and multiple-entry business visas are available.

The Myanmar government has created a visa-on-arrival program to allow select business travellers, including Canadians, to obtain a business visa upon arrival at the Yangon International Airport. Travellers are encouraged not to rely on this option, however, as the program’s requirements and eligibility criteria remain unclear. It is strongly recommended that all travellers, including business travellers, carefully verify visa requirements and options with the nearest Embassy of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar before travelling.

Foreign journalists have had difficulty obtaining visas, and some have been denied entry upon arrival despite having received a visa. In the past, journalists, and tourists mistaken for journalists, have been denied entry when travelling on tourist visas, have been harassed and have had film and notes confiscated upon leaving the country.

Travel to parts of Myanmar is strictly controlled by government authorities. Foreigners have been deported and detained for visa offences.

eVisa  - Myanmar's Ministry of Immigration and population

Port of entry

You should use the same port of entry (e.g. Yangon International Airport) to enter and exit Myanmar to avoid problems with immigration services.

Border crossings

There are few land border crossing points, and permission to cross these borders may be required in advance, through a process separate from the required visa application. Some government-authorized tour companies may be able to secure the appropriate permission from the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism.

Border crossings may close with little or no notice, and entry may be restricted to the nationals of the bordering states and/or to the immediate area or border town. Although travel to or from Myanmar via a land route is possible, Global Affairs Canada advises against travel to the border areas with China, Laos and Thailand. 

• Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain.  It is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is very low for most travellers. Travellers at relatively higher risk may want to consider vaccination for JE prior to travelling.

Travellers are at higher risk if they will be:

• travelling long term (e.g. more than 30 days)
• making multiple trips to endemic areas
• staying for extended periods in rural areas
• visiting an area suffering a JE outbreak
• engaging in activities involving high contact with mosquitos (e.g., entomologists)

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Cholera is a risk in parts of this country. Most travellers are at very low risk.

To protect against cholera, all travellers should practise safe food and water precautions .

Travellers at higher risk of getting cholera include those:

• visiting, working or living in areas with limited access to safe food, water and proper sanitation
• visiting areas where outbreaks are occurring

Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travellers, and should be discussed with a health care professional.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

Lymphatic filariasis , also known as elephantiasis, is caused by filariae (tiny worms) spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause a range of illnesses. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine available for lymphatic filariasis although drug treatments exist.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

• visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
• working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
• hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
• working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
• working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)   is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). 

High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.

Medical services and facilities

Limited medical facilities are available in Yangon but may not meet Canadian standards and are very limited elsewhere in the country. Foreign prescription drugs are often counterfeit and are unsafe to use. There are no emergency neonatal services in Myanmar.

Medical evacuation is necessary for cases of serious illness or accident. Doctors and hospitals may demand immediate cash payment for health services and medical evacuation. Make sure you have adequate/accessible cash to cover the cost of emergency needs.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

The Canadian embassy does not normally receive timely notification of the detention, arrest or deportation of Canadian citizens in Myanmar. If you are arrested or jailed you should request immediate contact with the Embassy of Canada to Myanmar. Research laws before travelling, especially for an extended stay.

A foreigner who has broken the law is subject to deportation upon payment of fine or completion of prison sentence.

Under Myanmar law, insulting religion is a prosecutable offence. This includes any disrespectful treatment, depiction or image (including tattoos) of Buddha or other religious representation, or wearing any tattoo of Buddha anywhere below the waist. Foreign nationals have been sentenced to prison, fined and/or deported for breaking this law.

Missionary activities and the importation of religious materials are illegal without the written permission of the Myanmar authorities.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect imprisonment or a death sentence.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Under Myanmar's immigration act, tourists are required to stay in registered hotels, motels, inns, guest houses or resorts. You must show your passport and valid visa at domestic airports, train stations, hotels and security checkpoints. It is illegal to enter restricted areas without authorization.

Political activism

Political activism (including the dissemination of printed materials), protests, demonstrations and unauthorized assemblies are not tolerated in Myanmar. Freedom of speech and political activities are restricted, and the Myanmar government is very sensitive to any expression of opposition to its rule. Foreigners criticizing the regime in public may be arrested or detained.

Artifacts and gems

A permit is required to purchase or possess cultural or archaeological artifacts. It is illegal to export gems. Foreigners have been arrested, searched and imprisoned for attempting to take Myanmar gems out of the country.

Photography

Photography of scenes or people that could be considered politically sensitive, such as military installations, security personnel or demonstrations, is prohibited. Offenders could be arrested, deported and have their equipment confiscated. It is also illegal to fly a drone over certain religious installations.

International driving permits are not recognized in Myanmar. It is illegal to drive without a Myanmar driver's licence.

Imports and export

Customs officials strictly limit what is brought into and out of the country. Baggage is examined and may be searched upon arrival. It is illegal to enter or exit Myanmar with religious materials. Foreign currency in excess of US$10,000 must be declared upon arrival; failure to do so could result in imprisonment. Importation of communications equipment such as mobile phones and laptop computers has been restricted. Laptop computers have been taken from tourists and held at the airport until their departure. Customs regulations on prohibited imports and exports are often unclear and further advice on this subject should be sought from the nearest Myanmar embassy or consulate.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

The laws of Myanmar prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Myanmar.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Myanmar.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Myanmar, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Travellers with dual citizenship

The Myanmar authorities activated a 2010 conscription law that came into effect on February 10, 2024. If local authorities consider you a citizen of Myanmar, you may be subject to military obligations requiring all men aged 18-35 and all women aged 18-27 to serve at least two years in the army, with possible extensions up to five years during a state of emergency. The current state of emergency began in February 2021 and has been extended to July 31, 2024. Future extensions are likely. There is no guarantee that travelling with a Canadian passport will provide protection from this law.

You may face up to three years in prison plus a fine, if you evade or ignore a summons to serve. The Government of Canada continues to recommend that Canadian travellers avoid all travel to Myanmar and take this advice seriously.

The Embassy of Canada in Myanmar is extremely limited in its ability to assist Canadian citizens who might be detained in Myanmar.

You should always travel using your valid Canadian passport and present yourself as Canadian to foreign authorities at all times to minimize the risk of your Canadian citizenship being denied. You may also need to carry and present a Myanmar passport for legal reasons, for example to enter and exit the country.

Citizenship is determined solely by national laws, and the decision to recognize dual citizenship rests completely with the country in which you are located when seeking consular assistance. If you are a Canadian citizen, you will require a valid Canadian passport to re-enter Canada.

Travelling as a dual citizen

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Myanmar.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Myanmar by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Myanmar to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Dress and behaviour

Exercise common sense and discretion in dress and behaviour, particularly when visiting religious sites. Dress conservatively and respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities or breaking the law.

Local customs  - Myanmar government

The currency of Myanmar is the kyat (MMK). U.S. currency is widely accepted; however, only new, unmarked and undamaged bank notes are accepted. Other foreign currencies are not accepted. There are a few official currency exchange offices in Yangon, including one at the Yangon International Airport. It is illegal to exchange currency at unauthorized locations.

Carry enough cash to cover all of your expenses while in Myanmar. Credit cards are not widely accepted. Even where credit card facilities do exist, Internet connections may be too slow to enable credit cards to be a reliable payment method. Traveller's cheques are never accepted and debit cards are not used for direct purchases. It is possible to find some internationally linked ABMs in Myanmar, but the daily withdrawal limits are low and the machines are often out of service. Neither cash advances via credit or debit card nor cheque-cashing services are available.

Climate change

Climate change is affecting Myanmar. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local media for the latest information

Seismic activity

Myanmar is located in an active seismic zone and minor earthquakes are common.

Monsoons and typhoons

The rainy (or monsoon) season extends from May to November. Severe rainstorms can cause flash flooding and landslides.

Cyclones usually occur between April and October. Severe rainstorms can result in significant loss of life, extensively damage infrastructure and hamper the provision of essential services.

Keep informed of regional weather forecasts, avoid disaster areas and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons .

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 199
• medical assistance: 192
• firefighters: 191

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Myanmar and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Singapore and Myanmar announce visa exemption for 30-day trips

NAYPYITAW - From Dec 1, Singaporeans travelling to Myanmar for short trips will no longer need to apply for a visa.

Myanmar nationals visiting Singapore will also not have to apply for a Singapore visa under a 30-day visa exemption announced on Tuesday (June 7).

The two countries exchanged diplomatic notes on the visa exemption on Tuesday, on the first day of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's official visit to Myanmar.

PM Lee and Myanmar State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi witnessed the exchange of the diplomatic notes between Singapore's ambassador to Myanmar, Mr Robert Chua, and Myanmar's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mr Kyaw Tin.

Under the agreement, both countries will grant an exemption of visa to each other's citizens for a stay of not longer than 30 days, and subject to prevailing entry requirements.

The arrangement applies to those holding ordinary passports, and will be implemented by both sides on Dec 1 (2016).

The announcement of the visa exemption is part of a growing relationship between both countries.

Earlier, PM Lee called on President Htin Kyaw at the presidential palace, where he received a ceremonial welcome. He also met Myanmar State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi.

The number of Myanmar tourists visiting Singapore has grown steadily in recent years. Annual visitor arrivals from Myanmar to Singapore rose by 12 per cent from 2011 to last year (2015), an increase of 3 per cent every year.

Last year (2015), 105,452 Myanmar tourists visited Singapore. They spent an average of $2,811 per person per trip.

Meanwhile, 45,125 tourists from Singapore visited Myanmar last year (2015), according to the Myanmar Ministry of Hotel and Tourism.

There are also now more weekly flights between Singapore and Myanmar's two largest cities,Yangon and Mandalay. The number of flights a week increased from 44 to 49 from January to May this year (2016).

At the closed door meetings, PM Lee congratulated President Htin Kyaw and Ms Suu Kyi on their successful elections.

He said Singapore continues to support Myanmar's development, including by sharing expertise in relevant fields.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement on Tuesday that officials from Myanmar have been invited to visit Singapore for further discussions on education policy and the development of hawker centres.

PM Lee also updated Ms Suu Kyi on the progress of the Singapore-Myanmar Vocational Training Institute, and the offer of internships in Singapore to its top students.

During the meeting, the leaders underscored the strong ties between both countries and updated each other on the various commemorative events planned this year to mark the 50th anniversary of bilateral relations, including high-level reciprocal visits.

They discussed ways to strengthen economic ties, by updating the Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement and working towards starting discussion on a bilateral investment treaty.

They also exchanged views on how tourist flows between both countries could be strengthened through more air links.

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Travel preparation is the key to hassle free trip to Myanmar from Singapore. By doing your homework before you leave for Myanmar, you could very well lower the prospect of anything going wrong.

Myanmar Travel Advice for Singaporean Nationals

• Latest Travel Advice for Myanmar - If you are a national of Singapore and travelling to Myanmar, always check the latest travel advice for Myanmar from any of the following websites: - Australian Government Travel Advice for Myanmar - British Government Travel Advice for Myanmar - Canadian Government Travel Advice for Myanmar - US Government Travel Advice for Myanmar
• Latest Travel Health Advice for Travel Health Advice for Myanmar - Before travelling to Myanmar you should ensure that you are up to date with the correct medical and immunization requirements for Myanmar by visiting Travel Health Advice for Myanmar .
• Buy Travel Insurance for Myanmar - Purchase an appropriate travel insurance for Myanmar to meet hospital treatment, medical evacuation and almost any activities, for example adventure physical activities, which you propose to do in Myanmar.
• Register Your Details At Local Embassy in Singapore - Ahead of heading for Myanmar register your travel and contact info on the internet or at your local embassy or consulate when you first arrive in Myanmar, so they can speak to you in an emergency.

Looking for a cheap flight from Singapore to Myanmar? Use the flight search tool on this website to find, compare and book the cheapest flights to Myanmar.

It is very easy and quick to find the best flight deals from Singapore to Myanmar where many airlines fly to major cities around the globe. You can search many internet flight websites to book the best flights to anywhere in the world.

Alternatively use flight booking websites like Sky Scanner, where you can search flight offers from airlines and travel agents in one place to get the best flight deals.

Travelling from Singapore and need to book a hotel room in Naypyidaw or other cities Myanmar? There are many ways to find, compare and book the cheapest hotels.

If you need to stay at an airport in Myanmar for one night or you have an early flight, why not take a look at the cheap airport hotels deals in Myanmar from the Airport Accommodation links on this web page to find the best airport hotel room option to suit your needs.

Find the best hotel room in and around Myanmar which best fits your requirements.

Want to rent a car in Naypyidaw or other cities in Myanmar? There are many ways to find, compare and book the best car rentals.

Here, you’re certain to find a vehicle from the top car rental companies in Naypyidaw including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Europcar, Hertz, and Thrifty. Our secure car rental booking system lets you compare the latest deals in an instant and find a car hire that suits your budget.

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Myanmar (Burma)

Warnings and insurance.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice.

Areas where FCDO advises against all travel

FCDO advises against all travel to:

• Kachin State
• Kayah State
• Rakhine State
• Sagaing and Magway regions
• Tanintharyi Region, excluding Myeik township, and the archipelago and townships south of Tanintharyi township
• Shan State North
• North Mandalay Region; the townships north of Mandalay City and Pyin Oo Lwin
• East of the Yangon-Mandalay Expressway in Bago region

Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

• Shan State South and East
• Mandalay Region
• Tanintharyi Region south of Tanintharyi township
• the rest of Bago region

The conflict is Myanmar is increasingly volatile. The security situation may deteriorate at short notice. Exercise caution, and consider any travel plans carefully.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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The 10 most ‘risky’ cities in the world have been revealed for 2024

Urban areas in venezuela, pakistan and myanmar come with a safety warning, article bookmarked.

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The world’s most “risky” cities for tourists to visit in 2024 have been revealed in a new study.

Cities in Venezuela , Pakistan and Myanmar were named as the most dangerous destinations for overseas travellers in rankings by Forbes Advisor .

The study compared 60 international cities on seven risk categories, including crime , personal security, health, infrastructure, natural disaster and digital security to create a travel safety rating.

Scores out of 100 were then calculated to reflect the overall risk to travellers visiting the city.

City breaks to the Venezuelan capital, Caracas, posed the most severe risk for travellers. It is the only city to receive a full 100 score for danger.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advises against all travel to parts of Venezuela.

“There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals,” say the FCDO.

In another country featuring on the “do not travel” list, Pakistan’s Karachi was deemed the second most threatening city to tourists due to the terrorism risk in the region.

With a 91.67 score, in third Yangon, Myanmar, showed a high risk of identity theft, natural disasters and a poor quality of healthcare services.

At the other end of the scale, Singapore was found to be the safest city for tourists to visit.

The southeast Asian country received a 0 risk score for its low natural disaster, health security and infrastructure threat.

The second safest of the cities assessed was Tokyo in Japan , while Toronto in Canada took third place – both graded with danger scores under 15 for visiting travellers.

The top 10 risky cities for tourists

• Caracas, Venezuela – 100 risk score
• Karachi, Pakistan – 93.12 risk score
• Yangon, Myanmar – 91.67 risk score
• Lagos, Nigeria – 91.54 risk score
• Manila, Philippines – 91.49 risk score
• Dhaka, Bangladesh – 89.5 risk score
• Bogota, Colombia – 86.7 risk score
• Cairo, Egypt – 83.44 risk score
• Mexico City, Mexico – 82.43 risk score
• Quito, Ecuador – 82.02 risk score

For more travel news and advice listen to Simon Calder’s podcast .

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Why Manila ended up 5th riskiest city for tourists out of 60 int’l cities

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This is AI generated summarization, which may have errors. For context, always refer to the full article.

David Castuciano/Rappler

MANILA, Philippines – Why did Manila end up as the 5th riskiest city for tourists out of 60 international cities based on a study by media company Forbes Advisor ? 

That’s because of seven indicators that the Philippine government prefers to downplay when it markets the country’s capital and the whole country abroad and reports on the state of the nation.

Manila was in the company of Caracas, Venezuela (1st); Karachi, Pakistan (2nd); Yangon, Myanmar (3rd); Lagos, Nigera (4th) as the riskiest cities. 

The top 10 least risky cities, according to Forbes Advisor: 

• 1: Singapore
• 2: Tokyo, Japan
• 3: Toronto, Canada
• 4: Sydney, Australia
• 5: Zurich, Switzerland
• 6: Copenhagen, Denmark
• 7: Seoul, South Korea
• 8: Osaka, Japan
• 9: Melbourne, Australia
• 10: Amsterdam, Netherlands

Forbes Advisor used seven metrics in its study and gave a weight or importance to each category. It also cited the bases for the scores. These are: 

• Travel safety rating  
• Weight: 20% of score
• Basis: US Department of State, 2023
• Crime risk : Overall level of crime in each city
• Weight: 17% of score
• Basis: Numbeo data, 2024
• Personal security risk: Risk from crime, violence, terrorist threats, natural disasters and economic vulnerabilities
• Basis: The Economist, 2021
• Health security risk : Reflects the level and quality of healthcare services and infrastructure in a city
• Infrastructure security risk: Reflects the availability and quality of city infrastructure and its vulnerability to man-made and natural disasters
• Weight: 10% of score
• Natural disaster risk: Reflects exposure and vulnerability to natural disasters
• Weight: 10% of score 
• Basis: The World Risk Report, Ruhr University Bochum, 2023
• Digital security risk: Reflects the ability of citizens to freely use the internet without fear of privacy violations, identity theft and online attacks
• Weight: 9% of score
• Basis: The Economist, 2021 

Forbes Advisor said each metric was "measured on a scale of 1 to 60, with 1 representing the worst performance in that metric." 

How did Manila fare based on these metrics? It was 9th riskiest in terms of crime; 5th riskiest in terms of personal security; 7th riskiest in terms of health security; 9th riskiest in terms of infrastructure security; and 12th riskiest in terms of digital security. 

If you watch Philippine news daily, you'll find that GMA's 24 Oras , ABS-CBN's TV Patrol , and TV5's Frontline Pilipinas often have reports on these issues on a daily basis, especially on crime and personal security, and recently even digital security. 

Credible bases? 

Did Forbes Advisor have good bases for its study? Here's a look at the sources it cited. 

For travel safety, it used the US Department of State's reports on travel advisories.

The US government issues regular travel advisories which, it says, "represent our commitment to protect US citizens abroad."

It says these travel advisories are intended to help travelers "make informed decisions when deciding to take a trip abroad." It also says its analysis is "undertaken without regard to bilateral political or economic considerations." 

The US State Department has four levels for each country, including crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health, likelihood of a natural disaster, and current events." 

The US travel advisory has four levels: 

• Exercise normal precautions
• Exercise increase caution
• Reconsider travel
• Do not travel 

"We review Travel Advisories on a regular basis. At a minimum, we review Level 1 and 2 Travel Advisories every 12 months. We review Level 3 and 4 Travel Advisories at least every six months. A Travel Advisory will also be updated anytime there is a change in U.S. government posture, normally as it relates to ongoing security concerns," the US State Department says on its website. 

What risk indictators do the US government use when advising its citizens about their travel plans? 

• " C - Crime:  Widespread violent or organized crime is present in areas of the country. Local law enforcement may have limited ability to respond to serious crimes.
• T - Terrorism:  Terrorist attacks have occurred and/or specific threats against civilians, groups, or other targets may exist.
• U - Civil Unrest:  Political, economic, religious, and/or ethnic instability exists. It may cause violence, major disruptions, and/or safety risks.
• H - Health:  Health risks, including current disease outbreaks or a crisis that disrupts a country’s medical infrastructure, are present. The issuance of a Centers for Disease Control Travel Notice may also be a factor.
• N - Natural Disaster:  A natural disaster, or its aftermath, poses danger.
• E - Time-limited Event:  Short-term event, such as elections, sporting events, or other incidents that may pose safety risks.
• K - Kidnapping or Hostage Taking:  Criminal or terrorist individuals or groups have threatened to and/or have seized or detained and threatened to kill, injure or continue to detain individuals in order to compel a third party (including a governmental organization) to do or abstain from doing something as a condition of release.
• D - Wrongful Detention : The risk of wrongful detention of US nationals exists.
• O - Other:  There are potential risks not covered by previous risk indicators." 

Numbeo's crime indices

Forbes Advisor also used Numbeo for assessing crime risk. 

According to Numbeo, it is the "world's largest database of user-contributed data" about cities and countries. It claims to provide "current and timely information" on cost of living, housing indicators, health care, traffic, crime and pollution. 

"Numbeo uses the wisdom of the crowd to obtain the most reliable information possible," its site says. Its crime and safety is based on 12 categories: 

• Level of Crime Perception
• Change in Crime Levels
• Daytime Safety Perception
• Nighttime Safety Perception
• Concerns about Mugging or Robbery
• Concerns about Car Theft or Break-ins
• Concerns about Physical Attacks by Strangers
• Concerns about Insults or Harassment in Public
• Concerns about Bias-Motivated Attacks
• Drug Problem Perception
• Property Crime Severity
• Violent Crime Severity

"…Numbeo gathers valuable data to provide users with an in-depth understanding of crime and safety conditions in different cities. By comparing and analyzing this information, individuals can make more informed decisions regarding their personal safety and the safety of their communities," the site says. 

This is how Manila fares in terms of crime, based on Numbeo's methodology. There were 419 contributors and its last update was in June 2024. Numbeo says its data are "based on perceptions of visitors" in the past five years. 

Comments on the crime page are mixed. One netizen said on June 2, 2023 that he's "always wary" that something could happen, noting that "Manila is a hotspot for crime than other provinces since the city is overpopulated."

A netizen, "Anon," said on March 12, 2021: "I will admit Manila has improved under the administration of Duterte and Mayor Isko Moreno when it comes to cleaning the streets to look nice. But the crime and corruption has not changed, it’s the same as it was since 2016 the only thing that’s worse is police are becoming more trigger happy and abusive, sort of reverting back to the Marcos era."

Safe Cities Index, World Risk Report

The Economist 2021 report that Forbes Advisor cited is based on the publication's Safe Cities Index 2021 , which covered 60 major urban areas.

Safe Cities index was launched in 2015. It had 44 indicators covering 50 cities, updated every two years. 

It used 76 indicators such as digital, health, infrastructure, personal and environmental security. These findings, the report says, were "supplemented with wide-ranging research and in-depth interviews with experts in the field." 

Based on The Economist 's study, Manila had an overall score of 525. It was also close to the bottom of the list, placing 51st out of 60 cities. Yangon was at the bottom while Copenhagen was at the top. 

And lastly, for natural disaster risk, Forbes Advisor used the World Risk Report 2023 produced by Bündnis Entwicklung Hilft and the Institute for International Law of Peace and Armed Conflict (IFHV) at Ruhr University Bochum, a public institute in Germany. 

The report essentially assessed the risks from natural disasters and how these impact people in 193 countries. The Philippines had the highest disaster risk in 2023, followed by Indonesia and India. 

The index is based on exposure, vulnerability, susceptibility, lack of coping capacities, and lack of adaptive capacities, with the Philippines scoring poorly on all. – Rappler.com

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Singapore is the safest city for tourists, according to Forbes Advisor

The survey compared 60 international cities across seven key metrics

We can all agree that Singapore is a relatively safe country. And Forbes Advisor, a global platform that provides insights and advice on personal finance, investing, and travel, has further cemented this notion through its recent survey that ranked Singapore the safest country to travel to, based on a comparison between 60 international cities across seven key metrics. 

For starters, Singaporeans are a lucky bunch because our country does not typically experience any natural disasters such as typhoons, floods, volcanic eruptions, and earthquakes. We also have the second lowest health security risk, which effectively proves the quality of our healthcare services, as well as its infrastructure. 

And there’s more to brag about – Singapore also has the second lowest infrastructure security score. This refers to the potential threats and vulnerabilities associated with a city's infrastructure systems, including transportation, utilities, communication networks, and public facilities. Lastly, we have the second lowest digital security risk, which shows how freely we can utilise the internet without the fear of privacy violations, identity theft and online attacks.

Here are some notable wins for the other cities that made the list: Tokyo takes the win for having the lowest health security risk, while Sydney is the city with the lowest digital security risk. 

Here are the top 5 safest cities for tourists, according to Forbes Advisor:

• Singapore : Best travel safety rating from the State Department, lowest natural disaster risk and the second lowest health security risk.
• Tokyo , Japan: Has the lowest health security risk, best travel safety rating from the State Department and fifth lowest infrastructure security risk. 
• Toronto, Canada : Has the best travel safety rating from the State Department, fourth lowest infrastructure security risk and seventh lowest health security risk. 
• Sydney, Australia : Has the lowest digital security risk, the 10th lowest health security risk and 10th lowest infrastructure security risk. 
• Zurich, Switzerland : Has the third lowest natural disaster risk and the fifth lowest crime risk.

And here are the top 3 most dangerous cities for tourists, according to Forbes Advisor:

• Caracas, Venezuela : Highest health security risk, highest crime risk, and worst travel safety rating from the State Department. 
• Karachi, Pakistan : Highest personal security risk, second worst travel safety rating from the State Department.
• Yangon, Myanmar : Highest digital security risk, and third highest security risk. 

For the full findings, visit their webpage here . 

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Myanmar’s ethnic rebels say they captured an airport in a new setback for the military government

FILE -Fishermen unload the day’s catch from a fishing boat at Ngapali Beach near a fishing village in Myanmar’s western Rakhine State, Dec. 31, 2022. One of Myanmar’s most powerful ethnic minority armed groups battling the military government has claimed to have captured an airport serving the country’s biggest beach resort, marking the first time resistance forces have seized such a facility. (AP Photo/Aung Shine Oo, File)

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BANGKOK (AP) — One of Myanmar’s most powerful ethnic minority groups battling the military government said it captured an airport serving the country’s top world-class beach resort, marking the first time resistance forces have seized such a facility.

Residents of the area in the southern part of the western state of Rakhine , along with local media, also reported the seizure of Thandwe Airport, also known as Ma Zin Airport, about 260 kilometers (160 miles) northwest of Yangon, Myanmar’s biggest city.

It’s the latest major setback for the military government that took power in 2021 after ousting the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi. Armed resistance to military rule is taking place in much of the country, led by pro-democracy militants as well as guerrilla groups affiliated with ethnic minorities.

The violence in Myanmar has caused international concern, with its military widely condemned for the disproportionate use of deadly force to try to quash its opponents. Critics of the military have urged the international community to impose ever-stronger sanctions to restrain its use of force.

The Arakan Army said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app on Sunday night that it had recovered the bodies of more than 400 soldiers from the recent fighting in the area, as well as a cache of ammunition. The Associated Press could not independently verify the claims by the group, which in the past have been disputed.

The seizure of the airport, one of six in Rakhine, would appear to open the way for the rebels to seize Rakhine’s coastal region, even as they consolidates control over much of the northern part of the state.

The Arakan Army is the military wing of the Buddhist Rakhine ethnic group in Rakhine state, where they are the majority and seek autonomy from Myanmar’s central government. It has recently also called itself the Arakha Army.

Since November last year, the group has been on the offensive and has gained control of nine of 17 townships, along with one in neighboring Chin state. It is also part of an armed ethnic alliance that launched an offensive last October and gained strategic territory in the country’s northeast on the border with China.

Ngapali, a 7-kilometer (4-mile) long beach on the Bay of Bengal, had been getting attention from international tourism but development stalled due to COVID-19 pandemic and the conflict that followed the army takeover.

Since April, sporadic fighting in nearby villages halted flights to the airport, which serves the beach resort, and most of the 46 hotels and guest houses were shut down.

A Ngapali hotel executive who had recently escaped the area told The Associated Press on Monday his staff had fled the property.

A travel agent in Thandwe, about 5 kilometers (3 miles) east of Ngapali, told the AP that she had heard the sound of the fighting coming from outside of the town, but the situation inside was quiet with no guerrillas in the immediate vicinity.

Both spoke on condition of anonymity because of fear for their safety.

Western nations including the United States have imposed economic and diplomatic sanctions on Myanmar’s military leaders and businesses and their cronies in response to what they see as serious human rights violations including usurping democracy.

The military’s critics urge stronger measures, especially blocking the supply of jet fuel to Myanmar, to try to limit its use of air power, which has been frequently employed and often causes civilian casualties . Many countries honor such an embargo, but there are no measures to force others to do so.

The human rights group Amnesty International on Monday issued a report documenting “new shipments of aviation fuel to Myanmar despite global calls to deprive the country’s military of the resources it needs to carry out unlawful air strikes.”

It said the evasive means by which Myanmar obtains the fuel involve convoluted supply chains to make it hard to trace.

It reported “at least two, and likely three, additional shipments of aviation fuel having entered the country between January and June this year” after at least seven last year.

The latest shipment were carried by a Chinese-owned oil tanker, and also involved Singapore-based oil trading companies and transshipment through Vietnam, Amnesty said.

China and Russia are the main allies of Myanmar’s military government, and those ties make sanctions less effective.

In April, the U.N. Human Rights Council backed by consensus a measure that calls on governments to avoid exporting or selling jet fuel to Myanmar if they believe its ruling military junta might use the fuel to violate human rights in the war-wracked southeast Asian country.

It also urged a halt to the illegal transfer of weapons, munitions and other military equipment to Myanmar.

The council’s declaration came after Tom Andrews, the U.N,-appointed independent expert on human rights in Myanmar, warned that the military government is escalating violence against civilians as it faces more setbacks on the battlefield against pro-democracy and ethnic armed groups.

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Cote d Ivoire (Ivory Coast)

Travel Advisory April 8, 2024

Cote d ivoire - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Updated to reflect safety and security information on the Northern Border Region, and additional points for mariners who decide to travel to Côte d’Ivoire.

Exercise increased caution due to  crime, terrorism , civil unrest , health , and  piracy.   Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel To:

• Northern border region due to  terrorism .

Country Summary:   Crime continues to be a major public security concern in Côte d’Ivoire. Violent crime, such as carjacking, robbery, and home invasion, is common in some areas.  Local police often lack resources to respond to serious crimes.

Violent extremist activity occurs in Burkina Faso and Mali near the border with Côte d’Ivoire.  Terrorism concerns in the northern region remain due to its proximity to these countries.

Travelers should avoid demonstrations, protests, political rallies, and large crowds.  These events can become violent.  Demonstrators and security forces may clash suddenly.  Police may use tear gas or other force to break up crowds.

Piracy with armed robbery and kidnapping for ransom are significant threats to ships operating near Côte d’Ivoire.  U.S. citizens on ships in the Gulf of Guinea off the coast of West Africa should be cautious.  

Health care in rural areas is below U.S. standards.  There are often shortages of medicine and medical supplies in public and private health facilities.

The U.S. government is limited in its ability to provide emergency assistance to U.S. citizens outside Abidjan.  U.S. Embassy staff are not permitted to drive outside major cities at night.  Read the  country information page  for more information on travel to Côte d’Ivoire.

If you decide to travel to Côte d’Ivoire: 

• Check local media for breaking events and adjust your plans.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Use caution when walking or driving at night.
• Keep a low profile.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by foreign travelers and foreign residents.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Carry a copy of your passport and visa (if applicable).  Leave originals in your hotel safe.
• Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government help.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Get full medical insurance.  It should include medical evacuation.
• Mariners should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts, U.S. Coast Guard homeport website, and NGA broadcast warnings.  
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).  You will get safety alerts by email/text and it will help us find you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Côte d’Ivoire.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

Northern Border Region – Level 4: Do Not Travel

The main terrorist threat to Côte d’Ivoire is from a group called Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM). JNIM is linked to al-Qa’ida. JNIM mostly operates in the Sahel region, including Burkina Faso and Mali.  The threat from JNIM has in the past reached northern Côte d’Ivoire, near the border with Burkina Faso.  Attacks have happened in the Savanes and Zanzan Districts, including Comoé National Park.  These attacks have mainly targeted Ivoirian security forces, but civilians have also been targeted.  In 2021, Al-Qa’ida in the Lands of the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) carried out 17 small-scale attacks that killed approximately 20 people.  After these attacks, the Côte d’Ivoire government increased security in northern Côte d’Ivoire.  Since 2021, there have been no attacks.

Hague Convention Participation

Hague convention information.

Côte d'Ivoire is a party to the  Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention or Convention).  Intercountry adoption processing in Convention countries must be done in accordance with the requirements of the Hague Adoption Convention; the U.S. implementing legislation, the Intercountry Adoption Act of 2000 (IAA); the IAA’s implementing regulations and U.S. adoption-related immigration policies ; as well as the implementing legislation and regulations of Côte d’Ivoire.  Please see below in the Who Can Adopt, Who can be Adopted, and How to Adopt sections for more detail on the intercountry adoption steps involving Côte d’Ivoire.

We are aware there are also prospective adoptive parents who reside abroad who wish to adopt a child from the United States.  Please see our section on Adoptions from the United States for more information on the process for adopting a child from the United States.

U.S. Immigration Requirements

U.S. IMMIGRATION REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERCOUNTRY ADOPTION

To bring an adopted child to the United States from Cote d`Ivoire, you must meet certain suitability and  eligibility requirements . USCIS determines  who is suitable and eligible to adopt  a child from another country and bring that child to live in the United States under U.S. immigration law. For more information, please see USCIS webpages on suitability determinations and USCIS policy guidance on adoptive parent suitability determinations .

Additionally, a child must meet the definition of a Convention adoptee under U.S. immigration law in order to be eligible to immigrate to the United States with an IH-3 or IH-4 immigrant visa.

Caution : Although U.S. citizens generally must follow the Hague Convention process  to adopt a child from a Hague Convention country, the Family-Based Petition Process (Form I-130) may be an option for U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to petition for their adopted child.  However, U.S. citizens may file a Form I-130 for a child from a Hague Convention country only if they can establish the Convention does not apply to the adoption.  There are significant differences between the Hague and the Family-Based Petition Process.  For more information about specific Form I-130 requirements for adopted children, see the USCIS website and the USCIS Policy Manual, Vol. 5 .

Who Can Adopt

WHO CAN ADOPT

In addition to being found suitable and eligible to adopt by USCIS, prospective adoptive parents seeking to adopt a child from Côte d’Ivoire must meet the following requirements imposed by Côte d’Ivoire:

• Minimum Residency:   Before the adoption is finalized, prospective adoptive parents must live in Côte d’Ivoire with the child they wish to adopt for at least six months.  During this period, the Côte d’Ivoire-based Adoption Service Provider will perform home visits and submit two status reports to the Central Authority, after 3 months and 6 months of cohabitation.
• Age of Adopting Parents:   An adoption is only permitted to persons who are more than 30 years of age at the time of application.  In the case of a married couple, at least one spouse must be 30 years or older at the time of application, and the couple must have been married for at least five years.  The adopting parent(s) should be at least 15 years older than the persons they are adopting.  For stepchild adoptions, the required age difference is reduced to 10 years.  There is no stated maximum age to adopt.
• Adopting as a Single Person: A single person of at least 30 years of age is eligible to adopt.
• Married, Adopting Jointly: A married couple, unless legally separated, may request an adoption if at least one of them is more than 30 years of age and they have been married for at least 5 years.
• Married, Adopting Individually: A married couple, of which at least one spouse  is 30 years of age or older, and who has been married for at least 5 years can also adopt a child with the consent of the other spouse.  Consent can be waived if the other spouse is unable to provide the required consent.
• Minimum Income:   None, however proof of financial resources is required. 
• Other requirements: Adoption is not permitted for same-sex married or unmarried couples.

Who Can Be Adopted

WHO CAN BE ADOPTED

Because Côte d’Ivoire is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, children from Côte d’Ivoire must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for intercountry adoption.  For example, the adoption may take place only if the competent authorities of Côte d’Ivoire have determined that placement of the child within Côte d’Ivoire has been given due consideration and that an intercountry adoption is in the child’s best interests.

In addition to qualifying as a Convention adoptee under U.S. immigration law, the child must also meet the following requirements imposed by Côte d’Ivoire:

• Eligibility for adoption: The Central Authority of Côte d’Ivoire determines whether a child is adoptable.  Once the child is determined to be adoptable, a court must determine there are good reasons for the adoption and if it is in the best interest of the child.
• Age of Adoptive Child:  In intercountry adoption, the child must have been declared adoptable and be under the age of 15.  Please note that for a child to meet the definition of Convention adoptee under U.S. immigration law, a Form I-800, Petition to Classify Convention Adoptee as an Immediate Relative , must be filed on the child’s behalf while the child is under the age of 16 (or under the age of 18 if the child is the birth sibling of another adopted child who meets the age and other requirements to immigrate based on adoption by the same adoptive parent(s)).  Please see the USCIS website and Form I-800 instructions for special rules on filing dates for children aged 15-16 or siblings under 18.

Caution:   Prospective adoptive parents should be aware that not all children in orphanages or children’s homes are eligible for adoption.  In many countries, birth parents place their child(ren) temporarily in an orphanage or children’s home due to financial or other hardship, intending that the child return home when possible.  In such cases, the birth parent(s) have not relinquished their parental rights or consented to the adoption of their child(ren).

How to Adopt

HOW TO ADOPT

Warning:  Do not adopt or obtain legal custody of a child in Côte d’Ivoire before: 1) USCIS has approved your Form I-800A, Application for Determination of Suitability to Adopt a Child from a Convention Country, 2) the Central Authority of Côte d’Ivoire has determined the child is eligible for intercountry adoption, 3) USCIS has provisionally approved your Form I-800, Petition to Classify Convention Adoptee as an Immediate Relative, and 4) a U.S. consular officer has issued an “Article 5/17 Letter” in the case.  Read on for more information.

Côte d’Ivoire’s Central Adoption Authority Autorité Centrale pour l'Adoption en Côte d'Ivoire (ACACI)  Ministère de la Femme de la Famille et de l'Enfant 

The Process Because Côte d’Ivoire is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, adoptions from Côte d’Ivoire must follow a specific process designed to meet the Convention’s requirements.  A brief summary of the U.S. Convention adoption process is provided below.  You must complete these steps in the following order to meet all necessary U.S. legal requirements.  Completing certain steps out of order may cause significant delays or result in the child not being eligible for an immigrant visa to the United States.

• Choose a U.S. Accredited or Approved Adoption Service Provider To Act as Your Primary Provider That Has Been Authorized by Côte d’Ivoire’s Central Authority to Operate in Côte d’Ivoire
• Apply to USCIS to be Found Suitable and Eligible to Adopt ( Form I-800A )
• Apply to Côte d’Ivoire’s Authorities to Adopt, and Be Matched with a Child
• Apply to USCIS for the Child to be Found Provisionally Eligible for Immigration to the United States as a Convention Adoptee ( Form I-800 )
• Apply for U.S. Visa and Receive U.S. Agreement to Proceed with the Adoption (Article 5/17 letter)
• Adopt the Child in Côte d’Ivoire
• Secure a U.S. Immigrant Visa if You Intend to Reside with Your Child in the United States
• Obtain U.S. Citizenship for Your Child

1. Choose a U.S. Accredited or Approved Adoption Service Provider to Act as Your Primary Provider That Has Been Authorized by Côte d’Ivoire’s Central Authority to Operate in Côte d’Ivoire

The accredited agency or approved person you identify as the primary provider is responsible for:

• Ensuring that all six adoption services defined at 22 CFR 96.2 are provided consistent with applicable laws and regulations;
• Supervising and being responsible for any supervised providers, and otherwise complying with the requirements regarding the provision of adoption services using other providers (see 22 CFR 96.14 ); and 
• Developing and implementing a service plan in accordance with 22 CFR 96.44 . 

Only accredited agencies, approved persons, supervised providers, exempted providers, public domestic authorities, and public foreign authorities may provide adoption services in intercountry adoption cases.

Learn more about Agency Accreditation .  

2.  Apply to USCIS to be Found Suitable and Eligible to Adopt

In order to adopt a child from Côte d’Ivoire, you will need to meet the requirements of the Government of Côte d’Ivoire and U.S. immigration law. 

After you choose an accredited or approved adoption service provider, you must be found suitable and eligible to adopt by USCIS by submitting Form I-800A, Application for Determination of Suitability to Adopt a Child from a Convention Country .  You will need to submit a home study, provide biometrics, and cooperate in a background check as part of this application.  Please see USCIS webpages on suitability determinations and USCIS policy guidance on adoptive parent suitability determinations .  Unless an exception applies, the home study must be prepared by a person who is authorized under 22 CFR 96 to prepare home studies and who holds any license or other authorization required by the law of the jurisdiction where the home study is conducted (unless a public domestic or public foreign authority).  The home study must comply with the requirements in 8 CFR 204.311 and USCIS policy .

3.  Apply to Côte d’Ivoire’s Authorities to Adopt, and be Matched with a Child

Submit Your Dossier to the Central Authority After USCIS determines that you are suitable and eligible to adopt and approves the Form I-800A application, your adoption service provider will provide your approval notice, home study, and any other required information to the adoption authority in Côte d’Ivoire as part of your adoption application.  (Please note that the official language of Côte d’Ivoire is French, and you may need to provide a certified translation of your adoption case file in French for use by the Central Authority of Côte d’Ivoire.  The translation can be arranged by your Côte d’Ivoire-based Adoption Service Provider).  Côte d’Ivoire’s adoption authority will review your application to determine whether you are also suitable and eligible to adopt under Côte d’Ivoire’s law.  This procedure may take up to seven months.

Receive a Referral for a Child from the Central Authority If both the United States and Côte d’Ivoire determine that you are suitable and eligible to adopt, and Côte d’Ivoire’s Central Authority for Convention adoptions has determined that a child is eligible for adoption and that intercountry adoption is in that child’s best interests, the Central Authority for Convention adoptions in Côte d’Ivoire may provide you with a referral.  The referral is a proposed match between you and a specific child based on a review of your dossier and the needs of the child.  The adoption authority in Côte d’Ivoire will provide a background study and other information, if available, about the child to help you decide whether to accept the referral.  We encourage families to consider consulting with a medical professional and their adoption service provider to understand the needs of the specific child, but you must decide for yourself whether you will be able to meet the needs of and provide a permanent home for a specific child.  You must also adhere to the USCIS suitability determination with respect to the number of children and capacity to deal with any special needs of an adoptive child.  Learn more about Health Considerations .  If you accept the referral, the adoption service provider communicates that to the Central Authority in Côte d’Ivoire.  Learn more about this critical decision .

If you are interested in adopting a child with special needs or medical conditions, direct questions to ACACI or your ASP, who can provide guidance.

4.  Apply to USCIS for the Child to be Found Provisionally Eligible for Immigration to the United States as a Convention Adoptee and Receive U.S. Agreement to Proceed with the Adoption

Submit a Form I-800 Petition to Obtain Provisional Determination on the Child’s Immigration Eligibility After you accept a match with a particular child, you will apply to USCIS for provisional approval for the child to immigrate to the United States by filing the Form I-800, Petition to Classify Convention Adoptee as an Immediate Relative .  USCIS will make a provisional determination as to whether the child appears to meet the definition of a Convention Adoptee and will likely be eligible to be admitted to the United States.

5. Apply for U.S. Visa and Receive U.S. Agreement to Proceed with the Adoption (Article 5/17 letter) After provisional approval of the Form I-800 petition, you or your adoption service provider will submit a visa application to the consular section of the U.S. Embassy in Abidjan responsible for issuing immigrant visas to children from Côte d’Ivoire.  Your child will need an immigrant visa if you intend to reside in the United States with your child.  If instead you intend to continue residing overseas with your child but still seek naturalization of your child by application ( Form N-600K ), you will not need an immigrant visa, but you may need a different type of visa to complete that process.  Please discuss this with the consular officer handling your case and consult the USCIS website for more information.

You should receive a letter from the National Visa Center (NVC) confirming receipt of the provisionally approved Form I-800 petition and assigning a case number and an invoice ID number.  Use this information to log into the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) to file the Electronic Immigrant Visa Application (DS-260) for your child.  An adoptive parent should fill out these forms in your child's name.  Answer every item on the form.  If information is not applicable, please write “N/A” in the block.  Please review the DS-260 FAQs , our Online Immigrant Visa Forms page, or contact the NVC at [email protected] if you have questions about completing the online DS-260 form.  A consular officer will review the provisionally approved Form I-800 petition and the visa application and, if applicable, advise you of options for the waiver of any ineligibilities related to the visa application.

The consular officer will send a letter (referred to as an “Article 5/17 Letter”) to Côte d’Ivoire’s Central Authority in any intercountry adoption involving U.S. citizen parents and a child from Côte d’Ivoire if all Convention requirements are met and the child appears eligible to immigrate to the United States.  This letter will inform the Côte d’Ivoire’s Central Authority that the parents are suitable and eligible to adopt, that the child appears eligible to enter and reside permanently in the United States, and that the U.S. Central Authority agrees that the adoption may proceed.

Warning:  Do not attempt to adopt of a child in Côte d’Ivoire before you receive provisional approval of your Form I-800 petition AND a U.S. consular officer issues the “Article 5/17 Letter” for your adoption case.

Remember:   The consular officer will make a final decision about a child’s eligibility for an immigrant visa later in the adoption process.

6.  Adopt the Child in Côte d’Ivoire Remember:   Before you adopt a child in Côte d’Ivoire, you must have completed the above five steps.  Only after completing these steps can you proceed to finalize the adoption.

The process for finalizing the adoption in Côte d’Ivoire generally includes the following:

• Role of Adoption Authority:   ACACI certifies that: 1) the child is adoptable; 2) intercountry adoption is in the best interest of the child; 3) the institutions and authorities have given their required consent, and did not do so in exchange for improper financial gain or reward; 4) if required, the parents of the adoptee gave consent to the adoption after the birth of the child; 5) the wishes and opinions of the child have been given proper consideration; 6) the Central Authority of the receiving state has approved the adoption; 7) the parent(s) is/are eligible to adopt; 8) the child is or will be authorized to enter and reside permanently in the receiving state; and, 9) the parents and children have been counselled as necessary.  As part of this certification, the prospective parents are required to reside with the child for a minimum of six months, with reports submitted to ACACI by the adoption service provider after three and six months of cohabitation.  ACACI must complete and transmit its certification to the court that is considering the adoption. 
• Role of the Court:   The court must receive the full and final report on the adoption from ACACI.  Then, the court may issue the final adoption decree.  Prospective adoptive parents must finalize the adoption in court within 20 days of a final approval of the adoption by ACACI.  Adoption decrees for domestic and intercountry adoptions in Côte d’Ivoire are issued by the court where the child to be adopted resides.  If, for any reason, the local court cannot render a decision, the case will be transferred to the court of first instance of Abidjan. 
• Role of Accredited or Approved Adoption Service Providers:   ASPs must be certified by ACACI.  Your Côte d’Ivoire based Adoption Service Provider and your Foreign Supervised Provider will provide detailed guidance throughout the process.  Your Foreign Supervised Provider will assist with legal requirements of the Ivoirian government as well as conduct home visits during your six-month cohabitation period in Côte d’Ivoire.    

As noted above, any agency or person providing an adoption service on behalf of prospective adoptive parents in any Convention intercountry adoption case must be accredited or approved or be a supervised or exempted provider.  

Adoption service means any one of the following six services, under 22 CFR 96.2 Definitions:

• Identifying a child for adoption and arranging an adoption;
• Securing the necessary consent to termination of parental rights and to adoption;
• Performing a background study on a child or a home study on a prospective adoptive parent(s), and reporting on such a study;
• Making non-judicial determinations of the best interests of a child and the appropriateness of an adoptive placement for the child;
• Monitoring a case after a child has been placed with prospective adoptive parent(s) until final adoption; or
• When necessary, because of a disruption before final adoption, assuming custody and providing (including facilitating the provision of) childcare or any other social service pending an alternative placement.
• Adoption Application:  Adoptive parent(s), through the Côte d’Ivoire-based Adoption Service Provider, must file their adoption application with the Central Authority for Adoption in Côte d’Ivoire.
• Time Frame:   Intercountry adoptions in Côte d’Ivoire may take approximately 17 months to complete.  This includes approximately 9 months prior to the six-month cohabitation period and an approximate 2 months of processing after cohabitation period.
• Adoption Fees:  We encourage prospective adoptive parents to obtain detailed receipts for all fees and donations paid, either by them directly or through your U.S. adoption service provider, and to raise any concerns regarding any payment that you believe may be contrary to the Convention, U.S. law, or the law of Côte d’Ivoire, with your adoption service provider, and, when appropriate, through the Complaint Registry.  Improper payments violate applicable law or create the appearance of buying a child and could put all future adoptions in Côte d’Ivoire at risk.  The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, for instance, makes it unlawful to make payments to foreign government officials to assist in obtaining or retaining business.  Further, the IAA makes certain actions relating to intercountry adoptions unlawful, and subject to civil and criminal penalties.  These include offering, giving, soliciting, or accepting inducement by way of compensation intended to influence or affect the relinquishment of parental rights, parental consent relating to adoption of a child, or a decision by an entity performing functions as a competent central authority, or to engage another person as an agent to take any such action.

In the adoption services contract that you sign at the beginning of the adoption process, your adoption service provider will itemize the fees and estimated expenses related to your adoption process.

Some of the fees specifically associated with adopting from Côte d’Ivoire include:

• Adopting parents who are citizens of Côte d’Ivoire and residing in the territory of Côte d’Ivoire: CFA 320,000. 
• Foreign applicants residing in or outside the territory of Côte d’Ivoire: CFA 870,000.  
• Intrafamily Intercountry Adoption: CFA 670,000.  
•  Côte d’Ivoire Passport: check here for most up to date fees https://snedai.com/passeport-en-cote-divoire

The fees above-mentioned are non-refundable and are distinct from those scheduled in the judicial and consular proceedings. 

• A written request to be matched with a child for adoption should be sent to the attention of the Executive Secretary of the Central Authority for Adoption in Côte d’Ivoire.  In your written request, you should introduce yourself in a few lines, and include the following information; surnames, given names, your family status, job, religious affiliation, and the gender, age, and any other criteria of the child you seek you adopt. 
• A request filed by the Adoption Service Provider or the Central Authority from the country of origin of the prospective adoptive parents to the Executive Secretary of the Central Authority for Adoption in Côte d’Ivoire. 
• A full-length copy of the birth certificate for each child of the prospective parents. 
• A photocopy of the national identity card or passport of each prospective parent. 
• One identity picture and one full-length picture of each prospective parent. 
• A police certificate for each prospective parent involved in the adoption. 
• Marriage certificate, for couples legally married. 
• A pay slip or any document attesting to the financial resources of the prospective parent(s). 
• A certificate of sterility, if applicable. 
• For each prospective parent, as well as any individuals residing in the home, a medical certificate by a doctor, attesting that your state of physical and mental health, does not present any counter-indication to the reception of children for  adoption.  This certificate must have been completed within the previous three months from the filing date. 
• The home study, 
• The psychological assessment, and 
• The notes attached to the approval notice.  

Note:   Additional documents may be requested.

• Authentication of Documents:  You may be asked to provide proof that a document from the United States is authentic.  The U.S. Department of State’s Authentications Office has information on the subject.

7.  Secure a U.S. Immigrant Visa for Your Child If You Intend to Reside with Your Child in the United States

Once your adoption is complete, there are a few more steps to take before your child can enter the U.S.  Specifically, the consular officer will need to issue a Hague Adoption Certificate and grant final approval of the Form I-800 petition.  Then you will need to obtain three documents before you secure a visa so your child can travel to the United States:

Birth Certificate

You will need to obtain a new or updated birth certificate for your child.

If you have finalized the adoption in Côte d’Ivoire, you will need to obtain a new birth certificate for your child with your name on it.

Within a month of the issuance of the final order of adoption by the court, the local administrative council ( mairie ) for the child’s place of birth issues a new or amended birth certificate to the child showing the adoptive parents’ names as the child’s parents and/or any change to the child’s name made during the adoption proceeding.  Additional copies may be acquired for approximately 1USD each.

If the adoptee was born abroad or if the place of birth is not known, the decision of the courts is transcribed in a special register kept at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 

Côte d’Ivoire Passport Your child is not yet a U.S. citizen, so he/she will need a travel document or passport from Côte d’Ivoire.

Ivoirian passports are issued by SNEDAI Côte d'Ivoire.  Please visit the following website for the procedures, fees, and documentary requirements to obtain an Ivorian passport: https://snedai.com/passeport-en-cote-divoire/

U.S. Immigrant Visa After you obtain the new birth certificate and passport for your child, you will then need to apply for a U.S. immigrant visa for your child from the U.S. Embassy in Abidjan if you intend to bring your child to reside in the United States with you.  After the adoption is granted, visit the U.S. Embassy for a final review of the case the issuance of a U.S. Hague Adoption Certificate or Hague Custody Certificate, the final approval of the Form I-800 petition, and, if applicable, to obtain your child’s immigrant visa. This immigrant visa allows your child to travel home with you and be admitted to the United States as your child.  Please contact the U.S. Embassy in Abidjan through the Visa Navigator to schedule your child’s immigrant visa appointment.  As part of this process, you must provide the consular officer with the Panel Physician’s medical report on the child if you did not provide it during the Form I-800 provisional approval stage.  Read more about the Medical Examination .

You will have already completed an Electronic Immigrant Visa Application (DS-260) online at the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) after receiving a letter from the National Visa Center (NVC) confirming receipt of the provisionally approved Form I-800 petition and assignment of a case number and an invoice ID number.  Print and bring the DS-260 confirmation page to the visa interview.  Review the DS-260 FAQs , our Online Immigrant Visa Forms page , or contact NVC at [email protected] if you have questions about completing the online DS-260 form.

Upon receipt of the case at post, the Consular Section generally notifies the petitioner.  Visa issuance after the final interview generally takes at least a week.  It is not usually possible to provide the visa to adoptive parents on the same day as the immigrant visa interview.  You should verify current processing times with the U.S. Embassy in Abidjan before making final travel arrangements.  Additional information on immigrant visa processing can be found on our website.

If you will reside outside the United States with your child, you should contact the Central or competent authority where you reside for additional information about how to bring your child to that country.

8. Obtain U.S. Citizenship for Your Child

If you obtain an immigrant visa for your child, USCIS will mail your child either a permanent resident card (green card), or a Certificate of Citizenship, after your child enters the United States.  If you plan to reside outside the United States with your child (and, therefore, may not benefit from an immigrant visa for your child), please see the relevant section below.

For adoptions finalized abroad before the child’s admission into the United States:   A child who was adopted abroad and has satisfied  Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) 101(b)(1)(E), INA 101(b)(1)(F), or INA 101(b)(1)(G)  requirements, who is residing in the United States in the legal and physical custody of the U.S. citizen parent pursuant to a lawful admission for permanent residence generally will acquire U.S. citizenship after admission if the child is under the age of 18 when these conditions are met.

Depending on the visa your child receives, their age, and the other INA 320 requirements, you may not need to take any additional action for your child to acquire U.S. citizenship.  However, if your child does not meet the requirements of INA 320 at the time of admission into the United States, you may file a Form N-600, Application for Certificate of Citizenship , once the requirements are met.  More information is available on the USCIS website .

For adoptions not finalized until after the child’s admission to the United States: If the adoption is not finalized before the child is admitted to the United States, the child’s adoptive parent(s) must complete the adoption (or re-adoption or obtain judicial recognition of the foreign adoption) in the United States before the child turns 18 for the child to automatically acquire U.S. citizenship (if the child otherwise meets the requirements of INA 320).  You may file a Form N-600, Application for Certificate of Citizenship , once the requirements are met.  More information is available on the USCIS Fact Sheet:  Securing U.S. Citizenship for Your Child .

If you reside outside the United States with your child , you may file a Form N-600K, Application for Citizenship and Issuance of Certificate Under Section 322 with USCIS to obtain a Certificate of Citizenship for your child if your child satisfies the requirements of INA 322.

Note: If you are a military service member or U.S. government employee who chooses to seek an immigrant visa for your child versus completing the Form N-600K process, you may need to use Form N-600 to apply for a Certificate of Citizenship.  Please note, however, that USCIS cannot mail Certificates of Citizenship abroad for children who acquire citizenship under INA 320. 

Read more about INA 320 and 322 in the USCIS Policy Manual and USCIS website U.S. Citizenship for an Adopted Child .

Traveling Abroad

TRAVELING ABROAD

Applying for Your U.S. Passport U.S. citizens are required to enter and depart the United States on a valid U.S. passport.  Once your child acquires U.S. citizenship, s/he will need a U.S. passport for international travel.  Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports.

Getting or renewing a passport is easy.  The Department of State’s Passport Application Wizard will help you determine which passport form you need, help you to complete the form online, estimate your payment, and generate the form for you to print—all in one place.

Obtaining a Visa to Travel to Côte d’Ivoire In addition to a U.S. passport, you may also need to obtain a visa.  Where required, visas are affixed to your passport and allow you to enter a foreign nation.  To find information about obtaining a visa for Côte d’Ivoire, see the Department of State’s  country page .

Staying Safe on Your Trip Before you travel , it is always a good practice to investigate the local conditions, laws, political landscape, and culture of the country.  The Department of State provides country information for every country in the world about various issues, including health conditions, crime, currency or entry requirements, and any areas of instability.

Staying in Touch on Your Trip When traveling abroad during the adoption process, we encourage you to enroll with the Department of State through our Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive important information from the U.S. Embassy about safety conditions in your destination country.  Enrollment makes it possible for the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Côte d’Ivoire, to contact you in an emergency, whether natural disaster, civil unrest, or family emergency.  Whether there is a family emergency in the United States or a crisis in Côte d’Ivoire, enrollment assists the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in reaching you.

Enrollment is free and can be done online via the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .

After Adoption

Post-Adoption/Post-Placement Reporting Requirements

We urge you to comply with Côte d’Ivoire’s post-adoption/post-placement requirements in a timely manner.  Your adoption service provider may be able to help you with this process.  Your cooperation will contribute to Côte d’Ivoire’s positive experiences with U.S. citizen adoptive parents.

• Three months

Please note: These visits and reports are conducted by the Côte d’Ivoire-based Adoption Service Provider and submitted to ACACI for review.

• Côte d’Ivoire may require reports about the well-being of the child be submitted post-adoption and entry to the U.S. with the child.  This page will be updated when those rules are finalized and transmitted to the U.S. Central Authority.

Post-Adoption Resources Many adoptive parents find it important to find support after the adoption.  There are many public and private nonprofit post-adoption services available for children and their families.  There are also numerous adoptive family support groups and adoptee organizations active in the United States that provide a network of options for adoptees who seek out other adoptees from the same country of origin.  You may wish to take advantage of all the resources available to your family, whether it is another adoptive family, a support group, an advocacy organization, or your religious or community services.  Your primary provider can provide or point you to post- placement/post-adoption services to help your adopted child and your family transition smoothly and deal effectively with the many adjustments required in an intercountry adoption.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services maintains a website, the  Child Welfare Information Gateway , which can be a useful resource to get you started on your support group search.

If you have concerns about your intercountry adoption process, we ask that you share this information with the Embassy in Abidjan, particularly if it involves possible fraud or misconduct specific to your child’s case.  The Department of State takes all allegations of fraud or misconduct seriously.  Our Adoption Comment Page provides several points of contact for adoptive families to comment on their adoption service provider, their experience applying for their child’s visa, or about the Form I-800/A petition process.

The Complaint Registry is an internet-based registry for filing complaints about the compliance of U.S. accredited or approved adoption service providers with U.S. accreditation standards.  If you think your provider's conduct may not have been in compliance with accreditation standards, first submit your complaint in writing directly to your provider.  If the complaint is not resolved through the provider's complaint process, you may file the complaint through the Complaint Registry .

Contact Information

CONTACT INFORMATION

U.S. Embassy in Côte d’Ivoire 82PF+2H8, D 33, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire  Cocody Riviéra Golf, 01 BP 1712 Abidjan 01  Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire Tel: (+225) 27-22-49-40-00   Fax: (+225) 27-22-49-43-23  Email:  [email protected]    Internet:  ci.usembassy.gov

Côte d’Ivoire’s Adoption Authority (ACACI) 2 Plateaux Cité SIDECI, Villa 172, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire  Tel: + 225 27 22 20 08 27   Email:   [email protected]

Embassy of Côte d’Ivoire 2424 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, D.C. 20008 Tel: (202) 797-0300 Email:   [email protected] Internet:  ambaciusa.org   

Office of Children’s Issues U.S. Department of State CA/OCS/CI SA-17, 9 th  Floor Washington, D.C.  20522-1709 Tel:  1-888-407-4747 Email:   [email protected] Internet:   adoption.state.gov

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) For questions about a pending Form I-800A application, Form I-800 petition or related supplements: USCIS Tel:  1-877-424-8374 (toll free); 1-913-275-5480 (local); Fax: 1-913-214-5808 Email:   [email protected]

For other USCIS-related questions: USCIS Contact Center Tel:  1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833) Internet:   uscis.gov

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