If you are passing through Myanmar on your way to another country and need to leave the airport’s international transit area, you will need a Myanmar Transit Visa. This short-stay permit allows travellers to clear immigration during a layover, stay overnight near the airport, or catch a connecting flight the following day.
Below you will find everything you need to know: who needs a transit visa, the documents required, the fee, processing time, and step-by-step instructions for applying.
What Is a Myanmar Transit Visa?
A Myanmar Transit Visa is a short-duration entry permit issued to foreign nationals who are travelling through Myanmar en route to a third country. It is not the same as a tourist or business visa. The transit visa is specifically designed for travellers who need to pass through Myanmar immigration – for example, to change airports, stay overnight during a long layover, or board a connecting flight the next day.
Key characteristics:
- Validity: 3 months from the date of issue
- Maximum stay: 24 hours in Myanmar
- Fee: USD 20 per applicant
- Entry type: Single entry
- Available through: Myanmar embassies and consulates only (not available online or on arrival)
Who Needs a Transit Visa for Myanmar?
You need a Myanmar transit visa if all of the following apply:
- You are transiting through Myanmar to reach another country.
- You need to pass through immigration (leave the international transit zone).
- Your nationality requires a visa to enter Myanmar.
Who Does NOT Need a Transit Visa?
You do not need a transit visa if:
- You remain in the international transit area of the airport and do not pass through immigration.
- You are a citizen of a visa-exempt country (e.g., Singapore – 30 days visa-free; Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Philippines, Indonesia, Brunei, Laos – 14-30 days visa-free depending on nationality).
- You hold a valid Myanmar e-Visa or sticker visa that covers your transit dates.
Important: If your layover requires you to collect and re-check luggage, you will almost certainly need to pass through immigration, which means a transit visa (or other valid visa) is required.
Myanmar Transit Visa Requirements
To apply for a transit visa, you must provide the following documents:
1. Valid Passport
Your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months from your planned date of entry into Myanmar. It must also have at least one blank page available for the visa stamp.
2. Completed Visa Application Form
You must fill out the official Transit Visa application form provided by the Myanmar embassy or consulate. All fields must be completed – incomplete applications are rejected.
3. Passport-Size Photographs
Two recent colour photographs (taken within the last six months) are required. Specifications:
- Size: 35 × 45 mm (or 2 × 2 inches)
- Background: White or off-white
- View: Full face, looking directly at the camera
- No side profiles or angled views
- No digitally altered or photocopy images
4. Onward Flight Ticket
You must present proof of a confirmed onward flight – a ticket or booking confirmation showing you will leave Myanmar within 24 hours to continue to your final destination.
5. Flight Itinerary / Schedule
A copy of your complete flight schedule showing both your arrival in Myanmar and your connecting departure.
6. Visa for Final Destination (If Applicable)
If your destination country requires a visa, you may be asked to present a valid visa or entry permit for that country.
7. Visa Fee Payment
The transit visa fee is USD 20 per applicant. Payment methods vary by embassy:
- US applicants: Cashier’s check or money order payable to the Consulate-General of Myanmar (cash, credit cards, debit cards, and personal checks are typically not accepted).
- Canadian applicants: CAD 26 by money order or bank draft payable to the Embassy of Myanmar.
- Other countries: Check with your nearest Myanmar embassy for accepted payment methods.
8. Prepaid Return Envelope (For Mail Applications)
If you are applying by mail or courier, include a prepaid, self-addressed return envelope with a tracking number (FedEx, UPS, or registered mail). The embassy does not accept responsibility for lost or delayed mail.
How to Apply for a Myanmar Transit Visa
The application process is straightforward but must be done in person or by mail at a Myanmar embassy or consulate. There is no online (e-Visa) option for transit visas.
Step 1: Locate Your Nearest Myanmar Embassy or Consulate
Find the diplomatic mission nearest to your place of residence. Myanmar has embassies and consulates in major cities worldwide, including Washington D.C., Ottawa, London, Canberra, and many Asian capitals.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Gather all the required documents listed above. Double-check that:
- Your passport has at least 6 months validity
- Your photos meet the exact specifications
- Your application form is fully completed with no blank fields
- Your onward ticket clearly shows your departure from Myanmar
Step 3: Submit Your Application
- In person: Visit the embassy/consulate during visa hours (typically morning hours for submission, afternoon for collection).
- By mail: Send your complete application package with a prepaid return envelope to the embassy address.
Step 4: Wait for Processing
Standard processing time is approximately 5 business days, though this can vary depending on the season and the specific embassy.
Step 5: Collect Your Visa
If applying in person, collect your passport with the transit visa stamp during the designated collection hours. If applying by mail, your passport will be returned in the prepaid envelope.
Myanmar Transit Visa vs. Other Visa Types
| Feature | Transit Visa | Tourist e-Visa | Tourist Visa (Sticker) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fee | USD 20 | USD 50 | Varies by embassy |
| Validity | 3 months | 90 days | 3 months |
| Max Stay | 24 hours | 28 days | 28 days |
| Application | Embassy/consulate only | Online | Embassy/consulate |
| Processing | ~5 business days | ~3 working days | ~5 business days |
| Purpose | Transit only | Tourism | Tourism |
Tip: If your layover in Myanmar is longer than 24 hours, or if you plan to leave the airport and explore, you should apply for a tourist visa or tourist e-Visa instead of a transit visa.
Can I Get a Transit Visa on Arrival?
No. Myanmar does not issue transit visas on arrival. The transit visa must be obtained in advance from a Myanmar embassy or consulate before you travel.
However, citizens of certain countries (including China, India, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, and several European nations) may be eligible for a tourist visa on arrival at international airports in Myanmar, valid for up to 30 days. If you qualify for a tourist visa on arrival, that may be a more practical option than a transit visa.
Myanmar Airports for Transit
Myanmar has three main international airports where transit may occur:
- Yangon International Airport (RGN) – the largest and busiest, with the most international connections
- Mandalay International Airport (MDL) – serves central Myanmar
- Nay Pyi Taw International Airport (NYT) – the capital’s airport
Most transit passengers pass through Yangon, which handles the majority of international flights to and from Myanmar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a transit visa if I stay in the international transit area?
No. If you remain in the international transit zone and do not pass through immigration, you do not need a transit visa. However, if you need to collect luggage, change terminals, or leave the airport, you will need one.
How long does it take to get a Myanmar transit visa?
Processing typically takes about 5 business days, but this can vary by embassy and season. Apply well in advance of your travel date.
Can I extend a transit visa once in Myanmar?
No. The transit visa allows a maximum stay of 24 hours and cannot be extended. If you need to stay longer, you should apply for a tourist visa before travelling.
Is the Myanmar transit visa available as an e-Visa?
No. Myanmar’s e-Visa system only covers tourist and business visas. Transit visas must be obtained from a Myanmar embassy or consulate.
What happens if I overstay a transit visa?
Overstaying any Myanmar visa is a serious offence. Penalties can include fines, detention, deportation, and being banned from future entry into Myanmar. Always ensure you leave within the permitted timeframe.
Do children need a transit visa?
Yes, all travellers – including children and infants – who need to pass through Myanmar immigration require a valid visa. Note that children under 7 may be eligible for free e-Visas for tourist purposes, but this does not apply to transit visas issued at embassies.
Summary
The Myanmar Transit Visa is a simple, low-cost option (USD 20) for travellers passing through Myanmar en route to another country. It allows a stay of up to 24 hours and must be obtained in advance from a Myanmar embassy or consulate. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months, prepare two passport photos, and have your onward flight details ready. Processing takes about five business days – plan accordingly to avoid travel disruptions.
If your layover exceeds 24 hours or you wish to explore Myanmar, consider applying for a tourist e-Visa (USD 50, valid for 28 days) instead.
