British citizens need a visa to enter Myanmar – there is no visa-free entry and no visa on arrival for UK passport holders. The fastest and most affordable option is the Myanmar eVisa, which costs $50 and can be obtained entirely online. This guide covers every step UK travellers must take, from eligibility and documents to application tips and entry points.
Do British Citizens Need a Visa for Myanmar?
Yes. Every British citizen must obtain a visa before travelling to Myanmar. You cannot get a visa on arrival, and there is no visa-free arrangement between the United Kingdom and Myanmar. The UK government’s own travel advice (GOV.UK) confirms that British passport holders must apply for and receive their visa before departure.
Other classes of British nationality – such as British Overseas Territories Citizens or British National (Overseas) passport holders – are also eligible for the tourist eVisa. However, only full British citizens can apply for both tourist and business eVisas.
Myanmar eVisa: The Best Option for UK Citizens
The Myanmar eVisa is an electronic visa issued by the Ministry of Immigration and Population. It is the simplest way for British citizens to get entry permission, as the entire process happens online with no embassy visit required.
Tourist eVisa Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Fee | $50 USD (government fee) |
| Stay duration | Up to 28 days |
| Validity | 90 days from date of issue |
| Entry type | Single entry |
| Processing time | Minimum 3 working days |
| Children under 7 | Free of charge |
Business eVisa Details
British citizens are among the few nationalities eligible for the Myanmar business eVisa in addition to the tourist eVisa. The business eVisa costs $70 USD and allows stays of up to 70 days. To apply, you need an invitation letter from a registered Myanmar company or a registered Chamber of Commerce association.
Non-governmental organisations are not eligible to sponsor business visas.
Passport and Document Requirements
Before applying for a Myanmar eVisa, UK citizens must ensure their documents meet these requirements:
- Passport validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date in Myanmar.
- Blank pages: You need at least 2 blank pages in your passport.
- Passport photo: A recent colour photograph taken within the last 3 months against a white background. Photo dimensions should be 4.6 cm × 3.8 cm for the eVisa application.
- Proof of return or onward travel: You may be asked to show a confirmed return or onward flight ticket.
- Accommodation proof: Myanmar requires tourists to stay in registered hotels, motels, guest houses, or resorts. Keep booking confirmations handy.
How to Apply for a Myanmar eVisa from the UK
The application process for UK citizens is straightforward:
Step 1: Visit the Official eVisa Portal
Go to the official Myanmar eVisa website at evisa.moip.gov.mm. This is the only government-operated portal. Avoid unofficial websites that charge inflated service fees.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application Form
Fill in your personal details, passport information, travel dates, and accommodation details. Double-check all information against your passport – any mismatch can result in rejection.
Step 3: Upload Required Documents
Upload a scanned copy of your passport’s information page and a passport-style photograph that meets the specifications listed above.
Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee
Pay $50 USD for the tourist eVisa using a credit or debit card. Visa is more widely accepted than Mastercard for Myanmar-related payments.
Step 5: Receive Your eVisa Approval Letter
Processing takes a minimum of 3 working days. Once approved, you will receive your eVisa approval letter by email. Print this document and carry it with you when you travel.
For a detailed walkthrough of the online application process, see our guide on Myanmar visa application online.
Where Can UK Citizens Enter Myanmar with an eVisa?
Holders of a Myanmar eVisa can enter through the following ports of entry:
International Airports:
– Yangon International Airport (RGN)
– Mandalay International Airport (MDL)
– Nay Pyi Taw International Airport (NYT)
Land Border:
– Kawthaung border checkpoint (Thailand-Myanmar border)
You cannot use the eVisa to enter Myanmar at other land border crossings. If you plan to enter via a different route, contact the Myanmar Embassy in London for alternative visa options.
Entry Requirements at the Myanmar Border
When you arrive in Myanmar, you must present:
- Your valid British passport
- Your printed eVisa approval letter
- A completed arrival/departure card (provided on the plane or at immigration)
Health Declaration Form
All air travellers arriving in Myanmar must complete a health declaration form. Cabin crew typically distribute these forms during the flight.
Yellow Fever Certificate
If you are arriving from a country listed as a yellow fever transmission risk, you must present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate.
Cash Declaration
If you are carrying more than $10,000 USD (or equivalent) in foreign currency, you must declare this to customs on arrival. Failure to do so can result in imprisonment.
What Happens If You Overstay Your Visa?
Overstaying your Myanmar visa is taken seriously. If you remain in Myanmar beyond the permitted 28 days, you will be liable to pay a fine and could face detention. Overstay fines must be paid in US dollars. Always plan your departure before your visa expires.
Money Tips for UK Travellers in Myanmar
Myanmar is largely a cash-based society. Many shops, restaurants, and local businesses do not accept card payments. Here are practical tips for British visitors:
- Bring US dollars in clean, undamaged condition. Exchange counters prefer high-denomination notes ($50 and $100 bills).
- Notes with serial numbers starting with “AB” or “CB” may be refused due to concerns about counterfeiting.
- Some ATMs accept international cards, but many do not. Visa cards are more accepted than Mastercard.
- Phone ahead to hotels and restaurants to confirm whether they accept card payments.
- You can exchange US dollars for Myanmar Kyat at banks and licensed exchange counters.
UK Travel Advisory for Myanmar
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all travel to parts of Myanmar and against all but essential travel to other parts. Before booking your trip, check the latest FCDO travel advice for Myanmar to understand current safety conditions.
Myanmar eVisa vs Embassy Visa: Which Should UK Citizens Choose?
| Factor | eVisa | Embassy Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Application method | 100% online | In person at Myanmar Embassy, London |
| Processing time | 3+ working days | 5-10 working days |
| Cost | $50 USD | Varies (embassy fees apply) |
| Convenience | Apply from home | Appointment required |
| Visa types | Tourist + Business (for British citizens) | All visa categories |
For most UK tourists, the eVisa is the clear winner. It is faster, cheaper, and does not require sending your passport anywhere. Only choose the embassy route if you need a visa type not available online, such as a work visa or diplomatic visa.
For a full breakdown of all visa categories, see our guide on Myanmar visa types.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do British citizens need a visa for Myanmar?
Yes. British citizens must have a visa to enter Myanmar. There is no visa-free entry and no visa on arrival for UK passport holders. The easiest option is the online tourist eVisa, which costs $50.
Can UK citizens get a visa on arrival in Myanmar?
No. The Myanmar government does not offer visa on arrival to British citizens. You must apply for and receive your visa before you travel. The eVisa can be obtained online in as little as 3 working days.
How much does a Myanmar visa cost for UK citizens?
The tourist eVisa costs $50 USD. The business eVisa costs $70 USD. Children under 7 receive a free visa. Third-party services may charge additional processing fees – applying directly through the official portal keeps costs at the government rate.
How long can British citizens stay in Myanmar?
With a tourist eVisa, UK citizens can stay for up to 28 days. With a business eVisa, the maximum stay is 70 days. The eVisa is valid for 90 days from the date of issue, meaning you must enter Myanmar within that window.
What passport requirements do UK citizens need for Myanmar?
Your British passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date and must have at least 2 blank pages. Without these, you will be denied entry.
Do I need travel insurance for Myanmar?
While not a mandatory visa requirement, comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. The FCDO advises against travel to certain parts of Myanmar, which may affect insurance coverage. Check your policy carefully.
Related Guides
- Myanmar Visa Requirements – Full document checklist for all nationalities
- Myanmar Visa Types – Tourist, business, transit, and other visa categories explained
- Myanmar Visa Application Online – Step-by-step guide to the official eVisa portal
