Myanmar

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

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.

Shan State

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.

More information:

• Terrorism

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:

• mugging
• petty theft
• burglary

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 

Myanmar can experience natural disasters and severe weather, including:

• severe storms
• flooding
• landslides
• cyclones
• earthquakes
• tsunamis

The monsoon season is from May to October, bringing:

• severe storms
• widespread flooding, including flash floods
• landslides

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

• transport
• electricity
• communications

Cyclones

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

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'.

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.

More information:

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

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.

COVID-19

Some COVID-19 restrictions continue to apply in 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:

• typhoid
• rabies
• hepatitis A

Insect-borne diseases

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

• malaria
• 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

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

Rabies

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.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Other health risks

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

• hepatitis
• typhoid
• cholera
• tuberculosis
• COVID-19

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.

Shortages of medications occur, even for the most basic items. 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 

The standard of medical facilities in Myanmar is extremely limited, particularly outside Yangon. Medical facilities will not be to the standard of those in Australia. Hospitals have closed or ceased providing services at short notice. Medical evacuation is likely to be necessary for serious illness or injury.

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

• hepatitis
• HIV/AIDS

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. In areas with an overnight curfew, such as Yangon, it can be difficult to access emergency healthcare during the night.

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.

Drugs

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

More information:

• 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.

Other laws

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.

More information:

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

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

More information:

• Staying within the law

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.

More information:

• Dual nationals

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.

Dress

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

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:

• arrested
• deported
• 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:

• In response to the Mpox global public health emergency, you are required to complete a health declaration form on arrival.
• If you contract COVID-19 during your stay in Myanmar, you must isolate until tested negative.

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.

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

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:

• drones
• 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:

• local gems
• antiques
• Buddha images

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

More information:

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

Validity

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. 

More information:  

• LGBTQIA+ travellers 

The local currency is the Myanmar Kyat (MMK).

Cash is widely used but may be difficult to access. Ensure you have enough cash on hand should shortages and banking disruptions occur.  

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

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:

• hotels
• shops
• 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.

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

International money transfers to Myanmar may be restricted.

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:

• shops
• supermarkets
• restaurants
• banks
• 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:

• hotels
• restaurants
• shops
• 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 some websites, 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

More information:

• 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.

Taxis

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:

• buses
• boats
• trains

Fatal accidents have occurred, especially at night.

Search and rescue resources are very limited.

Air travel

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.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

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

Fire and rescue services

Call 191

Medical emergencies

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

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

Police

Call 199 or contact the local police.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

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: austembassy.yangon@dfat.gov.au
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