Safety and security

Political Situation

On February 1, 2021, the Myanmar military detained officials from the elected government and announced a state of emergency, effectively seizing control of the country’s governance. This situation still persists with the military in control of the country and the State of Emergency remains in place.

The political situation may be volatile and there is always a possibility of civil unrest. You may find your security unexpectedly at risk. Due to high levels of political tension, acts of politically motivated violence may occur at any time. Avoid concentrations of police and security forces, avoid gatherings and remain informed of current issues.

Restrictions on freedom of speech, movement, religion, and political activity remain, and under current laws criticism of the government can result in imprisonment, detainment and deportation. Avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings.

Irish citizens in Myanmar should exercise caution and avoid any demonstrations or large gatherings. You should avoid taking pictures of demonstrations, police or military, including any police stations or military installations, as this may be prohibited by the authorities.

Internal Conflicts

Myanmar has suffered from prolonged internal conflicts, involving a number of non-state armed groups from Myanmar’s border areas. Ten Ethnic Armed Groups and the Government have signed a Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement. Additional armed actors have bilateral ceasefire agreements with the government. However, even where there are ceasefires in place, the possibility of violent clashes remains in some areas of all Border States.

Rakhine

We advise against non-essential travel to Rakhine State due to tension from serious civil unrest in several locations and the risk that the situation could worsen. There are restrictions on access to certain areas and a curfew is in force. If you must travel to this area, check the situation and curfew timings locally and follow any instructions.

Border Areas

We also advise against all non-essential travel to the border areas with Thailand, Laos or China, and against non-essential travel to Kachin State. We recommend that you avoid sectors affected by instability entirely.

Political Unrest

There are several active conflicts between armed groups and security forces following the military takeover. There is increased usage of explosive devices with daily occurrences of incidents now occurring. Citizens are reminded to take extra precautions and care, as the threat of being accidentally injured in one of these incidents is possible.

Fighting between armed groups occurs in a number of areas in Myanmar, including in areas previously unaffected by violence.

Landmines

Landmines pose a threat in conflict areas so exercise extreme caution if you are travelling in these areas. Do not stray off main routes, particularly in rural areas, and always check with your local contact before travelling to affected regions.

Crime

You should take sensible precautions to protect yourself from crime while in Myanmar:

• Do not carry your credit card, travel tickets and money together - leave spare cash and valuables in a safe place.
• Do not carry your passport unless necessary and leave a copy of your passport (and travel and insurance documents) with family or friends at home.
• Be aware of your surroundings and have situational awareness at all times.

Reporting Crime

If you are a victim of a crime while in Myanmar, report it to the local police immediately.

Driving

If you are planning to drive in Myanmar, you should be extremely careful. Road safety is poor and traffic is heavy and chaotic in urban areas. Poor road conditions, poorly maintained vehicles, and inadequate street lighting can make driving dangerous. Potholes, pedestrians, animals, abandoned vehicles, and vehicles travelling and parked at night without lights also pose risks.

If you want to drive, bring your full Irish and international drivers licence and make sure you have adequate and appropriate insurance.

Vehicle Hiring

If you are hiring a vehicle, we advise you not to hand over your passport as a form of security. If you are allowing your passport to be photocopied, keep it in your sight at all times.

Check that you have adequate insurance and read the small print of the vehicle hire contract (particularly any waiver that will come into effect if the vehicle is damaged).

Local laws and customs

Remember, the local laws apply to you as a visitor and it is your responsibility to follow them. Be sensitive to local customs, traditions and practices as your behaviour may be seen as improper, hostile or may even be illegal.

Illegal Drugs

Illegal drug use (no matter what the drug) carries stiff penalties, ranging from a minimum sentence of 15 years imprisonment. Do not use, share or distribute drugs.

Local Culture

Myanmar is a majority Buddhist country and Myanmar people take religion very seriously. There have been recent cases of foreign tourists being arrested for being disrespectful of religious practices, so we advise you to be cautious and sensible. Respect religious custom when visiting Buddhist religious sites – shorts, short skirts and sleeveless tops will cause offence. Shoes and socks should be removed before entering a pagoda or monastery. Using the image of the Buddha for decoration, including tattoos, is considered very offensive.

LGBT

Homosexuality is technically illegal in Myanmar, although these laws are rarely enforced in practice.

Natural disasters and climate

Earthquakes

Myanmar can experience extreme weather conditions and earthquakes. A strong 6.7 magnitude earthquake struck northeast India near the border with Burma/Myanmar and Bangladesh, on 4 January, 2016. A 6.8 Magnitude struck in the Bagan region in August 2016 and 4.7 most recently on the border with China in April 2017. If you're travelling to or living in Burma/Myanmar, make sure you know what to do in the event of an earthquake.

Cyclones

Myanmar/Myanmar is prone to cyclones, which can be devastating in their strength. Burma/Myanmar's rainy season generally runs from the end of April to October, during which time cyclones may be frequent. Monitor local and international weather updates during your stay, particularly if you're planning to travel throughout the country and always follow local authorities' instructions about security and evacuation. Be aware that certain areas or roads, including major roads between towns, may become impassable due to localised flooding in this period

Additional information

Entry requirements (visa/passport)

Irish citizens require a visa for Myanmar and can apply for a tourist or a business e-visa online.

Passports must be valid for at least six months from date of entry into Myanmar.

Border requirements

You must leave Myanmar by the same border crossing you entered. Don't enter restricted areas without the appropriate permissions from the authorities. The Ministry of Hotels, Tourism and Sport maintains a list of approved destinations.

Health

Check with your doctor well in advance of travelling to see if you need any vaccinations for Burma/Myanmar. The health services in Myanmar are of a much lower standard than Irish hospitals and services. Ensure you have good travel insurance before your journey.