Myanmar, the “Golden Land” of Southeast Asia, is a place where ancient temples, serene lakes, and warm smiles greet the visitors from all parts of the globe. For people in the United Kingdom, traveling to Myanmar has become easier than ever, courtesy of the convenient Myanmar eTourist Visa.
This guide contains all the information British travelers need to know — from eligibility and requirements to application procedures, costs, and travel advice — in an easy, natural writing style to make it simple for you to plan your perfect trip.
Why Travel to Myanmar?
Those who want a true and less-touristy travel experience will find Myanmar presents a glimpse into the eternal beauty and spirituality of Southeast Asia.
- Bagan: Thousands of ancient pagodas stretch as far as the eye can see, framing postcard-perfect sunrise scenes.
- Yangon: Where the stunning Shwedagon Pagoda, colonial streets, and street food mingle together.
- Inle Lake: Floating gardens, stilt villages, and fishermen’s distinctive one-legged rowing technique.
- Mandalay: A cultural hub of monasteries, craftspeople, and historic sites.
- Myanmar guarantees a travel experience that’s calm, contemplative, and unforgettable.
What Is the Myanmar eTourist Visa?
The Myanmar eTourist Visa, or eVisa, is a legitimate electronic travel approval that enables visitors from qualified nations, such as the United Kingdom, to enter Myanmar for tourism purposes.
It eliminates the requirement of embassy appointments or extensive paperwork. All — from completing the form to being approved — is done online, and it is easy and hassle-free.
Eligibility Requirements for UK Travelers
To apply for the Myanmar eTourist Visa, British citizens should fulfill the following requirements:
- A valid UK passport (at least 6 months valid from arrival date)
- A recent digital passport-sized photo (plain background)
- Scanned copy of your bio-data page of your passport
- A valid email address to receive notifications and the approval of the eVisa
- Means of payment (credit/debit card for online payment of fee)
- Information on your accommodation or hotel reservation in Myanmar
- If you have all these in place, you’re ready to apply within a few minutes.
What are the Documents Required During the Application Procedure?
You will require the following documents needed for Myanmar eVisa to apply for a Myanmar eVisa:
- Valid Passport: Your UK passport should not expire for at least six months from the date when you wish to enter Myanmar.
- Passport Photo: A new digital passport photo that complies with the Myanmar eVisa photo specifications.
- Travel Plans: Information on your travel itinerary, such as entry and exit dates from Myanmar.
- Accommodation Information: Details of where you will be residing while visiting.
- Mode of Payment: A credit or debit card to use in paying for the eVisa fee.
How United Kingdom Citizens Can Apply for a Myanmar eVisa
The Myanmar eVisa application for UK citizens is simple and done entirely online. Follow these steps:
- Fill in the Form: Fill out the Myanmar eVisa application form online, using current and accurate information.
- Upload Documents: Upload documents, including your passport photo and travel itinerary.
- Pay the Fee: Pay the processing fee with a valid credit or debit card. The fee will be different, so check the current fee on the official website.
- Wait for Approval: Wait for your application and the fee to be processed and approved after submitting your eVisa application.
- Get the eVisa: When approved, you will get the eVisa through email. Print out the eVisa copy since you will be required to present it on arrival in Myanmar.
Myanmar Electronic Visa for the UK: Processing Time
The processing duration for an eVisa for Myanmar for a UK citizen depends on the mode of processing chosen. In most cases, three processing options are given:
- Normal Processing: The normal processing time typically takes 5 to 7 business days. It is the standard processing option and is suitable for travelers who have sufficient time before their intended departure date.
- Rush Processing: The rush processing option is faster than the normal processing and is designed for travelers who need their eVisa more urgently. The processing time for rush processing is usually faster, and you can expect to receive your eVisa within a shorter timeframe.
- Super Rush Processing: The super rush processing option is the fastest available and is ideal for travelers who require their eVisa urgently. With super rush processing, you can expect to receive your eVisa in the shortest possible time, often within a matter of hours.
What are the Fees Involved in the eVisa Application?
The fees for the Myanmar eVisa application may change over time, so it’s essential to check the current fee on the Myanmar eVisa fee page before applying. The fee is generally non-refundable, regardless of the visa outcome.
Entry Points for UK Travelers Using the eVisa
You can enter Myanmar through specific airports and land borders that accept eVisas:
International Airports:
- Yangon International Airport
- Mandalay International Airport
- Nay Pyi Taw International Airport
Land Border Crossings (Thailand):
- Tachileik
- Myawaddy
- Kawthaung
Make sure you enter through these official entry points — otherwise, your eVisa will be rejected.
Best Time to Travel in Myanmar
- The coolest and driest time of year to travel in Myanmar is from November to February. The weather is nice, so it is perfect for temple hopping and nature sightseeing.
- Steer clear of the rainy season from June to September since traveling in some parts can be challenging with heavy rainfall.
Myanmar’s Best Destinations
Bagan: See thousands of temples sprawled across the plains — at their best at dawn from a hot air balloon.
- Yangon: Tour magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda, vibrant markets, and street food.
- Inle Lake: See floating gardens, traditional villages, and Intha fishermen for whom it is famous.
- Mandalay: See royal palaces, ancient monasteries, and hilltop views.
- Ngapali Beach: Unwind on pristine white beaches and discover Myanmar’s tropical beauty.
Travel Tips for UK Visitors
- Currency: The local currency is the Myanmar Kyat (MMK). US dollars are also accepted in some places.
- Language: Burmese is the national language, though English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.
- Health: Consider travel insurance and basic vaccinations before your trip.
- Connectivity: Local SIM cards are available at airports for easy internet access.
- Respect: When visiting temples, dress modestly and remove shoes before entering.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying through unofficial websites — only use the official government website.
- Providing incorrect passport information or hazy document upload.
- Neglecting to print the eVisa confirmation letter prior to travel.
- Staying longer than the allowed 28 days.
- Taking it for granted that the eVisa can be used for several trips — it’s single-entry only.
- Not following these mistakes will save you time, money, and travel hassle.
Why Use the eVisa Option?
- For UK tourists, the Myanmar eVisa is the simplest, most convenient method of entering the country.
- Completed fully online — no need to visit an embassy.
- Fast processing times — usually within several days.
- Secure and official process handled by Myanmar’s government.
- Easy for first-time travelers to use.
Conclusion
For the people of the United Kingdom, discovering Myanmar has never been easier. The Myanmar eTourist Visa provides access to a land steeped in culture, history, and spiritual beauty. From strolling amidst the golden temples of Bagan, sailing on Inle Lake, or simply lazing about on the sands of Ngapali, every nook and corner of Myanmar has a tale to share.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Do British citizens require a visa to travel to Myanmar?
Ans. Yes, all British passport holders need a current visa in order to enter Myanmar. The simplest solution is the Myanmar eTourist Visa, which can be applied for online before travelling.
Q2. How long can UK citizens stay in Myanmar with an eVisa?
Ans. The Myanmar eTourist Visa permits UK nationals to remain for a maximum of 28 consecutive days from the date of entry. The visa itself is valid for 90 days from the issue date.
Q3. How long does it take to process a Myanmar eVisa?
Ans. Usually, eVisa applications take 3 to 5 business days. However, during high travel seasons, you should apply a minimum of one week prior to your visit so that your application is not delayed.
Q4. Can I extend my Myanmar eTourist Visa while I am in Myanmar?
Ans. No, eTourist Visa cannot be extended. If you would like to extend your stay, you will need to leave Myanmar and apply for a new eVisa.
Q5. Where in Myanmar do the eVisa entry points of UK tourists accept?
Ans. Valid eVisa holders of UK tourists can enter via the following points of entry:
Airports: Yangon International Airport, Mandalay International Airport, or Nay Pyi Taw International Airport
Land borders with Thailand: Tachileik, Myawaddy, or Kawthaung
Entry through other points of entry will be rejected.
