Myanmar

From 1 September 2022, all Singapore ordinary passport holders will not require a tourist visa to enter Myanmar for a period of up to 30 days. Singapore passport holders can enter and depart from all international checkpoints (i.e. Yangon, Mandalay and Naypyidaw). There are insurance requirements by the Myanmar authorities for entry into Myanmar – the latest details can be obtained from the Myanmar Embassy in Singapore or from the respective airlines. Travellers should strongly consider MFA’s existing travel advisory recommending against all travel to Myanmar.

Please note that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Singapore has a prevailing travel advisory for Singaporeans to defer all travel to Myanmar. A state of emergency remains in place across Myanmar. The security situation is unpredictable and can change quickly without notice.

If you must travel, given the volatile security situation in Myanmar, Singaporeans are strongly advised to refrain from travelling outside Yangon due to the heightened security risks. There are also direct and indirect restrictions on travel by foreigners to many locations. MFA may not be able to render consular assistance outside Yangon given the security situation and lack of safe access to various conflict zones across Myanmar. Singaporeans are reminded to be vigilant and to take precautions for their personal safety, including avoiding crowds and monitoring the local news.

Please note that most travel insurance in Singapore does not cover countries subject to an MFA travel advisory, including Myanmar.

Travellers should stay in touch with their family and friends so that they know you are safe. Singaporeans are strongly advised to e-Register with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at https://eregister.mfa.gov.sg/.

The Singapore Embassy issues Travel, Security and Health Advisories on our website. Please visit the Embassy’s website at yangon.mfa.gov.sg for the latest advisories on Myanmar.

Visitors are encouraged to visit the website of the Myanmar Ministry of Hotels and Tourism at www.tourism.gov.mm for more information, especially on restricted areas.

Singaporeans currently in Myanmar should consider leaving as soon as they can by commercial means. If you must stay in Myanmar, Singaporeans are advised to:

• Do not travel to any conflict areas.

• Avoid travel to townships under martial law. Martial law has been declared in 55 townships across Myanmar as of 29 November 2023. Travel by foreigners to many other locations in Myanmar has also been prohibited.

• Avoid public socialising and crowded areas so as not to be mistaken for a participant in a demonstration.

• Check the curfew hours currently in place in your region and comply with them. The curfew hours currently in force in Yangon are from 0000 hours to 0400 hours.

• If you must leave your residence, avoid crowded places and do not take any photos or videos of protests. Bring a copy of your identity document (e.g. passport) with you and keep a family member or friend updated on your location.

• If you are stopped at a security checkpoint, comply with instructions from the security personnel and present all requested documentation.

• Report overnight guests to the ward or village administration office as required by the ‘Ward or Village Administration Act’. Failure to comply is punishable with either a fine of 10,000 kyats or 7 days in prison.

• Be ready for any escalation of violence. Ensure that your mobile phone is charged and keep a power bank with you. Keep at least 2 weeks’ worth of food and essential supplies within reach (where possible). Singaporeans are strongly reminded to ensure that they have adequate supplies of basic medicines. Those with chronic illnesses should also ensure that they have adequate supplies of their required medication.

• Ensure that you have sufficient funds to leave the country in an emergency, as credit card facilities may not be available at that time. For those who have overstayed in Myanmar and have not settled matters with the Immigration Department, you may be required to pay an overstay fine at the airport. The rate is USD 3 per day for overstay of 1 to 90 days and USD 5 per day for overstay of over 90 days (i.e. Day 91 onwards). The authorities will only accept payment in cash and in USD.

• Monitor the local news closely and comply with the instructions of the local authorities. Singaporeans are strongly advised to check with your relevant township authorities on the restrictions in your township and comply with them accordingly. The situation remains volatile and new regulations may be announced with little to no notice.

Singapore dollars can be legally exchanged at the market rate at licensed money-changers in Yangon. Singaporeans are advised to purchase kyat only in Myanmar, at licensed money changers. They should always request a receipt when changing money and should retain it for future reference. It is not legal under Myanmar law to purchase kyat outside Myanmar.

Tourists visiting Myanmar are only allowed to stay in hotels and not in residential properties (i.e. not allowed to stay with friends/business partners, etc.), temples or monasteries. A social visit visa is required if you wish to stay at any other property apart from a hotel. The Social Visit Visa can be applied for at the Myanmar Embassy in Singapore.

It is important to be respectful of religion in Myanmar. Failing to do so could lead to an arrest.

Do not bring drones into Myanmar without the necessary permits. There are strict laws on the importation and use of drones in Myanmar. Please check with the Myanmar Embassy in Singapore for more information.

Myanmar is an earthquake-prone country. It is advisable to read up on what to do in the event of an earthquake. During the monsoon season from May to November each year, cyclones may make landfall in Myanmar, especially near coastal areas. Affected areas may experience floods and strong winds. Travellers should take the necessary precautions during cyclone alerts and heed the instructions of the local authorities.

Advisory: Email Scams

There have been reports of individuals receiving scam emails/messages purportedly sent from friends in distress overseas. These emails/messages typically originate from an email address/social media known to the receiver bearing claims of the sender getting into trouble overseas and urgently requesting financial assistance. The sender would also claim to have approached a Singapore Embassy/Consulate and the local police for help to no avail.

MFA takes the safety of all Singaporeans very seriously. Singaporeans in distress approaching our Overseas Missions for assistance will be rendered with all necessary consular assistance. If you receive emails/messages from purported friends seeking funds transfers, we strongly advise you to call them first to verify the authenticity of the emails/messages before responding to their request. It is also not advisable to give out any personal information such as NRIC/passport nos., address, telephone number, etc. Any form of reply, even one of non-interest, could result in more unsolicited emails. Members of the public who suspect that they have fallen prey to such scams should report the matter to the Police immediately. Should Singaporeans abroad require consular assistance, they can contact the nearest Mission or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24-hr Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.

Overseas Travel – Be Informed & Be Safe [Updated on 5 February 2024]

Singaporeans planning overseas travel are reminded to take the necessary precautions, including being prepared to deal with accidents, natural disasters or terrorist attacks. Singaporeans are also reminded to be familiar with your destination’s local laws, customs, and COVID-19 regulations.

Demonstrations do occur in major cities across the world. Such demonstrations can sometimes escalate into violence. It is important for Singaporeans to keep abreast of local news, avoid any protests or demonstrations and heed the advice of the local authorities.

When participating in outdoor leisure activities overseas, Singaporeans should be mindful that certain sporting activities, especially in open seas, may carry risks. Besides ensuring that one has the physical competencies and appropriate condition to undertake the activity, every effort should be made to ascertain if the trip organiser or guide is reliable and competent, and that appropriate safety and contingency plans are in place. When in doubt, Singaporeans should consult the relevant professional bodies or sporting associations for specific advice.

For those planning to travel, here are some tips:

Before travelling

• Familiarise yourself with our network of overseas missions.

• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance and be familiar with the terms and coverage.

• Equip yourself with research about your destination’s entry requirements, current situation, local laws and customs.

• eRegister with us on our website (www.mfa.gov.sg) so that we may reach out to you during an emergency.

While travelling

• Always take care of your personal safety, remain vigilant and monitor local weather news, advisories, and security developments.

• Exercise caution around large gatherings and avoid locations known for demonstrations or disturbances.

• Be prepared for possible delays and last-minute changes in travel plans especially during unforeseen events such as natural disasters, social unrest or terror attacks.

• Stay connected with your friends and family. Inform them of your whereabouts and provide them with your overseas contact details.

• In the event that you require consular assistance, please contact the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.

Advisory: Email Scams

There have been reports of individuals receiving scam emails/messages purportedly sent from friends in distress overseas. These emails/messages typically originate from an email address/social media known to the receiver bearing claims of the sender getting into trouble overseas and urgently requesting financial assistance. The sender would also claim to have approached a Singapore Embassy/Consulate and the local Police for help to no avail.

MFA takes the safety of all Singaporeans very seriously. Singaporeans in distress approaching our Overseas Missions for assistance will be rendered with all necessary consular assistance. If you receive such emails/messages from purported friends seeking funds transfers, we strongly advise you to call them first to verify the authenticity of the emails/messages before responding to their request. It is also not advisable to give out any personal information such as NRIC/passport numbers, address, telephone number, etc. Any form of reply, even one of non-interest, could result in more unsolicited emails. Members of the public who suspect that they have fallen prey to such scams should report the matter to the Police immediately. Should Singaporeans abroad require consular assistance, they can contact the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24-hr Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.