Myanmar Business Visa Guide
Myanmar, with its burgeoning economy, presents a lucrative opportunity for entrepreneurs seeking to expand their business horizons. Those who have already established enterprises in the country have benefited from the Myanmar business visa, facilitating the management of their businesses. This influx of foreign businesspeople has made significant contributions to Myanmar’s economy.
Understanding the Myanmar Business Visa
A Myanmar business visa is granted to individuals who intend to engage in various business activities, such as attending conferences, exhibitions, business meetings for their own organization or a sister company, or client meetings and other business-related tasks. Generally, this visa type allows for multiple entries and boasts a longer validity period compared to tourist visas. It is crucial to note that possessing a visa does not guarantee entry into the country. Border control or immigration authorities have the discretion to deny entry if they identify any issues with your visa or your personal circumstances.
How to Obtain a Myanmar Business Visa?
Before delving into the application process for a Myanmar business visa, it is vital to determine if you meet the eligibility criteria. Several methods exist for obtaining a Myanmar business visa for Indian citizens, either online before arrival or upon arrival in Myanmar. Here are the processes:
E-visa Process:
- Visit the official Myanmar e-visa application website.
- Complete the Myanmar business visa application form.
- Attach a recent photograph.
- Upload scanned copies of the required documents.
- Verify your information and submit the application.
- Pay the necessary visa processing fee.
- Await approval of your application.
Visa on Arrival:
- Download the visa on arrival application form.
- Fill out the form completely and sign it.
- Carry the completed application form and required documents to Myanmar.
- Present the application form and supporting documents to the Immigration officer.
- Pay the required fee.
- Get your passport stamped.
Generally, obtaining a Myanmar business visa online is straightforward. Alternatively, you can bring the necessary documents and receive a visa stamp upon your arrival in Myanmar. Offline applications can be processed through the Embassy of Myanmar, but note that the embassy may recommend online application as the preferred method. The offline process unfolds as follows:
Stamp Visa Process:
- Begin by downloading the Myanmar business visa application form.
- Fill out the required information on the form.
- Attach a recent photograph adhering to the specified photo specifications.
- Submit the application and supporting documents to the embassy.
- Pay the required fee for the permit.
When completing the Myanmar business visa application form, ensure that all details match your passport and other travel documents. Accuracy and traceability of information are paramount, as any false or incorrect details could lead to application rejection. There are other potential causes of rejection as well. Employing professional visa services can help minimize the risk of rejection.
Eligibility Criteria
Meeting the eligibility criteria is a prerequisite for applying for a Myanmar business visa. These criteria establish you as a valid traveler and must be satisfied to obtain this permit. The eligibility criteria include:
- Providing proof of business ownership and purpose of the visit.
- Demonstrating health requirements by undergoing a medical test.
- Meeting character requirements, including providing a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) if requested.
- Possessing sufficient funds to cover expenses in Myanmar, supported by bank statements or equivalent documents.
Myanmar Business Visa Requirements
The documents required to obtain a Myanmar business visa may vary depending on the chosen application process. Distinct Myanmar business visa requirements are as follows:
E-visa Requirements:
- Passport with a validity of at least 6 months beyond the travel date.
- Photo meeting specified photo specifications.
- Confirmed flight tickets.
- Proof of the purpose of the visit, such as an exhibition pass or invitation letter.
- Proof of sufficient funds, typically a bank statement.
Visa on Arrival Requirements:
- Passport with a validity of at least 6 months beyond the travel date.
- Visa application form, duly signed.
- Photo meeting specified photo specifications.
- Confirmed flight tickets.
- Proof of the purpose of the visit, such as an exhibition pass or invitation letter.
- Proof of sufficient funds, usually a bank statement.
Stamp Visa Requirements:
- Passport with a validity of at least 6 months beyond the travel date.
- Visa application form, duly signed.
- Photo meeting specified photo specifications.
- Confirmed flight tickets.
- Covering letter.
- Proof of the purpose of the visit, such as an exhibition pass or invitation letter.
- Proof of sufficient funds, typically a bank statement.
Photo Specifications:
- Provide one copy.
- Photo size: 38 mm x 46 mm.
- Submit a colored copy.
- Ensure the photo is in JPEG format or any other supported format for E-visa.
- The face should occupy about 70-80% of the frame.
- Center the head in the photo.
- The photograph must not be older than 6 months.
- The background should be white.
- Maintain a neutral expression.
- Ensure hair does not obscure the eyes.
- Both ears must be visible.
- Teeth should not be visible.
- Glasses are not permitted, except for prescription glasses.
- Eyes must be clearly visible through glasses.
- Take the photo in clear light, avoiding red eyes or flashes.
- Headgear is not allowed, except for religious reasons.
- Clothing should not match the background.
Processing Time
The processing time for a Myanmar business visa from India depends on the chosen application process. For online applications, issuance typically takes about 3 working days. Note that express visas are not available. Upon arrival, you will immediately receive a stamp from Immigration. In the case of a stamp visa, processing may take a few weeks and can extend up to 90 days in certain instances.
Myanmar Business Visa Fees
The fees for a Myanmar business visa differ based on the application process, visa type, and other factors. For online applications, payments can be made online through various acceptable methods. For stamp visas, fees can be paid in cash or via demand draft. Keep in mind that visa costs vary depending on the selected process, visa type, and other variables.
After Submission
After submitting your Myanmar business visa application, some key points to note include:
- For online applications, ensure that scanned document copies are clear.
- For visa on arrival, bring all required documents to the airport.
- Immediately register with the Township Immigration and National Registration Department after receiving your entry stamp for visa on arrival.
- Once you have your online confirmation letter for an e-visa, do not forget to obtain the stamp from Immigration upon arrival.
- Check the status of your visa application during processing.
- Inform authorities of any changes to your application.
- If plans change and you need to withdraw your application, do so within the processing timeframe.
- Note that visa fees are generally non-refundable.
How to Check Visa Status?
To check the status of your Myanmar business visa, you can follow these steps:
- For online applications, visit the Myanmar e-visa portal and enter your application number and other details to check the processing status.
- To check the status of a stamp visa offline, contact the visa agency if you applied through one, or reach out to the Consulate for assistance.
Once You Have Your Visa
After receiving your Myanmar business visa, it is essential to adhere to specific guidelines to ensure a smooth experience:
Before You Travel:
- Print your e-visa for Myanmar.
- Make note of the visa expiry date and the number of entries permitted, and do not overstay this period.
- Travel to Myanmar within the validity of your visa.
- Carry copies of your passport and other travel documents.
- Obtain health insurance and travel insurance from a certified provider.
At the Border:
- Verify your online permit’s confirmation letter.
- Obtain an entry stamp on your passport, regardless of the permit type.
- Have your documents and your e-visa or stamp visa verified.
- Seek assistance from airport authorities if needed.
- Review your visa copy for additional guidelines and rules.
When You Enter Myanmar:
- Do not engage in any form of employment; volunteering is permitted.
- The business visa does not grant permission to employ residents or reside in the country.
- You may conduct business and business-related operations but remain subject to tourism restrictions.
- Avoid tourist-prohibited areas.
- Apply for a visa extension on time and do not overstay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Myanmar business visas cannot be extended. However, you can stay in the country after the visa expires by paying $3 per day. The fee is payable to Immigration upon departure, and you will receive a ‘temp visa’ stamp. Some hotels or lodges may not permit extended stays on an expired visa.
If your visa has expired, you can remain in the country for a fee of $3 per day, paid to Immigration upon departure. However, excessive overstays may lead to deportation and potential bans on re-entry.
While a medical test is not necessarily required for business visas, it is mandated for long-term visas such as resident permits or work visas. There is no specialized medical test for a Myanmar business visa.
No, you cannot convert a business visa into a work permit. These are distinct visa types, each with its own set of rules. If you require a work permit, you must apply separately, and obtaining a new visa will result in the cancellation of your previous one.
The Embassy of Myanmar does not specify a particular savings account balance requirement. Your funds should cover leisure expenses, accommodation costs, business needs, and potential medical expenses. Requirements may vary based on several factors.
The processing time for a business visa to Myanmar depends on the application method. For online permits, it typically takes 3 working days. Therefore, it is advisable to apply at least one to two weeks before your intended travel date. For stamp visas, apply at least one to two months in advance, as processing times can vary from one week to up to 90 days in certain cases.
