ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS: The government of Burma strictly controls travel to, from, and within Burma.  Since October 1, 2006, the Burmese government has often prohibited entry or exit at most land border crossings, unless the traveler is part of a package tour group that has received prior permission from the Burmese authorities.  A passport and visa are required for entry into Burma. Travelers are required to show their passports with a valid visa at all airports, train stations, and hotels.  Security checkpoints are common outside of tourist areas.

The Burmese government rarely issues visas to persons with occupations it deems “sensitive,” including journalists.  Many journalists and writers traveling to Burma on tourist visas have been denied entry.  Journalists and tourists mistaken for journalists have been harassed.  Some journalists have had film and notes confiscated upon leaving the country.

In an effort to prevent international child abduction, many governments have initiated procedures at entry/exit points.  These often include requiring documentary evidence of relationship and permission for the child's travel from the absent parent(s) or legal guardian.  Having such documentation on hand, even if not required, may facilitate entry/departure.

Information about entry requirements as well as other information may be obtained from the Embassy of the Union of Myanmar, 2300 S Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone 202-332-4350, website: http://www.mewashingtondc.com, or the Permanent Mission of Myanmar to the U.N. 10 East 77th St., New York, N.Y. 10021, (212-535-1311).  Overseas inquiries may be made at the nearest embassy or consulate of Burma (Myanmar).

MEDICAL FACILITIES AND HEALTH INFORMATION: Medical facilities in Burma are inadequate for even routine medical care.  There are few trained medical personnel.  Most foreign drugs on sale have been smuggled into the country, and many are counterfeit or adulterated and thus unsafe to use.  HIV/AIDS is widespread among high-risk populations such as prostitutes and illegal drug users.  Malaria, tuberculosis, hepatitis, and other infectious diseases are endemic in most parts of the country.

Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747)

MEDICAL INSURANCE:  The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and whether it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation.

REGISTRATION / EMBASSY LOCATION:  Americans living or traveling in Burma are encouraged to register with the Embassy through the State Department's travel registration website and to obtain updated information on travel and security with Burma.  Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.  By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency.  The U.S. Embassy is located at 581 Merchant Street, Rangoon.  The Consular Section telephone number is (95-1) 250-240, fax (95-1) 250-642, email consularrangoo@state.gov, website http://rangoon.usembassy.gov.  The after-hours emergency number is +95 (1) 370-965.  The Consular Section is open from 8:00 am to 12:00 noon and from 2:00 to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday.