Myanmar

There is a risk of arbitrary detention and arrest, particularly for journalists and human rights activists. The criminal justice process followed in such cases falls below international standards. The death penalty is in place in Myanmar.

Myanmar does not recognise dual nationality. If you are a dual national with Myanmar nationality you may be treated as a Myanmar national by local authorities.

In February 2024, Myanmar authorities announced that Myanmar men and women could be required, by law, to serve in the armed forces, and has since started conscription. Length of service can depend on criteria such as age, occupation, and whether there is a state of emergency in place. If you are a British-Myanmar dual national, holding a British passport may not exempt you from this law, as Myanmar does not recognise dual nationality.

Myanmar’s defamation laws give broad scope for individuals to bring arbitrary charges, which could result in criminal penalties, including a prison sentence. Foreigners have been subject to criminal investigations for acts such as posting a critical review of a hotel online.

If you’re arrested and convicted of a crime in Myanmar, you can expect a long prison sentence. Conditions in detention are extremely poor. Pre-trial detention can also last many months.

The legal process in Myanmar is unpredictable, lacks transparency and is open to interference from powerful political and business interests. The investigation and trial process falls far below the standard expected in the UK. There are limits to the assistance the British Embassy can offer to those with concerns about the fairness of their trial, as we are unable to interfere in the legal processes of a host country.

Although primarily Buddhist, many different religions are represented in Myanmar.  When visiting religious sites, respect religious customs. Shorts, short skirts and sleeveless tops can cause offence. You should remove shoes and socks before entering a pagoda or monastery.

Under Myanmar law, insulting religion is a prosecutable offence. Insulting religion is a broad term and can include any disrespectful depiction or image of Buddha or other religious representation. This includes tattoos of Buddha.

Penalties for drug trafficking include a prison sentence of a minimum 15 years or even the death penalty.

For possession of illegal drugs in Myanmar, you could get a fine and a prison sentence of a minimum 5 years to a maximum of 10 years, regardless of the quantity of drugs.

Do not take photographs or videos of the police, demonstrations, military installations or military personnel.

There are strict regulations around bringing in and using drones in Myanmar. Using a drone around government buildings, religious buildings or even tourist sites can result in criminal penalties, including a possible prison sentence. Do not attempt to enter Myanmar with a drone unless you have the necessary permits in place before you travel.

Drone warfare is widespread across the country, and those using drones are at risk of being associated with groups involved in the conflict.

Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Myanmar for men and women, although in practice these laws are not consistently enforced. If convicted, the punishment can be up to life imprisonment. There have been reports of police using threats of prosecution to extort bribes. This is alleged to include arbitrary arrest and detention.

Public attitudes towards LGBT+ people can be mixed. Up until recently, there have been increasingly large Pride festivals and growing visibility of the LGBT+ community, including gay bars and clubs. However, this has reduced since the coup. Public displays of affection, whether heterosexual or LGBT+, are frowned upon in Myanmar culture.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Myanmar is a party to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). Over 800 species of animals and plants are banned from international trade and a further 30,000 are strictly controlled by legislation. The restrictions cover some exotic souvenirs, such as those made from turtle shell.

Local authorities have a particular interest in and are monitoring the importation, exportation, possession, acquisition and trading of gold, gems and jewellery. You risk arrest for doing so. Make sure you check with relevant government agencies and obtain necessary import and export permits before entering or leaving Myanmar.

Myanmar normally experiences cyclones between mid-April and mid-May, and during October and November. You can monitor the progress of tropical cyclones on the website of the World Meteorological Organization. Floods and landslides may occur. Check local weather reports before travelling, particularly in coastal areas.

There is a risk of earthquakes in Myanmar. In March 2025, a 7.7 magnitude earthquake hit Myanmar and neighbouring areas. Naypyitaw, Sagaing region, and Mandalay region were significantly affected. There is heavy damage to infrastructure, including to hospitals and roads. If you are within these regions follow the advice of local authorities and monitor local media.

The US Federal Emergency Management Agency has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake or tsunami.