Myanmar Tourist Visa for France

For French travelers, Myanmar—often called the "Golden Land"—represents one of the last frontiers of authentic Southeast Asian culture. From the mist-covered mountains of Shan State to the ancient architectural marvels of Bagan, the country offers an experience unlike any other. However, the first step to this adventure is securing the right travel authorization.

The Myanmar Tourist eVisa system has become the primary gateway for French nationals, replacing the need for traditional embassy visits with a streamlined digital process. In this guide, we answer the most pressing questions travelers have when applying for their Myanmar visa from France.

Who is Eligible to Apply for a Myanmar Visa from France?

Every French citizen holding a standard, valid passport is eligible for the eVisa. This includes travelers living in mainland France as well as those in French overseas departments and territories (DROM-COM).

It is important to distinguish that this eligibility is specifically for tourism. If you are traveling for business, journalism, or NGO work, the requirements and visa types differ significantly. For a standard vacation, the Tourist eVisa is your correct choice.

What Documents are Required for the Myanmar eVisa Application?

Preparation is the key to a successful application. To avoid delays, French applicants should have the following Documents Required for Myanmar e-Visa:

• Valid Passport: Your French passport must have at least six months of validity remaining from your date of entry. It should also have at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps.
• Recent Color Photo: You must upload a digital photo (4.6 cm x 3.8 cm) taken within the last 3 months. It must be against a plain white background with a neutral expression.
• Passport Bio-Page: A high-resolution color scan of the page containing your photo and personal details.
• Hotel Confirmation: Proof of a booking at a registered accommodation (Hotel, Motel, Inn, or Guest House). Staying in private homes is currently not permitted for foreign tourists in Myanmar.
• Onward Travel Proof: A copy of your return flight ticket to France or a ticket to your next international destination.
• Health Insurance: You must present a travel insurance certificate. While some international policies are accepted, many travelers are required to purchase "Inbound Travel Accident Insurance" from the state-owned Myanmar Insurance website.

How Long Does it Take to Process a Myanmar eVisa?

One of the most frequent questions from French travelers involves the turnaround time. We offer three distinct processing tiers to accommodate different travel schedules:Crucial Tip: Always account for Myanmar Public Holidays and weekends, as these do not count toward the "Working Day" total.

Is High-Speed Internet and Mobile Data Available for Tourists?

Connectivity in Myanmar has improved but remains variable. For a French traveler used to 5G, here is what to expect:

• Mobile Data (Recommended): Purchasing a local SIM card (or eSIM) is the best way to stay connected. Major providers like MPT, ATOM (formerly Telenor), and Ooredoo offer 4G/LTE in major cities like Yangon and Mandalay.
• eSIM Options: Many French travelers now prefer eSIMs (like Airalo or Nomad) which can be activated before landing, ensuring you have data the moment you touch down.
• Wi-Fi Availability: Most registered hotels and tourist cafes in Bagan or Inle Lake offer free Wi-Fi, though speeds can be slow during peak hours.
• VPN Usage: Note that certain social media platforms or websites may be restricted periodically. Many travelers use a VPN to maintain access to their French bank accounts or messaging apps, though you should check the current local regulations regarding their use upon arrival.

What Activities Are Permitted on a Myanmar Tourist eVisa?

The Tourist eVisa is specifically designed for leisure and sightseeing. French travelers can engage in the following:

• Sightseeing and Cultural Tours: Visiting pagodas, museums, and historical sites like the Inle Lake or the Shwedagon Pagoda.
• Short-term Workshops: You may participate in non-accredited cultural workshops, such as traditional cooking classes or lacquerware craft sessions.
• Trekking: Standard trekking routes in permitted areas (like Kalaw to Inle) are allowed.

What is Forbidden? You are strictly prohibited from engaging in any form of employment, volunteer work for NGOs, journalism, or political activism. Additionally, travelers must not enter "Restricted Areas" designated by the government due to security concerns. Always check the latest "Safe Zone" maps before heading to remote regions.

Is the Myanmar Tourist eVisa Refundable or Transferable?

This is a common concern for travelers whose plans change. Unfortunately, once the application is submitted to the Ministry, the fee is non-refundable and non-transferable. If your passport is lost or you get a new one, you must apply for a new eVisa using the new passport details. The visa is linked directly to your specific passport number.

Which Entry Points Support the Myanmar eVisa for French Travelers?

You cannot enter Myanmar at every border crossing with an eVisa. French nationals must arrive through one of the following designated checkpoints:

• International Airports: Yangon, Mandalay, and Nay Pyi Taw.
• Land Border Checkpoints:
• Tachileik (Thailand-Myanmar border)
• Myawaddy (Thailand-Myanmar border)
• Kawthaung (Thailand-Myanmar border)
• Tamu (India-Myanmar border)
• Rihkhawdar (India-Myanmar border)

If you plan to enter by sea via a cruise ship, the eVisa is not valid. You must contact your cruise agent for a Pre-arranged Visa on Arrival.

Can French Citizens Extend Their Stay Beyond 28 Days?

The standard Tourist eVisa is strictly for 28 days and is generally non-extendable. If you overstay, you will be charged an "overstay fee" (typically around $3 USD per day plus a $3 registration fee) upon departure at the airport. However, chronic overstaying can lead to being blacklisted or detained, so it is highly recommended to stick to the 28-day limit.

Why Should You Consider Using a Professional Visa Agent?

While the government portal is available, many French travelers prefer the assistance of a professional agent, especially for Super Rush applications. Here’s why:

• Error Correction: Agents review your photo and passport scan to ensure they meet the strict Ministry standards before submission.
• Native Support: Communication with the Ministry can sometimes be difficult due to language barriers or time zone differences. An agent handles this for you.
• Status Tracking: You get real-time updates without having to manually check the government website.
• Complex Cases: If you are entering via a land border like Kawthaung, an agent can help ensure your "Address in Myanmar" and "Trip Plan" are formatted correctly to avoid rejection.

What are the Current Health and Safety Requirements?

Since the global pandemic, health requirements have evolved. While COVID-19 vaccination certificates are no longer strictly mandatory for the visa itself, you are still required to have health insurance that covers COVID-19 treatment in Myanmar. It is also wise to consult a travel clinic in France (such as the Institut Pasteur) for recommended vaccinations like Hepatitis A and Typhoid.

Can I Re-Enter Myanmar Using the Same eVisa?

No. The Myanmar Tourist eVisa is a Single Entry permit. If you plan to visit a neighboring country like Thailand or Laos and then return to Myanmar, you will need to apply for a second eVisa for your second entry. Plan your itinerary carefully to minimize the need for multiple visas.

What Should I Do Upon Arrival at the Airport?

When you land in Yangon or Mandalay, do not head straight to the baggage claim.

1. Proceed to the eVisa Immigration Counter.
2. Present your original passport and the printed Approval Letter.
3. The officer will verify your details and place a visa stamp in your passport.
4. Keep your exit card (provided during the flight) safe until you depart.

Final Thoughts

Obtaining a Myanmar Tourist eVisa for France is a smooth process if you follow the guidelines and respect the processing timelines.