Travel Alert: U.S. State Department Issues Urgent And Extreme Warning For U.S. Citizens Traveling To Burma

Sunday, June 9, 2024

The U.S. State Department has issued an urgent “Do Not Travel” warning for Burma, citing civil unrest, armed conflict, and arbitrary enforcement of local laws.

The State Department has updated its travel warning for Burma (Myanmar), advising against travel due to “civil unrest, armed conflict, and arbitrary enforcement of local laws.”

Burma now holds a level 4, “Do Not Travel,” warning. Officials emphasize that travelers should reconsider visiting the country due to inadequate healthcare, areas with landmines and unexploded ordinances, and the risk of wrongful detention.

U.S. citizens face a heightened risk of wrongful detention by the current military regime in Burma, and the U.S. government has limited capacity to provide emergency assistance due to ongoing armed conflict.

The situation is severe enough that dependents of U.S. government employees under the age of 21 are prohibited from residing in Burma with their assigned parent.

The military regime, which came to power in a February 2021 coup d’état, continues to face protests and demonstrations. The regime typically responds with detentions and the use of deadly force.

The regime enforces local laws arbitrarily, often detaining people without a fair trial. The State Department warns that foreigners are not exempt from these practices.

Law enforcement in Burma may detain or deport U.S. citizens for protesting or speaking out against the regime, even on social media.

Since April of this year, Burma has enforced a military conscription law. The regime may not acknowledge dual U.S.-Burmese citizens and could conscript them into the military.

Additionally, the State Department notes that Burma’s healthcare system is limited and inadequate due to staffing shortages, and certain medications may not be available.

If you plan to travel to Burma (Myanmar), the State Department recommends the following:

• Review the department’s website on Dual-Nationality.
• Erase photos, comments, or other materials that could be considered controversial or provocative by local groups from your social media, cameras, laptops, and other electronic devices before traveling.
• Purchase travel medical insurance that covers Burma and includes medical evacuation.
• Follow the Embassy’s Consular Section on Facebook.
• Make contingency plans to leave the country.
• Share important documents, login information, and points of contact with loved ones to manage your affairs if you cannot return to the U.S. as planned.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for easier location in emergencies.
• Keep your travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Avoid touching unknown metal objects and traveling off well-used roads, tracks, and paths.
• Develop a communication plan with your family, employer, or host organization.
• Review the Country Security Report for Burma.
• Review local laws and conditions before traveling.