Burma or Myanmar is a culturally, traditionally and business-wise emerging country. Myanmar is a land of beautiful landscapes, ancient temples, kind people, and thus has become a more attractive destination both in terms of business and tourism. To the citizens of South Africa who have a business idea to visit Myanmar, Myanmar eBusiness eVisa is an easy and effective option to enter into the country without having to undergo the tedious embassy selection process.
What is Myanmar eBusiness eVisa?
Myanmar eBusiness eVisa is the online visa system that is created to serve foreign nationals who travel to Myanmar to conduct business. Rather than traveling to an embassy or consulate, applicants are able to fill their details, attach the requested documents and get their visa approval letter electronically. After this was approved, the traveler printed this letter and handed it over after arriving in Myanmar.
Some of the activities that can be done through eBusiness eVisa include attending business meetings, trade fairs, exploring investment opportunities, or meeting with local business partners. It does not authorize work but it only permits temporary business visits.
The eBusiness eVisa is intended to Process the following purposes
The primary objective of the eBusiness eVisa scheme is to make the entry process of international business travelers into Myanmar easier. It facilitates the growth of Myanmar economically as it helps the entrepreneurs, investors and corporate representatives to visit and partner with the local organizations.To the citizens of South Africa, this visa is a gateway to forging trade relations, visiting conferences, or trying to venture into cooperation within the Myanmar fast-growing economy.
Validity and Duration for Myanmar Business eVisa
Myanmar eBusiness eVisa normally has a life of 90 days since the issue of date that is why you should be in Myanmar within that time frame. Upon entry, you can remain in the country up to 70 days of the date of entry.This visa is normally a single entry and there is only one entry to the country. In case you want to exit and re-enter Myanmar, you will be required to apply for another eVisa.
The eBusiness eVisa has several features
Permits short term business operations.
Wholesomely online application process.
Acceptance was made through email within a couple of working days.
Admissible on the basis of specified international airports and border crossings.
Single-entry in most cases and 70 days stay.
Must have simple business paperwork, including an invitation letter.
South African Citizenship Eligibility requirements
The South African people can apply to the Myanmar eBusiness eVisa provided that they fulfil the general entry requirements. The applicant must:
Have a reasonable South African passport that has at least six months of validity.
I have business reasons to visit Myanmar, not to work or be a tourist.
Possession of an invitation by a company or organization in Myanmar.
Have evidence to leave or continue travel out of Myanmar.
Prepared accommodation information (e.g. hotel booking or company-offered accommodation).
Documents Required for the Myanmar eBusiness eVisa
In order to be successful in the application, the South African citizens need to assemble the following Documents required for Myanmar to initiate the application:
Valid Passport -Should be valid with a minimum of six months and should have at least one page empty.
Recent Passport-Sized Photograph- Should be clear, fresh and against a white background.
Invitation Letter- It includes a copy of an invitation by a Myanmar company indicating the purpose of the visit, company information and length of stay.
Company Registration Certificate- The company that is inviting in Myanmar should ensure that it submits its official registration certificate.
Evidence of Accommodation Hotel reservation or an e-mail or a letter of the company confirming that your accommodation is booked.
Travel Itinerary - Travel and flight dates.
Proper Email Address To be issued with eVisa approval letter.
Credit or Debit Card- To pay visa processing fee online.
How do I apply for a Myanmar eBusiness eVisa Application
The Apply for the Myanmar eVisa application procedure of Myanmar is not cumbersome and can be done at any place with an internet connection. The following are the simple, instructions on how the South African citizens can apply:
1. Ready All Necessary Documentation
Make sure that you bring your passport, photo, invitation letter, and company registration document in digital copy before the application starts.
2. Complete the Online Form
It will require you to give your personal information including the full name, nationality, date of birth and passport. Type in your arrival date, hotel and business reason correctly.
3. Upload Documents
Include scanned documents of your passport information page, photo and other business related documents that are required to verify with.
4. Review Information
Check all the information presented twice. Misplaced passport numbers, misspelled names or travel dates may result in delays or unless it is rejected.
5. Pay the Visa Fee
Upon confirmation, deposit the visa fee through a valid debit or credit card which is internationally accepted.
6. Receive Confirmation
Once you have paid successfully, you will get an email of confirmation. Keep this for reference.
7. Wait for Processing
The processing period normally takes about three working days. It can however differ according to the number of applications.
8. Obtain the e Visa Approval Letter
Upon approval, the eVisa approval letter will be sent to you through email. This is to be printed out and one copy kept on the phone via the internet as a backup.
9. Documents on Arrival at present
Upon arrival in Myanmar present your passport and print approval letter at the immigration desk. Once this has been verified, you will be issued with a visa stamp in your passport that will enable you to get into the country.
Entry ports of eBusiness eVisa Holders
South African citizens with Myanmar eBusiness eVisa will be able to enter the country via the approved airports and land borders by the immigration authorities. The key entry points are international and they include:
Yangon international airport.
Mandalay International Airport.
International Airport Nay Pyi Taw.
Also, those that enter by land may use specific border crossings including Tachileik, Myawaddy, and Kawthaung. The point is that it is necessary to arrive with help from these official ports because admission via other facilities could be not allowed within the frames of the eVisa program.
Important Guidelines for Myanmar eBusiness eVisa
eBusiness eVisa is a single entry.
It does not allow work or employment within Myanmar.
The permit should not be exceeded to allow above 70 days.
The eVisa approval letter has to be in printed copy and carried by the travelers.
Only designated ports are allowed to be entered.
It is possible to receive fines or even be deported in case of any attempt to work without a work permit or visit restricted zones without it.
Mistakes That Can Delay Your Myanmar eVisa
Filling the details of the wrong passport.
Posting ambiguous pictures or old pictures.
Some distance between the departure date and the application time.
Disregarding the period of the visa validity.
Failure to print the eVisa approval letter.
These points can be taken into account to prevent time wastage or rejection.
Complete Myanmar eBusiness eVisa Process Explained
Time-Saving: The procedure can be done online in a matter of a few minutes.
Easy: There is no need to visit embassies or consulates.
Quicker Approval: Typically done in three working days.
Authenticated and Access-controlled: Online platform and official authorization.
Business-Friendly: The business-friendly environment promotes ease of travel among businesspersons and professionals.
Culture and Traditions in Myanmar
Myanmar is a rich cultural experience that is worth venturing beyond the business. Some of the oldest civilizations, Buddhist and magnificent architecture can be found in the country.
Religion and Values
Buddhism is at the center of Myanmar lifestyle. Monks with saffron robes are frequently found in the towns and villages by the visitors. The culture places high emphasis on respect towards the elderly, modesty and politeness.
Language and Communication
Burmese is the official language although English is also used in business districts and big cities. Smiling with enthusiasm and decent mannerism can take one far when dealing with locals.
Traditional Dress
Longyi is a popular wrap skirt that is worn by both men and women in Myanmar.
Best Festivals to Attend in Myanmar
In case your business trip is scheduled at one of the famous festivals of Myanmar, it will be a memorable experience:
Thingyan Water Festival (April): The Burmese New Year festival that celebrates water-throwing activities.
Thadingyut Festival of Lights (October): This is a festival marking the conclusion of the Buddhist Lent and is characterized by spectacular lights and candles.
Nungdaing Festival (November): This is yet another festival of light using hot air balloons and traditional music.
Ananda Pagoda Festival (Bagan): This is a customary festival of one of the most sacred temples of Myanmar.
The festivals show the hospitality, religiosity, and unity of the populace.
Best Business Cities and Destinations
Yangon
The business centre of Myanmar. The land of the famous Shwedagon Pagoda and the blend of the colonial past and the contemporary growth. Perfect to meet, trade fairs and network among companies.
Mandalay
The cultural capital is called Mandalay and is a combination of history and industry. It is a manufacturing center, trade as well as home crafts.
Nay Pyi Taw
The center of administration where numerous government offices and major conferences are held.
Bagan
Despite being more of a tourist attraction, the serenity of the Bagan and the temples that date back to ancient times makes it the ideal place of relaxation especially after conducting a business activity.
Inle Lake
Known for its floating villages, ancient fishing techniques, and scenic beauty, it is a place worth visiting to have some free-time and capture pictures.
Travel tips of South Africa visitors
Currency: Their currency is Myanmar Kyat (MMK). Change currency in authorized centers.
Transportation: Transportation used in business travel is through domestic flights, taxis and personal motor vehicles.
Communication: The major hotels and cafes have Wi-Fi but in rural areas, the Wi-Fi can be limited.
Dress Code: Dress up otherwise you will not be accepted, particularly in places of worship or well-known business meetings.
Local Mannerism: Take off shoes when entering houses or temples. Do not touch heads or point feet at other people.
Health: Drink water in bottles and remember to vaccinate before traveling.
Conclusion
Myanmar eBusiness eVisa offers the South African nationals a convenient and safe means of traveling to conduct business. It facilitates international collaborations, increases trade and provides an easy entry process. Being convenient to use on the internet, fast, and having a simplistic set of requirements, this eVisa system represents the effort made by Myanmar to open its borders to international business people.In addition to the paper-trail, Myanmar boasts of beautiful temples, serene scenery, and colorful festivals that make the country an ideal place to work and explore at the same time. Regardless of the purpose of a visit to Yangon or enjoying the beauty of Bagan, Myanmar is something that will not disappoint or be uninspiring to every South African tourist.With proper preparation of your documents, taking the process in its stride, and adhering to the local culture, your trip to Myanmar will be made successful, memorable, and enriching to your cultural experience.
