Tachileik border crossing
MYANMAR has extended e-visa entry to three land checkpoints on the Thai border.
Since September 1, foreigners accessing Myanmar from a list of 100 countries at Tachileik, Myawaddy and Kawthaung border crossings were allowed to enter using e-visas.
Previously, visitors could only enter with e-visas at Yangon, Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw international airports.
Edwin Briels, general manager at Khiri Myanmar, said: “Myanmar is becoming more accessible, seen as less dangerous and is more open. The land border e-visa helps with this and contributes towards getting more people to the country.”
E-visas cost US$50 for a 28-day leisure pass and US$70 for a 70-day business pass, which can be paid for online. The processing period is three days.
However, it is feared the high cost in comparison to neighbouring countries may put some leisure travellers off.
Lee Sheridan, general manager of PEAK Myanmar, said: “While this should certainly encourage more travellers to visit Myanmar, if you look at the cost for a family of four, it starts to get expensive.”
In comparison, a visa obtained at a Myanmar embassy costs US$20.
It is hoped that if successful, the scheme will be rolled out at more land crossings.
