Mizzima-Jan 30
Young people attempting to travel abroad on visit visas report being forced to pay up to 5 million kyats (approx. $2,300) at Yangon International Airport to ensure smooth passage through immigration and other official procedures.
Out of seven travelers interviewed, three confirmed that airport personnel had demanded money before their flights. A facilitator involved in the process told Mizzima that the average fee is around 5 million kyats. This under-the-table payment, commonly referred to as a “facilitation fee” or “VIP Pass,” involves junta soldiers, police, and brokers working together to assist young travelers in clearing immigration, provided they pay the required sum. “I had my tickets canceled twice. Even though I contacted them, they didn’t do anything for me at the airport. My friend and I had to handle everything on our own, and when my friend was allowed to leave, these people asked him for money. They didn’t say a word to me or help me because I was not allowed to leave the country,” said a young man who was denied permission to travel. Reports of such payments surfaced after restrictions were imposed in September 2024, preventing some travelers on visit visas from departing Yangon International Airport. A person offering the service revealed that first-time female travelers are charged around 4 million kyats, while first-time male travelers pay 4.5 million kyats. Those traveling for a second time are charged over 5 million kyats.
The cost of these facilitation fees at Yangon Airport has reportedly increased fivefold since the junta enforced the People’s Military Service Law. The law prohibits individuals who have received military service orders and passed medical tests from traveling abroad without official permission if they seek exemption, reduction, or postponement of service.Due to these restrictions, overseas labor service providers are experiencing shortages, forcing them to screen workers more carefully. Read more at: