Settling-In Tips from
Staff at Crown Yangon

What is special or unique about your city?

Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, is an important tourist destination. It is well-known for its thousands of pagodas. Yangon, its capital, has the 2,500 year-old Shwe Dagon pagoda, the biggest pagoda in the world. The people who live in Myanmar make up a broad range of cultures with many unique characteristics. While there are many differences between these people, all residents of Myanmar are consistently famous for their hospitality.

What are a newcomer's first impressions of your city?

Yangon is a beautiful green city, seemingly untouched by modernization. This rustic charm is unique in today’s developing cities. Visitors to Yangon are immediately impressed by its abundance of trees, parks and lakes -- which make it easy to find some tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The slow pace and laid-back attitude of the people may take some getting used to. However, soon enough the friendly atmosphere will make you feel right at home.

Are these impressions likely to change?

Myanmar remains largely undeveloped and lacks foreign investment, due to sanctions. If the economy opens up, development will be rapid, bringing obvious benefits to the economy and its people. On the down side, some say this will make it lose its unique charm.

What is the local language?

Myanmar language (Burmese) is the official language. There are over 100 dialects, but most of Myanmar's people speak Burmese. You will find that English is widely used in the industries and areas frequented by foreigners.

How easily could I live in this city without knowing this language?

Expats generally do not have problems getting by without knowing the language. English is widely spoken at the expat compounds, which are generally self-contained with facilities. Many of the restaurants and services in Yangon are now also trying to attract foreign customers by offering service in basic English. If you intend to wander out of Yangon or the main expat areas, it will be wise to hire a guide.

What are good things to remember in order to avoid offending the other residents of this city?

Avoid discussing politics and learn the local culture and customs. Buddhism is a way of life in Myanmar and should be respected at all times. As in the rest of Asia, elders are also treated with utmost respect. Please contact Crown Yangon for more information on cultural awareness.

How might the local weather affect my daily life?

There are two distinct seasons: wet and dry. Both have extremes at the peak of the seasons, i.e. very wet and very hot respectively.

Is there anything else I should know about the overall character of your city or its people?

Yangon is a pleasant, safe city. However, the infrastructure is badly in need of investment. Therefore patience is required when getting around.

Useful Links

Myanmar Times (newspaper) www.myanmar.com/myanmartimes/ List to help you locate your country's embassy in Myanmar www.myanmar.com/information/embassy.htm The New Light of Myanmar (newspaper) www.myanmar.com/nlm/ Information about Myanmar's culture, businesses, history and much more myanmars.net/

 

As a foreign resident, what is my status in your country?

As an expatriate, you will be given a stay permit which has to be extended regularly. This will be supported by your company.

What kinds of visas are available?

Tourist - up to 28 days for any tourist Business - up to 10 weeks for those who have business interests in Myanmar Social visit - up to three months for people who have relatives in Myanmar Meditation - up to six weeks for people who want to attend one of the many meditation centers

What is required to obtain these visas?

Tourist visas can be obtained at the Embassy of Myanmar or through your travel agent. Work permits will need to be supported by your company. As soon as you arrive, you will need to register with the authorities.

Are spouses permitted and/or likely to find work?

Officially, no. An expat must have a work permit to work in Myanmar.

What are the main forms of identification and how does a newcomer obtain them?

Your passport.

Are there any other important permits I must obtain, or places where I must register right away?

If you have a shipment coming into Myanmar, you will need to apply for an import permit. Contact Crown Yangon for details.

What items should I avoid bringing into the country?

Do not bring mobile phone, weapons, the local currency, any clothing with the Buddha image, the Burmese flag or Aung San Suu Kyi’s picture. Also, avoid bringing any politically sensitive literature.

Is there anything else I should know about entering and remaining in the country legally?

You must enter from a designated point of entry if you enter Myanmar via land routes. A valid visa from a Myanmar embassy abroad is a must.

Useful Links

General Myanmar information from the U.S. Department of State travel.state.gov/burma.html

 

What is the local currency?

Kyat is the local currency. FEC (foreign exchange certificates) are also used.

What denominations does it come in?

5000, 1000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5 kyats.

What is the best way to exchange currency?

There are some money changers available in town.

What are commonly-used forms of payment for everyday purchases (such as groceries)?

It is illegal to use US dollars in Myanmar to pay for goods. You must pay in kyat or FECs. Credit cards are accepted only in hotels and at select shops.

Will I be able to use my credit card around town? If not, list when I’ll need cash.

Use of credit cards is very limited outside of hotels. You will need cash most of the time.

By what method are bills (such as rent and utilities) paid?

Mostly cash.

What are the requirements for opening a bank account? At what stage of the settling-in process should I open it?

You will need your passport and the foreign exchange declaration form that you filled up at the airport and duly declared at customs. You can open an account with a minimum of 100 US dollars. In addition, you will need to furnish a contact address.

Will foreign residents be able to find banking services in their native languages?

Most of the managers at banks can speak English.

Are there any restrictions on services for those who are new to your country?

Credit cards and travelers checks are not widely accepted. Therefore, it is better to keep cash on hand.

What are typical banking hours?

10 am to 3 pm is standard.

Are automatic teller machines (ATMs) available around the clock?

No ATM in Myanmar.

Is there any other money information that might help me?

While foreign currency exchange is illegal, FEC (foreign exchange certificates) can be legally held. Regarding the kyat, it is useful to know that the government exchange rate is around six kyat to the US dollar, while the open market rate is around 1000 kyat to the US dollar. The government rate does not vary (in fact it is never used), but the open market rate varies greatly.

Useful Links

Please contact Crown Yangon for more information about money issues in Myanmar.

 

What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?

When searching for a home, keep in mind that there are problems with electricity and water supplies in Yangon. If you rent a landed property, you will need to arrange security guards. Serviced apartments are very popular, as they have amenities such as swimming pools, tennis courts and gymnasiums. Usually, these places also have general stores which sell foreign goods. Proximity to an international school may also be a factor to keep in mind during the home search.

What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?

Popular areas for expats to rent landed property include University Avenue, Inya Road, Parami Road. Apartment or condominium complexes include Sakura Residences, Marina Residence, Espace Avenir, Micasa Residence and the Golden Hill Tower. The above listed areas are not very far from international schools or the main expat shopping centers.

Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?

It is not possible for a foreigner to own land or a home in Yangon. Therefore, expats rent.

Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into leased housing? If so, how much is common?

You might be required to furnish three months, six months or a year's rent upfront. The rents can range from 1,000 to 5,000 US dollars per month -- depending on the type of dwelling. Rather than a deposit, you might pay a broker’s commission. A fee equal to about one month’s rent is standard if you are looking for a gated, single-family home.

Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?

Generally utilities are extra, except in the apartments.

Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood?

In general, Yangon is quite safe. All of the apartment complexes have around-the-clock security. However, hiring day and night watch is highly recommended when living in a rented house.

I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?

The current is 230 volts, 50 hz. Therefore, appliances from the US and Japan will not be compatible. The plug shape can vary from the British style three-pin plug to a two-pin configuration. You may wish to bring plug adapters.

Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?

The quality and availability of accommodation can vary. Please check with Crown Yangon before arrival for the latest information on rental levels and available options.

Useful Links

Local directory (includes hotel information) www.myanmars.net/yellowpages/index.htm

 

What types of schools do most expats in your city choose for their children?

An international school is the primary choice for the typical expat in Yangon.

What are some examples of these schools?

Most expats send their children to the International School Yangon, which is the city's largest and also most organized international school. There is also a French School (set up by TotalFinaElf) and a Japanese school. The British Council runs various courses, including IELTS, GCSE and LCCI courses.

Is there a lot of competition for spots in local schools?

At the present time, there should be no problem finding a place.

Are pre-schools also widely available (for children approx. 2 to 5 years old)?

There is a limited selection.

How are most kids transported to and from school?

This is mostly arranged by individuals, though some organized transport systems are also available.

When does the typical school year start and end?

The school year starts in August and ends in May.

Is there anything else I should know about local schools?

You should expect only a limited range of extracurricular activities.

Useful Links

International School Yangon www.state.gov/m/a/os/1250.htm

 

IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Please contact your closest embassy or consulate for confirmation.