Myanmar
22%
Corporate Tax
2โ6 weeks
Setup Time
No statutory minimum for domestic companies; USD 50,000+ for foreign companies
Min. Capital
100% (restricted in certain sectors under the Myanmar Investment Law)
Foreign Ownership
#165
Ease of Business
Myanmar is a frontier market that, prior to the February 2021 military coup, was one of Asia's fastest-growing economies with significant untapped potential. The Myanmar Companies Law 2017 modernised company formation, and ASEAN/RCEP membership provides a trade framework. However, the current reality is stark: the military coup has resulted in widespread international sanctions (US, EU, UK), a currency crisis, banking restrictions, armed conflict in multiple regions, and severe governance uncertainty. Most Western companies have suspended or exited Myanmar operations. Formation is technically possible through MyCO, but the operational, financial, reputational, and sanctions compliance risks are extreme. Any investment decision requires specialist sanctions counsel and a clear-eyed assessment of the political trajectory.
- Companies with existing Myanmar operations maintaining their legal presence
- Regional ASEAN businesses with specific Myanmar supply chain requirements
- Organisations monitoring the market for future re-entry when conditions stabilise
- NGOs and humanitarian organisations operating under specific sanctions exemptions
Myanmar is currently subject to extensive international sanctions from the US (OFAC), EU, and UK targeting military-linked entities, financial institutions, and specific sectors (gems, timber, oil & gas). Any new investment must be vetted by sanctions counsel. Banking is severely disrupted โ international transfers are restricted, and the MMK has lost over 60% of its value since 2021. Armed conflict continues in multiple regions. Reputational risk from operating in Myanmar is significant. This is not a standard company formation jurisdiction in 2026 โ it is a frontier market in crisis that requires specialist risk assessment.
At a Glance
Available Business Structures
Cost Snapshot
Tax Overview
Banking Reality Check
Timeline: 3โ8 weeks
Myanmar's banking sector has been severely impacted since the 2021 military coup. Cash shortages, withdrawal limits, and restricted international transfers are ongoing challenges. Major domestic banks include KBZ Bank, AYA Bank, CB Bank, and Yoma Bank. Foreign bank branches (SMBC, MUFG, OCBC, UOB) operate with limited services. International wire transfers are restricted and subject to Central Bank of Myanmar controls. US dollar transactions face particular scrutiny due to sanctions. Companies should plan for significant banking delays and consider maintaining offshore accounts for international transactions.
Visa & Immigration
Myanmar offers business visas (70-day single entry) that can be extended. There are no formal entrepreneur, digital nomad, or golden visa programmes. Foreign directors and employees of registered companies can obtain stay permits and multiple-entry business visas through company sponsorship. The current political situation has made visa processing less predictable. ASEAN nationals may enter for short stays without a visa.
Free Zones & SEZs
3 free zones available
Common Mistakes
Proceeding with Myanmar investment without sanctions compliance review
Fix: US (OFAC), EU, and UK sanctions on Myanmar are complex and evolving. Engage specialist sanctions counsel before any investment, banking relationship, or payment involving Myanmar. Sanctions violations carry severe civil and criminal penalties. Do not rely on general corporate counsel for sanctions analysis.
Assuming banking will function normally for international transfers
Fix: Myanmar's banking system is in crisis. International wire transfers face severe delays, restrictions, and Central Bank controls. Maintain offshore banking relationships for international transactions and budget for significant delays in moving funds in and out of Myanmar.
Underestimating the kyat depreciation impact on financial projections
Fix: The Myanmar kyat has depreciated from approximately 1,300 MMK/USD pre-coup to over 3,500 MMK/USD. Financial models must account for continued currency instability. Where possible, structure contracts in USD and maintain foreign currency reserves outside Myanmar.
Frequently Asked Questions
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This content is educational and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Always consult a qualified professional for your specific situation. Data last verified March 2026.