Myanmar, renowned for its architecture, temples, and beaches, stands out among Southeast Asian countries with its hidden gems, such as the Shwedagon Pagoda and Inle Lake. Unveiling the beauty of the U Bein Bridge adds to the captivating experience. To make the most of your visit and avoid costly international roaming, consider local prepaid SIM cards, eSIMs, or travel eSIMs for affordable data, minutes, and SMS rates.

Burma- Myanmar

Regulations and Requirement

In Myanmar, individuals aged 12 and above, whether residents or visitors, can acquire a Burmese SIM card from major mobile operators such as MPT, ATOM (formerly Telenor), Ooredoo, and Mytel. However, there is a restriction allowing only two active SIM cards per mobile operator in one's name. 

It is crucial to adhere to SIM card registration regulations, and a lookup tool can provide information on countries with similar requirements.

Moreover, possessing a phone compatible with the frequencies used in Myanmar is essential for an optimal experience. A SIM-lock-free device is also necessary to ensure seamless use of Burmese SIM cards.

Purchasing a SIM Card in Myanmar

In Myanmar, purchasing a SIM card is a straightforward process, and these cards are readily available from various sources. Here's a detailed explanation of where you can buy a SIM card in Myanmar:

• Official Stores of Mobile Operators: Major mobile operators in Myanmar include MPT (Myanmar Posts and Telecommunications), ATOM (formerly Telenor), Ooredoo, and Mytel.

• Airports: International airports in Myanmar, such as Yangon International Airport, Mandalay International Airport, and Naypyidaw International Airport, typically have kiosks or stores where you can purchase SIM cards upon arrival.

• Local Retailers and Shops: Numerous local retailers and shops across cities and towns in Myanmar sell SIM cards. These can include convenience stores, electronics shops, and mobile phone stores.

• Street Vendors: In bustling areas and markets, you might come across street vendors selling SIM cards. Exercise caution and ensure that you are buying from a reputable source to avoid potential issues with the SIM card or its activation.

• Hotels and Guesthouses: Some hotels and guesthouses may offer SIM cards to their guests or provide assistance in acquiring one. However, it's advisable to check if there are any additional charges or fees associated with this service.

• Online Platforms: In the digital age, you may also have the option to purchase SIM cards through online platforms or the official websites of mobile operators. This can be convenient, especially if you want to have a SIM card ready upon your arrival in Myanmar.

Compatibility of Mobile Phones in Myanmar (Burma)

When it comes to using your phone in Myanmar, it's crucial to consider the technology and frequencies employed in the country. Myanmar operates on GSM technology for mobile communications, rendering CDMA phones incompatible. Most modern phones, with a SIM card slot, support GSM (which encompasses approximately 99% of phones today).

Myanmar utilises traditional European frequencies, aligning with ITU Regions 1 and 3 (encompassing Africa, Asia, Europe, and Oceania). Phones purchased in these regions should seamlessly function in Myanmar without any issues.

Voice Services in Myanmar (Burma): VoLTE Availability

In Myanmar, Voice over LTE (VoLTE), also known as HD Voice, is readily available across all major mobile operators, including MPT, ATOM (formerly Telenor), Ooredoo, and Mytel. 

This technology allows for high-quality voice calls over the 4G LTE network, eliminating the need for your phone to downgrade to 2G or 3G when making calls.

While VoLTE is widely supported, it's important to note that Voice over WiFi (VoWiFi), also known as WiFi calling, is not currently offered by Burmese mobile operators. 

VoWiFi enables users to make calls over a WiFi connection rather than relying on the cellular network.

Lack of 5G NR in Myanmar (Burma)

Myanmar (Burma) does not have 5G NR (New Radio) connectivity, and there are no indications from the Burmese government regarding the timing of 5G licence auctions. The absence of 5G infrastructure means that, currently, mobile networks in the country do not offer the advanced capabilities and faster speeds associated with 5G technology. 

Top Recommendations for SIM Cards in Myanmar (Burma)

For an optimal SIM card experience in Myanmar (Burma), consider opting for either MPT or Mytel. MPT stands out with the best 2G and 3G coverage, particularly in rural areas, although it may offer comparatively slower overall speeds. On the other hand, Mytel excels in 4G/LTE coverage, providing the fastest speeds in this category. Depending on your specific needs and usage patterns, selecting between MPT and Mytel can ensure a reliable and efficient mobile connectivity experience in Myanmar.

eSIMs for Prepaid Customers in Myanmar (Burma)

eSIMs are starting to become more available in Myanmar, with several providers now offering them. Here is a table of some of the providers and their eSIM offerings:

As you can see, there are a variety of eSIM options available in Myanmar. The amount of data, calls, and SMS included in each plan also varies.

Here are some of the benefits of using an eSIM in Myanmar:

• Easier to purchase: No need to visit a store or wait in line to purchase a physical SIM card.
• More convenient: You can activate your eSIM online or through the mobile operator's app.
• No need to swap SIM cards: You can use your eSIM in any compatible device, without having to swap out physical SIM cards.

If you are planning a trip to Myanmar, I recommend considering using an eSIM. It is a more convenient and hassle-free way to stay connected.

Here are some additional tips for using an eSIM in Myanmar:

• Make sure your phone is compatible: Not all phones are compatible with eSIMs. Check with your phone manufacturer to see if your phone can use an eSIM.
• Purchase your eSIM before you travel: This will save you time and hassle when you arrive in Myanmar.

• Activate your eSIM before you land: Once you have purchased your eSIM, activate it before you land in Myanmar. This will ensure that you have internet access as soon as you arrive.

• Keep your eSIM activation details handy: You will need your eSIM activation details, such as the QR code or activation code, to activate your eSIM.

Compulsory SIM Card Registration in Myanmar (Burma)

In Myanmar (Burma), the process of SIM card registration, requiring your passport information, is mandatory and is conducted at the point of purchase. This regulation applies to both Burmese citizens and non-citizens, encompassing migrant workers and tourists. 

Additionally, there is a restriction allowing individuals to have a maximum of two active prepaid SIM cards per mobile operator in Myanmar. It's essential to comply with these registration requirements to ensure legal and authorised use of mobile services in the country.

Mobile Network Overview in Myanmar (Burma)

Myanmar might not be the top travel choice in Southeast Asia, especially after recent events, but it's a budget-friendly destination. The same affordability extends to mobile data rates, which are relatively low. 

While Myanmar ranks as the third-most-expensive country for mobile data in Southeast Asia, it's still cheaper than many others globally. However, it's worth noting that mobile download speeds in Myanmar are somewhat slower, with a median speed of around 28 Mbps. 

Despite this, Ooredoo and Mytel emerge as the fastest mobile operators, offering good coverage and faster speeds. With low SIM card prices and reasonable data rates, Myanmar provides a generally satisfactory network experience, particularly in urban areas.

Overview of Prepaid SIM Cards in Myanmar (Burma)

In this guide, we will explore the details of prepaid SIM cards offered by major mobile operators in Myanmar, namely MPT Myanmar, ATOM (formerly Telenor Myanmar), Ooredoo Myanmar, and Mytel Myanmar. 

MPT Myanmar (Myanmar Posts and Telecommunications)

As the largest mobile operator in Myanmar, MPT (Myanmar Posts and Telecommunications) is government-owned. Initially operating as a monopoly until 2013, the telecommunications landscape underwent liberalisation during that year.

Mobile Coverage with MPT Myanmar

MPT stands out for providing the most extensive 2G and 3G coverage across Myanmar. The strength of MPT's coverage is particularly notable in rural areas, ensuring connectivity in regions where network access might be challenging. 

Data-Featured Prepaid Plans with MPT Myanmar

MPT Myanmar offers a diverse range of seven data-featured prepaid plans to cater to various user needs. These plans include:

• Night Time Data Packages: Tailored for users who primarily use data during nighttime hours, this package provides specific data allocations for optimal connectivity during that period.

• Night Safety Data Packs: Geared towards users prioritising safety during nighttime, this pack offers dedicated data allowances for secure and reliable connectivity.

• Casual Pack Promo (data): Designed for users with intermittent data needs, this promotional pack provides a flexible and casual approach to data usage.

• Daily Data Pack: Ideal for those seeking a daily data solution, this pack ensures a consistent and affordable data option for short-term connectivity requirements.

ATOM Myanmar (Advancing Telecommunications of Myanmar)

ATOM, formerly known as Telenor Myanmar, holds the position as the second-largest mobile operator in Myanmar. The rebranding to ATOM occurred following the decision by the Telenor group to exit the Burmese telecom market, a move catalysed by the events surrounding the 2021 coup d'état. 

Despite the change in ownership and nomenclature, ATOM continues its role as a major player in Myanmar's telecommunications sector, offering a range of services to meet the mobile communication needs of its users.

Mobile Coverage with ATOM (Formerly Telenor Myanmar)

ATOM, formerly recognized as Telenor Myanmar, boasts comprehensive coverage across the entirety of Myanmar. The network's reach extends extensively, ensuring connectivity in various regions and locations throughout the country. 

With a commitment to providing widespread coverage, ATOM facilitates reliable mobile communication services for users across Myanmar, encompassing urban areas as well as more remote or rural regions. 

This extensive coverage contributes to ATOM's standing as a significant mobile operator, catering to the diverse connectivity needs of its user base.

Data-Featured Prepaid Plans with ATOM (Formerly Telenor Myanmar)

ATOM, previously known as Telenor Myanmar, offers a selection of five data-featured prepaid plans, catering to diverse user preferences and needs. These plans include:

• Daily Viber Pack (combo): Ideal for users looking for a comprehensive combo plan, this package ensures connectivity for Viber usage on a daily basis.

• Sate Kyite Sot Gaming (game data): Tailored for gaming enthusiasts, this plan provides dedicated data allowances optimised for an enhanced gaming experience.

• Shal Suboo (data): This plan is designed for users with general data needs, offering a flexible and versatile solution for various online activities.

• TikTok Sawt Lite Pack (social data): Geared towards social media enthusiasts, this plan provides specific data allocations optimised for an enriched TikTok experience.

• Sate Kyite Sot PUBG Mobile Pack (game data): Catering to PUBG Mobile enthusiasts, this plan offers specialised data allowances to enhance the gaming experience on the PUBG Mobile platform.

Ooredoo Myanmar – Third-Largest Mobile Operator

Ooredoo Myanmar holds the position as the third-largest mobile operator in Myanmar and is recognized for maintaining one of the more robust network performances in the country. Ooredoo operates as a mobile service provider not only in Myanmar but also in several other countries, including Algeria, Indonesia (as Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison), Iraq (as Asiacell), Kuwait, the Maldives, Oman, Palestine, and Tunisia. 

Mobile Coverage with Ooredoo Myanmar

Ooredoo Myanmar boasts expansive coverage, ensuring connectivity across various regions of Myanmar. The network's reach is designed to provide extensive coverage in both urban and rural areas, contributing to a reliable and widespread mobile communication experience for its users. Ooredoo's commitment to comprehensive coverage aligns with its goal of meeting the diverse connectivity needs of its customer base, positioning it as a prominent mobile operator in Myanmar.

Data-Featured Prepaid Plans with Ooredoo Myanmar

Ooredoo Myanmar provides a selection of three data-featured prepaid plans, catering to various user preferences and connectivity needs. These plans include:

• Sate Tine Kya (customizable combo): Tailored for users seeking a personalised combination of features, this plan allows customization to meet specific requirements, offering a flexible and versatile option.

• Combo: This plan provides a well-rounded combination of features, ensuring users have access to a comprehensive package that includes data and other services for an all-encompassing mobile experience.

• Data Packs: Geared towards users with specific data needs, this plan focuses on providing dedicated data allowances, offering options to suit different usage patterns and requirements.

Mytel Myanmar – Smallest Mobile Operator

Mytel Myanmar, commonly known as Mytel, holds the position as the smallest mobile operator in Myanmar. This telecommunications provider is backed by Viettel, a prominent entity from Vietnam. Mytel employs a strategic market entry approach, initially focusing on building coverage in rural and underserved areas of the country where competition is minimal. 

Mobile Coverage with Mytel Myanmar

Mytel Myanmar excels in providing the most extensive 4G/LTE coverage across the country. The network's strength lies in its comprehensive coverage, particularly in urban and rural areas. 

Mytle's strategic approach, often focusing on rural and underserved regions first, contributes to its reputation for offering robust 4G/LTE connectivity. 

This commitment to expansive coverage ensures that users across Myanmar can experience reliable and high-speed mobile services, positioning Mytel as a notable player in the telecommunications landscape.

Data-Featured Prepaid Plan with Mytel Myanmar

Mytel Myanmar offers a singular data-featured prepaid plan known as "Data Packs." This plan is a comprehensive combo bundle that incorporates both data and SMS services, providing users with a well-rounded mobile experience.

 Notably, the Data Packs plan does not include access to 5G NR (New Radio) technology. While Mytel Myanmar may have a more streamlined offering compared to other operators, the Data Packs plan ensures that users have access to essential mobile services, making it a straightforward and convenient option for those seeking a combination of data and SMS features.

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