How to Pay in Myanmar

Myanmar has significant travel advisories due to ongoing political instability. Check your government's latest guidance before visiting. Cash (USD) is king as international cards rarely work. Social media and some apps may be restricted, so a VPN is strongly recommended.

Payment & Finance Apps

KBZPay

Myanmar's largest mobile wallet, run by KBZ Bank. Locals scan its QR codes everywhere in Yangon and Mandalay, from tea shops to supermarkets and bill payments.

Pro tip: Registration realistically requires a Myanmar SIM and local verification, so most visitors never get an account. Treat Myanmar as cash first: bring clean, crisp US dollar notes to exchange for kyat, as worn bills are often refused.

App Store Play Store

WavePay

Wave Money's wallet, backed by the country's biggest network of corner-shop agents for cash in and cash out. A daily money tool for millions of Myanmar locals.

Pro tip: Like KBZPay, WavePay is effectively locals only. ATMs in Yangon and Mandalay accept foreign Visa and Mastercard with fees around 5,000 to 10,000 kyat per withdrawal, so take out larger amounts before heading beyond the main cities.

App Store Play Store

App details

KBZPay in other countries WavePay in other countries

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