Getting a Letter of Recommendation at the Myanmar Embassy in Bangkok: My Experience and Tips thumbnail

Getting a Letter of Recommendation at the Myanmar Embassy in Bangkok: My Experience and Tips

extension • 2025-11-14

When I first arrived in Bangkok, one of the tasks I dreaded was dealing with the embassy—especially when I heard I needed a letter of recommendation. Like many foreigners living here, I wasn’t exactly familiar with the process, and the idea of navigating an embassy in a foreign country sounded intimidating. But once I understood the steps and prepared properly, it turned out to be a straightforward process. I want to share my experience, tips, and what I learned so that if you ever need to get a letter of recommendation from the Myanmar Embassy in Bangkok, you’ll know what to expect—and how to make it easier.

Why Do You Need a Letter of Recommendation?

First, let’s clarify why this letter is necessary. Many Myanmar nationals in Bangkok need a letter of recommendation when applying for certain visas, renewing their stay, or for official documentation purposes. It’s an official confirmation from the embassy that you are a genuine visitor or resident, and it often forms part of the documentation required for various legal or administrative processes.

In my case, I needed the letter to extend my stay and to comply with new regulations. The process seemed daunting at first, but once I learned the steps, it became just another task to check off my list.

When and How to Go

Timing matters.The best advice I got from friends was to go early—preferably before 8 am. The embassy opens at 8, and arriving early gives you a better chance of avoiding long lines and getting your paperwork processed smoothly. I arrived around 7:45 am on a weekday, and there was already a small queue forming outside the embassy gate.

The whole process takes a day.You submit your documents in the morning and get the letter in the late afternoon—around 4 pm. That gives you a full day to plan your schedule. I remember arriving early, grabbing a coffee nearby, and then returning to the embassy to wait.

Using a broker:If you’re pressed for time or not confident about navigating the process yourself, you can go through a broker. They charge around 300 to 500 baht service fee, but they handle everything—saving you time and hassle. I met a few friends who used brokers and said it was worth the extra money, especially if they had tight schedules.

The Embassy Address and How to Get There

The Myanmar Embassy is located near Soi 12 in Bangkok. It’s pretty accessible, and you can easily find a taxi or a car to take you there. I used Grab, which is very convenient. When you arrive, there’s a small shop near the embassy where you can buy the necessary documents or get some quick photocopies.

Click here for the map and address.(Insert link if needed)

Getting there early means you can beat the crowds, especially during peak times.

The New Requirement: TM30 and Tax Payment

Starting from September 2024, there are some new requirements. You’ll need to submit a TM30 extension and pay a small tax of 150 baht per month—paid upfront for the year, totaling 1,650 baht. If you hold a passport PV (Personal Visa), you’re exempt from this tax.

What is TM30?It’s a form that notifies authorities about your place of residence in Thailand. The government uses it to monitor foreigners’ stays. When I checked the requirements, I was a bit confused at first, but it’s straightforward once you understand.

How to pay:There’s a bank account at Bangkok Bank, located on the east side of the embassy. I went there, told the teller I wanted to deposit 150 baht for the Myanmar embassy, and they gave me a slip. You need to write your passport number and phone number on the slip. After paying, they give you a receipt, which you bring back to the embassy.

Tip:Bring cash and the receipt with you on the day of your appointment.

What Documents Do You Need?

Here’s a quick checklist based on my experience:

  • Receipt of the 150-baht tax payment
  • A copy of your passport (the main page)
  • A copy of the page with your visa stamp
  • TM30 extension document (if applicable from September 2024)

I made sure I had printed all these documents beforehand. I also carried a few extra copies just in case.

The Day of Your Appointment

Arriving early:As I mentioned, I arrived before 8 am. When I got there, I saw a small queue outside with a few other foreigners. Inside, a staff member was checking the deposit slips and receipts, so I went straight to the Bangkok Bank counter, made my payment, and received my slip.

Entering the embassy:With the slip in hand, I entered the embassy and approached the “Book and Recommendation Fee” counter. I handed over my deposit slip, and they gave me a token number. It’s similar to waiting in line at a bank or government office.

Waiting and getting a token:I sat in the waiting area, grabbed a magazine, and waited for my turn. When my number was called, I approached the counter, handed over my documents, and the staff checked everything carefully.

Waiting for the final result:They told me I could come back at 4 pm. I spent the day exploring nearby cafes and markets, or just relaxing at a nearby park. It’s a good idea to bring a book or some work to do while waiting.

The Final Step: Picking Up Your Letter

At 4 pm:I returned to the embassy and took a number at the counter again. When my turn came, I simply told them my name, and they handed me the letter of recommendation. The whole process was smooth, and I was out of there within minutes.

Tips for success:

  • Arrive early.
  • Bring all required documents and receipts.
  • Be patient and polite.
  • If you’re using a broker, confirm they’ve handled everything before you go.

A Few Extra Tips and Personal Insights

  • Bring extra copies: Always prepare more copies of your passport and visa pages. It’s better to be over-prepared than underprepared.
  • Dress appropriately: No need for formal wear, but neat casual is best.
  • Stay patient: The embassy can get crowded, especially in the morning. Keep your cool and be polite to staff.
  • Use a broker if pressed for time: It’s worth the extra money if you’re in a rush or not comfortable navigating the process in Thai.

Final Words of Advice

Getting a letter of recommendation at the Myanmar Embassy in Bangkok might seem intimidating at first, but once you understand the process, it’s quite straightforward. Remember to arrive early, have all your documents ready, and be patient. The whole process takes a day, but it’s well worth it for the peace of mind and legal clarity it provides.

From my experience, the key is preparation. Once you’ve done it once, it becomes much easier. And if you’re ever unsure, don’t hesitate to use a broker—they know the ins and outs and can save you a lot of hassle.

Good luck with your application! And remember—stay relaxed, be organized, and you’ll get through it smoothly.