Originally implemented in 1996, the travel restriction was imposed on those “who formulate, implement, or benefit from policies that impede Burma’s [Myanmar's] transition to democracy, and the immediate family members of such persons” and was deemed "no longer necessary" by the US Secretary of State.

The termination coincides with a report by Associated Press that the US will continue to impose some remaining economic sanctions on Myanmar for another year. The EU controversially lifted the majority of their remaining trade sanctions last week in support of Myanmar's democratic reforms.

AFP reported on Friday that later this month President Thein Sein will become the first Myanmar leader to visit Washington in more than 50 years where he will meet with President Obama.