Junta-run immigration offices in northern Shan State’s Lashio City are quickly issuing National Identity Cards (NIC) to Chinese citizens whilst locals face far longer waits to receive NICs from the same office. Following the withdrawal of Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) troops from Lashio City, following pressure from China, the junta re-took control of the city from the MNDAA on 21 April 2025. On 19 May, the junta re-opened the district and township immigration offices in Lashio City.
It’s not necessarily the junta but corrupt local officials who are basically selling Burmese citizenship to the Chinese. Burmese citizenship is required for owning property in Myanmar.