The modern Birman cat is a sweet natured, semi-long haired, color pointed cat with a long stocky body. The Birman's eyes are very distinctive, blue in color, and slightly upturned at the outer corners. The ears are medium in size and almost as tall as they are wide. The silky coat of the Birman has no undercoat and is resistant to matting.

The fur colors of the Birman include seal, blue, lilac, and chocolate; in solid and lynx (tabby) point patterns.

The Birman has white gloves on all four paws, which should be symmetrical and run evenly across the front of the paws, extending neither too high nor too low.

Birmans are very social cats. They enjoy being with people and usually get along well with other animals and children. Quiet by nature, they often communicate in chirrups and throaty purrs. They are neither very active nor very laid back, but fall comfortably in between, making this breed an ideal companion for most households.