As with any international travel, it's important to understand the visa requirements for Malaysia before you depart. The exact requirements can vary depending on your nationality and the length and purpose of your visit.
General Overview
Malaysia has a fairly open policy for certain countries in terms of tourism, which means citizens from those countries do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days. This includes most EU countries, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, among others.
Other countries, such as India, China, and others, require a visa that must be obtained prior to arrival in Malaysia.
Here are the broad categories:
No Visa Required: No visa is required for citizens of Commonwealth countries (with the exception of India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Nigeria), British Protected Persons or citizens of the Republic of Ireland and citizens of Switzerland, Netherlands, San Marino and Liechtenstein.
Visa-Free: Citizens of countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and most EU countries can stay in Malaysia visa-free for up to 90 days.
Visa On Arrival: Nationals from countries like China and India can obtain a visa on arrival, but only under specific conditions, such as if they enter Malaysia directly from Indonesia, Singapore, or Thailand, or if they hold a valid visa from those countries and have confirmed return tickets.
Visa Required: Citizens of some countries are required to obtain a visa before entering Malaysia. This includes, but is not limited to, countries like India (if not qualifying for visa on arrival), China (if not qualifying for visa on arrival), Bangladesh, Bhutan, Colombia, and Nigeria.
Application Process
For those who require a visa, applications must be made in person at a Malaysian diplomatic mission in your home country. The following general documents are needed:
Passport valid for at least 6 months following your departure date from Malaysia.
Completed visa application form.
Recent passport-sized photographs.
Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of your stay.
Proof of onward travel with confirmed tickets.
Payment of visa fee, if applicable.
Long-Term Stays and Other Visas
For longer stays, or if you plan to work or study in Malaysia, different visa rules apply, and you'll need to apply for the appropriate visa or permit.
Social Visit Visa: This visa is issued for foreign travelers who require a visa to enter Malaysia on a social visit.
Long-Term Social Visit Visa: This is issued to foreign nationals who wish to stay in Malaysia for a longer period.
Student Pass/Visa: Issued for international students studying in Malaysia.
Employment Pass: For foreign nationals who have secured employment in Malaysia.
Please be aware that visa regulations can fluctuate, and while we strive to maintain the accuracy of our information, the most reliable source for the most current visa requirements will always be the official Malaysian visa authorities. We highly recommend that you verify the up-to-date information directly from the nearest Malaysian embassy, consulate, or the official website of the Immigration Department of Malaysia.
