Malaysia Visa for Indians
- Natural Gifts
- 2 days ago
- 14 min read
Introduction
Planning a trip to Malaysia in 2025? Good news! The malaysia visa for indians situation has changed dramatically. Indian passport holders now enjoy visa-free entry for tourism and social visits until December 31, 2026. This major policy shift allows Indian travelers to enter Malaysia without applying for a visa beforehand.
Yet, entering Malaysia still requires meeting specific conditions. All visitors must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online before arrival. You'll also need a valid passport, return tickets, and proof of sufficient funds.
This guide covers everything Indian travelers need to know about malaysia visa requirements for indian citizens in 2025. We'll explore visa exemptions, document requirements, application processes for those needing different visa types, and special considerations.
Whether you're visiting for tourism, business meetings, family visits, or considering relocation, understanding these requirements to enter malaysia will ensure a smooth journey. We've gathered the most current information from official Malaysian immigration sources to help you navigate the process successfully.
For those considering longer stays or permanent relocation, Livin Malaysia offers comprehensive relocation services. They provide visa assistance, job search support, housing solutions, and everything needed for a successful move to Malaysia. Their expertise helps simplify the often-complex relocation process.
Now, let's dive into the details of malaysia visa for indians in 2025!
Types of Malaysian Visas & Their Purpose
Understanding the different visa categories is crucial before planning your trip. Here's a breakdown of the main malaysia visa types available for Indian citizens in 2025:
Visa Exemption (Social Visit)
This is now the primary method for Indian tourists entering Malaysia. Key points:
Allows stays up to 30 days per entry
Valid until December 31, 2026
Cannot be extended within Malaysia
Purpose: tourism, social visits, attending business meetings, conferences, signing agreements, transit
Electronic Visa (eVISA)
Despite the visa exemption, malaysia visit visa apply online remains an option through the eVISA system:
Single Entry Visa (SEV):
Valid for 3-6 months from issuance
Allows one entry with a 30-day stay
Purpose: tourism, social visits, short business activities
Multiple Entry Visa (MEV):
Valid for up to 1 year
Allows multiple entries with 30 days per stay
Purpose: regular visitors who need to enter Malaysia frequently
Visa On Arrival (VOA)
The malaysia visa on arrival option is extremely limited:
Only available if arriving from Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, or Brunei
Requires holding a valid visa from that specific country
Costs RM 200
Allows only 15 days stay
Cannot be extended
Transit Without Visa (TWOV)
For those merely transiting through Malaysia:
Available at KLIA Terminals 1 & 2
Requires valid onward ticket and visa for destination country
Limited to travel on specific airlines
Allows stay up to 120 hours (5 days)
Long-Term Visas
For those planning extended stays:
Employment Pass: For those with job offers
Student Visa: For education purposes
Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H): For retirees and long-term visitors
Long Term Social Visit Pass: For family members of Malaysian residents
Understanding these visa types helps determine which malaysia entry visa best fits your travel needs. For Indian citizens planning typical tourist visits in 2025, the visa exemption is generally the simplest path.
Eligibility Requirements
Before planning your trip to Malaysia, it's important to understand who qualifies for the different entry options. The malaysia visa free for indian policy has specific eligibility criteria that must be met.
Visa Exemption Eligibility for Indians
To qualify for the 30-day visa-free entry, Indian passport holders must:
Travel for tourism, social visits, business meetings, conferences, or transit purposes
Not intend to work or study in Malaysia
Hold a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond entry date
Have a confirmed return or onward ticket scheduled within 30 days
Show proof of sufficient funds for the stay
Have confirmed accommodation arrangements
Not appear on Malaysia's immigration suspect list
eVISA Eligibility
For those preferring to obtain a malaysia visa for indian passport through the eVISA system:
Must apply from outside Malaysia (cannot apply within Malaysia)
Cannot apply from Israel or North Korea
Should generally apply from country of residence
Must meet standard entry requirements (passport validity, funds, etc.)
Visa On Arrival Eligibility
The malaysia visa on arrival for indians has very strict conditions:
Must arrive from Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, or Brunei
Must hold a valid visa issued by that specific country
Must have USD 500 in cash or equivalent
Must have confirmed return flight ticket
Who Cannot Enter Malaysia
Certain individuals are classified as "Prohibited Immigrants" under Section 8 of Malaysia's Immigration Act 1959/1963 and cannot enter even with valid documents:
Persons on immigration suspect lists
Those associated with stolen/lost travel document records
Individuals with serious criminal records
Those who pose security risks to Malaysia
Nationality-Specific Requirements
While this guide focuses on do indians need visa for malaysia, requirements differ by nationality:
Does indonesian need visa to malaysia? Generally no, if staying less than one month
Does myanmar need visa to malaysia? Yes, Myanmar citizens always require a visa
Chinese passport to malaysia visa situation mirrors the Indian exemption (free until Dec 2026)
Understanding these eligibility criteria helps ensure you meet all requirements to enter malaysia before your journey. For most Indian tourists in 2025, meeting the visa exemption criteria is straightforward.
Required Documents
Preparing the correct documentation is essential for trouble-free entry to Malaysia. Here's what Indian travelers need in 2025:
For Visa-Free Entry (Most Common Option)
Indian citizens utilizing the malaysia visa free for indian exemption must prepare:
Passport:
Valid for at least 6 months beyond entry date
At least one blank page for entry stamp
In good condition (no damage)
Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC):
Completed online within 3 days before arrival
Official portal: https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main
Contains personal details, passport info, travel dates, accommodation
Travel Itinerary:
Confirmed return/onward ticket within 30 days
Flight details (arrival/departure dates)
Proof of Accommodation:
Hotel reservations
Homestay bookings
Letter of invitation if staying with friends/family
Proof of Sufficient Funds:
Cash (recommended USD 50 per day)
Credit/debit cards
Bank statements
Recognized e-wallets
For eVISA Applications
If applying for a malaysia visa for indian passport through the eVISA system:
Digital Passport Photo:
Recent studio photo
White background
Neutral expression
Specific dimensions as per portal requirements
Scanned Documents:
Passport biodata page
Confirmed flight bookings
Accommodation proof
Birth certificate (for minors)
Supporting Documents (if applicable):
Business invitation letters
Conference registration
Travel insurance (recommended)
For Visa On Arrival
For the limited malaysia visa on arrival option:
Passport (valid >6 months)
Valid visa from country of immediate departure
USD 500 in cash or equivalent
Return flight ticket
For Transit Without Visa
If using the TWOV facility:
Valid passport (>6 months)
Confirmed onward ticket
Valid visa for next destination country
Special Circumstances
Singapore PR holders: Additional document requirements include Singapore PR Identity Card and valid Re-Entry Permit (REP) Form 7
Malaysia My Second Home applicants: Financial proof, medical reports, and additional documentation
Having these documents organized ensures compliance with malaysia visa requirements for indian citizens and facilitates a smooth entry process.
How to Apply for Malaysia Visa
While most Indian travelers will use the visa exemption in 2025, some may need to apply for specific visa types. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to apply malaysia visa for indian passport:
Using the Visa Exemption (No Application Required)
For standard tourism using the malaysia visa free for indian exemption:
Prepare Required Documents:
Valid passport
Return/onward tickets
Accommodation proof
Sufficient funds evidence
Complete MDAC:
Submit within 3 days before arrival
Fill all required fields accurately
Receive confirmation (save electronic copy/printout)
At Arrival:
Present documents to Immigration Officer
Answer questions about visit purpose truthfully
Receive entry stamp (usually 30 days)
No visa application or fee required
Applying for eVISA (If Preferred or Required)
For those who want an official malaysia visa for indians document:
Access Official Portal:
Create user account (for first-time applicants)
Select appropriate visa type (SEV/MEV)
Complete Application Form:
Fill personal information exactly as in passport
Enter travel details (dates, purpose, accommodation)
Specify entry point into Malaysia
Upload Documents:
Passport-sized photo meeting specifications
Passport biodata page scan
Flight itinerary
Accommodation details
Other supporting documents
Review & Submit:
Double-check all information
Correct any errors before submission
Make Payment:
Visa fee (RM 50 for Indians)
Processing fee (RM 105)
Convenience fee (varies by payment method)
Use credit/debit card or other accepted payment methods
Track Application:
Use reference number provided
Check status via portal
Await email notification (typically 2-7 working days)
Download & Print:
Once approved, download eVISA note
Print on A4 paper
Carry printout when traveling to Malaysia
Embassy/Consulate Application
For traditional visa application at Malaysian diplomatic missions:
Locate Nearest Mission:
Malaysian Embassy/High Commission/Consulate in India
Prepare Documents:
Original passport
Completed Form IM.47
Photos as specified
Supporting documents
Submit Application:
Visit in person or through authorized representative
Pay applicable fees
Provide biometrics if required
Collect Visa:
Return as instructed to collect processed visa
Verify details before leaving
For Visa On Arrival
If meeting the strict malaysia visa on arrival for indians criteria:
Arrive via Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, or Brunei
Locate VOA Counter at entry point
Submit required documents (passport, visa from departure country)
Pay RM 200 fee
Receive VOA for 15-day stay
Understanding these application methods ensures you select the most appropriate pathway for visiting malaysia from singapore or other points of origin based on your specific travel needs.
Fees & Processing Times
Understanding the costs and waiting periods is crucial when planning your trip to Malaysia. Here's what Indian travelers need to know about malaysia visa for indians fees and processing in 2025:
Visa Exemption (Most Common Option)
Fee: Free
Processing Time: Instant (upon arrival)
Additional Costs: None for visa, but MDAC completion is mandatory
eVISA Fees
For those applying for a malaysia tourist visa for indian passport holders online:
Visa Type | Visa Fee | Processing Fee | Convenience Fee | Total (Approximate) |
Single Entry (SEV) | RM 50 | RM 105 | 0.8-1.7% of payment | ~RM 160-165 |
Multiple Entry (MEV) | RM 100 | RM 105 | 0.8-1.7% of payment | ~RM 210-215 |
Important Notes:
All fees are non-refundable, even if your application is rejected
Fees are subject to change; verify current rates on the official portal
Convenience fee varies based on payment method (credit card, e-wallet)
Visa On Arrival Fee
For the limited malaysia visa on arrival option:
Fixed fee: RM 200
Payment must be made upon arrival
Cash payment (Malaysian Ringgit) typically required
Embassy/Consulate Application Fees
For traditional visa applications:
Varies by location and visa type
Generally between INR 300-3000 depending on visa category
Additional service charges may apply
Processing Timeframes
Application Method | Standard Processing | Express Processing |
eVISA | 2-7 working days | Sometimes available (24 working hours) |
Embassy/Consulate | 3-5 working days | Varies by location |
Visa On Arrival | Immediate (upon arrival) | N/A |
Visa Exemption | Immediate (upon arrival) | N/A |
Factors Affecting Processing Times
Several elements can impact how quickly your malaysia tourist visa application is processed:
Application volume during peak travel seasons
Completeness and accuracy of submitted documents
Need for additional verification
Technical issues with the online system
Malaysian and Indian public holidays
To avoid delays when applying for a malaysia visa for indian passport, ensure all documentation is complete, accurate, and meets specified requirements. Apply well in advance of your planned travel date, especially during high tourist seasons.
Validity & Extension Options
Understanding how long you can stay in Malaysia and whether you can extend your visit is crucial for planning. Here's what Indian travelers need to know about malaysia visa for indians validity and extensions in 2025:
Visa Exemption Validity
For Indian travelers using the visa-free entry option:
Initial Stay: 30 days per entry
Validity Period: Exemption policy valid until December 31, 2026
Extension Possibility: No extensions allowed within Malaysia
Re-entry Option: Must exit Malaysia and re-enter for a new 30-day period
Important Note: The 30-day period begins from the date of entry
eVISA Validity
For those with a malaysia tourist visa for indian passport:
Single Entry Visa (SEV):
Validity for Entry: 3-6 months from issuance date
Maximum Stay: 30 days from entry
Extension: Generally not permitted
Usage: Must be used for entry before expiration date
Multiple Entry Visa (MEV):
Overall Validity: Up to 1 year from issuance
Stay Per Entry: Maximum 30 days each time
Total Entries: Unlimited during validity period
Extension: Not allowed for each 30-day stay
Visa On Arrival Validity
For the restricted malaysia visa on arrival for indians option:
Maximum Stay: 15 days only
Extension: Not possible
Re-entry: Must exit Malaysia and apply again if eligible
Overstay Consequences
Staying beyond your authorized period has serious repercussions:
Fines (typically RM 500-3000 depending on duration)
Possible detention
Potential blacklisting from future entry
Deportation at your own expense
Special Extensions
Under exceptional circumstances, extensions might be considered:
Medical emergencies (requires medical certification)
Natural disasters or flight cancellations
Other force majeure situations
These require application at local Immigration offices and are granted at the authorities' discretion.
Long-Term Options
For Indians considering longer stays beyond what a malaysia tourist visa allows:
Employment Pass: If you secure employment in Malaysia
Student Pass: For enrolled students at Malaysian institutions
Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H): For those meeting financial and other requirements
Dependent Pass: For family members of work pass holders
Each of these requires specific application procedures different from tourist entry methods.
Remember that entering Malaysia with the wrong visa type for your intended activities (e.g., working on a tourist visa) is illegal and can result in serious penalties.
Special Notes & Exceptions
Understanding the unique situations and exceptions to standard malaysia visa for indians rules can save you from unexpected complications. Here are important special considerations for 2025:
Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) Requirements
Mandatory Completion: Required for virtually all foreign visitors, regardless of visa status
Timeframe: Must be submitted within 3 days before arrival
Exemptions: Singapore citizens, Malaysian PRs, and certain border pass holders are exempt
Entry Point Restrictions
When entering Malaysia, be aware that:
Some visa types may restrict which entry points you can use
Chinese nationals may be limited to air entry only
Visa On Arrival is available only at specific major entry points
Land border crossings may have different processing capabilities
Singapore Transit/Connection Special Rules
For those visiting Malaysia from Singapore:
Singapore PRs: Follow visa rules for your passport nationality
Documents Needed: Singapore PR card + valid Re-Entry Permit if applicable
Return Ticket: Singapore PRs may be exempt from showing return tickets
Causeway/Second Link: Standard entry requirements apply at land crossings
Children and Minors
Special considerations for young travelers:
Children on parents' passports must have their own MDAC submissions
Minors traveling alone need additional documentation
Birth certificates required for eVISA applications for minors
Authorization letter from parents/guardians recommended
Work and Study Prohibitions
With tourist entry (exemption or malaysia tourist visa):
Strictly prohibited from taking employment
Cannot enroll in formal education
Representing foreign media is not permitted
Violation can result in deportation and blacklisting
Malaysian Returning from Singapore
For malaysian returning to malaysia from singapore:
Malaysian citizens need only a valid Malaysian passport
Exempt from MDAC requirement
Standard immigration clearance procedures apply
Different lanes at immigration for citizens versus foreigners
Health Requirements
Yellow Fever vaccination certificate required if arriving from affected countries
No known HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for short-term visitors
Travel insurance highly recommended though not mandatory
Diplomatic and Official Passport Holders
Indian travelers with diplomatic or official passports:
May have different entry requirements
Often exempt from visa fees
Exempt from MDAC requirement
Should contact Malaysian diplomatic missions for specific protocols
Myanmar Citizens Comparison
Unlike Indians, myanmar need visa to malaysia in all cases:
No visa exemption for Myanmar nationals
Must apply for eVISA or traditional visa before travel
Standard malaysia evisa for myanmar allows 30-day stay
MDAC still required despite needing a visa
Indonesian Citizens Comparison
For those wondering does indonesian need visa to malaysia:
Generally visa-free for stays under one month
Holders of specific Indonesian travel document (SPLP) require visa
MDAC required unless using Cross-Border Travel Document
These special notes and exceptions ensure you're fully prepared for any unique circumstances when planning your trip to Malaysia with an indian passport need visa for malaysia considerations in mind.
Top 10 Google Results for "malaysia visa for indians"
When searching for malaysia visa for indians in 2025, you're likely to encounter these top 10 search results. Understanding what information these sources provide helps you navigate the most reliable and up-to-date guidance:
Official Malaysian Immigration Portal (imi.gov.my)
Primary authoritative source
Current visa exemption details until December 31, 2026
MDAC requirements and official application links
Comprehensive entry requirements
Official Malaysian eVISA Portal (malaysiavisa.imi.gov.my)
Direct application platform for eVISA if needed
Fee structures and processing times
Document specifications for applications
User account creation and application tracking
High Commission of Malaysia in India (kln.gov.my/web/ind_new-delhi)
Official diplomatic channel information
Visa application services for non-exempt categories
Latest policy announcements specific to Indian nationals
Contact information for official inquiries
Ministry of External Affairs, India (mea.gov.in)
Indian government travel advisories
Reciprocal visa arrangements
Consular assistance information
Country-specific travel guidance for Indians
Major Travel Agencies (MakeMyTrip, Thomas Cook, etc.)
Simplified visa information
Package deals including visa processing
User-friendly guides with practical tips
Service fees for assisted applications
Visa Processing Services (VFS Global, etc.)
Application assistance services
Document checklist and verification
Value-added services (premium processing, courier)
Appointment scheduling for in-person submissions
Major Airlines (Air India, Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia)
Travel requirements updates
Entry regulations for passengers
MDAC guidance for travelers
Transit information and flight-specific requirements
Travel Blogs and Forums (TripAdvisor, Lonely Planet)
First-hand experiences of travelers
Practical tips not found on official sites
Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
Answers to specific scenarios and edge cases
News Outlets (The Times of India, Economic Times)
Breaking updates on policy changes
Analysis of bilateral relations affecting travel
Interviews with officials about visa policies
Statistics on tourism and cross-border movement
Relocation Services (Livin Malaysia, etc.)
Comprehensive guidance for those considering longer stays
Visa options beyond tourism
Integration of visa with housing, employment, education
Personalized consultation services
When researching malaysia visa for indians 2025, prioritize official government sources (results 1-4) for authoritative information. Commercial services (results 5-7) offer convenience but may charge additional fees. User-generated content (result 8) provides valuable real-world insights but verify information against official sources.
For those considering relocation, specialized services like Livin Malaysia offer comprehensive support beyond just visa processing, including job search assistance, housing solutions, and integration services for a successful move to Malaysia.
Conclusion
Understanding the malaysia visa for indians landscape has never been more important than in 2025. With the visa exemption in place until December 31, 2026, most Indian travelers enjoy hassle-free 30-day visits for tourism and social purposes. However, remembering the mandatory MDAC completion and maintaining proper documentation remains crucial for smooth entry.
Whether you're planning a short vacation, business trip, or considering Malaysia as your next home, the visa process is just one component of your journey. For those looking beyond tourism, comprehensive relocation support makes the transition smoother.
Ready to explore Malaysia? Start by ensuring your passport has at least six months validity, complete your MDAC within three days of travel, and gather your supporting documents. For personalized relocation assistance, Livin Malaysia provides end-to-end services including visa facilitation, job search in Singapore, housing solutions, and everything needed for a successful move to Malaysia.
Taking the next step is easy - simply visit Livin Malaysia's Relocation Assessment page to begin your journey to affordable luxury living, world-class education opportunities, and exciting business prospects in Malaysia.
FAQ
Q: Do Indians need a visa for Malaysia in 2025?
A: No, Indian passport holders are currently exempt from visa requirements for tourism and social visits until December 31, 2026, allowing stays up to 30 days per entry.
Q: Is Malaysia Digital Arrival Card mandatory for Indians?
A: Yes, the MDAC must be completed online within 3 days before arrival by all Indian travelers, despite the visa exemption.
Q: Can I extend my 30-day visa-free stay in Malaysia?
A: No, the 30-day visa-free stay cannot be extended within Malaysia. You must exit the country and re-enter for a new 30-day period.
Q: What's the difference between visa exemption and eVISA?
A: Visa exemption allows entry without applying for a visa beforehand, while eVISA requires online application and approval before travel. Both typically allow 30-day stays.
Q: Can I work in Malaysia with a tourist visa or exemption?
A: No, working on a tourist visa or exemption is strictly prohibited. You must obtain the appropriate employment pass before engaging in paid work.
Q: How much money should I show for entry to Malaysia?
A: While there's no fixed amount specified for visa exemption entry, carrying USD 50 per day of your stay is recommended. For Visa On Arrival, you must show USD 500 cash.
Q: Can I visit Singapore from Malaysia with my Indian passport?
A: Yes, but you'll need to meet Singapore's entry requirements, which may include obtaining a visa depending on your status. The Malaysia visa exemption only applies to entering Malaysia.
Q: Is Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program available for Indians?
A: Yes, Indian nationals can apply for the MM2H program, which allows long-term stays in Malaysia. Visit Livin Malaysia for personalized guidance on this program.
Q: Can I bring my family to Malaysia on a work visa?
A: Yes, dependents (spouse and children) of Employment Pass holders can apply for Dependent Passes. Consult Livin Malaysia for comprehensive family relocation support.
Q: What happens if I overstay my visa-free period in Malaysia?
A: Overstaying can result in fines (typically RM 500-3000), detention, deportation, and potential blacklisting. Always respect your authorized stay period.
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