Reviewed by: Professional Visa Consultants team of BTWVisas (Malaysia Visa Experts)
Planning your dream Southeast Asian vacation to Malaysia? As an Indian citizen, understanding Malaysia's visa policies for 2025-2026 is crucial for a smooth travel experience. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about traveling to Malaysia, from the extended visa-free entry scheme to eVisa applications, MDAC requirements, processing times, and expert tips to ensure hassle-free entry.
Quick Summary: Malaysia Tourist Visa for Indians 2025-2026 - Key Information at a Glance
Note: The visa requirements vary depending on the country's embassy, the applicant's location, profession, special cases, and specific requirements. So it is recommended to consult with a Visa expert to avoid visa rejection or delay.
Short Answer: No, not for stays up to 30 days! Indian citizens enjoy visa-free entry to Malaysia until December 31, 2026.
Important Update (December 2024): The Malaysian government has extended the visa-free entry scheme for Indian nationals until December 31, 2026, allowing 30-day visits for tourism, business, social, and transit purposes. This is a significant advantage for Indian travelers planning trips to Malaysia.
Malaysia has emerged as one of the most popular Southeast Asian destinations for Indian tourists, with visitor numbers growing consistently. According to Tourism Malaysia, the country welcomed approximately 1 million Indian tourists between January and November 2024, representing a significant increase from previous years.
What makes Malaysia special for Indian travelers:
Effective from December 1, 2023, and extended until December 31, 2026, Indian passport holders can enter Malaysia without a visa for stays up to 30 days. This policy applies to tourism, business, social visits, and transit purposes.
Key Details:
To enter Malaysia visa-free, Indian citizens must meet ALL of the following requirements:
What Visa-Free Entry Does NOT Allow:
What Visa-Free Entry DOES Allow:
Common Misconception: Many Indian travelers mistakenly believe visa-free entry allows them to work or stay longer. This has led to several "Not to Land" (NTL) rejections at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) in 2024. Always ensure your travel purpose aligns with visa-free entry regulations.
Understanding different visa categories helps you choose the right option based on your travel purpose and duration.
Purpose: Tourism, family visits, social purposes, business meetings, transit
Duration: Up to 30 days per entry
Validity: Multiple entries allowed until December 31, 2026
Cost: Free
Processing: Immediate upon arrival (after MDAC submission and immigration clearance)
Best For: Short-term tourists, family visits, business travelers, first-time visitors
Key Requirement: MDAC submission 3 days before arrival
Purpose: Tourism, business, family visits (for stays beyond 30 days or multiple entries)
Duration:
Validity: 3 months from date of issue
Cost: RM 50 (visa fee) + RM 105 (processing fee) + convenience charges (0.8-1.7%)
Processing Time: 2 working days
Best For: Travelers needing multiple entries, stays beyond 30 days, those preferring advance approval
Application: Online at www.imi.gov.my
Purpose: Social visits, tourism, family visits
Duration: 30 days per entry
Validity: 12 months from date of issue
Cost: RM 100 for Indian citizens
Processing Time: 3-5 working days
Best For: Frequent travelers to Malaysia, business professionals with regular visits
Application: Through authorized travel agencies or visa processing centers
Purpose: Tourism, social visits
Duration: 30 days
Cost: RM 200
Processing Time: On-the-spot at designated airports and land borders
Best For: Last-minute travelers, emergency situations
Available At:
Requirements: Passport valid 6 months, return ticket, USD 500 cash or equivalent
Purpose: Tourism only (15 days maximum)
Duration: 15 days
Cost: RM 20 (approximately ₹460)
Processing Time: Instant or within 24 hours
Best For: Budget travelers, short leisure trips
Application: Online at www.imi.gov.my
Note: eNTRI is simpler than eVisa but limited to 15 days and tourism only
Purpose: Work, study, family reunification, business establishment
Duration: More than 30 days (up to 1 year or longer)
Cost: Varies by purpose (RM 200-500+)
Processing Time: 2-4 weeks
Best For: Expatriates, students, business owners
Application: Through the Malaysian embassy or consulate in India
The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is a mandatory online form that all international travelers (including Indian citizens) must complete before entering Malaysia. It replaces the traditional paper arrival card and is part of Malaysia's digital immigration system.
Important: MDAC submission is NON-NEGOTIABLE. Failure to submit an MDAC may result in entry denial, even with a valid passport and visa-free eligibility.
When to Submit:
Critical Timing: Complete MDAC exactly 2-3 days before your flight during optimal hours (9 AM - 5 PM Malaysia time). Submitting too early or too late can cause issues.
Step 1: Access the MDAC Portal
Step 2: Create Account or Login
Step 3: Fill Personal Information
Step 4: Travel Details
Step 5: Health Declaration
Step 6: Review and Submit
Step 7: Print Confirmation
After successful submission, you'll receive:
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Pro Tips:
At Immigration Counter:
If MDAC Not Submitted:
Essential Documents (Must Have):
For First-Time Travelers:
For Business Travelers:
For Family Visits:
Passport:
Flight Tickets:
Hotel Booking:
Bank Statements:
Travel Insurance:
Cost: FREE
What's Included: 30-day entry permit, immigration processing, entry stamp
Additional Costs: None (except MDAC if using online system, which is free)
Fee Breakdown:
Fee Component | Amount (RM) | Amount (INR Approx.) |
Visa Fee (India) | 50 | ₹1,150 |
Processing Fee | 105 | ₹2,415 |
Convenience Fee (e-Commerce/MasterCard) | 0.8% of total | Variable |
Convenience Fee (e-Wallet: Alipay/WeChat) | 1.7% of total | Variable |
Total (Approximate) | 155-160 | ₹3,565-₹3,680 |
Payment Methods:
Processing Time: 2 working days
Cost: RM 100 (approximately ₹2,300)
Validity: 12 months
Processing Time: 3-5 working days
Application: Through authorized travel agencies
Cost: RM 200 (approximately ₹4,600)
Processing Time: On-the-spot at airport/border
Available At: KLIA, KLIA2, Penang, Johor Bahru, Kuching, Kota Kinabalu
Cost: RM 20 (approximately ₹460)
Duration: 15 days
Processing Time: Instant to 24 hours
Best For: Budget travelers, short trips
Expense | Estimated Cost (INR) |
Travel Insurance | ₹500 - ₹2,000 |
Passport Photos | ₹50 - ₹200 |
Document Photocopying | ₹50 - ₹200 |
Flight Reservation Service (if needed) | ₹500 - ₹1,500 |
Travel to Airport | Variable |
Total Additional Costs | ₹1,100 - ₹3,900 |
Destination | Visa Cost | Processing Time | Rejection Rate |
Malaysia | Free (visa-free) | Immediate | 4-5% |
Thailand | Free (visa-free) | Immediate | 2-3% |
Vietnam | $25-50 | 3-5 days | 8-10% |
Cambodia | $20-30 | 2-3 days | 5-7% |
Indonesia | Free (visa-free) | Immediate | 3-4% |
Singapore | $20-30 | 2-3 days | 15-20% |
Conclusion: Malaysia offers the most cost-effective option for Indian travelers with visa-free entry and minimal additional costs.
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents (2-4 Weeks Before Travel)
Timeline: Start 4 weeks before travel
Checklist:
Step 2: Complete Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) (3 Days Before Arrival)
When: 2-3 days before your flight
How:
Time Required: 10-15 minutes
Important: Do NOT submit too early or too late. Optimal timing is 2-3 days before arrival.
Step 3: Prepare for Travel (1-2 Days Before Departure)
Final Checklist:
Step 4: Arrive at Airport (3 Hours Before International Flight)
At Check-in:
At Immigration (Departure):
Step 5: Arrival in Malaysia
At Immigration Counter:
Processing Time: 5-15 minutes
What You'll Receive:
Step 6: Collect Baggage and Exit Airport
Step 7: Enjoy Your Trip
Step 8: Departure from Malaysia
Before Leaving:
At Airport:
Processing Time: Immediate (upon arrival at immigration)
What Happens:
Duration at Immigration: 5-15 minutes
Factors Affecting Processing:
Standard Processing Time: 2 working days
What Happens:
Timeline:
Factors Affecting Processing:
For eVisa:
For Visa-Free Entry:
For eVisa:
For Visa-Free Entry:
Good News: Malaysia has one of the LOWEST rejection rates for Indian applicants among all destinations.
2024 Data:
Why So Low?
Why It Happens:
How to Avoid:
Consequence: Entry denial, forced return on same airline, all costs borne by traveler
Why It Happens:
How to Avoid:
Consequence: Entry denial, need to renew passport and reapply
Why It Happens:
How to Avoid:
Consequence: Entry denial, questioned about financial stability
Why It Happens:
How to Avoid:
Consequence: Additional questioning, possible entry denial
Why It Happens:
How to Avoid:
Consequence: MDAC rejection, need to resubmit
Why It Happens:
How to Avoid:
Consequence: Entry denial, possible ban from Malaysia
Why It Happens:
How to Avoid:
Consequence: Entry denial, possible legal action, permanent ban
Why It Happens:
How to Avoid:
Consequence: Quarantine, medical examination, possible entry denial
Pre-Travel Checklist:
At Immigration:
Apply for eVisa if:
Step 1: Visit Official Website
Step 2: Create Account
Step 3: Fill Application Form
Personal Information:
Travel Information:
Supporting Information:
Step 4: Upload Documents
Required Documents:
Document Specifications:
Step 5: Review Application
Step 6: Make Payment
Payment Details:
Payment Methods:
Step 7: Submit Application
Step 8: Wait for Processing
Processing Timeline:
What to Expect:
Step 9: Print eVisa
Upon Approval:
At Immigration:
Important Notes:
Must-See Attractions:
Petronas Twin Towers
Batu Caves
Petronas Twin Towers Skybridge
Kuala Lumpur Tower (Menara KL)
Merdeka Square
Indian Traveler Tips:
Must-Do Activities:
Langkawi Sky Bridge
Pantai Cenang Beach
Underwater World Langkawi
Eagle Square (Dataran Lang)
Mangrove Tour
Must-Visit Sites:
Georgetown Old Town
Kek Lok Si Temple
Penang Hill
Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion
Penang Spice Garden
Activities:
Jungle Trekking
Canopy Walkway
River Cruise
Fishing
Activities:
Theme Parks
Strawberry Farm
Outdoor Activities
Must-See Attractions:
Jonker Street
A Famosa Fort
Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum
Melaka River Cruise
Expense | Budget (₹) | Mid-Range (₹) | Luxury (₹) |
Accommodation | 15,000-20,000 | 25,000-35,000 | 50,000+ |
Food | 10,000-15,000 | 15,000-25,000 | 30,000+ |
Transportation | 5,000-8,000 | 8,000-12,000 | 15,000+ |
Attractions | 5,000-8,000 | 8,000-12,000 | 15,000+ |
Miscellaneous | 3,000-5,000 | 5,000-8,000 | 10,000+ |
Total | 38,000-56,000 | 61,000-92,000 | 120,000+ |
Currency: Malaysian Ringgit (RM)
Exchange Rate (December 2025): 1 RM = approximately ₹23-24 (fluctuates)
Money Tips:
Daily Budget:
Tipping:
Official Language: Malay (Bahasa Malaysia)
English Proficiency: High, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants
Useful Phrases:
Communication Tips:
Malaysian Cuisine:
Vegetarian Options:
Indian Restaurants in Malaysia:
Food Costs:
Must-Try Dishes:
Getting Around Malaysia:
Flights:
Trains:
Buses:
Taxis:
Car Rental:
Public Transportation:
Hotels:
Hostels:
Airbnb:
Guesthouses:
Booking Platforms:
Seasons:
Southwest Monsoon (May-September):
Northeast Monsoon (November-March):
Dry Season (June-August, December-January):
Best Time for Indian Travelers:
Safety:
Health:
Vaccinations:
Travel Insurance:
Mobile and Internet:
SIM Cards:
WiFi:
Indian SIM Roaming:
Staying Connected:
Do's:
Don'ts:
Religious Respect:
Malaysia offers Indian travelers an exceptional opportunity to explore Southeast Asia with visa-free entry extended through December 31, 2026. With one of the lowest rejection rates globally and straightforward entry requirements, Malaysia is an ideal destination for first-time international travelers and experienced explorers alike.
Key Takeaways:
Final Checklist Before Travel:
Expert Recommendations:
Malaysia awaits you with its warm hospitality, diverse attractions, and unforgettable experiences. With proper planning and adherence to entry requirements, your Malaysian adventure will be smooth, enjoyable, and memorable.
Safe travels and enjoy your Malaysian journey!
Disclaimer: Visa regulations can change without notice. Always verify current requirements through official Malaysia government sources before applying. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Last Updated: December 2025
Content Accuracy: This comprehensive guide has been compiled based on extensive research of official government sources, verified travel information, and real experiences of Indian travellers who have successfully obtained Malaysia visas.
Expert Contributors: BTW Visas experts team with 15+ years of industry experience, with a 99% visa success rate, and have processed more than 4 lakh+ Visas.
It is not possible to extend the Malaysian tourist permit in normal conditions. The e-visa and the eNTRI are not extendable under any conditions. If you have humanitarian reasons such as a Force Majeure, you may get your sticker visa extended for a short duration. In all other cases, you must leave the country immediately.
Once your tourist permit has expired, you are not allowed to stay back. There is no stay back period allowed for the tourist category. Staying back in the country after expiry is considered as an offence and can lead to fines and even deportation in certain cases.
As per the tourist requirements, there is no need for a medical test from India. However, certain other nationalities may have to submit a yellow fever vaccination certificate. Either way, it is suggested that you get a medical test done before travelling to a foreign country.
No, it is not acceptable or possible to convert the Malaysian tourist permit into a work permit. You are also not permitted to work while you are in this category. In case you require to work in the country, you must return to your home nation and apply for a Malaysian work permit provided that you meet the necessary eligibility conditions.
As per the requirements, for the tourist visa on arrival, you must possess at least 1000 USD. The sticker permit requires that you possess funds to support your entire stay duration. As per the requirements, you will need a minimum of INR 30,000 for a month-long stay. The e-visa or eNTRI does not require you to possess bank statements unless specifically asked by the immigration officer.
Since the processing time for the Malaysian tourist permit is a maximum of only 7 working days, you may apply accordingly. As per the recommendation, it will be best if you apply at least 14 days before your intended date of travel. The electronic categories can be applied as late as just 2 days before your trip. However, the recommended time would be at least 2 weeks before the travel date.
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