Malaysia Visit Visa Guide
Malaysia has emerged as a highly sought-after destination, attracting visitors from around the globe. Among these travelers, a significant portion comprises Indians. If you’re planning to visit family or friends residing in Malaysia, obtaining a Malaysia visit visa from India is essential.
What is Malaysia Visit Visa?
The Malaysian visit visa is an authorization that allows individuals to enter the country for the purpose of visiting family or friends who reside there. While many nationalities enjoy visa-free entry to Malaysia, Indian citizens are required to obtain a Malaysia visit visa. This type of visa falls under the tourist category and can be issued on arrival in certain cases, as an e-visa, an eNTRI (Electronic Travel Registration and Information), or as a regular sticker visa.
Types of Malaysia Visit Visas
- On Arrival: Allows a 7-day stay.
- eNTRI: Grants a 15-day stay for travelers arriving directly from India or via transit through Singapore, Brunei, or Thailand.
- e-visa: Provides a 30-day stay.
- Sticker Visa: Also allows a 30-day stay.
How to Apply for a Malaysia Visit Visa
You can apply for a Malaysia visit visa for Indian citizens through various channels. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
On Arrival:
- Travel to Malaysia from Thailand, Singapore, or Brunei.
- Complete the application form at the airport and pay the necessary fees.
- Submit the form to the immigration officer, along with other required documents.
e-visa & eNTRI:
- Visit the official e-visa portal for Malaysia.
- Click on “I’m new, apply” and fill out the online application form.
- Upload scanned copies of the required documents.
- Pay the fees and submit the application.
Sticker Visa:
- Visit the Malaysian Visa Application Centre (VAC) website.
- Download the application form and complete it.
- Book an appointment at the VAC for submitting your application.
- Attend the appointment with the application form, necessary documents, and fees.
- Submit your application at the VAC.
Eligibility for Malaysia Visit Visa
To apply for a Malaysia visit visa, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Reside in India or hold a valid residence permit in another nation while applying.
- Possess a passport with at least 6 months of validity from your intended entry date into Malaysia.
- Your primary purpose of the visit must be to visit friends or family and tour.
- Have sufficient funds to support your stay (requirements may vary based on the mode of application).
- If traveling with eNTRI or e-visa via land, you must enter through designated border gates.
Documents Required for Malaysia Visit Visa
As per the Malaysia visit visa requirements for Indian citizens, you’ll need the following documents:
- A fully filled and signed application form.
- Two recent passport-sized photos meeting specifications.
- Proof of sufficient funds, such as bank statements.
- Proof of accommodation, such as hotel bookings or an invitation letter.
- If applying at a VAC outside your jurisdiction, provide documents like Aadhar card, rent agreements, marriage certificates, etc.
- Confirmed flight tickets.
- An invitation letter from your family or friends in Malaysia.
Photo Specifications for Malaysia Visit Visa
Ensure that the photos you submit meet these specifications:
- Dimensions: 5mm X 50mm
- Color: Colored
- The head must occupy the central position.
- Photos must have been taken within the last 3 months.
- Background: Solid, plain white, or grey.
- Face should cover 80% of the frame.
- Neutral expression.
- Thin-framed and prescription glasses are allowed.
- Headgear is permitted only for religious reasons.
- Facial hair is permitted.
Processing Time for Malaysia Visit Visa
The processing time for the visitor permit depends on the mode of application, embassy workload, your previous travel history, and other factors. E-visas are typically processed in about 2 working days, while sticker visas may take up to 7 days. It’s advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
Malaysia Visit Visa Fees
The visa fees vary depending on the application type and foreign exchange rates. They also include service charges imposed by the VAC and delivery charges if you choose that option. It’s crucial to verify the exact amount before starting your application.
After Submission
Once you’ve submitted your visitor visa application at the respective VAC, it is then forwarded to the High Commission of Malaysia in New Delhi or to the Consulate General of Malaysia in Mumbai or Chennai, depending on your jurisdiction. It’s important to note that the VAC handles administrative aspects but has no influence over visa decisions. The processing is solely in the hands of the embassy/consulate.
Upon a successful application, you can collect your passport from the VAC, or you can request delivery for an additional fee. For e-visa or eNTRI applicants, an email with your entry permit will be sent, which you should print and carry while traveling.
How to Check Visa Status?
You can check the status of your e-visa or eNTRI on the official portal. For VAC applications, enter your passport number and date of birth on their website. Alternatively, you can contact the travel agency through which you applied.
When You Have This Visa
Once you’ve obtained your visitor visa, keep these points in mind for a hassle-free journey:
Before You Travel:
- Note the validity and number of entries mentioned on your visa. Adhere strictly to these details.
- Ensure you have all your travel documents with you before departure.
At the Border:
- Show your passport with the visa to the immigration officer for entry stamping.
- Be prepared to present copies of other documents submitted with your application.
- Be honest and forthcoming when answering questions about your visit, including details about your family or relatives in Malaysia.
- If you’re eligible for visa on arrival, be prepared to pay the required fees at the airport.
When You Enter Malaysia:
- While on a visitor permit, you cannot engage in any work or business activities.
- Extensions are generally not possible; humanitarian reasons may be considered for sticker visas.
- Carry a copy of your passport and visa while traveling within Malaysia.
- Respect the culture, customs, and immigration laws during your stay.
- Comply with all local laws, and be aware that drug trafficking in Malaysia is a severe offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Extensions are generally not granted, except for extreme humanitarian reasons.
There is no stay-back period allowed. Staying beyond your permit’s expiry is considered an offense and may result in fines or deportation.
Generally, no medical test is required for Indian citizens. However, certain other nationalities may need a yellow fever vaccination certificate. It’s advisable to undergo a medical check-up before traveling to a foreign country.
No, it is not possible. You are not permitted to work while in this category. If you intend to work in Malaysia, you must return to your home country and apply for a Malaysian work permit, provided you meet the necessary eligibility conditions.
The required funds vary depending on your mode of application. For a sticker visa, it is recommended to have a minimum of INR 30,000 for a month-long stay. E-visa or eNTRI applicants may not need to provide bank statements unless specifically requested by immigration.
While the processing time for the Malaysian visitor permit can be as short as 7 working days, it is advisable to apply at least 14 days before your intended travel date. Electronic visa types can be applied for as late as 2 days before your trip, but allowing at least 2 weeks is recommended.
