Visa Requirements for Malaysia for Indian Citizens (November 2026)

Malaysia is an easy and affordable getaway for Indian travellers. Kuala Lumpur's food scene, the islands of Langkawi and Penang, and the rainforests of Borneo all sit within a few hours of Indian cities. Even better, Malaysia has opened its doors to Indian tourists without a visa.

Visa-free entry for Indian citizens

Malaysia introduced visa-free entry for Indian citizens at the end of 2023 as part of a drive to boost tourism, and has since extended it. Under this scheme, Indian passport holders can stay for up to 30 days for tourism, social visits and short business meetings. Because the scheme has an end date that the government reviews, check that it is still in force before booking.

Visa-free entry does not cover employment, long-term study or other activities that need a pass.

Malaysia Digital Arrival Card

Foreign visitors must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online within the three days before arrival. It is free and only takes a few minutes. Keep the confirmation email, as you may need it at immigration.

Some arrivals can use automated gates at major airports, which speeds up entry. Eligibility depends on nationality and current rules.

Documents to carry

• A passport valid for at least six months from your arrival date
• A return or onward ticket
• Hotel bookings or the address where you will stay
• Sufficient funds for your visit
• Your MDAC confirmation

Immigration officers can ask for any of these. Travellers without them may be refused entry.

Staying longer than 30 days

If you plan to stay longer than the visa-free period, you will need the correct visa before travelling. Options include:

• eVISA or eNTRI: online visa options for tourism, available when visa-free entry does not apply.
• DE Rantau Nomad Pass: for remote workers and digital nomads.
• Student Pass: for study at a recognised institution.
• Employment Pass: arranged by a Malaysian employer.
• Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H): a long-stay residency programme with financial requirements.

Sabah and Sarawak

The Borneo states of Sabah and Sarawak have their own immigration controls. Even if you arrive in Kuala Lumpur first, you will go through another passport check when flying to Kota Kinabalu or Kuching. Your permitted stay may be set separately, so keep your documents handy.

Travel tips

• Do not overstay. Fines, detention and future bans are possible.
• Carry ringgit for small purchases, though cards are widely accepted in cities.
• Respect dress codes at mosques and religious sites.
• Drug laws are extremely strict.
• Download a ride-hailing app such as Grab for easy transport.

Frequently asked questions

Can I extend my visa-free stay in Malaysia?

Extensions are not usually granted for tourists. Plan your trip within the 30-day limit or apply for a suitable visa in advance.

Can I visit Singapore and return to Malaysia?

Yes, but each entry is checked separately, and you need a Singapore visa for the Singapore leg.

Is travel insurance mandatory?

It is not mandatory for short visits, but highly recommended.

Final word

Malaysia is one of the simplest overseas trips for Indian citizens. Fill in your MDAC, carry your bookings and check that the visa-free scheme is active for your travel dates.