ENTER

Malaysia offers a diverse and enriching experience for visitors, students, professionals, and future residents alike. Renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, modern architecture, and dynamic cities, Malaysia combines the charm of tradition with the energy of progress. The multicultural population comprising Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous communities fosters a warm and inclusive environment filled with culinary delights, vibrant festivals and captivating cultural expressions.

Whether you're here to explore as a tourist, pursue world-class education, build a thriving career, or settle down in the country, Malaysia offers the ideal setting. Its growing economy, excellent infrastructure, and harmonious blend of work and leisure make it one of the most attractive destinations in Southeast Asia.

Your journey in Malaysia is an opportunity to explore, live, grow and thrive.

The steps to enter Malaysia vary depending on your nationality, type of visa required and the duration of your stay. Before you apply, ensure that you have the right information.

Here is a general guide to apply for Malaysian visa:

1. Purpose of Visit 

• Social / business visit

For short-term leisure stays or business meetings, many nationalities may not require a visa to visit.

• Study

For international students accepted into Malaysian educational institutions.

• Working

For those planning to work in Malaysia.

• Healthcare

If you are looking to get medical or healthcare expertise

2. Visa to Enter

Visa : Official document in a passport for foreign nationals to enter, stay in, or transit through a country for a specific purpose and duration.

3. Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)

Effective January 2024, all foreign nationals are required to apply for the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) within 3 days of your arrival.

Certain travelers are exempt from submitting the MDAC.

1. Visa without Reference (VTR)

Visa without Reference (VTR) is issued and approved by the High Commission of Malaysia for a non-citizen to enter Malaysia for a social visit purpose.

• Single Entry

For social visit purposes. Valid for single entry up to 3 months.

• Multiple Entry

For business matters. Valid from 3-12 months, and each entry is allowed for a maximum of 30 days only.

2. Visa with Reference (VDR)

Visa with Reference (VDR) is a visa for foreigners entering Malaysia for a specific purpose such as for study and employment. To apply, a sponsor or reference is needed.

The sponsor in Malaysia (employer, educational institution, or family member) must apply for a Visa Approval Letter (VAL) from the Immigration Department of Malaysia before the VDR can be issued.

Key Difference with VDR:

• Short-Term Stays : VTR does not allow for long-term employment or study in Malaysia.
• No Sponsorship Needed : Unlike long-term visas or passes (e.g., Employment Pass, Student Pass), the VTR does not require a Malaysian sponsor or reference.
• Direct Embassy Issuance : The visa application is processed directly by Malaysian embassies or consulates in the applicant’s home country.

3. Transit Visa

For transit purposes to other countries only. If you transit without leaving the airport, this visa is not necessary.

Pass : Document that allows a foreign national to stay for a longer period under a specific condition.

Types of Passes

1. Social Visit Pass

• Short Term

A Social Visit Pass (Short Term) allows foreign nationals to enter the country for short-term stays. If you come for a vacation, plan to visit family or friends, or attend business meetings, you can apply for this pass.

Validity period: 14-90 days based on nationalities

• Long Term

Long Term Social Visit Pass will allow you to stay in Malaysia long term (more than six months) under a specific condition.

Below is the list of the conditions:

1. Medical Tourist

Malaysia has one of the world's best medical experts and healthcare infrastructures. Some foreign nationals seek medical treatment in Malaysia as part of visiting purposes. 

You can apply as a medical tourist under the Malaysian Healthcare Travel Council.

2. Digital Nomad

Malaysia offers a program called DE Rantau specifically for digital nomads looking for both work and leisure.

To ensure your journey to enter Malaysia is a smooth one, careful preparation and planning is crucial. This checklist will guide you of the necessary steps:

1. Check Passport Validity

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of entry.
• Make copies of your passport's photo page and any visa pages for backup.

2. Prepare Important Documents

• Travel Itinerary: Print or have digital copies of your flight details and hotel bookings to present if required at the border.
• Proof of Return or Onward Travel: Keep a copy of your return ticket or onward travel plans to show you intend to leave Malaysia after your stay.
• Financial Proof: Some travelers may be asked to show bank statements or proof of funds to demonstrate they can support themselves.
• Additional Documents: For students or work visas, a letter from the Malaysian institution or employer is typically required.

3. Health and Vaccination Requirements

• Vaccination Proof: Check if you need any specific vaccines (e.g., yellow fever vaccination if arriving from certain countries).