Malaysia eVisa & Travel Information (2026)

Introduction

Malaysia is a multicultural Southeast Asian nation known for its rainforests, Bornean wildlife, the Petronas Twin Towers, stunning Langkawi islands and diverse cuisine (nasi lemak, roti canai, char kway teow). Main airports are Kuala Lumpur International (KUL/KLIA), Kuala Lumpur KLIA2 (KUL), Penang (PEN) and Kota Kinabalu (BKI). The Immigration Department of Malaysia (Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia) manages entry and visas.

Malaysia is one of the most visa-liberal countries in Asia: citizens of most Western countries, Australia, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, most ASEAN nations and many others receive 30–90 days visa-free entry. Malaysia uses a Social Visit Pass system for visitors.

Tourist & Short Stay

Most nationalities receive a Social Visit Pass (eVP) of 30, 60, or 90 days stamped at the port of entry. USA, UK, Canada, Australia, EU nations, Japan and most others receive 90 days automatically at immigration. ASEAN nationals receive 30–90 days depending on bilateral agreements. No prior application is needed for visa-free nationals.

For nationalities not covered by visa-free agreements, Malaysia offers an eVisa (online application) and Visa on Arrival at Kuala Lumpur International Airport for certain nationalities. China and Indian nationals can apply for the eNTRI (Electronic Travel Registration and Information) for short stays.

Business Visa

Business visits are covered by the Social Visit Pass for most nationalities. For extended business stays or employment, a Professional Visit Pass or Employment Pass (issued by Immigration Malaysia) is required. The employer applies on the worker's behalf.

Work & Long-Stay

• Employment Pass (EP) — for skilled workers earning MYR 5,000+/month; categories 1–3 based on salary and contract duration.
• Residence Pass-Talent (RP-T) — for high-performing professionals who have held an Employment Pass; allows indefinite stay without employer sponsorship and free to work for any Malaysian company.
• Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) — long-term residency visa for retirees and wealthy individuals; revised requirements since 2021 (offshore income ≥MYR 40,000/month, fixed deposit MYR 1M, minimum property purchase MYR 2M, etc.).
• DE Rantau (Digital Nomad) — Malaysia launched DE Rantau in 2022 for digital nomads with tech-related employment; valid 3–12 months.

Student Pass

International students need a Student Pass issued by Immigration Malaysia. The university applies on the student's behalf after admission. Required: offer letter, health check, and financial proof. Student passes are typically valid for the duration of the study program.

Airport Transit

Most travelers can transit through Kuala Lumpur KLIA without a visa if remaining in the international zone. Some nationalities need a transit visa. Check the current list at imi.gov.my.

Required Documents (eVisa)

• Valid passport (6+ months validity)
• Passport-sized digital photo
• Return or onward flight bookings
• Proof of accommodation
• Bank statement (proof of funds)
• eVisa fee payment (MYR 200)

Visa Fees

How to Apply

1. Check if you need a visa at imi.gov.my
2. For eVisa: apply at evisa.imi.gov.my
3. For eNTRI: apply online via the Expatriate Services Division portal
4. For visa-free: simply arrive with valid passport and qualifying travel documents

Official Links

• Immigration Department of Malaysia
• Expatriate Services Division — Work Passes

Who Is Visa-Exempt?

Citizens of USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, EU member states, most ASEAN nations, and many others receive visa-free entry for 30–90 days. Full list at imi.gov.my.

Always verify current visa rules on official government sites before travel.