India-Malaysia Visa-Free Arrangement: Complete Guide for Indian Travelers
Published: 2024-01-15 · Last updated: February 2026
In December 2023, Malaysia and India signed a bilateral visa-free arrangement allowing Indian passport holders to enter Malaysia without a prior visa for up to 30 days. This was a significant policy change for Indian travelers who previously needed a Malaysia eVisa (MYR 100). This guide explains exactly what changed, what you still need at immigration, and what to do if the policy changes before your travel.
The India-Malaysia Visa-Free Arrangement: Key Facts
| Announced | December 2023 |
| Stay Permitted | 30 days per visit |
| Entry Type | Multiple entries permitted (no limit on how many times you can visit) |
| Application Required | No prior application; simply arrive at the port of entry |
| Valid At | All Malaysian international ports of entry (KLIA, Penang, Johor Bahru, etc.) |
What You Still Need at Malaysia Immigration
Visa-free does not mean no requirements at all. At the Malaysia immigration counter, Indian nationals should have:
- Valid Indian passport (minimum 6 months validity beyond intended departure from Malaysia)
- Return or onward flight ticket out of Malaysia
- Accommodation details for at least the first night (hotel booking or host address)
- Sufficient funds (approximately MYR 1,500-3,000 or equivalent per person for a 30-day stay)
- Clear purpose of visit (tourism, family, business meeting -- not employment)
What Changed vs. Before December 2023
Before the visa-free arrangement, Indian nationals needed to apply for a Malaysia eVisa (MYR 100, ~USD 22) at evisa.imi.gov.my and receive approval before traveling. The eVisa required an advance application of 1-3 business days. The visa-free arrangement eliminates the need for this application entirely -- Indian nationals simply arrive and are stamped in.
What If the Policy Is Suspended?
Bilateral visa-free arrangements between countries can be suspended or modified by either government with relatively short notice. Before booking non-refundable travel, always verify the current status of the arrangement at:
- Malaysia Immigration: imigresen.gov.my
- Ministry of External Affairs India: mea.gov.in (travel advisories)
If the visa-free policy is suspended, the Malaysia eVisa (MYR 100, online at evisa.imi.gov.my) is the fallback route and processes in 1-3 business days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Indian nationals visit Sabah and Sarawak (East Malaysia) on the visa-free arrangement?
Sabah and Sarawak (Malaysian Borneo) have separate state immigration controls. While the federal visa-free arrangement covers peninsular Malaysia and the federal territories, check with Malaysia Immigration specifically for Sabah and Sarawak before traveling to East Malaysia.
Can Indian nationals work in Malaysia on the visa-free entry?
No. The visa-free entry is for tourism, visiting friends/family, and short business meetings only. Employment in Malaysia requires a separate Employment Pass arranged by a Malaysian employer. Working on a social/tourist entry status is illegal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Indians visit Malaysia without visa?
Yes. Since December 2023, Indian passport holders can enter Malaysia visa-free for up to 30 days per visit under the bilateral arrangement. Bring passport, return flight, accommodation details, and sufficient funds.
How long can Indians stay in Malaysia visa-free?
30 days per visit. Cannot be extended from inside Malaysia. Verify the current policy at imigresen.gov.my before booking.
Do Indians need to apply in advance for Malaysia entry?
No. Under the visa-free arrangement, no advance application is needed. Simply arrive at the Malaysian port of entry. If the policy changes, apply for the Malaysia eVisa (MYR 100) at evisa.imi.gov.my.
Last reviewed: February 2026 · About · Report inaccuracy