malaysia tourist visa process

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Malaysia tourist visa: Visa types, requirements and application procedure

Updated: February 4, 2023

Malaysia tourist visa requirements are fairly easy to understand. Most nationalities are exempt from a tourist visa. Rest can obtain an eVisa or Visa on Arrival.

Currently, there are 5 different visa options available to enter Malaysia as a tourist.

• Visa Exemption: 167 nationalities are visa exempt for stays up to 90 days
• Visa on Arrival: 2 nationalities are eligible to obtain Visa on Arrival for stays up to 15 days
• eVISA: 34 nationalities can obtain eVisa for stays up to 30 days
• Transit Without Visa (TWOA): 9 nationalities are eligible to obtain TWOA for 120 hours (5 days)
• Visa from the embassy: 35 nationalities require a pre-approved visa from the Malaysian embassy prior to arrival

Table of Contents

MALAYSIA TOURIST VISA REQUIREMENTS BY NATIONALITY

Minimum passport validity required to enter Malaysia as a tourist

The minimum passport validity required to enter Malaysia is 6 months.

VISA EXEMPT nationalities

90-day entry.

• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Saudi Arabia
• Sint Maarten
• South Africa
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• Turkmenistan
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States

30-day entry

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Marshall Islands
• North Macedonia
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Sao Tome and Principe
• Sierra Leone
• Solomon Islands
• South Sudan
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• Timor-Leste
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Vatican City

14-day entry

Visa on arrival eligible nationalities, 15-day, single-entry, evisa eligible nationalities, 30-day, single-entry.

• Afghanistan
• Burkina Faso
• Central African Republic
• Congo, Dem. Rep. of
• Congo Rep. of
• Equatorial Guinea
• Guinea – Bissau
• Ivory Coast

VISA REQUIRED nationalities

• Congo Dem. Rep.
• Cote d’Ivoire
• Guinea-Bissau
• North Korea

TRANSIT VISA EXEMPT nationalities

A Malaysia transit visa is NOT REQUIRED if

• You are NOT leaving the airport and
• Continuing to the next destination with the same flight/airline

TRANSIT WITHOUT VISA (TWOV) nationalities

120-hour (5-day), single-entry, visa requirement for cruise passengers.

A Malaysia visa is REQUIRED to disembark the cruise at Malaysian ports.

MALAYSIA VISA EXEMPTION

Malaysia has a liberal visa policy offering visa exemption to over 160+ nationalities. Most nationalities can stay up to 30 days without requiring a tourist visa. About one-third of these nationalities can stay up to 90 days without a visa. 

Entry permission

As a visa-exempt nationality, you can stay either 30 days or 90 days depending on your nationality.

Documents to carry

Apart from your passport, you must also carry the below documents in print or on your smartphone.

• Proof of return or onward travel (your return or onward flight/bus/train ticket)
• Proof of accommodation (a hotel reservation for the first few days)
• Proof of funds to sustain your trip (some cash or ATM/Credit cards)

If you are traveling on a one-way ticket, make sure to get proof of return ticket from an onward ticket agency such as onwardticket.com .

MALAYSIA VISA ON ARRIVAL

Malaysia Visa on Arrival (VOA) is available to China and India passport holders arriving from Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia or Brunei with a valid visa from those countries. 

Visa on Arrival is granted only for stays up to 15 days. There are some specific rules to follow for Malaysia Visa on Arrival.

Visa on Arrival can be obtained at the following international airports, land borders and seaports.

• Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA and KLIA2)
• Penang International Airport, Penang
• Langkawi International Airport, Kedah
• Senai International Airport, Johor Bahru
• Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah International Airport, Selangor
• Kota Kinabalu International Airport, Sabah
• Kuching International Airport, Sarawak
• Miri International Airport, Sarawak

Land borders

• Sultan Abu Bakar Complex (KSAB), Second Link, Johor Bahru
• Bukit Kayu Hitam Immigration, Customs, Quarantine & Security (ICQS) Complex, Kedah
• Sungai Tujoh Immigration Cont rol Post, Sarawak
• Labuan International Ferry Terminal Immigration Control

Validity of Malaysia Visa on Arrival

Visa on Arrival is valid for 15 days, single entry only. 

How long can you stay in Malaysia with Visa on Arrival

Malaysia Visa on Arrival allows you to stay up to 15 days. 

Passport validity required for Visa on Arrival

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months at the time of obtaining Visa on Arrival.

Documents required

You must present the following documents.

• Original passport
• Valid visa from the arriving country (Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia or Brunei)
• Confirmed return or onward ticket
• Proof of financial ability of at least 500 MYR (must be in the form of cash or credit/debit card)

The Visa on Arrival fee is 200 MYR, payable only with a credit/debit card. 

MALAYSIA E-VISA

Malaysia eVISA application is online and you can apply from anywhere in the world. 

If you are applying from a country other than your country of passport, you must provide proof of residency in that country. The Malaysia eVISA portal tracks the IP address. Therefore the eVISA application knows where you are applying from and expects proof of residency from that country. 

If you reside in Singapore, Israel or North Korea, you cannot apply for Malaysia eVISA. You must apply for a Malaysian visa from your nearest Malaysian high commission. 

Also, you cannot apply for a Malaysia eVISA when you are already physically present in Malaysia. If you are already in Malaysia on an eVISA or any other type of visa, you must first exit Malaysia. Then you can apply for a fresh eVISA from your country of passport or legal residence. 

Malaysia eVISAs are single-entry only, valid for 3 months. Visa extensions are not allowed.

Word of caution on Malaysia eVISA Scams

There are fake websites posing as “official websites” and charging three or four times the visa fee. Do not fall prey to such scams. 

There is ONLY ONE OFFICIAL Malaysia eVISA website. The URL is below.

OFFICIAL Malaysia eVISA website: https://malaysiavisa.imi.gov.my/evisa/evisa.jsp  

Validity of Malaysia eVISA

The validity of Malaysia eVISA is 3 months from the day of issue. You can stay in Malaysia for either 15 days or 30 days depending on your nationality.

When to apply for E-Visa

You can apply for your Malaysia eVISA up to 1 month in advance. The E-Visa processing takes 2 working days. But due to high demand, the processing is currently taking much longer than 2 working days. I highly recommend applying for your eVISA at least a month prior to your travel date.

Passport validity required for eVISA

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your expected date of arrival in Malaysia.

How long can you stay in Malaysia on eVISA

Stay granted on a Malaysia eVISA depends on the nationality. Refer to the below table for how long you can stay with an eVISA. 

eVISA application process

Malaysia eVISA is a simple application. Takes about 30 minutes to fill out and submit. The approval process takes about 2 working days. 

IMPORTANT After the approval, you must print your eVISA. A soft copy of eVISA on your phone is not accepted. The immigration officer will stamp the port and date of entry on your eVISA print. You may be asked to show this eVISA print with the stamp at the time of leaving the country. Therefore, carrying a print of your eVISA is very much necessary. 

You will need the following documents.

• Digital passport-size photo
• Passport ID/data page
• Confirmed round-trip flight tickets
• Hotel bookings
• Other supporting documents (ex: proof of residence, etc.)

IMPORTANT Even though the eVISA portal accepts onward tickets to your next destination after Malaysia, the Malaysian embassy/consulate responsible for processing your eVISA will later ask for complete round-trip flight tickets. That means, flight tickets originating and ending in your home country or country of residence are required.

For example, if your home country or country of residence is India and your trip is India-Singapore-Malaysia-Thailand-India, you must upload all flight tickets starting from India and ending in India. If you submit just the inbound and outbound tickets (ex: Singapore-Malaysia-Thailand), you will be later asked to upload your full itinerary.

Photo requirements

The digital photograph must meet the following specifications.

• Must be 35mm x 50mm in dimensions
• Must be on a pure white background
• Must have been taken within the last 6 months 
• Full face must be in the center without any headgear or glasses
• Must be a professional passport photo taken in a studio
• Cellphone photos, selfies and cropped photos are not accepted

The eVISA fee is 50 MYR for India, 30 MYR for China and 20 MYR for all other nationalities. A detailed table with eVISA fee is below.

Apart from the eVISA fee, there is also a processing charge and service charge. 

• Processing charge: 105 MYR
• Service Charge: 0.8% of total transaction value

Processing time

Malaysia eVISA processing time is 2 working days. But due to the high amount of applications, processing times are often longer than 2 working days. I highly recommend applying at least a month in advance.

IMPORTANT In certain cases, the Malaysian embassy/consulate responsible for processing your application may demand additional documentation or an in-person or video interview, which might further delay your processing. 

Application tracking

You can track your Malaysia eVISA application within your dashboard on the Malaysia eVISA portal. You will also be notified of any changes in status via email. Your application can have any of the 6 statuses.

• NEW APPLICATION: Your eVISA application hasn’t been submitted yet
• IN PROGRESS: Your eVISA application is in process
• APPROVED: Your eVISA application has been approved
• REJECTED: Your eVISA application has been refused
• REQUEST DOCUMENT/DATA AMENDMENT: You must correct the information or upload additional documents
• REQUEST INTERVIEW: You must attend an in-person interview

Request Document/Data Amendment

If your Malaysia eVISA application requires any additional information or documentation, the Malaysian embassy/consulate will notify you of the list of additional documents needed. You will be given 5 days to upload the requested documents. 

Once you have uploaded all the requested documents, the processing time will be reset. It will take 2 more working days from that point onward for the processing of your visa.

In certain instances, the Malaysian embassy/consulate may request additional documents multiple times until the embassy/consulate is satisfied with your documents.  

Request Interview

If your eVisa application requires an additional proof, the Malaysian embassy/consulate will simply set up a “request for interview” appointment on your behalf.

This can be annoying as you have no choice in selecting your date/time for the in-person interview. I have seen only a handful of cases where was requested to appear in person for an interview at the embassy or consulate.

NOTE There is no option to change the date/time of the appointment. If you cannot make it to the appointment, I suggest applying for the visa again on the eVISA portal.

Priority visa service (optional, not applicable to all visa guides)

Unfortunately, there is no priority visa processing. The visa process usually takes 2 working days. It can take much longer in some instances. So apply at least one month prior to your trip.

Customer service (optional, not applicable to all visa guides)

You can use the live chat support on Malaysia eVISA portal to ask any questions or inquire about the status of your visa application. The chat agents are available 24×7. 

MALAYSIA TOURIST VISA FROM THE EMBASSY

Validity of malaysia tourist visa.

The validity of a Malaysia tourist visa is 3 months for a single entry and 6 months for a multiple entry visa.

How long can you stay in Malaysia on a tourist visa

You can stay up to 30 days in Malaysia on a tourist visa. Passport holders from the African continent can only stay up to 14 days. 

Passport validity required for tourist visa

Blank pages needed in the passport for tourist visa.

You must have at least 2 blank pages in your passport for the tourist visa. One page for the visa sticker and one page for entry and exit stamps.

• Completed Malaysia visa application form ( download here )
• 2 photocopies of the passport bio page
• 2 passport-size photos (3.5cm X 5cm)
• Round trip flight tickets (return ticket must be within 30 days of arrival)
• Bank statement
• Invitation letter (if any)
• Payment of visa fee
• Yellow fever vaccination if applicable ( these countries require a yellow fever vaccination)

The photo must meet the following requirements.

• Must be of size 3.5cm X 5cm
• Must be in color with white background
• Must be the latest, taken in the last 6 months

The visa fee is anywhere from 6 MYR (about $1.5 USD) to 50 MYR (about $12 USD) depending on the country of your passport.

Please refer to the Malaysia Immigration Portal for the current visa fee for your nationality. 

The tourist visa processing time is about 3-5 working days.

TWOV (TRANSIT WITHOUT VISA) TRANSIT PASS

Transit Without Visa (TWOV) is for those passengers that are transiting via Malaysia but would like to leave the airport and enter Malaysia for a limited amount of time.

TWOV is available at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA1 and KLIA 2) only. TWOV is NOT available at any other airport, land border or seaport in Malaysia.

Issuing of TWOV transit pass is at the discretion of the immigration officer at the airport.

TWOV is available to the following nationalities only.

• GROUP 1: India, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka
• GROUP 2: Bhutan, China, Myanmar, Nepal and Vietnam

TWOV requirements for GROUP 1: India, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka

• Must hold a single/multiple-entry visa or residence permit from Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Taiwan or the USA
• Must enter and exit KLIA1 or KLIA2 with Malaysian Airlines, Air Asia and Malindo Air only
• Must hold a confirmed (with e-ticket number) flight ticket to your country of passport or to a third country within 120 hours

TWOV requirements for GROUP 2: Bhutan, China, Myanmar, Nepal and Vietnam

• Can enter KLIA1/KLIA2 with any airline but must exit KLIA1/KLIA2 with Malaysian Airlines or Air Asia only

NOTE If you are transiting via Malaysia and not leaving the airport, then you do not need a TWOV transit pass. TWOV transit pass is necessary only if you plan to leave the airport.  

Validity of TWOV transit pass

The validity of Malaysia TWOV transit pass is 120 hours (5 days) from the date and time of issue at the port of entry in Malaysia. 

How long can you stay in Malaysia on a TWOV transit pass

You can stay up to 120 hours (5 days) in Malaysia on a TWOV transit pass. Extensions are not allowed.

Passport validity required for TWOV transit pass

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival in Malaysia

• A valid single/multiple-entry visa or a residence permit from Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Taiwan or the USA ( *this requirement is applicable to India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka nationals only )
• A confirmed (with e-ticket number) flight ticket to your country of passport or to a third country within 120 hours
• Proof of financial ability of 500 MYR in the form of cash or credit/debit cards 

TWOV transit pass is issued FREE of cost to all eligible passport holders. 

ENTRY AND EXIT PROCEDURE AT THE AIRPORT

Entering malaysia by air.

If you are obtaining Visa on Arrival or Transit Without Visa (TWOV), head to Visa on Arrival (VOA) section. You must produce all the required documentation and fee in order to obtain your VOA or TWOV. 

If you are visa-exempt or hold an eVisa or a visa from the embassy, head straight to the immigration and customs. Present your eVisa print along with your original passport. 

You may be asked what you plan to do in Malaysia, how many days you plan to stay, etc. You may be asked to show your return/onward flight ticket and hotel booking. If you are traveling on a one-way ticket, make sure to get proof of return ticket from an onward ticket agency such as onwardticket.com .

Leaving Malaysia by air

You will go through passport control on exit. Exit formalities are fairly quick but make sure to account for a bit of extra time for this. No questions will be asked unless you have overstayed your visa.

Malaysia tourist visa requirements are easy to understand. Though there are many types of visas, the requirements for each of them are very clear. Most nationalities are exempt from visas. Rest can obtain eVisa or Visa on Arrival. 

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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Do I need a visa to visit Malaysia?

Feb 19, 2022 • 5 min read

Entering the Federal Territory Mosque in Kuala Lumpur © Patrick Foto / Getty Images

Malaysia has a reputation as the easy country for travel in Southeast Asia, and that certainly applies to the visa situation. Citizens of many countries are granted visa-free entry on arrival, meaning there’s no complicated paperwork standing between you and Malaysia’s beaches, jungles and food markets. 

Even better, the relaxed visa situation makes for easy detours to neighboring Singapore , Indonesia , Brunei and Thailand , though you’ll need to check the latest Covid restrictions before you travel. Here’s everything you need to know about visas for Malaysia. 

Can I travel to Malaysia without a visa? 

In normal circumstances, nationals of most countries in Europe, the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan (and many other countries) can visit Malaysia without a visa for a stay of up to 90 days. This applies to entries by air, land and sea. 

In practice, 90-day stays are usually given as the default if you arrive in Malaysia by air, but if you enter by land or by sea, you may be given a 30-day entry stamp unless you specifically ask for a longer permit. It’s worth doing this, as extending your stay may not be possible once the stamp is issued. 

On arrival, your passport will be stamped and you’ll need to fill out an arrival/departure card; just make sure your passport is valid for six months from the date of entry. Technically, the authorities can ask for proof of sufficient funds for your stay and a ticket for onward travel from Malaysia, but this is not usually requested. 

Some countries are granted a shorter stay in Malaysia

Citizens of Russia and many neighboring countries are granted a stay of one month on arrival, and similar rules apply to nationals of many countries in Africa and Central and South America. For longer stays, you’ll need to apply for a visa. 

Note that citizens of Israel can only enter Malaysia with written permission from Malaysia’s Ministry of Home Affairs , which rules out easy overland trips from Thailand to Singapore.

What are the visa requirements for Malaysia? 

If your home country is not on the visa-free travel list, or you’re planning a long stay, you’ll need to apply for a visa. However, be aware that the only visas valid for more than 90 days are the multi-entry visas reserved for business travelers.

Different rules apply to different countries. Tourist E-Visas lasting up to 30 days are issued to citizens of Serbia & Montenegro, China, India, and many other nations in South Asia and Africa. See the Immigration Department of Malaysia website for details of how to apply and a full list of approved countries. 

Other nationals will need to apply for a visa the old-fashioned way at a Malaysian embassy or consulate in their home country. The Malaysian Ministry of Home Affairs has a full list of Malaysian missions overseas; contact your local embassy for advice on the application process. 

Business and transit visas for Malaysia

For business trips, it’s usually fine to enter the country as if you were a tourist, but you are not permitted to work for any Malaysian company. Business travelers can also apply for long-duration multiple-entry visas, but the application process is complex – Malaysian embassies can provide details. 

Transit visas are also available, but as so many people can enter Malaysia without a visa, they’re rarely needed.   

What are the rules for travel to East Malaysia? 

Sabah and Sarawak – the two Malaysian states on the island of Borneo – retain a certain degree of control over their borders. Even if you arrive from Peninsular Malaysia, you must go through passport control and have your passport stamped. This also applies when traveling between Sabah and Sarawak via Brunei, and when traveling to the federal district of Pulau Labuan. 

When entering Sabah or Sarawak from another part of Malaysia, your new visa stamp will be valid only for the remainder of the period you were granted when you first entered Malaysia. If Malaysian Borneo is your first port of call in Malaysia, you’ll get the full, uninterrupted 30 or 90 days. 

Extending a Malaysia visa 

While the entry procedures for Malaysia can seem very relaxed, it’s important not to overstay your visa or the visa-free entry period. If you do, you can be detained, fined, deported, and blacklisted – it’s no laughing matter. 

In the past, it has been possible to extend a 30-day entry up to 90 days through the Immigration Department of Malaysia , but don’t rely on this being possible with the pandemic muddying the waters. Extending a 90-day stay is out of the question. 

The good news is that it is possible to prolong your stay in Malaysia by hopping across the border to a neighboring country. When you re-enter, you’ll be granted a new 30- or 90- day entry stamp on arrival. There’s rarely a problem if you do this once or twice, but the authorities may take a dim view if you repeat the so-called “visa run” too many times. 

On the peninsula, the easiest place to leave and re-enter Malaysia is Johor Bahru ; local buses buzz across the causeway to Singapore day and night. The other easy option is Pulau Langkawi , which has ferries to Satun (year-round) and Ko Lipe (November to May) in Thailand. 

Alternatively, consider crossing the Thai border by train at Padang Besar, or take the ferry to Sumatra in Indonesia from Melaka or Johor Bahru. In East Malaysia, you can cross by bus or boat into Kalimantan in Indonesia, or make the easy hop into Brunei by bus from either Miri or Kota Kinabalu , or by boat from Pulau Labuan. 

You may also like:  12 best things you have to do in Singapore The 15 best things to do in Malaysia: Mountains, marine life, and amazing apes 'Ghosts are a big part of life in Malaysia': healing one year after losing my parents to COVID

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Malaysia Tourist Visa: Visa Requirements, Application Process, And Visa Fees

Last Updated : 16 Apr 2024

Last Updated : 16 Apr 2024 at

Are you planning on visiting Malaysia soon?

Imagine sitting on a pristine white sand beach, watching the waves with lush rainforests behind you. If paradise had a name, it would be Malaysia.

This great country offers so much, and with a Malaysia Tourist Visa.

In this post, I'll guide you through the application process, required documents, and anything else that seems important.

Let's get started:

Do I Need A Visa For Malaysia?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty information, here are the two questions you need answers to.

Do US Citizens Need A Malaysia Visa?

Can i visit malaysia with a us green card.

No. US citizens don't need a Tourist Visa to enter Malaysia. However, a valid US passport is required. You don't need a visa if you are coming for business or tourism for 90 days or less. Immigration officials will place an entry stamp, known as a social visit pass (visa), in your passport authorizing a stay of up to 90 days.

Yes. A notarized photocopy of the Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) must be valid for at least 6 months from the travel date.

How To Get The Malaysia Visa Effortlessly?

Applying for a visa can be easy, especially if an app like Atlys is around. You must download the app from your smartphone, enter your travel details, and the rest will be taken care of.

Sounds amazing, right? Well, what are you waiting for? Apply now!

Overview Of The Malaysia Tourist Visa

Before we start the application process, there are basic things that you need to know.

What Is A Malaysia Tourist Visa?

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A Malaysian Tourist Visa is an official document or stamp authorizing foreign nationals to enter Malaysia for leisure and tourism. The Tourist visa can also be referred to as a Visitor's Visa. A Malaysian Tourist Visa is valid for 3 months, making it a short-term visa.

The Immigration Officer at the entry checkpoints will issue travelers a Pass. Malaysia Passes are an endorsement in your passport that states that you can enter the city and how long you are allowed to stay in Malaysia.

You can think of this type of visa as a pre-entry requirement. You will need the permission of the Immigration Officer to enter Malaysia.

As a US citizen, you don't need a visa for Malaysia, you can travel to Malaysia with a valid passport, and you'll get a social pass when you arrive.

A short-Term Social Visit Pass for Malaysia is the type of social pass you'll receive if you travel for tourism, business, or social visit purposes, among others.

You'll receive the social pass at the Malaysian entry point upon arrival. A Pass is a stamp on the traveler's passport which allows you to remain in Malaysia for a specific time.

As a US citizen or a green card holder, your social pass is valid for 90 days . The validity of the short-term Social Pass is decided by the immigration officers. The social pass is valid for 90 days, but you can stay for 30 days.

American citizens don't need a visa for Malaysia if they intend to stay for 90 days or less. You'll have to carry your passport with the social pass stamp on it all the time.

Depending on your nationality, you will have to apply for a Malaysia Tourist Visa. Some countries are lucky enough to travel to Malaysia without a visa. Suppose you are not from any of the visa waiver countries.

In that case, you will have to apply for an electronic visa or a paper visa. A paper visa is when you go and submit your visa in person at a Malaysian Embassy or Consulate. US citizens can travel to Malaysia without a visa.

Only citizens of the following countries can apply for a visa to Malaysia:

B angladesh, Bhutan C hina, I ndia, M yanmar, Montenegro, N epal, P akistan, S ri Lanka, Serbia.

The Malaysian Government issues three (3) visa types to Foreign Citizens.

Single Entry Visa This is issued to Foreign citizens who enter Malaysia for social or business purposes. It is normally valid for a Single Entry and for a period not exceeding three (3) months from the date of issuance.

Multiple Entry Visa This is issued to Foreign citizens who enter Malaysia for business or intergovernmental affairs. It is normally valid for three (3) to twelve (12) months from the date of issuance. Citizens of India and the People's Republic of China, who wish to enter Malaysia for social visits, are eligible to apply for a Multiple Entry Visa.

Transit Visa This is issued to Foreign citizens who enter Malaysia while in transit to another country.

The Malaysian visa fee for a single entry and multiple entries is RM 6.00 and RM 20 for the transit visa. The cost for the visa stays the same for many countries, but it changes in certain countries . So check the visa fee cost before applying.

The Malaysian Tourist Visa processing time depends on the embassy or Consulate you applied at. However, it usually takes a week, on average 5-7 business days . If your application is approved, you must collect your passport with the visa, allowing you to travel to Malaysia.

Once you submit your application for your Malaysian eVisa, it will be processed within 48 hours .

However, suppose there are any complications in the online application system, like crashes or maintenance. In that case, the processing time may be delayed.

If your visa is approved, you will receive it via email. You can print the visa on an A4 page and take it with you when you travel to Malaysia. The Immigration Officers will also accept a digital version (on your phone or laptop), but I recommend printing it.

The Malaysia visa is valid for 3 months for Single entry. You can stay for 30 days from the day of arrival. This means that you are only allowed to enter Malaysia once.

No. You can't extend a Malaysian Tourist Visa. If you need to stay in Malaysia longer than your visa allows, you must apply for a multiple-entry visa.

The multiple-entry visa is only issued for business and governmental purposes. So if you were wondering how to extend a tourist visa in Malaysia, you can't.

What Is The Requirement For The Malaysia Visa?

It's important to understand visa requirements before you start your application process. In this section, I will talk about Malaysia's requirements:

Who Is Eligible To Apply For A Malaysia Evisa?

What are the document requirements for malaysia visa, what are the passport photo requirements.

What Documents Are Needed at Entry Checkpoints Into Malaysia?

You can save yourself from the tiresome process of checking your eligibility and use Atlys to apply for your Malaysia visa easily and fast. Only citizens of the following countries can apply for a visa to Malaysia:

You can apply for an eVisa from anywhere in the world (except Malaysia and Singapore). Moreover, you can apply for your eVisa even if you are not in your country of nationality.

You will need to gather the required documents for your visa application. I recommend reviewing the Malaysia visa requirements and gathering the documents before starting your application. Just in case you need to renew your passport or need other documents that may take a while.

You will need the following documents:

Two copies of your completed Malaysia visa application form.

A valid passport. Your passport should be valid for at least six months from the date you enter Malaysia.

Two passport-size photographs of yourself are in line with the Malaysia photo requirements.

A flight itinerary with a return flight ticket.

Proof of accommodation in Malaysia or hotel bookings.

Letter of invitation from your host or sponsor (only if you are going for a social visit)

No Objection Letter from your educational institution or employer.

Bank statements to prove you have sufficient funds to cover the costs of your trip.

Proof that you paid the Malaysian Visa fee (payslip).

Yellow Fever vaccination certificate if you travel from a country at risk for yellow Fever transmission or if you visited such a country for more than 12 hours.

If you travel with dependent children, you must provide their birth certificates.

The Malaysian Embassy may request additional documentation.

The photos you use to apply for your Malaysian Tourist Visa must meet specific requirements . Something as little as incorrect passport photos can cause them to deny your visa.

The passport photo requirements are:

Your photo must be 35 mm x 50 mm.

Your face must be centered and take about 30mm-35mm of the picture, height-wise.

There must be about a 5 mm distance from the top of your head to the top of your picture.

There must be 5 mm-10 mm from your chin to the bottom of the picture.

The picture must be taken in a studio.

The photo must be taken in front of a white background without patterns.

The picture should not be enhanced or edited in any way.

The picture must not be edited to cover any distinguishing features like a scar or a birthmark.

If there is a red-eye in the picture, the picture must be retaken. Don't edit it out.

The picture must be printed out on high-quality picture paper. A scanned picture or a photocopy will not be accepted.

What Documents Are Needed At Entry Checkpoints Into Malaysia?

So after you have applied for your visa and are now in Malaysia, they'll need documents at the entry point. You'll need to show them the following documents:

Print out your eVISA.

Proof of sufficient funds (Cash / Traveller's Cheques / Debit or Credit Card(s)) to cover your expenses while in Malaysia.

A valid and authentic return ticket.

Proof of accommodation.

How Do I Apply For My Malaysian Tourist Visa?

The Malaysia tourist visa is great for US citizens because it gives you many options on how to get it. Here is how:

Ways To Apply For The Malaysia Visa

How to apply for the malaysia evisa.

There are three ways to apply for a visa depending on your nationality, there are three ways you can apply for your Malaysian Tourist Visa:

Finish your application insanely fast. Atlys takes care of everything, from application to approval.

Via a Malaysian Representative Office in the US (The Embassy or a Consulate) or an authorized Visa Application Center for international travel. The embassy will be able to assist you with the visa services that you need.

Official Portal of the Immigration Department of Malaysia You can start your Malaysia visa application process through the online portal.

If you apply for your visa using Atlys , you won't need to worry about all the nitty-gritty details. Atlys makes the whole visa application process effortless

The process is straightforward! Just follow my step-by-step guide, and you'll be registered in no time. US nationals don't have to apply for a Malaysian visa but for the nationals who need to apply for a Malaysia visa, here is how to apply:

Step 1: Go To The Online Website

Go to the online visa facility. At the top of the page, you will see that you must select your citizenship and the country you currently live in. You also need to choose the country you are going to.

Step 2: Choose Your Visa

After you click to apply for your visa, you must choose which visa you want to apply for. The eNTRI (Electronic Travel Registration and Information) is only available for Chinese and Indian Nationals. If you are not from India or China, you will choose the 30-day visa. After you choose, click to proceed with the application.

Step 3: Fill Out The Application Form

The next step would be to fill out the application form completely. The application form includes personal details and your permanent address. Below the application form, you'll see that you must upload documents (passport and photograph). It is optional to upload these documents while applying. You can email these documents to [email protected] .

Step 4: Submit And Pay

After you complete the form, you can choose whether you want to submit the application and add another applicant: or if you want to submit and proceed to the payment. You can submit up to 5 applications if you apply on behalf of dependent children or other dependents.

You can proceed with the payment if you don't want to submit any more applications.

After you pay the visa fee (keep your credit card on hand), your application will be processed.

You will receive an email where you need to verify all your information.However, paying for the visa fees on the government portals can be a hassle. To make paying for the Malaysia visa fees easy, I highly recommend using Atlys . It will also simplify the Malaysia visa application process.

How To Check Your Malaysia Visa Status?

For the forieng nationals who need to apply for a Malaysia, after you have applied here is how you can check your Malaysia visa status.

Step 1 you’ll have to go to Malaysia check status portal

Step 2 you have to enter your passport number

Step 3 Enter your sticker number

Step 4 Choose if it’s for an Evisa or eNTRI

Step 5 Enter Captcha

When you are done you can click check then you’ll be able to verify or check visa status.

Happy Traveling

Now that you know everything about the Malaysian Tourist Visa, you can live your dream life in paradise! Enjoy the sandy beaches and the rich culture Malaysia has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. From August 1, 2022, non-Malaysians, including U.S. citizens, can visit Malaysia.

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• Malaysia visa

Malaysia is located in Southeast Asia that is divided into two noncontiguous regions.

• Peninsular Malaysia, also known as West Malaysia
• East Malaysia

Putrajaya, the country’s administrative center, is about 16 miles (25 kilometers) south of the capital of Malaysia. The capital, Kuala Lumpur, is in the western part of the peninsula, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) from the coast.

Malaysia attracts many international travelers and tourists to the country every year. In 2020, they had 4.33 million visitors who brought nearly 12.7 million RM (Malaysian ringgit is the Malaysian currency, nearly USD 0,24).

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Malaysia visa.

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Malaysian Pass

Malaysia country has different rules for giving entry permission to foreigners. Having a Malaysia visa is not enough. A Malaysian visa only allows its holder to travel to Malaysia. Upon arrival, the Immigration Officers analyze all the applicants at the entry point. Travelers must have an interview, and then the immigration officers decide whether those travelers can enter Malaysia or not.

The Immigration Officers issue a certain Malaysian Pass to each traveler based on their travel purpose. The traveler can stay in Malaysia with these Malaysia Passes. These passes also include the duration of each applicant’s stay.

Note: Even if a Malaysian visa is not required, an applicant must still have a Malaysian Pass stamped in their passport and pass through an immigration check at the entry point.

Applying for Malaysia Visas

Foreign nationals can use one of the following methods in order to apply for a Malaysia visa:

Not all nationalities can apply for a Malaysian visa online. Malaysia visas can typically be obtained from Malaysian Representative Offices abroad or a visa application agency approved by Malaysia.

Malaysia Visa Application process (manually)

Applying for Malaysian visas comprises the following steps:

• Finding a Malaysian Representative Office.
• Downloading the application form.
• Completing the documents file.
• Submitting the application and the documents.
• Waiting for processing to finish.

Applying for a Malaysian Visa Online

Malaysian authorities offer citizens of certain countries Malaysian eVisas. Applicants can get a Malaysia eVisa online once it is issued. Applicants must, however, print this visa as it will not be attached to their passport.

Nationals of the following countries can apply for a Malaysia eVisa:

In addition, an eNTRI (Electronic Travel Registration and Information) can only be obtained by Indian and Chinese nationals.

Malaysian Visas and Passes

A foreigner with a Malaysia Visa can travel to Malaysia regardless of the reason for their visit, whereas a Malaysia Pass specifies the reason for the visit. Some Passes are available when applicants arrive at the port of entry, while others can be obtained before they apply for a visa. Here is a list of various Malaysia Passes:

• Malaysia Transit Visa

Malaysia Tourist Visa

Malaysia student visa, short term social visit pass, employment pass, temporary employment pass, malaysia professional pass, long term social visit pass.

• Special Pass
• Dependant Pass
• Residence Pass

Malaysia Permanent Residency

Malaysia transit visas.

Travelers can transit through Malaysian airports and enter the country. In addition, nationals of certain countries can transit through Malaysia without obtaining a Malaysia transit visa.

If you are an international traveler who falls into the following categories, you will need a Malaysia transit visa:

• If a national from a country that requires a Malaysia visa is forced to transit in Malaysia for more than 24 hours.
• If a foreign visitor needs to go through immigration.
• If they are required to transit through a Malaysian airport that is not the Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

A tourist visa for Malaysia is referred to as a Single Entry Visa. This means that tourists are only permitted to enter the country once. Multiple-entry visas are longer in terms of validity, but they are rarely issued for tourism.

Furthermore, a tourist visa to Malaysia is a Visa Without Reference. Tourists do not need permission from the Malaysian Immigration Department to receive their visas. Instead, the Malaysian Representative Office Abroad is required to issue tourist visas.

Tourist visas in Malaysia are not a guarantee of entry because they are considered pre-entry requirements. Tourist visas allow only international tourists to visit Malaysia and must be used to enter the country.

A Malaysia Student Visa is required for international students who wish to pursue their educational goals in Malaysia.

International students who wish to visit Malaysia must first obtain the appropriate Pass for their intended travel destination. So, in order to study in Malaysia, you’ll need a Malaysia Student Pass.

Foreigners who plan to travel for tourism, business, and social visit purposes can obtain Malaysia’s Short Term Social Visit Pass. However, keep in mind that you cannot take up any work while in Malaysia with a Short Term Social Visit Pass. This Malaysian pass can be obtained online and in person.

Malaysia work visa

A foreigner who wishes to begin working in Malaysia must first obtain a Malaysian work visa. Finding a Malaysian company and getting hired there is the first step in obtaining a Malaysia work visa. Following that, the employer is required to complete the majority of the work and apply for a Malaysia work permit.

To begin working in Malaysia, the authorities in charge of issuing work permits for foreign workers must approve the application. Different types of Malaysian work permits can then be issued based on the applicant’s profession and the duration of work.

The Employment Pass is a work permit issued by the Malaysian government. Before receiving an Employment Pass for Malaysia, the hiring employer must obtain approval from an authorized body. This pass is divided into three categories.

A Malaysia temporary employment pass allows semi-skilled or unskilled foreign workers to travel to Malaysia and work in specific sectors. Malaysian temporary employment passes are issued in two categories by the Malaysian government. A Malaysia temporary employment pass holder must also meet age, nationality, and gender requirements specific to their profession.

The conditions of the Malaysia professional visit pass differ from those of the other types of Malaysian work permits. Professional visit pass holders are not employed by a Malaysian company or organization. In other words, a company pays professional visitors for a limited time in exchange for the services they provide to a company in Malaysia.

Dependent Pass

A Malaysia Dependent Pass is issued to foreign nationals who have come to Malaysia to work or study. In addition, these expats can obtain dependent passes for their relatives and bring them to Malaysia.

Malaysia Long-Term Social Visit Passes are typically issued to spouses or family members of Malaysians or foreigners who are residents of Malaysia, hence the name “spouse visa.” This pass is only available to the families of Employment Pass holders and spouses of Malaysian citizens and foreign nationals in need of medical attention.

Malaysia Special Pass

The Malaysian Immigration Department issues a Malaysia Special Pass, which allows foreign nationals to stay in Malaysia for longer even if their employment or student visas are not renewed or if they do not leave the country when their visas expire.

Malaysia Residence Pass

The Malaysia Residence Pass-Talent, or RP-T, is a relatively new type of work permit in Malaysia. A Malaysia Residence Pass-Talent is a work visa that allows you to stay in the country for up to ten years.

Foreign nationals seeking permanent residency in Malaysia must apply through the Malaysian Entry Permit. Under certain conditions, foreign nationals of certain countries and under certain conditions are granted Entry Permits or Malaysia Permanent Residency by the Malaysian government.

How much are the Malaysia visa fees?

A single entry or multiple entry visa costs RM 20 (USD 4,75) from the Malaysian government.

How to pay the Malaysia visa fee?

The payment method varies depending on which Malaysian Representative Office (Embassy or Consulate) you are applying through.

When you appear to submit your application, some Malaysian Representative Offices will require you to pay the Malaysia visa fee in cash. Others will only accept payments in the form of a bank draft made payable to the specific Embassy or Consulate.

The Bottom Line…

Malaysia is a country with huge potential and opportunities. This country offers plenty of visas and Passes for foreign nationals. There are two ways to apply for Malaysian visas; however, online visas and visas on arrival are not available for all countries. Each visa type has its various requirements .

If you want to learn about Malaysian visas and Passes, check our sidebar on the left and get yourself educated.

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Malaysia Vac

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Malaysia is a diverse and vibrant country with a rich tapestry of cultures, stunning natural landscapes, and a wide range of attractions that make it a compelling destination for travellers. Malaysia’s diverse attractions, combined with its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, make it an enticing destination for travelers seeking a well-rounded and memorable experience. Whether you’re interested in cultural exploration, adventure, relaxation, or gastronomic delights, Malaysia has something to offer every type of traveler. In this blog post, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on Malaysia visa process for an Indian national. We’ll walk you through the necessary documents, photo requirements, and the relatively simple application process.

For Indian nationals seeking a Malaysia tourist visa, here’s a list of the essential documents you’ll need:

• Make sure your passport has a validity of at least six months from your intended date of entry into Malaysia.
• Completed Malaysia visa Application Form : Fill out the visa application form accurately and completely.
• Flight Itinerary: Provide a copy of your flight itinerary, which indicates your intended entry and exit dates from Malaysia.
• Passport-Size Photos: Submit passport-sized photographs that meet the specifications outlined by the Malaysian authorities.
• Proof of Financial Capability: You are required to provide evidence of your financial capacity to support your expenses while in Malaysia. This may encompass bank statements, income tax returns, or other pertinent financial records.
• Proof of Accommodation Arrangements: You should furnish documentation confirming your secured lodging arrangements in Malaysia, which can include hotel reservations or an invitation from a host.

The Malaysia tourist visa for Indian nationals typically offers a validity period of 3 months, and it allows for either a single entry or multiple entries, granting a maximum stay of 30 days in Malaysia. This flexibility allows you to plan your trip according to your preferences.

To apply for the Malaysia tourist visa, you have two options:

• Online Application: You can conveniently apply for the visa online using the Atlys platform, streamlining the process and reducing the need for physical visits to an embassy or consulate.
• Traditional Application: Alternatively, you can opt for the traditional method by applying through the Malaysian embassy or consulate in India.

With this information, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on your journey to Malaysia as a tourist, knowing the necessary documents and options for securing your Malaysia visa .

For Indian nationals planning to explore the beautiful country of Malaysia, obtaining a Malaysia tourist visa is a necessity. In this guide, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive overview of the requirements, fees, and application process for securing a Malaysia tourist visa as an Indian citizen. Let’s begin.

Required Documents for Malaysia Tourist Visa for Indian Nationals: To apply for a Malaysia tourist visa, Indian citizens must provide the following documents:

• You will need a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity from your intended date of entry into Malaysia, and please provide two photocopies of your passport.
• A completed visa application form, obtainable online or from the Malaysian embassy or consulate in India. Submit two copies of the form with accurate and complete information.
• Two recent passport-sized photographs that adhere to Malaysian photo requirements. The Atlys passport photo tool can assist with photo specifications.
• Proof of financial means, such as bank statements, an employer’s letter, or other financial documents demonstrating sufficient funds to cover your expenses in Malaysia.
• Evidence of your return flight or onward travel plans from Malaysia.

Documentation confirming your accommodation arrangements within Malaysia, such as hotel reservations or an invitation letter from a Malaysian host. If you’re being sponsored by a Malaysian citizen, please provide their invitation letter and proof of funds amounting to RM2,000 per month or more.

It’s crucial to ensure that all your documents are complete, accurate, and up-to-date, as any discrepancies or errors may result in a delay or rejection of your visa application.

Eligibility for Malaysia Tourist Visa for Indians: To be eligible for a Malaysia tourist visa as an Indian national, you must meet the following criteria:

• Hold a valid Indian passport with a minimum validity of six months from your intended date of entry into Malaysia.
• Possess a confirmed return ticket and sufficient funds to support your stay in Malaysia.
• You must not have any previous criminal convictions or be on the Malaysian authorities’ blacklist.
• Provide all required supporting documents, including a completed visa application form, two recent passport-size photographs, and reservations for accommodations during your stay.
• Convince the Malaysian immigration authorities that your visit to Malaysia is solely for tourism purposes, and you will return to your home country after your visit.
• Malaysia Tourist Visa Photo Requirements: The photo requirements for a Malaysia tourist visa for Indian nationals are as follows:
• To ensure a smooth processing of your visa application, it’s crucial to adhere to the following photo specifications:
• The photo must be in color and taken with a white background.
• It should measure 35mm x 50mm in size.
• The image must be sharp and free from blurriness or pixelation.
• Your face should fill 70-80% of the photo frame.
• Position your face at the center, directly facing the camera.
• Keep your eyes open and clearly visible, with no reflections or glare from glasses.
• Maintain a straight head posture without tilting or turning.
• Unless for religious reasons, avoid wearing any headwear or accessories that obstruct your face.
• Make certain that the photo is no more than six months old.
• Strictly adhering to these photo guidelines is essential to facilitate the processing of your visa application.

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Calls to extend visa-free policy

Monday, 15 Apr 2024

Related News

Implementation of visa-free leads to surge in tourists between Malaysia and China

Push for joint-visa programme, more malaysians heading to middle kingdom.

Picture perfect: The Zhang family from Guangzhou, China, taking a wefie with the Petronas Twin Towers in the background. — YAP CHEE HONG/The Star

PETALING JAYA: As the one-year visa waiver programme between Malaysia and China approaches midpoint, there are growing calls for the initiative to be extended beyond December.

Malaysian Inbound Tourism Association (MITA) president Mint Leong said five months since the implementation of the mutual visa exemption policy with China, there have been positive outcomes.

Leong said there had been a substantial increase in visitors to Kuala Lumpur and Sabah, with the latter experiencing a boost in direct and chartered flights.

She noted a surge in tourists from cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Xiamen during the recent Qing Ming Festival and leading up to Hari Raya.

“As such, the Malaysian government should negotiate an extension with China for a permanent visa-free agreement to further boost our tourism development,” she told The Star.

Leong pointed out that Malaysia has to play “catch up” with Thailand and Singapore which have already established mutual visa-free agreements with China.

She said Malaysia stands to lose its competitive edge in tourism if it does not extend the visa waiver with China, adding that the government has done a lot to promote the tourism sector over the past two years.

Echoing the views, Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) president Loo Kok Seong said the visa-free policy with China should be extended, adding that it would have a direct impact on Malaysia’s tourism and economic growth.

He suggested that Malaysia’s tourist destinations be promoted during peak seasons, like the durian season from May to August, to align with China’s summer holidays.

Loo also called on the Chinese government to consider granting Malaysians a 30-day visa-free entry to further stimulate tourism.

Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) president Datin Christina Toh said she noted the positive effects of the visa-free policy on hotel occupancy rates, driven by the increase in both traditional tour groups and FITs.

She credited the rise to the ease of access and tendency of tech-savvy Chinese tourists to use platforms like Xiaohongshu for travel planning.

“This shift towards independent travel caters to a more authentic, self-guided tourist experience,” she added.

The reciprocal visa-waiver programme allows Malaysians to stay in China for up to 15 days visa-free and for Chinese nationals to remain in Malaysia for up to 30 days. The programme expires in December.

Malaysia is setting its sights on attracting a record five million Chinese visitors in 2024 to accelerate its post-pandemic recovery.

China and Malaysia are reportedly working towards establishing a permanent reciprocal visa-free policy, a move that has already enhanced tourism and cultural exchanges.

Previously, the China Embassy’s minister Zheng Xuefang said China and Malaysia were collaboratively pursuing a reciprocal permanent visa-free agreement.

The establishment of mutual visa waivers has been instrumental in fostering tourism and enhancing interactions between the people of China and Malaysia.

Malaysia has long been a favoured destination for Chinese tourists. Last November, Malaysia welcomed 124,000 visitors from China, with these figures jumping to 168,000 in December, representing a substantial month-on-month increase of 35.1%.

Tags / Keywords: Visa Free , Malaysia , China , Tourism , Tourist

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