Malaysia visa-free entry for Indians
By Ganesh ·
Indians can visit Malaysia visa-free for up to 30 days. The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card, what to carry, when you need an eVISA, trip costs and a 6-day plan.
The short answer: Indian citizens can visit Malaysia visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism, under a scheme that began in December 2023 and has since been extended (at the time of writing, to the end of 2026). You still must fill in the free Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online within the three days before you arrive, on the Immigration Department's official site (imigresen-online.imi.gov.my). For stays longer than 30 days or other purposes, apply for a Malaysian eVISA through the official channel.
The visa-free scheme for Indians is time-limited and has been extended in steps. Check the Immigration Department of Malaysia (imi.gov.my) or the High Commission of Malaysia in New Delhi for the current end date before you travel. This guide is general information, not legal advice.
What you need
- Passport valid for at least six months from arrival.
- MDAC submitted online within three days before arrival. It's free.
- Return or onward ticket within 30 days.
- Hotel booking or the address where you'll stay.
- Enough money for your stay, officers can ask.
Many travellers can use the autogates at Kuala Lumpur airport after completing the MDAC; others go to a counter. Follow the signs and keep your MDAC confirmation handy.
Visa-free vs eVISA
| Option | For whom | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Visa-free entry | Indian tourists, up to 30 days | Free; MDAC required |
| eVISA | Longer stays, or if the visa-free scheme doesn't cover your dates | Apply on the official Malaysian eVISA portal before you travel |
What a Malaysia trip costs (approximate)
| Item | Cost per person |
|---|---|
| Visa | Free under the scheme |
| Return flights to Kuala Lumpur (Chennai, Bengaluru, Kochi, Delhi, Mumbai and others) | ₹15,000–₹35,000 |
| Hotels, 3-star | ₹2,500–₹6,000 a night |
| Food and local transport | ₹1,500–₹3,000 a day |
| Langkawi or Penang side trip (domestic flight) | ₹4,000–₹10,000 return |
A 6-day plan
- Days 1–3: Kuala Lumpur. Petronas Towers, Batu Caves, Merdeka Square, Bukit Bintang for food; a half day at Genting Highlands or Putrajaya.
- Days 4–6: Langkawi: cable car and Sky Bridge, island hopping, Pantai Cenang; or Penang for George Town's street art and food.
Add both legs to a Sancharees trip and the day timeline shows your flight to Langkawi and the hotel change on the right day.
When to go
Malaysia is warm and humid all year. The west coast (KL, Penang, Langkawi) is generally drier from December to April; the east coast islands (Perhentian, Redang) close or slow down in the north-east monsoon, roughly November to February.
FAQ
Is Malaysia visa-free for Indians now?
Yes, for up to 30 days, under a scheme that has been extended in steps. Check the current end date before you book.
What is MDAC?
The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card, a free online form you complete within the three days before arrival.
Can I extend my stay in Malaysia?
The visa-free stay is for up to 30 days. For longer stays, apply for the right visa before you travel rather than relying on an extension.
Can I travel from Malaysia to Singapore by road?
Yes, but Indians need a Singapore visa. Apply through an authorised agent before you go.
Photo: The Twins SE Asia 2019 (49171985716) by James Kerwin from Tbilisi, CC BY 2.0 (Wikimedia Commons)
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