How to Apply for a Visa to Malaysia
Malaysia is a popular destination for tourism, business, and study. Many visitors can enter visa-free, while others need to apply for a visa or an eVisa before travelling. If you plan to work, study, or live long-term, you’ll need a specific long-stay pass.
This guide explains who needs a visa, the main types, and how to apply step by step.
1. Do You Need a Visa?
- Visa-free entry:
Citizens of Australia, UK, USA, EU countries, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore and many others can enter Malaysia visa-free for 30–90 days (depending on nationality). - Visa required:
Nationals of countries such as India, China, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, and most African nations must apply for a visa before travel. - eVisa/eNTRI (online visa):
Citizens of India and China (and some other countries) may be eligible for online visa or electronic travel registration (eNTRI) for short visits. - Long-term stays:
Anyone planning to study, work, or live in Malaysia longer than 90 days must apply for the appropriate pass/visa (Student Pass, Employment Pass, MM2H, etc.).
✅ Check requirements at Malaysia’s official immigration site: https://www.imi.gov.my
2. Main Visa Types
| Visa Type | Purpose | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Visa-Free Entry | Tourism, short visits (eligible nationalities) | 30–90 days |
| eVisa | Tourism, business, short-term study | Single entry, stay up to 30 days |
| eNTRI | Short-term travel for Indians & Chinese | Single entry, stay up to 15 days |
| Single-Entry Visa (SEV) | Tourism, business | Valid for 3 months, one entry |
| Multiple-Entry Visa (MEV) | Frequent business/tourism visits | Valid 3–12 months, stay up to 30 days per entry |
| Employment Pass | Long-term skilled work | 1–5 years |
| Student Pass | Study at Malaysian institutions | Duration of course |
| MM2H (Malaysia My Second Home) | Long-term residence for retirees/investors | Renewable 5–10 years |
3. Applying for Short-Stay Visas (Tourism/Business)
A) eVisa (Online Visa)
- Available for nationals of India, China, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Myanmar, Bhutan, and some others.
- Apply online at https://malaysiavisa.imi.gov.my
Documents needed:
- Passport (valid 6+ months)
- Digital passport photo
- Return flight booking
- Hotel/accommodation booking
- Bank statement (proof of funds)
- Visa fee payment
Processing time: ~48–72 hours
Fee: ~USD 25–45 (varies by nationality and type)
💡 eVisa is single-entry; apply again if you need multiple entries.
B) eNTRI (Electronic Travel Registration & Information)
- For Indian and Chinese nationals only.
- Apply at https://malaysiavisa.imi.gov.my
- Stay up to 15 days, single entry.
- Quick approval — usually within 24–48 hours.
C) Embassy/Consulate Visa (SEV/MEV)
If not eligible for eVisa/eNTRI:
- Download Visa Form IMM.47 from the Immigration website or get it at the consulate.
- Prepare documents:
- Passport & copy
- Completed IMM.47 form
- Passport photos (white background)
- Return/onward flight booking
- Proof of funds
- Invitation letter (if business/family visit)
- Submit to nearest Malaysian Embassy/Consulate or visa centre.
- Pay fee (usually USD 20–50).
Processing time: 3–7 working days (varies by embassy).
4. Applying for Long-Term Passes
Employment Pass
- Requires a job offer from a Malaysian company.
- Employer applies for approval with the Expatriate Services Division (ESD).
- Once approved, you apply for an Employment Pass at the Malaysian Immigration Department or Embassy.
Student Pass
- Apply through your Malaysian educational institution (they will initiate the visa approval process).
- Provide:
- Offer letter
- Passport
- Academic transcripts
- Financial proof
MM2H (Malaysia My Second Home)
- For retirees or investors wanting long-term residence.
- Requires proof of substantial savings & income (varies by state).
- Apply through licensed MM2H agents or directly to the Ministry of Tourism.
5. Visa Fees (2025)
| Visa Type | Approx. Fee |
|---|---|
| eVisa | USD $25–45 |
| eNTRI | ~USD $20 |
| SEV (Single Entry) | ~USD $20–30 |
| MEV (Multiple Entry) | ~USD $50–100 |
| Employment Pass | Paid by employer (varies) |
| Student Pass | ~USD $40–60 + processing |
| MM2H | ~USD $2200+ (varies by package) |
Fees are non-refundable even if the visa is denied.
6. Tips for a Smooth Application
- Apply early: At least 2–4 weeks before travel (longer for work/study/MM2H).
- Use official portals: Only apply via https://malaysiavisa.imi.gov.my or your nearest embassy to avoid scams.
- Financial proof is key: Bank statements or employment letters help avoid refusal.
- Check passport validity: Must be valid at least 6 months beyond your stay.
- Travel insurance: Recommended for short stays, sometimes required for long-term passes.
- For long-term stays: Start paperwork early — approvals for Employment Pass or MM2H can take months.
Quick Pre-Travel Checklist
- Passport valid 6+ months
- Completed visa form or eVisa/eNTRI confirmation
- Flight & accommodation bookings
- Proof of funds (bank statements/employment letter)
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Copies of previous visas/travel history (if requested)