Complete Guide to the Malaysian Visa

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Malaysia is a travel destination with much to offer. It boasts modern landmarks like the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur, the historic charm of the ancient city of Melaka, and the unique architecture of George Town in Penang. The beautiful beaches of Semporna offer breathtaking views. Visitors can enjoy sunshine and seaside relaxation, participate in water sports, savor rich and diverse cuisine, and experience the unique appeal of a multicultural society.

What is a Malaysia Visa?

A Malaysia visa is an endorsement and stamp issued by a visa agency authorized by the Malaysian government on the passport or other travel documents held by foreign nationals entering Malaysia. It indicates that they are permitted to enter, exit, or transit through the country.

This article will introduce the types of Malaysia visas, how to apply, application fees, processing times, and more.

❣️Tip: When planning your trip to Malaysia, book your flight to Kuala Lumpur on Trip.com. For a hassle-free stay, search for hotels in Kuala Lumpur early to get the best rates. Purchase a Malaysia eSIM in advance to stay connected - prices start from as low as RM1.73 per day!

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Types of Malaysia Visa

Sultan Abdul Samad Jamek Mosque

1. Standard Tourist Visa

  • Sticker Visa: This is the more traditional type of visa, typically a single-entry visa valid for 3 months, allowing a stay of about 30 days. Tourists must provide a passport, photo, return flight ticket, hotel booking confirmation, and other documents to apply at the Embassy or Consulate of Malaysia in China. This visa is suitable for those traveling for sightseeing purposes.
  • Electronic Visa (e-Visa): A convenient and fast way to apply for a visa online. It is divided into two categories: tourist visa and business visa. The tourist e-visa allows single entry, is valid for 3 months, and permits a maximum stay of 30 days. Applicants need to submit electronic documents such as passport details, personal photo, and travel itinerary. Once approved, the visa is issued as an electronic file that can be printed and used.

2. Transit Visa

When travelers need to transit through Malaysia on their way to a third country and their stay does not exceed 120 hours (typically), they can apply for a transit visa. To apply, travelers must provide a valid onward flight ticket, passport, and other necessary documents. Applications can be made at the transit visa counter at Kuala Lumpur International Airport and other designated locations.

3. Business Visa

  • Standard Business Visa: Intended for individuals traveling to Malaysia for business inspections, meetings, negotiations, and other business-related activities.
  • Senior Business Visa (Professional Visa): Targeted at certain professionals, such as senior managers or technical experts, to facilitate long-term business activities in Malaysia. This visa usually has a longer validity period and higher application requirements.

4. Work Visa

Issued to foreign nationals employed by local companies in Malaysia who are required to work in the country. Employers must submit relevant documents to the Malaysian Immigration Department, including employment contracts and the company’s qualification certificates, to apply for a work visa for the employee. There are various types of work visas based on job nature, position, and duration of employment, and they may require periodic renewal and review.

5. Student Visa

Issued to international students studying at institutions in Malaysia. After receiving an admission letter from a Malaysian school, students must apply for a student visa with the Immigration Department or relevant agencies using the admission letter, passport, academic certificates, financial proof (to cover tuition fees and living expenses), and other documents. The validity of a student visa typically matches the duration of the course.

6. Dependent Visa

This type of visa is mainly designed to allow relatives of Malaysian citizens or permanent residents to come to Malaysia for family reunions. Eligible relatives such as spouses, children, and parents of Malaysian citizens can apply for a dependent visa. The validity and duration of stay vary depending on the relationship. Applicants must provide relevant documents such as proof of kinship.

Visa-Free Countries and Regions for Malaysia

Asia

  • Thailand: Visa-free for 30 days.
  • South Korea: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Philippines: 21 days visa-free.
  • Singapore: Visa-free for 30 days.
  • Indonesia: Visa-free for 30 days.
  • Japan: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Jordan: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Kuwait: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Kyrgyzstan: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Maldives: Visa on arrival for 30 days.
  • Nepal: Visa on arrival for 15–60 days.
  • Cambodia: 30 days visa-free.
  • Brunei: Visa-free for 30 days.
  • Hong Kong, China: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Macau, China: Visa-free for 30 days.
  • Taiwan, China: Visa-free for 30 days.

Europe

  • United Kingdom: 180 days visa-free.
  • Switzerland: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Sweden: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Malta: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Finland: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Norway: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Germany: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • France: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Netherlands: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Belgium: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Denmark: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Iceland: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Ireland: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Italy: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Spain: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Portugal: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Greece: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Hungary: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Czech Republic: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Slovakia: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Slovenia: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Poland: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Romania: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Croatia: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Estonia: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Latvia: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Lithuania: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Liechtenstein: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Luxembourg: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • San Marino: Visa-free for 90 days.

Americas

  • Jamaica: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Dominica: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Bahamas: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Barbados: Visa-free for 28 days.
  • Belize: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Guyana: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Grenada: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Saint Kitts and Nevis: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Saint Lucia: Visa-free for 180 days.
  • Saint Vincent and the Grenadines: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Antigua and Barbuda: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Panama: Visa-free for 30 days.
  • Peru: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Argentina: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Uruguay: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • United States: Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands are visa-free.
  • Canada: Visa-free for 90 days.

Oceania

  • New Zealand: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Fiji: Visa-free for 120 days.
  • Samoa: Visa-free for 30 days.
  • Tonga: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Vanuatu: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Solomon Islands: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Tuvalu: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Micronesia: Visa-free for 14 days.
  • Marshall Islands: Visa-free for 30 days.
  • Nauru: Visa-free for 30 days.

Africa

  • Egypt: 7 days visa on arrival, and 90 days visa-free entry to Malaysia.
  • Tunisia: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • South Africa: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Mauritius: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Seychelles: Visa-free for 30 days.
  • Botswana: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Malawi: Visa-free for 180 days.
  • Tanzania: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Djibouti: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Lesotho: Visa-free for 90 days.
  • Zimbabwe: Visa-free for 90 days.
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Validity and Duration of Stay for Malaysia Visa

Sultan Abdul Samad Building

Tourist Visa

  • Electronic Visa (e-Visa): Valid for 3 months from the date of issuance. The maximum stay is 30 days, meaning you can stay for up to 30 days after entering Malaysia within the valid period.
  • Sticker Visa: The validity is typically about 3 months, and the stay duration is usually 30 days. If you enter the country within the valid period, you can stay in Malaysia for the same duration.

Transit Visa

Typically valid for a shorter period, with a stay of no more than 120 hours (about 5 days). It is generally used when transiting through Malaysia to a third country, with the purpose of taking a short break to wait for a connecting flight.

Business Visa

  • Standard Business Visa: The validity and stay duration are determined based on the specific business activities and approval status. There are single-entry and multiple-entry options. The validity of a single-entry business visa may be a few months. The stay duration depends on the business itinerary, such as meetings, inspections, etc., and may range from a few days to several weeks. A multiple-entry business visa is usually valid for a longer period to facilitate frequent travel to and from Malaysia for business activities.
  • Senior Business Visa (Professional Visa): Valid for a longer period, with the specific duration depending on the long-term business activity plans and approval from the Malaysian Immigration Department. The stay duration is also determined based on actual conditions, such as work arrangements, allowing professionals to engage in long-term and frequent business activities in Malaysia.

Work Visa

The validity is related to the duration of the work contract. The stay duration falls within the scope of the work permit and is determined by the employer who applies to the Malaysian Immigration Department.

Student Visa

The validity usually corresponds to the duration of the course of study. For a 3-year undergraduate course, the student visa is typically valid for around 3 years.

Dependent Visa

The validity and stay duration vary depending on the familial relationship. For example, the validity of a dependent visa for a Malaysian citizen's spouse may be relatively long, facilitating family reunification, and the stay period allows the spouse to remain in Malaysia for an extended time. The stay duration for parents or other relatives can be adjusted based on specific circumstances and immigration policies, generally taking into account the closeness of the familial relationship, the financial capability of the Malaysian citizen, and other factors.

⭐If you're traveling to Malaysia, you can stay in the City Centre (KLCC): Kuala Lumpur's city is busting business district with many luxury hotels, shopping malls, and restaurant. If you want to experience the modernity and properity of Kuala Lumpur, you can choose to stay here on trip.com and enjoy the best deals!

Hotel Popular in Malaysia

5 star

8.1/10Very Good1434 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur City Centre Kuala Lumpur|0.42km dari pusat bandar
The experience was great from the beginning when I notified my late check in due to my flight arriving almost at midnight. I know that the booking has to be respected by the hotel, but incredibly some don't do it. The hotel is 50 min from KL international airport, you can use Grab app to get a taxi and pay in cash if you can't link your card to it, that would be about 80 RM + the toll fees, that would make it around 20 usd. The staff at the front desk was so kind during check-in and check-out. I read some reviews about the construction site beside the hotel and the cemetery that is around the hotel. As for the cemetery, it is just part of the landscape, and honestly it is a good story to tell your friends about, I understand how those places are much older than modern constructions. Regarding the construction site, if you are too sensitive to noise, it might be a little annoying if your room is on that side of the hotel, maybe you can arrange the hotel to change you to the other wing. The neighborhood is busy since it is about 300m from KLCC park so it might be a little noisy during the night. The overall hygene of the room was great except that the kettle in my room still had some water. Nothing that can't be solved by washing it. There were two glass bottles that can be refilled in the filter by the elevator. I really appreciate that they stop using bottled water and reduce plastic waste. Breakfast had a lot of variety including western food, Malayan and some Chinese. I used the gym for one day because I was stuck due to heavy rain, it has a couple of treadmills, bikes, escalator and some machines, not too big, but comfortable to do some strength work. The location is great to walk to KLCC and from a couple of meters from the hotel you can take great pictures of the Petronas. About 45-50 min walking distance of central market to buy nice souvenirs, the national mosque and the national museum. 40 min taxi trip to the Batu caves, go early (8 am) because it might be a quite busy place to get to. I enjoyed my stay and definitely I would pick it again if I come back to KL, definitely recommended 9/10.
DariSEK 500
8.7/10Very Good1213 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur City Centre Kuala Lumpur|1.14km dari pusat bandar
I have a good experience in this hotel. This is my second time at Royal Chulan. Fast check in compare to previous trip. Room is ready once check in eventhough need to wait 30 minutes since the room key access out of battery. Good breakfast with lot of varities. Large swimming pool also. Thank you all.
DariSEK 612
8.7/10Very Good669 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur City Centre Kuala Lumpur|0.87km dari pusat bandar
I really enjoyed this place. The location is strategic—easy access to KLCC—and there’s even a convenience store right next door. The view is amazing, with a clear sight of the KLCC Tower and Petronas. The room is tidy, and the cleaning service keeps it spotless every day. Such a pleasant stay!
DariSEK 822
9.1/10Great3378 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur|1.52km dari pusat bandar
We had a 3 night stay at the hotel. We had booked the king deluxe room but when we reached the hotel in the evening to check-in, the staff told us that there is only one room remaining which is on the 1st floor. The staff said there’s a queen size deluxe room on a higher level, everything is the same except the size of the bed. Hence we took that room instead but to our dismay, the room was much smaller than what we expected. The washroom is the worst with an open-concept sink area situated outside of the washroom and shower cubicle. The tiles in the shower cubicle are clearly not maintained well as there are brownish tile grout everywhere. Not to mention that the mirror at the sink area is quite small as well. The location of the hotel is good.
DariSEK 934
8.8/10Very Good2388 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur City Centre Kuala Lumpur|0.88km dari pusat bandar
The lighting screw attached to ceiling was loose (see pic) - they sent a technician over, which took a while (prob came from off-site) and it would take some time to fix. We were heading out for dinner and requested to change room. They kindly allocated us to another room with better view but connected to another room, which we were not comfortable with, but they did not have other rooms available except corner room, so they told us to check again the next day. The next day we checked again and they managed to shift us to another room of the same category but slightly larger. As it took us some time to wait (e.g. for technician, to speak to staff) and shift around, not sure if it's just me that entitled but I thought there should be better service recovery given Pullman's rep. But otherwise the rooms were clean and the staff were really pleasant, and I thank Praveen for his patience in dealing with this case as well.
DariSEK 824
8.9/10Very Good4432 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur|2.33km dari pusat bandar
I recently stayed at Sunway Putra Hotel, Kuala Lumpur, and overall, I absolutely loved my experience. The service was warm, the room was spacious and clean, and the location made everything so convenient. There was just a small hiccup during my stay — my room was located at the end corner, so the outside view wasn’t as great as I hoped. The tap next to the toilet was also broken, which made it a bit of a struggle to turn on. Other than that, everything else was smooth and enjoyable. The comfort, hospitality, and overall atmosphere definitely made up for the minor issues. I’d still happily return!
DariSEK 488
8.9/10Very Good1077 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur|1.03km dari pusat bandar
It was very comfortable living in the hotel making us our own hope and comfortable of the living make us feeling that we staying at home that's why I always be prefer this place for the living in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia while we are traveling and going to the place make us feeling comfortable easy living
DariSEK 735
8.3/10Very Good1407 Ulasan
Sri Hartamas Kuala Lumpur|6.19km dari pusat bandar
The hotel accomodate to my request for decoration perfectly! Thanks for that. The only complain i have, the parking is not free for hotel guest, it was on a flat rate of rm3.71. And the hotel lift was quite slow for a building that has so many floor, so you will end up waiting for a while everytime for the lift. Other than that, the room and toile was spacious. Bathtub was really big. However, wished there was a bathrobe, and for the slipper to be thicker..
DariSEK 370

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Business travel

8.1/10Very Good1174 Ulasan
China Town Kuala Lumpur|2.15km dari pusat bandar
Basic clean room suitable for tourists as a transit hub due to its strategic location. It was my favorite choice of accommodation in KL. Nonetheless, sadly, in the recent months till to-date, it was noted that many trans in this hotel as a hub for their activities ! I am sure the management must be aware of such happenings but condoned to it. There is a need to step up compliance, before the image of this hotel got tarnished as a tourist class standard.
DariSEK 181
8.4/10Very Good2051 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur|1.62km dari pusat bandar
Bed: Very comfortable. Bathroom: Not well-maintained, prone to splashing. Breakfast: A good variety of drinks and food. The quality is inconsistent; sometimes rotten fruit is put out. It seems to cater to a large number of guests. You can see the monorail train from there. The hotel entrance is on a one-way street, but you can also take the LRT (light rail transit) or GOKL bus. Nearby are small goods markets and farmers' markets, worth a visit if you have time. It's also quite close to SOGO.
DariSEK 362
8/10Very Good1580 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur|1.99km dari pusat bandar
Furama Bukit Bintang is an economy to mid-range hotel whose greatest strength lies in its unbeatable location. While the facilities are somewhat dated, it serves perfectly well as a clean, comfortable, and budget-friendly “sleeping base” for travelers who spend most of their time exploring the city. The hotel features a rooftop outdoor pool—modest in size but offering a relaxing spot amidst the bustling city—with some rooms providing sweeping views of the skyline. In terms of location, the hotel sits in the very heart of Bukit Bintang. Major shopping malls such as Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, Fahrenheit 88, Lot 10, and Starhill Gallery are only a few minutes’ walk away. The famous Jalan Alor food street is just behind the hotel, only 2–3 minutes on foot, where you can indulge in a wide variety of Malaysian dishes and seafood. The surrounding area is filled with restaurants, cafés, and convenience stores, making daily needs easily accessible. Right at the doorstep is the Bukit Bintang monorail station, ensuring excellent connectivity, while the iconic KLCC is only a 15–20 minute walk.
DariSEK 500
8.5/10Very Good990 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur City Centre Kuala Lumpur|0.44km dari pusat bandar
The hotel room was clean, very convenient, and offered great value for money. The front desk service was enthusiastic. It's super close to the Petronas Twin Towers, just a 6-minute walk away. There's also the AK Mall and food stalls nearby. Highly recommended!
DariSEK 504
8.9/10Very Good954 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur|1.4km dari pusat bandar
Would like to comment on the buffet breakfast the taste need to improved, only one staff cooking on the Sunday morning the omelette is good as for the prata really not to the standard.
DariSEK 513
8.7/10Very Good952 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur City Centre Kuala Lumpur|1.95km dari pusat bandar
The hotel is quite nice, very clean and well-maintained. The service was excellent too. It's very close to the city center, making it super convenient for sightseeing and dining. The breakfast spread was also very generous. Excellent!
DariSEK 556
8.2/10Very Good2320 Ulasan
China Town Kuala Lumpur|2.37km dari pusat bandar
Location is good as it is close to Central Market and surrounded by eateries.If you love shopping, you can find good stuff here.The only downside i can see is they don't clean the rooms everyday, I was actually informed upon check in that they clean every after 2 nights of stay.I stayed for 3 days, it wasn't cleaned till i left.The guard on duty did his job well.He helped me with my luggage .He was also kind when i told him, I'll be back later at night time to get my luggage.As for the buffet for breakfast, it needs to be improved as they have limited choices.
DariSEK 288
8.2/10Very Good2026 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur|1.64km dari pusat bandar
The service was good especially trainee roshan at the reception,the location very close to chow kit monorail station walkable.The breakfast also was good with the variety choices to accommodate different taste. Also night market of chow kit just behind the hotel for malay and thai foods,the vegetables and fruits avaialble too at the market The only think needs to improve is the small ramp at the stair before taking the lift and outside stairs too, could be very nice gesture to the customer's who have heavy luggage rather than waiting for someone to help you.
DariSEK 368

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Breakfast

9.1/10Great1063 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur|2km dari pusat bandar
Room was spacious and clean. Staffs were friendly and accommodating. Was amazed with the complimentary snacks and mini bar. Their toiletries brand (soap, lotion, etc) were nice too.
DariSEK 529
9.1/10Great302 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur City Centre Kuala Lumpur|0.86km dari pusat bandar
Unforgettable Service at Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur I’ve stayed at several 5-star hotels before, but the service at Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur really stands out. Right from the start, Farhana at reception made me feel genuinely welcomed. She was warm, professional, and so friendly—it felt like I was being greeted by someone who truly cared. Although I had a small issue with my room (which was resolved by someone else), Farhana’s kindness and the way she carried herself made the issue feel minor. Her presence and the great first impression she gave really set the tone for my entire stay. At the restaurant, Raynalin and Halim were equally amazing. They were attentive without being intrusive, always checking in at just the right time and offering thoughtful recommendations. I felt so well taken care of—like they really wanted me to enjoy my meal and have a peaceful experience. I also noticed how consistent and gracious they were with every guest, which says a lot about the service culture at this hotel. The people here are what make Banyan Tree KL truly special. Farhana, Raynalin, and Halim—thank you for making my stay so memorable. I’ll definitely be coming back.
DariSEK 3,043
7.2/10288 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur City Centre Kuala Lumpur|1.2km dari pusat bandar
The front desk staff were really friendly, and the hotel's super close to the Petronas Towers and the subway station, which makes getting around incredibly convenient. The price was also very affordable. The biggest plus is definitely the easy access to everything. I could walk to the Petronas Towers and Chinatown from here. I basically walked everywhere unless I was too tired, then I'd just hop on the subway. The hotel is about 300 meters from the Dang Wangi station, so just remember that station for your return trips, haha.
DariSEK 217
8.8/10Very Good750 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur|1.66km dari pusat bandar
Another satisfying night at MoMo's. Great location mear Monorail covered walkway.. Grab or Bolt drop off/pickup at approved delivery area for Hotel chow kit next door on Jalan sultan ismail. Only thing lacking for us was the draft beer on tap they had on our last trip. Perhaps it will return next time.
DariSEK 239
8/10Very Good771 Ulasan
Bukit Ceylon Kuala Lumpur|1.33km dari pusat bandar
the room is big and spacious enough for a family of 4. For the price wise, I think the location & amenities provided is good enough. However, I wouldn't say the cleanliness is top-notch. If you are not particular with a little bit of stains, etc, it's a good deal.
DariSEK 293
8.3/10Very Good135 Ulasan
Mid Valley City Kuala Lumpur|6.77km dari pusat bandar
Covered car park available for all the guest. Room is spacious and clean. Their in-house restaurant is amazing with affordable price. Kerinchi LRT Station located just behind the building which very convenient for me. 7 eleven store and ATM service also available in the Kerinchi station.
DariSEK 374
7.7/10Good63 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur|1.14km dari pusat bandar
Very near to restaurants, shops and bar. Comfort bed. Reasonable room rate. Clean room.
DariSEK 277
8/10Very Good22 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur|1.49km dari pusat bandar
I'm very glad I ultimately chose this hotel. 1. The location is excellent. For example, it's a 10-minute walk to the street food streets, and a 15-minute walk along a picturesque, quiet street to shopping centers like Pavilion. There are traffic jams in this area in the evening, so a 10-minute walk is absolutely fantastic. 2. The pool has a view, although you can only see one tower. The downside is that there's almost no place to put your luggage; there are only four sun loungers, and they're always occupied, so everyone throws them on the floor. The water was a little cool in October, not a big deal, but I would have liked it to be warmer. There's a terrace with a sunset view; the hanging plants and greenery add a wonderful atmosphere to the rooftop. 3. The room itself is clean; the only dishes are mugs, and there's one towel per person. The room didn't smell, and the linens were fine; they weren't changed for three days. The view is also great. I stayed on the 18th floor, so it's quiet. 4. I had breakfast once, but it was very poor, so I wouldn't order it again. The price is 100% justified, I recommend it.
DariSEK 489

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Requirements for Applying for a Malaysia Visa

Petronas Twin Towers

Basic Requirements

  • Valid Passport: Applicants must hold a passport that is valid for at least 6 months. The passport is a fundamental document for the visa application. This ensures that the applicant’s passport remains valid during the visa's validity period and while staying in Malaysia.
  • Completed Application Form: The appropriate Malaysia visa application form must be filled out according to the type of visa. The information provided must be true and accurate.

Specific Requirements for Different Types of Visas

Tourist Visa

  • Electronic Visa (e-Visa)
    • Personal Information Documents: Provide a scanned copy of the passport information page and a color passport-sized photo (size and format must meet the requirements). The photo background is usually white, and the size is typically around 35mm x 45mm.
    • Supporting Travel Documents: Include round-trip flight ticket bookings and hotel reservation information in Malaysia. These documents serve to prove the applicant’s travel plans and itinerary, demonstrating that the purpose of travel is tourism.

Sticker Visa

    • Basic Personal Documents: In addition to the passport and valid application form, passport-sized photos (usually 2–3) are also required.
    • Financial Capability Documents: Such as bank deposit certificates (it is usually recommended to have a certain amount of deposit, which varies by region and circumstances), pay slips, or credit card statements, etc., to prove that the applicant has sufficient financial capacity to cover travel expenses.
    • Travel Itinerary Documents: Round-trip flight tickets and hotel booking confirmation.

Transit Visa

  • Valid Flight Tickets: Provide full flight tickets to a third country, with a transit stop in Malaysia. The flight ticket details must clearly show the flight number, departure and landing times, airport details, etc. This ensures that the applicant has a genuine transit need.
  • Passport: The passport must meet the basic validity requirements and have enough blank visa pages.

Business Visa

  • Standard Business Visa:
    • Invitation Letter from Malaysia: An official invitation letter must be issued by a legitimate company or institution in Malaysia. The invitation letter should include basic information about the inviting company (name, address, contact information, etc.), the invitee’s name, passport number, purpose of the visit, duration of the visit, travel schedule, and other detailed information to explain the validity and necessity of the visit.
    • Delivery Certificate: A delivery certificate issued by the applicant’s company, proving the applicant’s position and job content related to this business trip, and that the company is aware of and supports the business trip.
    • Company Qualification Documents: A copy of the applicant’s company’s business license (stamped with the official seal) and related certification documents from the Malaysian inviting company (such as a business license or business registration certificate, etc.) to prove the legitimacy and business dealings of both companies.
❤️Tip: Want to discover more interesting places in Malaysia? Please read the Attractions in Malaysia blog and start planning your vacation now!

Senior Business Visa (Professional Visa):

  • Proof of Professional Qualifications: In addition to the documents required for a regular business visa, applicants must provide materials that demonstrate they are a senior manager or other technical and professional expert, such as a senior engineer certificate, professional qualification certificates, appointment to senior management positions within the company, etc.
  • Long-Term Business Plan: You may need to provide a plan for long-term business activities in Malaysia, including project planning, market analysis, letters of intent for collaboration, and other relevant documents to illustrate the need for and feasibility of long-term business activities.

Student Visa:

  • School Admission Notice: This is an essential document for applying for a student visa. It must be a valid admission notice issued by an accredited school in Malaysia. The notice should include the student’s name, passport number, the course of study, course duration, admission time, and other detailed information.
  • Educational Certification: Provide previous academic certificates (such as high school diploma, bachelor’s degree, etc.) and transcripts. These documents need to be authenticated to prove that the applicant’s academic background meets the requirements for studying abroad.
  • Proof of Funds: Used to prove that there are sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses. This can include a bank deposit certificate (usually requiring a specific deposit amount depending on the course and school requirements), scholarship certificates (if you have received a scholarship), or a financial guarantee certificate from a sponsor (such as a parent’s income certificate, bank deposit, etc.).

Dependent Visa:

  • Proof of Relationship: Provide the relevant certification documents depending on the type of relationship. For example, a marriage certificate is required for spouses; a birth certificate is required for children, and notarized documents for siblings and other relationship types may also be needed. These supporting documents need to be authenticated to ensure the legitimacy of the relationship.
  • Sponsorship Documents from Malaysian Relatives: As a sponsor, Malaysian citizens or permanent residents need to provide proof of their identity (such as passport, identification card, etc.) and proof of financial capability (such as income certificate, bank deposit certificate, etc.) to demonstrate that they are able to financially support the dependent’s living in Malaysia.

Work Visa:

  • Employer Application Materials: The local employer in Malaysia must submit an employment contract to the Immigration Bureau. The contract should clearly state the job position, job responsibilities, working hours, salary, and other detailed information. At the same time, the employer must provide a company qualification certificate, such as a business license, tax registration certificate, etc., to prove that the company is legally qualified for employment.
  • Personal Materials: The applicant’s valid passport, academic certificates (academic qualifications or certificates related to the job), work experience certificates (such as work experience certificates, recommendation letters, etc.). For work visas in specific industries, professional skill certificates or related training certificates may also be required.
❤️To learn more about interesting places in Malaysia, please read this blog — I hope it will be helpful to you.

How to apply for a Malaysian visa

 Official Malaysia Visa

Image from Official Malaysia Visa

Determine the Type of Visa

Determine the type of visa required based on the purpose of travel, such as tourist visa, business visa, work visa, student visa, dependent visa, etc.

Prepare the Application Documents

  • Tourist Visa: Provide a valid passport, recent passport-sized photo, completed visa application form, round-trip flight booking records, hotel booking information in Malaysia, and other supporting travel itinerary documents.
  • Business Visa: In addition to the passport, photo, and application form, you will also need an invitation letter from the Malaysian side, a dispatch certificate issued by the applicant’s company, and qualification certificates from both companies.
  • Work Visa: The local employer in Malaysia must submit the employment contract, company qualification certificate, and other documents to the Immigration Bureau. The applicant must provide a valid passport, academic certificates, work experience certificates, etc.
  • Student Visa: You will need to provide the admission notice from a Malaysian school, academic certificates, financial proof, and some documents may need to be notarized or certified.
  • Dependent Visa: Proof of kinship and a guarantee letter from the Malaysian relative are required. The guarantee letter includes proof of the relative's identity and financial capability, etc. Proof of kinship must be notarized or certified.

Submit the Application

  • Online Application: Some visa types can be applied for online through the Official Malaysia Visa Application Centre website or https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main, such as the tourist e-visa. Applicants need to fill in personal information, upload the required documents, and make online payment as instructed.
  • Application at the Embassy or Consulate: You can also submit your visa application documents in person at the Malaysian Embassy or Consulate in China. Applicants must visit during office hours, submit the completed and signed visa application form, passport, and other relevant documents, and pay the corresponding visa fee.

Wait for Approval

Visa processing times vary depending on the type of visa, number of applicants, and other factors. Generally, tourist visas have a shorter processing time, while work and student visas may take longer. Applicants can check the status of their visa application via the online inquiry system or by phone consultation.

Collect the Visa

  • Collection at the Embassy or Consulate: If the visa application is approved, applicants must go to the Malaysian Embassy or Consulate in China to collect their visa. A valid ID and the application receipt must be presented upon collection.
  • Mail Delivery: Some embassies and consulates also offer visa delivery services. Applicants can choose the mailing option when submitting their application. The embassy or consulate will send the passport and visa to the applicant via express delivery once the visa is approved.

How much does a Malaysian visa cost?

Sky Deck KL Tower

Tourist Visa

  • e-Visa: The fee for Chinese nationals applying for a Malaysian e-visa is approximately CNY 300. The e-visa is generally suitable for short-term travel and can be applied for through the official Malaysian e-visa website.
  • Sticker Visa: The sticker visa fee is slightly higher, usually around CNY 350, and must be applied for through the Malaysian embassy or consulate in China. Applicants must submit relevant documents such as a passport, photo, flight booking, hotel reservation, etc.

Work Visa

  • Employment Visa: When applying for a Malaysian employment visa, you must first pay a visa application fee, usually around MYR 30. Additionally, you must pay an annual employment pass fee of MYR 200 and a processing fee of MYR 125.
  • Professional Visit Pass: The Professional Visit Pass costs MYR 90 per quarter or MYR 360 for a full year.

Student Visa

  • Student Visa: Typically costs between USD 50–150, plus an annual student pass fee of MYR 60.
  • Research Visa: The application fee is around MYR 100, which includes the visa service and application fees.
  • Internship Visa: The application fee is approximately MYR 150, which also includes visa service and application fees.

Dependent Visa

  • Dependent Pass: The annual fee is MYR 90, with a processing fee of MYR 50.
  • Long-Term Social Visit Pass: The fee is MYR 600, with a processing fee of MYR 50.
🥳Note: If you're not very familiar with transportation in Malaysia, don't forget to check out the following blog to learn about the MRT and KTM maps, as well as travel guides.

How long does it take to apply for a Malaysian visa?

National Masjid of Malaysia

The time required to apply for a Malaysian visa varies depending on the type of visa. Here are the typical processing times for common visa types:

Tourist Visa

  • e-Visa: Usually takes about 5–10 working days.
  • Sticker Visa: Typically takes around 7–10 working days.

Student Visa

It usually takes about 4–6 weeks from the time you submit your application to receive your visa decision.

Work Visa

The processing time for a work visa is relatively longer, usually between 15–30 working days.

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Malaysia Visa