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

8/10Very Good1701 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur City Centre Kuala Lumpur|0.42km dari pusat bandar
The hotel reception is on the second floor. The hotel entrance isn't very grand. It has a lot of rooms, feeling more like a luxury hostel. The soundproofing in the rooms isn't great; you can hear motorcycles in the early morning and the opening and closing of doors when cleaning starts. The hotel is not far from the Petronas Towers, about a 300-meter walk.
DariAU$ 90
8.6/10Very Good1350 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur City Centre Kuala Lumpur|1.14km dari pusat bandar
My daughter just enjoyed the bath tub. I just would like to let you know that the swimming pool can be cleaned maybe at night or not guests there. When we were there swimming I saw 2 people were cleaning the pool at the same time as we were in the pool. We don’t feel comfortable at that moment. Overall we enjoyed staying at Royale Chulan. Definitely will come again.
DariAU$ 78
8.7/10Very Good565 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur City Centre Kuala Lumpur|0.87km dari pusat bandar
Our stay at The Face Suites Kuala Lumpur was truly one of the highlights of our trip. From the moment we arrived, we felt welcomed by the friendly staff. The suite was spacious, clean, and perfect for our family, with breathtaking views of the city that we enjoyed every day. My son especially loved the infinity pool, and it was such a joy creating special family memories together. After a full day of exploring Kuala Lumpur, coming back to a comfortable and peaceful room made all the difference. Thank you, The Face Suites, for making our stay so enjoyable. We left with wonderful memories and will definitely choose to stay here again when we return to Kuala Lumpur.
DariAU$ 84
9/10Great3822 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur|1.52km dari pusat bandar
Although the room was small, the service was exceptionally attentive. The staff promptly resolved the issue with the air conditioning, and since we were celebrating our anniversary, the hotel thoughtfully prepared a cake and swan towel decorations. Most importantly, the breakfast buffet offered a wide variety of choices.
DariAU$ 143
8.9/10Very Good2599 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur City Centre Kuala Lumpur|0.88km dari pusat bandar
The hotel's location is excellent, right opposite Pavilion, making it very convenient for getting around and taking taxis. The hotel's buffet offers good quality and a wide variety of dishes, with most of the bread being freshly baked. Two bottles of water are provided in the room, and you can request two more for free. Snacks and mini-bar drinks, however, come with an additional charge. I particularly loved that the front desk offers free luggage storage, and the room has an iron and a coffee machine! The hairdryer model is a bit old, like those used 10-20 years ago in China, but everything else was great.
DariAU$ 127
8.9/10Very Good5337 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur|2.33km dari pusat bandar
Location was really convenient with a nearby LRT and a mall located in the same building. For food wise, it was alright for teatime and we had a quiet time at the club lounge for breakfast too (we tried the ground floor lounge for 1 breakfast and it was really busy, but with more food options though) Overall, decent stay for the price 👍
DariAU$ 70
9/10Great1126 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur|1.03km dari pusat bandar
This is more of a guesthouse than a hotel, but the environment is ideal. It has a very large swimming pool and is quite extensive, being a 30-story guesthouse. Breakfast is also provided with a good variety of options. Our whole family was very satisfied.
DariAU$ 110
8.5/10Very Good1525 Ulasan
Sri Hartamas Kuala Lumpur|6.19km dari pusat bandar
Had a wonderful stay! The room was great, but the highlight was definitely the outstanding customer service. The staff were exceptionally friendly, accommodating, and understanding during check-out. Truly appreciated their flexibility and hospitality. Highly recommended!
DariAU$ 55

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Business travel

8.3/10Very Good1267 Ulasan
China Town Kuala Lumpur|2.15km dari pusat bandar
Sound-proofing of the room is very poor. I stayed in a room that is very near to the elevator. My sleep was interrupted at least three times by the sounds of the elevator opening and closing, the sounds of the doors of the neighbouring units opening and closing, and the sounds of people walking in the corridor. The rest is fine for the price.
DariAU$ 28
8.4/10Very Good2757 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur|1.62km dari pusat bandar
Great Stay Overall! Hi! I had a great time staying here. Parking Valet parking is RM15.90. You can either park the car yourself or have the abang help park it for you. You only need to pay once and can enjoy multiple entries during your stay - at least, this was what I was told. One important thing: please keep the valet receipt properly, as there will be a charge if you lose it. That said, I may have overlooked this, but it would be really helpful if the hotel could clearly mention that parking is valet-only and costs RM15.90 on the app/booking information. When we first arrived, we had a bit of trouble figuring out where to park. We saw several valet signs but initially avoided them because we were worried it would be expensive. 😂 Turns out, it was only RM15.90! I actually had to go to reception to ask about the parking while checking in. Not a big deal, but having this information beforehand would have saved some time. I also tried calling the hotel before arriving, but the call was answered by a bot and redirected to a human - unfortunately, no one picked up. 😅 Check-in Check-in was easy. Just fill in the necessary forms and provide your IC. No deposit was required, which was great. We were welcomed by two really nice front desk staff who made the process smooth. Room We got a room on Level 7 with windows. The room was tidy and smelled really good. The only issue was that one of the plugs in the toilet wasn’t working. Surprisingly, their maintenance guy came to fix it very quickly though! 😂 Appreciate the fast response. Breakfast Breakfast was buffet-style with a decent variety. I’d say it’s pretty much what you’d expect from a normal hotel buffet. BUT THEY HAVE CHEESE OMELETTE. HAHAHAHA. LOVE IT. 🥹❤️ Check-out Check-out was seamless. We just had to provide the valet receipt to get the car and return the room keys into the box in front of reception. We were also sent off by two really nice staff members. Overall One thing I really appreciated was that the hotel has a WhatsApp service that checks in on you during your stay. I think it’s a really convenient way to reach the hotel if you need anything. Overall, I really enjoyed my stay here. The staff were friendly, the room was comfortable, the service was responsive, and everything was generally smooth. Would definitely consider staying here again!
DariAU$ 40
8.1/10Very Good1450 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur|1.99km dari pusat bandar
This is our 2nd time staying here at Furama Hotel Bukit Bintang ❤️ Our first stay was wonderful and our 2nd stay was even better 😘 Our Executive room with a beautiful city view was the perfect setup for a relaxing vacation. We want to give a special thank you to ”Sir Nomi at the front desk for his excellent assistance in upgrading us to this room. Exceptional service💯❤️ The location is perfect for us since Lalaport is right nearby , and there's connecting bridge from the hotel. Personally, i think Lalaport offers the best view of Merdeka 118, especially if you go up to the rooftop garden.The views there are highly Instagrammable 📸 👌 The food in the executive lounge was great, with many selections available and unlimited coffee. It was also less crowded during the breakfast buffet. The two staff members, Sir Rahman and Mam Selvi, were very helpful and prompt in assisting us during breakfast. Sir Tafo, who worked on the evening refreshments , was very friendly and pleasant with our special son. I really appreciate him being so patient and accommodating. I will definitely book the Executive Club again for our next visit in your hotel. It was a superb experience😍
DariAU$ 48
9/10Great1385 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur|1.4km dari pusat bandar
The room was clean, and the view was great. The breakfast had a good variety every morning, and the porridge and steamed buns were delicious. The toilet was a bit clogged at one point, but they fixed it during cleaning without me even having to mention it, which was a great help. It's also conveniently located very close to the subway and monorail stations, as well as the bustling downtown area. However, the pool wasn't quite what I expected, so I decided not to use it.
DariAU$ 63
8.6/10Very Good834 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur City Centre Kuala Lumpur|1.97km dari pusat bandar
I recommend staying at this Oakwood hotel. The breakfast so delicious and worthy to eat there. It is very clean and nice. The staff were so friendly and welcoming guests. The swimming pool is very beautiful and good size for fun. The security guard is very respectful and responsive. Easy to order grab pick up and drop off
DariAU$ 70
8.2/10Very Good2338 Ulasan
China Town Kuala Lumpur|2.37km dari pusat bandar
The hotel has a very good location, especially as it is located right beside the LRT station. This makes it very convenient to travel around and access nearby attractions without needing to drive. However, the breakfast selection was quite limited, and I think more variety would improve the dining experience. The parking facilities could also be improved, as they were not very convenient. Overall, I had a pleasant stay, mainly because of the excellent location and easy access to public transportation.
DariAU$ 35
8.4/10Very Good2329 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur|1.64km dari pusat bandar
The South and North towers have separate front desks and pricing, but many common facilities are shared. I was in the North Tower, but I could still go to the South Tower's rooftop pool to enjoy the night view, which was quite beautiful. However, Kuala Lumpur is a magical city; on one side, you have magnificent skyscrapers, and then you open a door on the other side to a slum.
DariAU$ 41
8.6/10Very Good601 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur City Centre Kuala Lumpur|0.49km dari pusat bandar
A Standout Experience Thanks to Cornia! I had a wonderful experience during my visit to Impiana, largely made memorable by Cornia. From start to finish, the professionalism, warmth, and attention to detail were top-notch. Cornia went above and beyond to ensure everything ran smoothly and made me feel genuinely welcomed and well taken care of throughout my stay. It’s rare to encounter staff who are so dedicated, polite, and efficient. Outstanding customer service like this is what sets a place apart. Thank you, Cornia, and the entire team at Impiana! I will definitely be returning and highly recommend their services to anyone looking for an exceptional experience.
DariAU$ 130

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Breakfast

9.1/10Great826 Ulasan
Golden Triangle Kuala Lumpur|1.23km dari pusat bandar
Great Stay at Stripes Hotel! I had a wonderful time at Stripes Hotel. The staff were very helpful ! when I arrived without cash for a taxi, the reception desk attendant kindly assisted me, which I really appreciated. The room was clean, comfortable, and the hotel is in an excellent location, surrounded by good restaurants. Overall, a very pleasant experience I’d definitely stay here again!
DariAU$ 107
8.2/10Very Good458 Ulasan
China Town Kuala Lumpur|1.73km dari pusat bandar
This is the best hotel in all of Kuala Lumpur!!! My husband, baby, and I stayed here, and these were the best accommodations in the entire city. We had already tried 5 different apartments in Kuala Lumpur by then, and nothing felt right. The cleanliness was perfect, and the views were magnificent – the best I've ever seen in my life. The staff was top-notch. They very quickly helped resolve an issue with the induction hob (the large burner wasn't working) and even provided a brand new small saucepan so I could cook for my baby. And all this happened almost at night! Thank you so much for your hospitality! Wishing you continued success!
DariAU$ 47
9.1/10Great1353 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur|2km dari pusat bandar
The facilities are complete and the hygiene is good. The environment is quiet, and it's right next to Shaw Parade. You can find delicious bak kut teh there. The Durian SS2 stall there is also more affordable and tastier than the ones in the city center, and they even gave us lots of mangosteens and rambutans, which were perfect to cleanse the palate. The Twin Towers are a 30-minute walk away, and along the way, there are durian stations that are more affordable and offer more varieties than the durian shops near the Twin Towers. Both durian shops, one large and one small, had Black Thorn and Red Prawn durians with 6 pods each. We were so full from the Black Thorn, and the Red Prawn, though smaller, was also very plump and just right for two people. The poolside bar had a great ambiance too.
DariAU$ 73
8.3/10Very Good331 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur|1.62km dari pusat bandar
Situated in Chow Kit, WP Hotel is conveniently close to the city centre. Our room was immaculate, featuring pristine white walls and a very clean bathroom, with a wonderful view overlooking the Petronas Twin Towers. We also enjoyed our first dinner at one of the many local restaurants located just a short walk away.
DariAU$ 53
9.2/10Great349 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur City Centre Kuala Lumpur|0.86km dari pusat bandar
An amazing first stay at Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur. I was travelling with my 71-year-old mum for our first mother-and-son getaway, and the team made us feel genuinely welcomed from the moment we arrived We were pleasantly surprised with a room upgrade, and the warm, attentive service made the stay even more memorable. As someone working in hospitality, I truly appreciated the thoughtful touches throughout our stay Thank you to the entire team. We look forward to returning!
DariAU$ 411
7/10314 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur City Centre Kuala Lumpur|1.2km dari pusat bandar
The rooms were comfortable, and well maintained. The staff were friendly, welcoming, and always happy to help whenever I needed anything. The location was convenient and made it easy to get around and explore the area. Overall, the hotel offered great value for money. The only downside was that my room had a connecting door. If you’re unlucky enough to have noisy neighbors, you can hear quite a bit, which made it difficult to relax at times. Other than that, I had a really nice stay and had so much fun seeing the little geckos wandering around 😂
DariAU$ 21
8.8/10Very Good944 Ulasan
Kuala Lumpur|1.66km dari pusat bandar
Put a note that we are celebrating a bday and they put in the effort to decorate the room for us! My friend was surprised and loved it! Thank you Amir for making our stay wonderful as well! The company should be happy to have you! You truly are a star🥰
DariAU$ 29
8.1/10Very Good158 Ulasan
Mid Valley City Kuala Lumpur|6.77km dari pusat bandar
I booked a two-night stay for a business trip, and the location was super convenient. It's right next to the LRT station; you just exit and turn left, and you don't even have to leave the building. The hotel restaurant is right next to the lobby and front desk, and the food is decent – not too expensive for a hotel restaurant; pasta was about RM16. There are also convenience stores like 7-11 and Mynews, plus a Zus Coffee, right outside the subway station. The room itself in the hotel building felt a bit dated, with some wear and tear on the walls and ceiling. However, the facilities like the shower and toilet were fine – good water pressure and consistent hot water. The only minor drawback was the lighting; it was a bit too yellow and dim. It's fine during the day if you open the curtains, but if you're working in the room at night, the overly yellow light can be a bit disorienting. Overall, it's great value for money. For the price, it's definitely one of the more affordable options in the area, and cleanliness wasn't a major issue.
DariAU$ 48

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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