Considering a Trip to Malaysia? Essential Information for Indian Travelers Prior to Departure

Malaysia, a popular tourist destination, has tightened its airport screening and document verification to prevent visa abuse. This move comes as a response to an increasing number of incidents where Indian tourists have been denied entry at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) for failing to meet strict immigration requirements.

The Malaysian Immigration Department, responsible for monitoring and controlling entry documents at KLIA1 and KLIA2, handles passport control, visa verification, and enforcement of entry requirements. One such requirement is the mandatory Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) for all foreign arrivals (except Singaporeans), which must be submitted at least 48 hours before arrival.

Indian tourists are allowed 30-day visa-free entry for leisure visits, but this does not extend to employment, internships, or extended stays. Essential travel-related documents, such as a valid passport, return or onward flight ticket, proof of sufficient funds, verifiable accommodation details, travel insurance (recommended), and Malaysian Ringgit (MYR), are crucial for avoiding being denied entry.

Recent operations have seen Malaysian authorities screen over 400 passengers, with 99 being denied entry, including 10 Indian nationals, 80 from Bangladesh, and nine from Pakistan, due to suspicious travel motives, unclear documentation, or flagged history. In a special screening operation in January 2025, 10 Indian nationals were denied entry due to suspicious travel intent, unclear documentation, or financial insufficiency.

If a traveller lands without complete documentation or a valid MDAC, they may be issued a "Not to Land" (NTL) order, confined to the airport transit area indefinitely, or repatriated to India at their own expense.

The good news for Indian travellers is that the visa-free travel for them has been extended until December 31, 2026. However, it is essential to ensure all documentation is in order to avoid any inconvenience during travel.

In conclusion, while Malaysia remains an attractive destination for tourists, it is crucial to adhere to the strict immigration requirements to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.