Malaysia Tourist Visa for Indians - Definitive Guide

The Malaysian tourist permit is an endorsement that lets individuals enter the country for taking part in tourism-related activities. A lot of nationalities have visa-free entry to Malaysia. However, since India is not among them, a Malaysia tourist visa for Indians is a mandatory requirement. The visa can be issued on arrival in certain cases, it can be issued as an e-visa, as an eNTRI (Electronic Travel Registration and Information), or even as a normal sticker visa. 

Note:-   

• eNTRI is only applicable in case you are travelling to Malaysia via direct flight from India, or via transit through Singapore, Brunei or Thailand. 
• Tourist visa on arrival is only if you are an Indian national travelling from Indonesia, Singapore or Thailand and you must hold valid visas for those countries.

There are multiple ways in which you can apply for the Malaysia tourist visa for Indian citizens. However, before starting the application, you must ensure that you are eligible to apply for the tourist category, You can then proceed to make the application as follows - 

On arrival 

1. Travel to Malaysia from Thailand, Singapore or Brunei.
2. Fill in the application form at the airport and pay the fees.
3. Submit it to the immigration officer.

E visa & eNTRI 

1. Visit the website of the e visa portal for Malaysia. 
2. Click on “I’m new, apply” and fill in the online application form.
3. Upload scanned copies of the required documents. 
4. Pay the fees and submit the application. 

Sticker Visa 

1. Visit the website of the Malaysian Visa Application Centre (VAC).
2. Download the application form and fill in all the details. 
3. Proceed to book an appointment at the VAC for the application submission. 
4. Visit the appointment centre with the application form, documents, and the fees. 
5. Submit your application at the VAC. 

In order to be able to apply for the Malaysia tourist visa from India, you must meet the following eligibility conditions - 

• You must be living in India while lodging the application. If you are living on a residence permit in another nation, you will have to apply to the respective authority there.
• You must hold a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of your entry in the country. 
• Your sole purpose of the visit must be to take part in tourism alone. 
• You must possess sufficient funds to support your stay (this may vary depending on the mode of application).
• If you are travelling using the eNTRI or e-visa via land, you must pass through the allocated border gates only. 

As per the Malaysia tourist visa requirements from India, you must possess the following documents - 

• Fully filled and signed application form.
• 2 photos as per the specifications. 
• Proof of funds such as bank statements. 
• Proof of accommodation such as hotel bookings, invitation letter, etc.
• If you are applying at a VAC outside your jurisdiction, you must also provide Aadhar card, rent agreements, Marriage certificates, etc. 
• Confirmed flight tickets. 

• 35mm X 50mm
• Colour: Coloured
• Head must occupy the central position
• Must be captured within the last 3 months
• Background: Solid, plain white or grey
• 80% face coverage
• Neutral expression
• Glasses: Thin framed and prescription glasses only
• Headgears - only for religious reasons
• Facial hair - permitted

The time for processing depends on the mode of application, the volume of applications at the embassy, your previous travel history, and so on. The e-visas are issued fast within about just 2 working days. However, the sticker permit can take up to 7 days as well. As a result, ensure that you apply well in advance. 

The fees for the permit depends on the mode of application and the foreign exchange rates. It includes other service charges levied by the VAC, as well any delivery charges if you choose that option. You must check the exact amount before starting the application. 

Upon submitting your application at the respective VAC, it is then forwarded to the High Commission of Malaysia in New Delhi or to the Consulate General of Malaysia in Mumbai or Chennai as per the jurisdiction. The respective mission will then process your application. Note that the VAC has no influence over the decision making of the visa. They are simply in charge of the administrative part. 

Once your application has been successful, you can collect your passport from the VAC, or have them deliver it to you for an additional charge. 

If you have applied for the e-visa or the eNTRI, you will receive an email with your entry permit. You will then have to take a print out and keep it with you while travelling.

You can check the status of your e-visa or eNTRI by clicking here and entering your passport number. If you have applied at the VAC, you can enter your passport number and date of birth here and check the status. Alternately, you can simply contact the travel agency you have applied through.  

On successfully obtaining your tourist visa, you must keep in mind the following few points to ensure that you have a hassle-free journey -

 Before you travel - 

• Note the validity and number of entries mentioned on your visa. You must not stay in the country beyond this period. You must also follow the entry type given. 
• Carry all your travel documents before you travel to the country. 

At the border

• You must show your passport with the visa to the immigration officer. Your entry stamp will be stamped on the passport.
• You may be asked to show the copy of the other documents submitted as part of your application. 
• You may be asked about the basic details of your visit. Ensure that you answer honestly and without any hesitance. 
• For visa on arrival, you will have to pay the fees at the airport.

When you enter Malaysia

• While you are on a tourist permit, you cannot take part in any work or business activities.
• You cannot extend this visa. 
• Carry a copy of your passport and visa while you are travelling within the country.
• You must respect the culture and customs of the country, as well as abide by the immigration laws during your stay. 
• Follow the laws in the country. Drug trafficking in Malaysia is a death penalty offence.