In a recent development, the Immigration Department of Malaysia has clarified that citizens of China and India can enter Malaysia without a visa for a maximum period of 30 days. However, this privilege is exclusively for travel purposes and does not extend to activities such as work or studies.

Key Points:

1. Visa-Free Entry for Travel:
   • China’s and India’s citizens can enjoy visa-free entry to Malaysia from December 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, for a maximum of 30 days.
   • The 30-day visa-free entry applies regardless of the departure country.
2. Limitations and Conditions:
   • Each entry is restricted to a maximum stay of 30 days, with no extension granted for social visit passes.
   • Travelers must adhere to the 30-day limit, especially those frequently entering and exiting Malaysia.
3. Exemptions from Visa-Free Policy:
   • The visa-free policy does not apply to individuals seeking to work or study in Malaysia.
   • Those intending to work or study must obtain a Visa With Reference and cannot rely on the 30-day visa-free entry.
4. Conversion to Long-Term Visit Pass:
   • Citizens of China and India who initially entered Malaysia under the 30-day visa-free scheme can convert their social visit pass to other long-term passes, subject to conditions and existing procedures.
5. Visa Approval Before December 1, 2023:
   • Travelers with approved visas before December 1, 2023, do not need to show these visas at the immigration counter. However, they must present other required documents for immigration inspection.
6. Refund Policy:
   • Visa fees paid before December 1, 2023, will not be refunded.

Background:

• On November 26, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the 30-day free entry policy for China’s and India’s nationals.
• The 30-day visa-free scheme is part of Malaysia’s new visa liberalization plan, introduced by Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail on November 27.
• Measures have been outlined to prevent overstaying, including monitoring exits by the 30th day, verifying return flight tickets and hotel bookings, increased inspections, and stricter enforcement against undocumented migrants.

The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is also part of the control and enforcement measures, ensuring the recording of data on the entry of foreign tourists as the country prepares for Visit Malaysia Year in 2026. The government aims for 26.1 million foreign tourist arrivals and an estimated domestic spending of RM97.6 billion.