Indians Denied Entry Into Malaysia Under 30-Day Visa-Free Entry Scheme. Authorities Explain Why

The High Commission of Malaysia in India has revealed in a recent advisory that after the extension of 30 days visa-free entry into Malaysia for Indian citizens, many instances have come to light where several Indian nationals have arrived at Malaysian airports and are placed in the "'Not To Land' (NTL) category" by the Malaysian Immigration authorities, thus denying them entry.

Here are the common reasons for being placed in NTL:

• Lack of sufficient funds for travel
• Lack of verifiable proof of accommodation
• Lack of a genuine return ticket
• Prospect of violation of immigration regulations, including seeking employment under this scheme

"In such NTL cases, the Indian nationals have to remain inside the airport of their arrival in Malaysia till the airlines which brought them repatriate them back to the airport of exit from India," the High Commission explains in the advisory. This can take time, leading to passengers remaining stranded at Malaysian Airports.

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Do Not Miss the Government Of Malaysia Immigration Regulations

Indian nationals visiting Malaysia are advised to strictly comply with the Government of Malaysia immigration regulations regarding the 30-day visa-free entry scheme, with the following in place:

• sufficient funds for the visit
• verifiable proof of accommodation
• valid return air tickets

30-Day Visa-Free Malaysia Entry Scheme Is Not For Employment

The advisory adds that it has also been noticed that many "unscrupulous visa/employment agents are misleading Indian Citizens regarding employment in Malaysia under this scheme."

The 30-day visa-free entry scheme is not for employment in Malaysia. The advisory emphasises remaining vigilant and "avoid being cheated by fraudulent agents who promise employment in this scheme."

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More Details About The Visa Waiver Scheme In Malaysia For Indian Nationals

Passport holders of the Republic of India travelling to Malaysia from 1 December 2023 to 31 December 2026 are eligible for visa-free entry into Malaysia, which permits a stay of up to 30 days for each entry and visit to the country for business, tourism, social, and transit purposes.

Indian passport holders are required to ensure the fulfilment of the criteria and provide supporting documents during the security and immigration screenings at the port of entry:

• The passport validity must be at least six (6) months
• Confirmed Return Flight Tickets
• Confirmed Hotel Booking
• Compulsory online submission of the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) three (3) days before the arrival date. 

Click here to access the online MDAC forms for international travellers.

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General Entry Requirements/Conditions For Foreigners Visiting Or Temporary Staying In Malaysia

The following documents and conditions are important for any foreigner to visit Malaysia: 

• Holding a valid passport or a valid travel document with a validity of more than 6 months
• Obtaining a valid VISA (for nationals who require a visa to enter Malaysia)
• Having sufficient financial provisions to sustain the period of stay in Malaysia
• Applicant is not registered under the Suspect List of the Immigration Department of Malaysia or the stolen Lost Travel Document (STLD) system
• The applicant is not categorised as a prohibited immigrant.