Malaysia Unveils Comprehensive Visa Liberalisation Plan
Visa Exemption for Chinese and Indian Visitors
From December 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, citizens of China and India are granted a visa-free entry into Malaysia.This exemption allows a 30-day stay without the possibility of an extension.Importantly, visas approved prior to December 1, 2023, will remain valid, but their fees are non-refundable.
Enhanced Multiple Entry Visa (MEV) Program
The MEV now offers an extended validity of six months from the issue date, an increase from the previous three months.Each entry under this visa type permits a 30-day stay in Malaysia
Extended Visa Validity for All Categories
The visa validity for all types, including Visa with Reference (VDR) and Visa Without Reference (VTR), is now six months from the date of issuance.This is particularly important for those needing to endorse long-term passes in their passports, who must now ensure arrival within this six-month window.
Social Visit Pass (SVP) Extension
For travelers from 22 specific countries, the SVP duration has been increased from 14 to 30 days.The countries included are Angola, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Colombia, Congo Democratic Republic, Congo Republic, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Hong Kong, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Mali, Mozambique, Nigeria, Niger, and Rwanda.It’s crucial to note that visas are still required for these countries, and the SVP cannot be extended beyond 30 days.
Launch of the New Graduate Pass
The new Graduate Social Visit Pass (GSVP) is now available to international students from 23 countries, who have completed or are nearing completion of a bachelor’s degree or higher in Malaysia.This includes students from Australia, Bahrain, Brunei, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Japan, Kuwait, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland, Sweden, UAE, UK, and USA.The GSVP, valid for 12 months, permits tourism, study, and work in specific sectors, and comes with a Multiple Entry Visa (MEV).Dependents of GSVP holders are eligible for a Long-Term Social Visit Pass (LTSVP), subject to the presentation of a personal bond from a Malaysian sponsor.
Introduction of Umrah Transit Visa
A new Umrah Transit Visa with a 7-day Social Visit Pass is available for nationals of 32 countries, offering an opportunity to visit Malaysia for social reasons surrounding their Umrah pilgrimage.Applications must be processed through travel agencies recognized by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duration of the visa waiver for Chinese and Indian nationals?
They can stay for up to 30 days visa-free.
Is it possible to extend the visa-free stay for Chinese and Indian nationals?
No, the 30-day period cannot be extended.
What about visas approved before the new policy?
These remain valid, but fees for these visas are non-refundable.
How long is the new validity period for the MEV?
The MEV is now valid for six months from the date of issuance.
Does the extended validity period apply to all types of visas?
Yes, all visa types now have a six-month validity.
Which countries are included in the extended SVP duration?
The extended SVP covers 22 countries, including Ghana, Hong Kong, and Nigeria.
What is the GSVP?
It’s a 12-month pass for international graduates from 23 countries, allowing tourism, study, and work in specific sectors.
Can dependents of GSVP holders apply for any pass?
Yes, they are eligible for a Long-Term Social Visit Pass (LTSVP).
What is the Umrah Transit Visa?
It’s a 7-day Social Visit Pass for nationals of 32 countries visiting Malaysia in relation to their Umrah pilgrimage.
Where should applications for the Umrah Transit Visa be submitted?
Through travel agencies registered with the Malaysian Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture.
