information for Indians Planning to Travel to Malaysia: Crucial Details to Consider Before Air Travel

In recent times, Indian tourists visiting Malaysia have faced refusals of entry permits at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) due to incomplete or insufficient documentation. The reasons for these refusals include failure to provide valid travel documents such as passports with the required validity, lack of proof of onward or return travel, absence of necessary visas or permits, and inadequate evidence of accommodation or financial means for the stay. These deficiencies violate immigration requirements and lead to denial of entry.

To prevent such incidents, Indian travellers are advised to present a valid passport, return or onward air ticket, proof of sufficient funds, verifiable accommodation details, the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC), travel insurance (recommended), Malaysian Ringgit (MYR), and a completed MDAC at least 48 hours prior to arrival. The MDAC, an electronic travel form for all foreign arrivals (except Singaporeans), must be submitted via Malaysia's official immigration website.

Indian nationals visiting Malaysia for tourism or short trips enjoy a straightforward process with no visa application or eVisa required for stays of up to 30 days. However, these travellers were refused entry not because of their nationality, but due to "suspicious travel motives, unclear documentation, or flagged history."

Malaysian immigration officers can still refuse entry to travelers with such issues. In a recent operation, 10 Indian nationals were denied entry at KLIA due to "suspicious travel motives, unclear documentation, or financial insufficiency."

The number of Indian tourists visiting Malaysia has significantly increased, with over 1 million arrivals between January and November 2024, representing a 71.7% spike over the previous year and a 47% increase since 2019. This growth in tourism has not gone unnoticed, as Malaysian authorities have tightened airport screening and document verification to prevent visa abuse.

Travellers should be prepared and plan responsibly to avoid being turned away by Malaysian immigration officers. If a traveler is denied entry, they may be put on the Not To Land (NTL) list, kept in the airport's transit zone, and sent back to their departure city on the next available flight. In some cases, travelers may be issued an "NTL" order, confined to the airport transit area indefinitely, or repatriated to India at their own expense if they land without complete documentation or a valid MDAC.

It is essential to note that Malaysian authorities have extended the visa-free travel policy for Indian tourists until December 31, 2026. However, this policy is strictly for leisure visits, not employment, internships, or extended stays.

In conclusion, Indian tourists planning a trip to Malaysia should ensure they have all necessary documents, including a passport valid for at least 6 months, a return/onward flight ticket, hotel bookings or accommodation proof, proof of sufficient funds, and a completed Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) submitted online before travel. By doing so, they can enjoy a smooth and hassle-free entry into the country.