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Malaysia Visa Types - Which Visa Is Right For You?

14-Mar-2023

6 min read

Indian nationals who wish to visit Malaysia must apply for a valid visa before traveling. However, there are different types of Malaysia visas available, depending on the purpose of your visit. 

Each type of visa has its own specific requirements, application procedures, and validity periods.

In this post, I'll discuss the various types of Malaysian visas that Indian nationals can apply for, including tourist visas, business visas, student visas, and employment visas.

Flag of Malaysia waving in the wind during daytime

What Are The Malaysia Visa Types

Malaysia offers various types of visas for travelers depending on their purpose of visit. The most common visas include tourist visas, business visas, student visas, and dependent visas.

The different types of Malaysia Visas include:

Tourist Visa

If you want to visit Malaysia for tourism or sightseeing purposes, this visa is for you. The Malaysian Tourist visa is usually valid for 30 to 90 days, depending on the country of origin. Keep in mind that you're not allowed to work or study in Malaysia with a tourist visa. However, you can apply for a single entry visa or multiple entry visa.

Quick side note. If you're looking for a quick and easy way to apply for your Malaysia e visa, use Atlys. This app streamlines the application process and guides you through every step.

How to apply for a Malaysia tourist visa through Atlys

Business Visa

A Malaysia business visa is for individuals who plan to visit Malaysia for business purposes, such as attending conferences, meetings, or exploring business opportunities. This visa is also valid for 30 to 90 days, and it does not allow holders to work or study in Malaysia. You can apply for a multiple entry visa.

Student Visa

The student visa is for travelers who wish to study in Malaysia. This visa is issued for the duration of the course and allows you to work part-time. However, to get this visa, you must be enrolled in a recognized institution and have a letter of acceptance from the institution.

Dependent visa

A dependent visa is for spouses, children, or parents of a Malaysian citizen or a foreigner with a long-term visa. This visa allows the holder to stay in Malaysia for the same duration as the sponsor's visa. 

Transit Visa

A Transit visa is also available for those who are traveling through Malaysia to reach their next destination. This visa is valid for up to 120 hours and allows holders to stay in Malaysia for a maximum of 5 days. It is issued to travelers who have connecting flights or travel by land or sea to a third destination.

Work Visa

A work visa, also known as Employment Pass, is for foreign nationals who wish to work in Malaysia. This visa is issued to professionals, managers, and executives who a Malaysian company has offered a job. The validity of the work visa depends on the duration of your employment contract, and it is usually valid for up to 2 years, with the possibility of renewal.

Batu cave, hinduism temple in a sunny day in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

What Are The Required Documents For A Malaysian Visa

The following documents are the standard documents you need to provide no matter what visa you apply for:

  • A valid passport.
  • A recent passport-sized photo (two of them if you apply through an Embassy).
  • Proof of accommodation.
  • Invitation letter if you're staying with friends or family.
  • Proof of flight tickets.
  • Proof that you have enough funds to cover your stay (3 months' bank statements).

Additional documents are required depending on the type of visa you apply for. For example, if you're applying for a work visa, you need an employment letter from the company in Malaysia along with the documents mentioned above.


How Can I Apply For A Malaysia Visa For Indians?

If you want to apply for a Malaysian tourist visa, Malaysia business visa, or student visa you can apply online on the Immigration Department Of Malaysia. The application steps will look something like this:

  • Step 1: Access the Immigration Department Of Malaysia website.
  • Step 2: Create your account.
  • Step 3: Complete the application form and upload your documents.
  • Step 4: Pay the visa fee.
  • Step 5: Submit your application.

However, if you want to apply for a Malaysia work visa, your employer must help with the application, then you need to apply at an Embassy.

Malaysian Visa Status Check

There are two ways to do your Malaysian visa status check. If you apply for your Malaysia visa online, like with the Malaysia Tourist Visa, you can check your status by going to the website you used to apply. Unfortunately, if you apply through an Embassy or Visa application center, you need to contact them to find out about your visa status.

Top view of Kuala Lumper skyline at twilight, Malaysia

Overview Of The Different Malaysian Visas

This section is all about discussing the extra information you might want and need to know. Let's get to it:

What Are The Malaysia Visa Fees

The visa fees depend on the visa you want to apply for. The list of Malaysia visa fees is as follows:

  • Malaysia Tourist Visa: RM 50 (approximately INR 908).
  • Malaysia Business Visa: RM 100 (approximately INR 1816).
  • Malaysia Student Visa: The student visa fees vary. The cost range from RM 530 to RM 1060 (approximately INR 9625 to INR 19251).
  • Malaysia Dependant Visa: RM 250 (approximately INR 4540).
  • Malaysia Work Visa: This depends on the type of work visa you apply for. However, the costs can range from RM 90 to RM 200 (approximately INR 1634 to INR 3632).
  • Malaysia Transit Visa: RM 50 (approximately INR 908).

Please note that the visa fees are non-refundable. The Malaysia visa fees can also change at any time, so it's best to check the visa fees before you apply.

What Are The Different Malaysian Visa Validity?

The validity for each visa differs. Here's a list of the validity period for each type of visa:

  • Malaysia Tourist Visa: 90 days. However, your visa will state how many days you can stay in the country. Usually, it's 30 days for a single entry visa. Keep in mind that there's also a multiple entry visa available which will let you enter and exit the country more than once.
  • Malaysia Business Visa: It is normally valid for 3 to 12 months from the date of issue.
  • Malaysia Student Visa: It depends on how long your course is. The visa will be valid for the same amount of time as your course.
  • Malaysia Dependant Visa: 12 months from the date of issue. Usually you can stay in the country for 12 months. However, double-check your visa as the amount of days you can stay in Malaysia will be on there.
  • Malaysia Work Visa: This work permit lasts 1 to 5 years and can be renewed on a case-to-case basis.
  • Malaysia Transit Visa: This visa is valid for a maximum of 5 days.
Buddhist temple Kek Lok Si in Penang Malaysia

That's It!

In conclusion, if you're an Indian national planning to enter Malaysia, obtaining the right type of visa is crucial. Understanding the various types of visas available can help you choose the one that is best suited to your needs and ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

The information in this post are from reliable sources:

This post was written and fact-checked with AI assistance.

Written By: Laliq Schuman
Fact Checked By: Nikhita Rathod

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are The Documents Required For A Malaysia Employment Visa For Indians?

The documents required for a Malaysia employment visa for Indians include the following:

  • A valid passport.
  • A completed visa application form.
  • A letter of approval from the Malaysian Immigration Department.
  • An offer letter from the employer in Malaysia.
  • A medical certificate.
Can I Extend My Malaysian Visa While I Am In The Country?

Yes, extending your Malaysia visa while you are in the country is possible. However, it is important to note that you need to apply for an extension at least 7 days before the expiry of your current visa. Applicants will also need to provide a valid reason for the extension and fulfill all the necessary requirements.

Can I Apply For A Malaysia Visa Online, Or Do I Need To Visit The Malaysian Embassy In Person?

Yes, Indian nationals can apply for a Malaysia visa online through the eVisa system or the Malaysia Visa Application Center (MVAS) website to enter Malaysia. However, if you prefer, you can also apply for a visa in person at the Malaysian embassy or consulate in India.

What Should I Do If My Malaysia Visa Application Is Rejected?

If your Malaysia visa application is rejected, you can reapply for the visa after addressing the reasons for rejection. You can also appeal the decision by submitting additional supporting documents or evidence to support your application. Alternatively, you can seek the advice of a visa consultant or lawyer to help you with the reapplication or appeal process.

How Long In Advance Should I Apply For A Malaysia Visa?

It is recommended to apply for a Malaysia visa at least one month before your planned travel date. This will ensure that you have enough time to complete the application process and receive the visa before your departure. However, applying as early as possible is always better to avoid any last-minute delays or issues.

What Should I Do If I Lose My Malaysia Visa While In The Country?

Suppose you lose your Malaysia visa while in the country. You should immediately report it to the nearest police station and obtain a police report. You should then contact the Indian embassy or consulate in Malaysia to obtain a replacement visa.

It is important to note that a replacement visa may take several days to be issued, so it is best to keep your visa safe and secure at all times.

Can I Work In Malaysia On A Tourist Visa?

No, Indian nationals are not allowed to work in Malaysia on a visa for tourism. If you wish to work in Malaysia, you will need to obtain an employment visa or a work permit. This requires sponsorship from a Malaysian employer and a valid job offer.

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