Indian passport holders can currently visit Malaysia without a visa for up to 30 days, but the High Commission of Malaysia in India has issued a caution: not everyone is getting through immigration smoothly.
Why Some Travellers Are Being Denied Entry
Even with the visa-free entry in place, Malaysian Immigration has recently put many Indian travellers in the ‘Not To Land’ (NTL) category. Once flagged, they are denied entry and must remain at the airport until their airline takes them back to India.
Check Everything Twice Before You Fly
The High Commission of Malaysia in India is clear: Indian nationals planning a Malaysia trip need to double-check all entry requirements before booking that ticket. Bring genuine, paper or digital evidence for your hotel or accommodation.
The advisory highlights common reasons for being flagged:
- Insufficient funds to cover travel expenses
- No verifiable proof of accommodation
- Missing or suspicious return tickets
- Suspected intent to work illegally under the visa-free scheme
What Happens If You’re Put on the NTL List
If Malaysian immigration places a traveller on the Not To Land (NTL) list, entry is refused, and they cannot leave the airport. Instead, they must wait in designated holding areas until the same airline arranges their return flight, often leaving them stranded for hours with little flexibility.
What Indian Travellers Should Do
The High Commission urges Indian visitors to follow entry requirements carefully:
- Carry enough funds to support your stay
- Keep confirmed hotel or accommodation details ready
- Have a genuine return ticket
- Avoid agents who falsely claim the visa-free scheme can be used for jobs
The scheme is strictly for tourism, business visits, social trips, or transit—not employment.
Key Rules for Visa-Free Entry
The 30-day visa-free entry is valid from 1 December 2023 to 31 December 2026. To use it, Indian citizens must:
- Hold a passport valid for at least six months
- Ensure they are not on Malaysia’s prohibited or suspect lists
- Show proof of sufficient financial means
Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)
In addition, Malaysia now requires all international visitors, including Indian travellers, to complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online. Travellers must submit the form within three days before arrival, and it captures essential travel and health details for entry clearance
Bottom Line
The visa-free entry is a welcome opportunity for Indian travellers, but Malaysia’s immigration checks remain strict. The right documents and proper preparation at the airport decide whether you enjoy a smooth holiday or get turned back at the border.
Follow and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Google News for the latest travel news and updates!