Malaysia: Visa Exemption Implemented for Chinese and Indian Nationals

Update – February 17, 2026: Chinese nationals eligible for this visa exemption can now only stay in Malaysia for up to 30 days, with a maximum stay of 90 days within any 180‑day period (as opposed to 90 days per entry). 

April 23, 2025: This program has been extended another five years for Chinese nationals and until December 31, 2026 for Indian nationals. Additionally, Chinese nationals eligible for this visa exemption can now stay in Malaysia for up to 90 days (up from the original 30-day stay allowance).

December 5, 2023: The Malaysian government announced that from December 1, 2023 to December 31, 2024, Chinese and Indian passport holders are visa-exempt for entry to Malaysia for social purposes, which includes tourism, meetings and conferences, signing of agreements, and participating in sports competitions, among other activities. Instead, upon entry, Chinese and Indian nationals can obtain a Social Visit Pass which is valid for up to 30 days. These individuals should note that the Social Visit Pass cannot be extended in Malaysia; therefore, individuals seeking to stay longer in Malaysia will need to leave the country, re-enter and obtain a new Social Visit Pass. This expansion of visa-exempt status is intended to attract foreign nationals to Malaysia for tourism to enhance the economy. Chinese and Indian nationals, however, must still obtain a reference visa or e-visa if they are entering Malaysia for work or study.