Malaysia eVISA requirements, documents and eligibility
Review VTR and VDR routes, visa types, nationality rules, passport requirements, processing and entry conditions.
What is eVISA?
eVISA is an electronic visa for eligible foreign nationals entering Malaysia. Visa Without Reference is mainly for eligible social visits, while Visa With Reference is for applicants who already hold the required approval for study, employment, medical treatment or qualifying social visits.
Who can apply?
Eligibility depends on nationality, passport type, visa route and category. Individual applicants must obtain eVISA before entering Malaysia and cannot apply while inside Malaysia.
Nationality rules
VTR social-visit eligibility covers a defined group of visa-required nationalities. India has a qualifying exemption through 31 December 2026, Myanmar passport holders have visa-free social visits of up to 14 days, and eligible Chinese passport holders have separate exemption conditions. Afghan applicants normally require VDR unless a documented exception applies.
Visa types and validity
Single Entry Visa permits one journey, normally within six months from issue. Multiple Entry Visa is available only where nationality and category qualify and generally permits stays of up to 30 days per entry. Category-specific periods can differ.
Passport requirements
The passport biodata page must show more than six months of validity from the intended travel date. At least three blank passport pages are required. Eligible document types include international, diplomatic and official passports and, where applicable, Hong Kong identity documents.
VTR documents
Documents can include a studio photograph, passport biodata page, previous-passport page where relevant, round-trip journey evidence, paid accommodation, financial support, a birth certificate for applicants under 18 and other requested records.
VDR documents
VDR applications require a valid Visa Approval Letter, eVAL, eVDR or VDR and the passport biodata page. Other category-specific evidence may be requested.
Accommodation
Hotel stays use paid accommodation evidence. For a friend or relative, a cover letter can include the applicant details, Malaysian address, host name, identification number and telephone. A short layover can use an explanatory cover letter and airport address.
Photo requirements
Use a professional studio photograph on a white background, taken within six months, measuring 35 mm by 50 mm, clear and properly exposed, showing the full face without headgear. Uploads here remain permissive.
Minors and medical applications
Applicants under 18 provide a birth certificate. Medical VDR applicants need prior approval and an appointment letter from an eligible healthcare provider and should apply at least 14 working days before travel and the appointment.
Processing time
A complete application normally takes 2–7 working days. Weekends, holidays, incomplete cases, further-document requests and interviews are excluded. The period restarts after requested documents are uploaded.
When to apply
Submit at least 14 days before travel. Individual applications cannot be submitted from inside Malaysia.
Entry requirements
Carry a valid passport, printed or digital eVISA Note, journey evidence, return ticket where applicable, paid accommodation and other requested support.
Arrival and health information
Travellers required to complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card should submit information in the permitted three-day arrival window. A Yellow Fever certificate is required when arriving from an identified risk country.
Restrictions and decisions
Unauthorized employment, unauthorized study and foreign media activity are prohibited. Incorrect information can invalidate eVISA. Additional documents or an interview may be requested and an application can be refused.