Travel Requirements: Unlocking Malaysia's Borders

Malaysia is a popular destination for tourists and expats alike, known for its low living costs, vibrant culture, and diverse natural landscapes. If you're planning a trip to Malaysia, here's what you need to know about the requirements for entry.

Firstly, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in Malaysia, and that it is undamaged with no missing pages. Some countries are granted visa-free entry for stays of up to 90 days, including the UK, US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan. For citizens of other countries, a visa may be required for any length of stay. It is important to check the latest entry requirements before travelling.

As of 2024, there are no COVID-19 vaccination requirements for entry to Malaysia. However, all foreign travellers are required to complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card online before arrival. Additionally, certain countries may have specific requirements for pre-departure and on-arrival testing, so be sure to check the regulations for your country of residence.

When entering Malaysia, you may be asked to take a urine test if drug use is suspected. It is illegal to import unlicensed firearms, and there are strict rules about prohibited goods, so be sure to declare any items that may be restricted. There are also restrictions on the amount of cash or traveller's cheques that can be brought into the country.

Overall, Malaysia offers a relatively easy entry process for travellers, but it's always important to be prepared and well-informed before your trip.

A valid passport

To enter Malaysia, your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival. It is also important that your passport is not damaged and that no pages are missing. If your passport does not meet these requirements, you will need to renew it.

If your passport is valid, make sure you keep it safe. If it is lost or stolen, you will be denied entry to Malaysia. You will also be denied entry if you try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Malaysia does not recognise dual nationality. If you are found to have a Malaysian passport and a passport from another country, you may be refused entry. If you have dual nationality that does not include a Malaysian passport, you must enter and exit the country using the same passport.

A visa (if required)

If you are a citizen of Europe, the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, or many other countries, you can visit Malaysia without a visa for up to 90 days. This applies to arrivals by air, land, and sea. However, if you enter by land or sea, you may only be given a 30-day entry stamp unless you specifically request a longer permit. It is worth doing this as extending your stay may not be possible once the stamp is issued.

If your home country is not on the visa-free travel list, or you plan to stay for longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a visa. The only visas valid for more than 90 days are the multi-entry visas reserved for business travellers.

Different rules apply to different countries. Tourist E-Visas lasting up to 30 days are issued to citizens of Serbia, Montenegro, China, India, and many other nations in South Asia and Africa. See the Immigration Department of Malaysia website for details of how to apply and a full list of approved countries.

If you are moving to Malaysia, you will need to obtain a long-stay visa if you plan on staying longer than 90 days. Malaysia offers different types of visas depending on the reason for your move, such as work, study, or family reunification.

A legalized statement for medication

When travelling to Malaysia, it is important to be aware of the regulations regarding medication. While Malaysia is known for its relaxed visa requirements, there are strict rules concerning medication that must be followed to avoid legal consequences. Here is a legalized statement outlining the requirements for carrying medication when travelling to Malaysia:

• Medication Requirements: Malaysia, like most countries, requires individuals to have a valid prescription from a licensed doctor for any medication they are carrying. This prescription should be in the original, labelled container and include your full name, your doctor's name, the generic and brand name of the medication, and the exact dosage. It is recommended to bring copies of written prescriptions, including generic names, as some states have individual laws regarding prescription medication labelling.
• Translation: If your prescription is not in the local language, it should be translated into English or the local language of your destination.
• Supply Limitations: Many countries, including Malaysia, typically allow a 30-day supply of certain medications. However, it is important to check the specific regulations of your destination country, as some may permit up to a 90-day supply.
• Controlled Substances: Some medications may be considered controlled substances in Malaysia, even if they are commonly prescribed or available over the counter in your home country. If you are carrying controlled substances, it is advisable to request a note from your prescribing healthcare provider.
• Declaration: Upon entry to Malaysia, you should declare any medication you are carrying, especially if you are unsure about its legality. This includes medication in both carry-on and checked baggage. Failure to declare prohibited items can result in serious consequences.
• Liquid Medication: If you are travelling with liquid medication, you are permitted to carry reasonable quantities in excess of 3.4 ounces in your carry-on baggage. However, you must inform the officer about medically necessary liquids at the start of the screening checkpoint process. These liquids will be subject to additional screening and may require opening the container.
• X-Ray Screening: Medication is typically screened by X-ray. However, if you prefer, you may request a visual inspection of your medication before sending it through the X-ray machine.
• Narcotics and Controlled Substances: For more information on narcotics and controlled substances, you can refer to the International Narcotics Control Board website, which provides general information for travellers.
• Storage and Temperature Control: It is important to safely store your medication during your travels. Additionally, keep in mind that extreme temperatures can reduce the effectiveness of many medications, so take the necessary precautions.
• Insurance Coverage: Check with your insurance company about their policies regarding medication coverage while travelling. Some companies may only cover a 30-day supply at a time.
• Time Zone Adjustments: If you are travelling to a different time zone, consult your healthcare provider about any adjustments needed for taking your medication. It is recommended to take your medication according to the time since your last dose, rather than the local time of day.
• Refills and Emergencies: Before your trip, leave a copy of your prescriptions with a friend or relative in case you need an emergency refill. Additionally, if your medication is not permitted in Malaysia, discuss alternative treatment options with your healthcare provider.
• Buying Medicine Abroad: It is generally recommended to only use medication brought from your home country to avoid the risk of counterfeit drugs, which are common in some countries. However, in case of an emergency, refer to the CDC's Counterfeit Drugs page for guidance.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about the specific requirements of Malaysia, you can ensure that you are complying with the legal regulations regarding medication when travelling to the country.

A ticket to a third country or a valid return ticket

When travelling to Malaysia, it is important to ensure that you have a valid ticket for onward travel from the country. This could be a ticket to a third country or a return ticket to your country of origin. While authorities rarely request proof of onward travel, it is always best to be prepared.

Onward travel can be in the form of a ticket to a third country or a return ticket to your country of origin. This is a standard requirement for entry into Malaysia and is necessary to demonstrate your intention to leave the country within the permitted time frame. It is important to note that overstaying your visa can result in serious consequences, including deportation, fines, and being blacklisted from future visits. Therefore, it is crucial to abide by the entry requirements and provide the necessary documentation when entering Malaysia.

When preparing for your trip to Malaysia, ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival. Additionally, it is recommended to have your passport stamped upon entry to avoid any issues with overstaying. British nationals, for example, are typically allowed to stay for 90 days, after which a visa is required for an extended stay.

It is also worth noting that Malaysia has specific requirements for vaccination certificates and the importation of certain goods. Be sure to research these requirements thoroughly to ensure a smooth travel experience.

A filled-out Malaysia Digital Arrival Card

As of December 1, 2023, the Malaysian Immigration Department has introduced a new policy: the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC). This is an essential document for clearing immigration on arrival in Malaysia and must be completed by almost all foreign nationals, regardless of the purpose or duration of their stay.

Personal Details

• Full Name: Jane Doe
• Date of Birth: January 1, 1990
• Gender: Female
• Nationality: American
• Country of Birth: United States of America
• Passport Number: A12345678
• Passport Expiry Date: January 1, 2028
• Address: 123 Main Street, Anytown, USA
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone Number: +1 (123) 456-7890

Trip Details

• Mode of Transportation: Air
• Date of Arrival: August 15, 2024
• Time of Arrival: 15:00
• Last Port of Embarkation: Singapore Changi Airport
• Flight Number: AC123
• Date of Departure: August 25, 2024

Accommodation Details

• Address: 456 Hotel Street, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• Phone Number: +60 (321) 654-987

Please note that this is just a sample, and the actual MDAC may require additional or different information. It is important to carefully review and complete all the required fields on the official MDAC form.

The MDAC must be submitted at least three days before your arrival in Malaysia. You will need to show the completed MDAC and your passport to the immigration officers upon arrival.

The MDAC is not required if you are a permanent resident of Malaysia, hold a Malaysia Automated Clearance System pass, or are transiting through Singapore without seeking immigration clearance.

Additionally, visitors from certain countries, including the United States, are eligible to use the autogates at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) for immigration clearance upon arrival and departure. However, this is only permitted for subsequent visits after successfully enrolling and verifying your passport at the manual counter during your initial trip.

Make sure to carefully review the requirements and guidelines provided by the Malaysian Immigration Department to ensure a smooth entry into Malaysia.

Frequently asked questions