Malaysia Visa Requirements for Malaysia Citizens

FAQs

1. Does Malaysia require proof of onward travel?

   Yes, Malaysia requires proof of onward travel for visitors entering the country. This requirement ensures that travelers do not overstay their visas and have plans to leave the country within the allowed timeframe (either 30 days or 3 months). Proof of onward travel can include a return ticket to the traveler's home country or a flight ticket to another destination outside Malaysia. This regulation is part of Malaysia's immigration policy to manage and monitor the flow of visitors and ensure compliance with visa regulations. 

   In some cases, travelers might need to show their itinerary, accommodation bookings, and sufficient funds for their stay to further demonstrate their intentions to leave Malaysia. It's advisable for visitors to carry printed copies of these documents and any relevant travel insurance to avoid complications. Additionally, travelers should always verify the latest entry requirements on the GVC website or their airline in advance of their departure for Malaysia. By having the necessary documentation, travelers can ensure a smooth entry into Malaysia and enjoy their visit without any legal issues.

2. What vaccines do I need to travel to Malaysia?

   Before traveling to Malaysia, please ensure you're up to date on routine vaccinations, including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and influenza.

   Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend certain vaccinations specific to Malaysia. 

   • All eligible travelers should be vaccinated with at least two doses of COVID-19 vaccination.
   • Within the last five years, there has been evidence of chikungunya virus spread in Malaysia. It may be worth considering a chikungunya immunization for travelers 65 years of age or older, especially those with underlying medical issues, who may spend a cumulative minimum of two weeks in Malaysia in indoor or outdoor mosquito-infested locations.
   • Hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines are generally recommended for most travelers to Malaysia due to the risk of contaminated food and water. Hepatitis B vaccination is also recommended, especially if you might have intimate contact with locals or require medical treatment during your stay. Japanese encephalitis vaccine may be recommended if you plan to spend a significant amount of time in rural areas, especially during the rainy season. 
   • Rabies vaccination might be necessary if you plan to engage in outdoor activities or animal-related work. 
   • Depending on your travel plans, you might need to consider vaccinations against diseases like cholera and yellow fever, although yellow fever vaccination is generally only required if you're arriving from a country where yellow fever transmission is recorded.

   Generally, before you travel to Malaysia, you should consult with a travel medicine specialist to determine the specific vaccinations you need based on your health, itinerary, and individual risk factors.

3. Can Malaysia travel to North Korea?

   Malaysians are currently prohibited from visiting North Korea unless they are going there for official diplomatic, medical, or humanitarian purposes. The Malaysian government has placed a travel restriction on all Malaysians as a result of reports that some of its people traveled to North Korea for illicit purposes. Any Malaysian wishing to travel to North Korea must first seek permission from the Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

   You can receive assistance to apply for permission to visit North Korea from the Malaysian Embassy in Beijing, China. However, visitors should note that the visa process to North Korea is a difficult and drawn-out procedure, and the final decision belongs to the North Korean government.

   If Malaysians obtain permission to enter North Korea, their travels are subject to more stringent regulations than those of other tourists. For example, they must submit an official itinerary and travel expenses before entering the country, and they might have to pay a higher visa fee and face surveillance from North Korean officials while they are there.

   Travelers should make sure that their itinerary and activities comply with North Korean laws and regulations and learn the country's current security situation before booking a trip. Additionally, Malaysian nationals must ensure that they have a current passport, a valid visa, and any other paperwork, such as permission documents and travel insurance.

4. How much to travel to Japan from Malaysia?

   With plenty to offer, Japan is a well-liked travel destination from Malaysia for travelers looking for a quick city break, a chance to experience local culture and history, or even a chance to hit the slopes. 

   Traveling from Malaysia to Japan involves several cost considerations. Depending on the airline, time of booking, and season of travel, there can be a large variation in flight fares from Kuala Lumpur to major Japanese cities such as Tokyo or Osaka. Round-trip tickets in the economy class usually cost between RM 1,500 and RM 3,000 or more. Business class tickets might cost anywhere from RM 5,000 to RM 12,000 or more for a more opulent experience.

   The cost of lodging varies depending on the area and kind of accommodation in Japan. While mid-range accommodations can cost anywhere from RM 300 to RM 600 per night, travelers on a tight budget may find hostels or inexpensive motels starting at about RM 150 per night.

   Food costs range widely, from affordable meals at local eateries (RM 20 - RM 50 per meal) to higher-end dining experiences (RM 100 or more per meal). Local trains, subways, and maybe domestic airplanes are the available modes of transportation in Japan.

   Additional expenses include activities, sightseeing, travel insurance, and miscellaneous costs, so planning and budgeting are essential to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip to Japan from Malaysia.

5. How to travel to Bhutan from Malaysia?

   There are no flights that go from Malaysia to Bhutan directly. There are only two airlines that fly into and out of Bhutan. Inbound flights are operated by Bhutan Airlines and Druk Air, the national carrier, from a number of locations in the region. Direct flights are available from Singapore, Bangkok, Dhaka, Calcutta, Kathmandu, Bagdogra, Guwahati, and New Delhi to Paro, Bhutan. Consequently, Malaysians who wish to visit Bhutan must first go to any of the above-stated cities and then take one of the airlines' flights to Bhutan.

   For Malaysians visiting Bhutan, Bangkok (Thailand) or Singapore would be the best transit cities. While the two carriers fly daily from Bangkok to Paro, Druk Air only flies three times a week from Singapore.

   Road travel is another option for entering Bhutan from the south. Bhutan and the Indian states of Bengal and Assam share a southern border. The closest national airports in India are Guwahati International Airport in Assam and Bagdogra Airport in Bengal. From these airports, visitors can drive to the nearest border town or take a trip to Paro.

   The Phuentsholing district of Bhutan is approximately five hours' drive from Bagdogra airport. The distance to Thimphu, the capital, is 170 kilometers from Phuentsholing. Additionally, it takes about four hours to get from the border town of Samdrup Jongkhar in southern-eastern Bhutan to the Guwahati airport. If you want to travel to the eastern part of Bhutan, here is the best place to start.

   So, in order to enter Bhutan via the land border, you will need to take a plane from Malaysia to Kolkata, then from Kolkata, take a regional Indian flight to either Bagadora or Guwahati. You can drive into Bhutan from there.

6. How to travel to Australia from Malaysia?

   Traveling to Australia from Malaysia is straightforward:

   • Flights: There are direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to several Australian cities including Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth. Airlines include Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia X, and Qantas.
   • Visa Requirement: Malaysian citizens need a visa to enter Australia. The most common visa for tourism is the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or the Visitor Visa.
   • Travel Preparations: Make sure you have valid travel documentation, travel insurance, and, if necessary, the necessary vaccinations before you leave. See the most recent travel advisories for Australia, taking note of any quarantine or COVID-19 limitations.
   • Accommodation and Itinerary: Plan your accommodation and itinerary ahead of time. In addition to natural treasures like Uluru and the Great Barrier Reef, Australia provides a variety of urban experiences in vibrant cities.
   • Local SIM Card: Consider purchasing a local SIM card for easy communication and internet access during your stay.
   • Currency: The Australian Dollar is the currency used in Australia. The country has a large number of banks where you can exchange currencies. But in a metropolis, it will be simpler to exchange money. It is possible that you will not be able to convert your cash if you are traveling to a small town or rural area. Just bear that in mind when you're out and about!

   By planning ahead and staying informed of the visa and travel requirements, you can ensure a smooth journey to Australia from Malaysia.

    

    
7. Does Malaysia accept refugee travel documents?

   No. Visitors traveling on a Refugee Travel Document are not allowed to enter Malaysia. They must obtain a visa before traveling to this nation.

   The visa application process for refugees can be more stringent compared to regular passport holders. The applicant might need to provide additional documentation and proof of their refugee status. Here are the necessary documents that refugee travel documents holders are required to apply for a Malaysia visa:

   • Original travel document that must be valid for more than six (6) months before the date of departure from Malaysia.
   • A complete visa application form
   • One passport-sized photograph with a white background
   • Letter of employment (issued from employer)(if applicable)
   • Letter of enrollment (issued from university/institution)(if applicable)
   • Letter of invitation (from a relative or a friend in Malaysia) (if applicable)
   • Bank statement
   • Travel itinerary

   The approval of visas for refugees holding travel documents is at the discretion of Malaysian immigration authorities. Each application is reviewed on a case-by-case basis, and the final decision depends on the specific circumstances and documentation provided.

8. When is the cheapest time to travel to Malaysia?

   Generally, the cheapest time to travel to Malaysia is typically during the monsoon season from November to March and the inter-monsoon periods of April to early June and September to October. Malaysia experiences two main off-peak seasons where travel costs, including flights and accommodation, are generally lower:

   1. Monsoon Season (November to March)

   • Weather: The east coast of Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo experience heavy rainfall, which can deter tourists.
   • Pros: Fewer tourists, lower prices for flights and hotels, and significant discounts on tours and activities.
   • Cons: Some outdoor activities and island excursions might be limited due to weather conditions.

   2. Inter-Monsoon Periods (April to early June and September to October)

   • Weather: The weather during this period is more predictable with occasional rain showers, but not as intense as the monsoon season.
   • Pros: Moderate tourist numbers, competitive pricing on travel and accommodation, and better weather for sightseeing compared to the monsoon season.
   • Cons: Still limited outdoor activities such as beach getaways or nature excursions.
9. Which travel card is best for Malaysia?

   When traveling to Malaysia, choosing the right travel card can significantly enhance your experience by minimizing fees and maximizing convenience. 

   One of the top options is the Wise travel card, which supports over 40 currencies and offers competitive mid-market exchange rates. This card allows you to load Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) before your trip, ensuring you avoid unfavorable airport exchange rates. 

   Another excellent choice is the Revolut travel card, known for its flexible plans and no fees on spending in currencies you hold. Both cards provide features like free ATM withdrawals up to a certain limit, instant notifications for transactions, and easy management through mobile apps. 

   If you're looking for a credit card, the HSBC TravelOne Credit Card is highly regarded for overseas spending, offering 8 points for every RM1 spent abroad. It also includes travel insurance and airport lounge access, adding extra value for frequent travelers. 

   Ultimately, the best travel card for you will depend on your spending habits, the types of transactions you anticipate, and any additional features you may find beneficial, such as travel insurance or rewards programs. By selecting the right card, you can enjoy a hassle-free travel experience in Malaysia while saving money on transactions.

10. Should I exchange money before I travel to Malaysia?

    It is generally recommended to exchange some money before traveling to Malaysia, especially if you are coming from a country that uses a different currency. While you can easily exchange currency upon arrival at the airport or in major cities, exchanging money in advance can offer several advantages:

    • Better exchange rates: Currency exchange providers in your home country may offer more favorable rates compared to those at the airport or in Malaysia, particularly if you exchange a larger amount. This can help you get more Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) for your money.
    • Convenience: Having some MYR on hand before your trip can make your arrival smoother, as you won't need to immediately search for a currency exchange service. This is especially useful if you arrive late at night or on a weekend when exchange offices may be closed.
    • Smaller denominations: When exchanging money in advance, you can request smaller bills (RM10, RM20, RM50) which are more practical for making purchases, tipping, or paying for public transportation upon arrival. Large bills like RM100 may not be accepted by some merchants.
    • Reduced risk: Carrying a small amount of cash in MYR reduces the risk of having to exchange money at unfavorable rates if you run out of local currency during your trip.

    However, it's important to note that you don't need to exchange all your money before traveling, as ATMs are widely available in Malaysia and most major credit cards are accepted. Consider exchanging a portion of your budget to have on hand upon arrival, and use ATMs or credit cards for the rest of your spending.