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Malaysia Introduces New Visa-Free Stay Limits: 30 Days Per Visit for Travellers

February 20, 2026 4:57 am

Malaysia Introduces New Visa-Free Stay Limits: 30 Days Per Visit for Travellers

Malaysia has recently updated its visa-free stay policies for travelers holding Chinese passports. Under the new guidelines, visitors can now stay for a maximum of 30 days per visit. Additionally, the total stay cannot exceed 90 days within any 180 days. Here’s everything you need to know before traveling.

Important Changes for Chinese Nationals

Chinese passport holders can now enter Malaysia without a visa prior to arrival. Upon entry, travelers receive a Social Visit Pass. Here are the essential updates:

Maximum Stay: 30 days per visit
Total Stay Limit: 90 days within any 180-day window

This update replaces the previous allowance of 90 consecutive days per entry. Essentially, while visitors can come multiple times, their combined time in Malaysia over six months must not exceed the 90-day limit. Frequent travelers should monitor their stay duration closely. Additionally, Malaysia has extended the visa exemption for Chinese nationals for another five years. This commitment aims to facilitate easier travel between the two nations.

Visa-Free Access for Indian Nationals

Indian passport holders also benefit from the same visa-free entry scheme, introduced on December 1, 2023. This program is valid for Indian travelers until December 31, 2026. Upon arrival, Indian visitors receive a 30-day Social Visit Pass. Currently, there is no formal limit of 90 days within 180 days specifically for Indian nationals. However, each entry remains restricted to 30 days. Travelers must depart Malaysia before their stay concludes to avoid fines or complications with future entries.

Understanding the Malaysian Social Visit Pass

With the visa waiver program, travelers from both China and India do not need to secure a tourist visa ahead of time. Instead, they receive a Social Visit Pass upon arrival. This pass allows for short visits for purposes such as:

Tourism
Business meetings or conferences
Signing agreements
Sports events
Visiting friends and family

However, it does not permit:

Employment
Long-term education
Permanent relocation

If your travel intent involves work or study, you must obtain the appropriate visa or eVisa prior to your trip.

Note on 30-Day Stay Restrictions

Travelers must understand that the 30-day Social Visit Pass cannot be extended while in Malaysia. If you wish to stay longer, you must exit the country and return. However, re-entering does not reset the 180-day calculation for Chinese nationals, as the 90-day cap still applies.

The Rationale Behind Malaysia’s Visa-Free Entry

Malaysia’s decision to offer visa-free entry aims to enhance tourism and business travel, particularly from China and India, two vital markets. Tourism significantly contributes to Malaysia’s economy, and easing entry encourages short trips, shopping excursions, and corporate travels. The 30-day limit helps authorities better manage potential overstays while maintaining a balance between accessibility and regulation.

Important Reminders for Travelers

Before you fly to Malaysia, keep these key points in mind:

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months.
Adhere to the 30-day stay limit.
Chinese travelers should track their total days within 180 days.
Keep proof of onward or return tickets.
Have hotel bookings or accommodation details ready.

Malaysia remains one of the most accessible destinations in Southeast Asia for short visits. With a straightforward entry process and welcoming attractions, your stay can be enjoyable and stress-free. Understanding these stay limits will ensure a pleasant holiday experience.