The Malaysian government has confirmed an extension of its visa exemption policy for both Chinese and Indian nationals, ensuring that citizens of both countries can continue to enter Malaysia without a visa until 31 December 2026. The extension effectively covers the entire Visit Malaysia Year 2026 campaign period, signalling a clear intent to attract tourists and long-term visitors from these key markets.
The announcement was welcomed by the tourism and immigration sectors alike, with both countries representing significant sources of visitors, MM2H applicants, and prospective long-term residents.
Key Changes at a Glance
| Nationality | Previous Stay Limit | Updated Stay Limit | Valid Until |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chinese nationals | 30 days per visit | 90 days per visit | 31 December 2026 |
| Indian nationals | 30 days per visit | 30 days per visit | 31 December 2026 |
The most notable change is for Chinese nationals, whose permitted stay has been tripled from 30 days to 90 days per visit. This brings the Chinese exemption in line with many Western nationalities and makes Malaysia one of the most accessible destinations for Chinese travellers in Southeast Asia.
Important: The visa-free exemption covers tourism, short business visits, and family visits. It does not permit the holder to work in Malaysia. If you intend to work, study, or stay long-term, a separate visa or pass is required. Speak to our consultants to understand your options.
Why This Matters for Long-Term Residency Applicants
For many clients from China and India considering long-term options in Malaysia — such as the MM2H programme, Employment Pass, or Dependent Pass — the extended visa-free window provides a practical opportunity to visit Malaysia, meet with consultants, attend appointments, and make more informed decisions about their residency pathway before committing to a full application.
Chinese nationals in particular can now stay up to 90 days in a single trip, which is sufficient time to open a Malaysian bank account (required for MM2H fixed deposits), view properties, and complete a medical examination — all key steps in the MM2H application process.
Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) Still Required
While entry is visa-free, all foreign visitors to Malaysia are required to complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) before arrival. This is a mandatory online pre-registration form that must be submitted no earlier than 72 hours before your flight. Failure to complete the MDAC may result in delays or issues at immigration.
- MDAC must be completed online before arrival — not at the airport
- Required for all nationalities except Singapore and Brunei citizens
- Free to complete — accessible via the official MyIMMs portal
- Passport details and flight information must be accurate
Context: Visit Malaysia Year 2026
The visa exemption extension aligns with Malaysia's national tourism push — Visit Malaysia Year 2026 — which aims to attract 35.6 million international visitors. China and India are among the priority source markets, and the government has invested heavily in promotional campaigns across both countries to capitalise on renewed post-pandemic travel appetite.
If you or your family are planning a trip to Malaysia to explore your immigration options, this is an excellent window to visit and meet with our team in person.
Sources: Immigration Department of Malaysia; Envoy Global Immigration News Alert (29 April 2025); KPMG GMS Flash Alert (February 2025).