The Malaysian government has extended visa exemption for Indian citizens until December 31, 2026. Previously, it was meant to end on December 31 of this year. This implies that the government has given Indian citizens two more years of visa extension.
This announcement was delivered by the Home Ministry Secretary-General, Datuk Awang Alik Jeman. According to him, this extension is necessary as part of the preparations for Visit Malaysia Year 2026. It is also in line with Malaysia’s Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Chairmanship in 2025.
While speaking to pressmen, Jeman said, “Earlier, the government also extended the visa exemptions until the same date for Chinese citizens.” He went on to explain that the visa exemption policy is a core part of the Visa Liberation Plan initiative. According to him, this initiative is expected to boost tourism and improve the economy of the nation, without compromising its security.
Based on this exemption, Indian citizens can continue to transit or stay in Malaysia without a visa for up to thirty days. Based on this policy, Indian nationals will only need to present proof of sufficient funds for their stay and a return flight ticket to stay in Malaysia for up to a 30-day period.
This is a welcome development for Indians and Chinese nationals planning to visit Malaysia for tourism, to connect with their families and friends living there, or to attend business meetings for a short period of up to 3o days before leaving the country.