Malaysia visa-free for Indian travellers: the 31 December deadline and arrival checks

Indian passport holders planning a Malaysian break before the end of 2026 have a useful exemption to check. The Malaysian High Commission in New Delhi says the visa waiver runs until 31 December 2026 and allows eligible visits of up to 30 days for business, tourism, social or transit purposes.

The approaching scheme deadline makes this a practical time to check holiday plans, especially trips that cross into a new year.

Separate the scheme deadline from your stay

The expiry of the waiver scheme and the length of an individual's admission are different matters. Do not assume that a January 2027 arrival will be covered because a flight was purchased in October. Likewise, obtain official clarification if a proposed trip spans the scheme's end date.

Use the current immigration and mission guidance for the intended arrival date. An extension should only be treated as confirmed when the authorities publish it.

Prepare the ordinary entry evidence

The High Commission's entry guidance calls for a passport or travel document with more than six months' validity and sufficient funds for the visit. The waiver removes a visa requirement for eligible trips; it does not remove the rest of the entry assessment.

Review accommodation, onward travel and the explanation of the trip together. If travelling as a family with different nationalities, check each passport separately rather than applying the Indian exemption to the whole booking.

Check the Digital Arrival Card separately

Malaysia operates the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card, or MDAC. Use the official Immigration Department portal to check whether a declaration is required for your circumstances and follow the live submission instructions. Completing an arrival declaration does not itself create visa eligibility.

Keep a simple travel folder with passport details, bookings and any required declaration confirmation. Recheck the official waiver notice shortly before departure, and make sure the airline understands the exact passport and entry route being used.