As per the latest travel updates regarding Malaysia, it is currently not possible for travellers to extend the validity of their visas while within the country. This restriction applies to all foreign individuals holding standard tourist visas. The sole alternative available is to initiate a fresh application for a Malaysian visa. Further details can be found in the linked article.
If you wish to prolong your stay in Malaysia, you will need to exit the country and initiate a new application for a Malaysian visa. Those who hold eligible passports can conveniently complete an online application, subsequently receiving an electronic visa via email, eliminating the need to visit an embassy.
Meeting the Malaysia visa prerequisites and furnishing the required documents are the primary steps to follow. You can find additional information about the process of obtaining a new Malaysia eVisa through the online platform, as well as details about the repercussions of overstaying, below.
Regrettably, the Immigration Department does not currently grant extensions for Malaysia tourist visas. Individuals from foreign countries must opt for obtaining a new Malaysia tourist visa. However, it is imperative for them to depart the country prior to the expiration of their existing visa.
For nationals eligible to secure an eVisa for Malaysia visits, the option of procuring a single-entry electronic travel registration online is available. In cases where online application is not feasible or for those seeking a multiple-entry or long-term visa for Malaysia, seeking guidance from the embassy is recommended.
Contemplating a Prolonged Stay Beyond Visa Expiry in Malaysia?
Presently, the Immigration Department does not endorse visa extensions for foreign nationals. Should your visa surpass its validity, penalties will be imposed. We strongly advise against allowing your visa to expire and instead recommend leaving the country in order to initiate the process for a new Malaysia visa.
The Malaysian government enforces a process to ensure that all incoming visitors are properly documented and eligible for entry. This entails that specific foreign nationals must undergo the process of applying for a Malaysia Visa in order to explore the country, while others are exempt from this requirement.
Certain nationals from particular countries have the option to apply for electronic visas (eVisas) online, negating the need for a visit to the embassy for application. If you are unsure about your eligibility, you can utilise our user-friendly checker tool or continue reading for further clarification.
The following travellers from the specified countries are eligible to acquire an e-Visa online for their journey to Malaysia:
Afghanistan, Angola, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon,Central African Republic, China,Colombia, Congo Democratic Republic, Congo Republic, Djibouti, Eritrea, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Hong Kong (C.I./D.I.), India, Ivory Coast, Kosovo, Liberia, Mali, Montenegro, Mozambique, Myanmar, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Serbia, Sri Lanka, Pakistan
To initiate the process of obtaining a Malaysian eVisa online, the following documents must be submitted:
A copy of your passport - The passport should have a validity of at least six months from the date of arrival, and you will need to provide a scanned copy of the information page.
Recent passport-size photograph - If you don't possess one, you can avail e-Visa digital photo service.
Confirmed return ticket - A return flight ticket with a confirmed e-ticket number needs to be shown.
Proof of accommodation - This can be in the form of a hotel reservation or an invitation letter.
Valid email address - An active email is necessary to receive the approved eVisa document.
Payment methods - A credit or debit card is required to cover the visa fees.
Birth certificate for minors (if applicable).
Cover letter (if applicable).
Depending on the cost and urgency, you have three processing time options:
Standard Processing Time - Takes 6 Business Days.
Rush Processing Time - Provides the document in 4 Business Days.
Super Rush Processing Time - Expedited processing within 2 Business Days.
It is advisable to have a printed copy of your eVisa confirmation when entering Malaysia, should it be required by immigration authorities.
The process for applying for the Malaysian eVisa online is straightforward. Our system simplifies the procedure, requiring you to fill in the necessary details and await processing.
Follow these steps:
First,complete the online application form by answering the provided questions and selecting your preferred processing time.
Second, thoroughly review your information and proceed to make the payment.
Third, upload and attach all the required documents, and then submit your application.
Once the online platform receives your online form, our visa experts will review and process it. Once approved, you will receive your eVisa confirmation via email, along with further instructions.
Duration of Stay in Malaysia with the eVisa
Holders of the eVisa are granted a maximum stay of 30 days per entry in Malaysia, with single entry privileges.
The Immigration Department treats visa overstays as a serious offence. If a foreign national remains in Malaysia beyond the expiration date or cancellation of their visa, they can face legal consequences. This includes the potential for a fine of 1,000 Malaysian Ringgit (approximately 214 USD) or imprisonment for up to five years, or a combination of both penalties.
Actions to Take If You've Exceeded Your Visa Duration
If you realise that you have overstayed your Malaysian visa, it's crucial to take immediate action. Head directly to the Immigration Enforcement Division and provide them with the following documents:
If you are employed by a Malaysian company, your employer should accompany you to the Immigration Enforcement Division. They will need to submit additional documents, including:
The Immigration Department holds the authority to decide whether to permit your departure (if your reason for overstaying is deemed valid) or to initiate legal proceedings for overstaying. If the latter course is taken, it's advisable to seek legal representation.
Extending Your Visa under Special Circumstances
The Malaysia Special Pass serves as a temporary permit allowing foreigners to extend their stay due to specific circumstances. These could include illness, accidents, conflicts in their home country, and similar situations. To obtain this permit, you must apply at least 7 days prior to the expiration of your current visa.
Generally, the Immigration Department grants a Special Pass under three common circumstances:
Pending approval of employment pass or related passes: This applies when foreigners need to renew their work visa or another related pass. They can apply for a Special Pass to stay in Malaysia for an additional 30 days while awaiting a decision on their renewal application.
Making arrangements to exit Malaysia: The Special Pass is intended for situations where foreigners require an extension of stay for less than 30 days. Supporting documents must be submitted, including:
Completing in-country immigration process: This applies to scenarios where foreigners are yet to complete an in-country immigration process. They may be granted a Special Pass for 30 days to finalise necessary immigration formalities.
In cases of travel for tourism purposes, it's strongly recommended to avoid the situation of overstaying by adhering to visa regulations.
For further information regarding the application process for a Malaysian eVisa or any other travel-related inquiries, please feel free to reach out to our support team through our online chat. We are here to assist you.
Can I extend my Malaysia tourist visa while I'm in the country?
No, currently, the Malaysian Immigration Department does not permit visa extensions for tourists. You need to apply for a new Malaysia tourist visa if you wish to stay longer.
What happens if I overstay my visa in Malaysia?
Overstaying your visa is taken seriously by Malaysian authorities. You could face a fine of 1,000 Malaysian Ringgit (approximately 214 USD) or imprisonment for up to five years, or a combination of both penalties.
How can I avoid overstaying my visa in Malaysia?
To prevent overstaying, make sure to leave the country before your visa expires. If you plan to stay longer, exit Malaysia and apply for a new visa.
Can I apply for a visa extension online?
No, you cannot apply for a visa extension online. You must leave the country and apply for a new Malaysian visa.
Are there any exceptions to the visa extension rule?
No, currently, there are no exceptions for extending a tourist visa in Malaysia. All foreign nationals must follow the standard procedure of leaving the country and applying for a new visa.
How can I apply for a new Malaysia eVisa?
You can apply for a new Malaysia eVisa through online platforms. You'll need to meet the visa requirements and submit necessary documents online.