So, you’re thinking about heading to Malaysia in 2024? Awesome choice! Malaysia is a beautiful country and has so many things to offer. There is so much to explore from its beautiful landscape to the busy city life to its vibrant culture.
But before hopping on the plane, let us discuss the nitty-gritty of the visa, especially the possibility of getting a Visa on Arrival (VoA) after landing in Malaysia.
What’s Visa on Arrival (VoA)?
The Malaysia Visa on Arrival (VoA) is an exclusive visa only granted to certain foreign nationals when they arrive in Malaysia. The Malaysian government now allows Indian and Chinese nationals to enter the country with the VoA.
Upon arrival, you must pay a visa processing fee of $100. Once paid, the Malaysian authorities will verify your application and the other documents. Then you will be granted the VoA.
This convenient visa option simplifies the travel process for eligible individuals.
What Does the Validity Of A Malaysia Visa On Arrival Mean?
The Malaysian VOA is effective for 7 days. A week from today, if you fail to leave the country, you must pay fines. You are also forced to demonstrate a return ticket reservation on the day after one week of your visit. If you wish to spend more time in Malaysia you must also apply for a Malaysia eNTRI Visa.
Benefits of Using a Malaysia VoA
Here is a list of benefits that you can get with Malaysia VoA:
- Convenience: The Malaysia Visa on Arrival (VoA) offers convenience, as eligible travelers can obtain the visa upon arrival at the Malaysian airport or entry point without the need to apply in advance.
- Short processing time: Unlike other visa types that require a longer processing time, the VoA can be obtained quickly upon arrival, saving you time and effort.
- Flexibility: The VoA allows eligible travelers to stay in Malaysia for up to 15 days, providing flexibility for short-term visits or transit purposes.
- Cost-effective: Compared to other visa types, the VoA is generally more cost-effective as it eliminates the need for expensive visa application fees and other related expenses.
- Easy entry requirements: The requirements for the VoA are relatively straightforward, usually involving proof of funds, return air tickets, and a valid visa from certain neighboring countries.
- Business and tourism-friendly: The Malaysia VoA is suitable for both business and tourism purposes, allowing eligible travelers to explore the country’s attractions or engage in business activities during their short stay.
- Opportunity for spontaneous trips: With the VoA, eligible travelers can plan spontaneous trips to Malaysia without going through the lengthy visa application process in advance, making it ideal for last-minute travel plans.
Limitations Of The Visa On Arrival Of Malaysia
- You cannot travel from any other country besides your home country, from Indonesia, Singapore, or Thailand.
- You can only spend 1 week here and it may not be enough if you are touring the country.
- It’s worth noting that the visa-on-arrival processing fee is more than that charged for a regular visa.
- Cash reserves of 1,000 USD must be with you.
- Following is the list of entry points:
1.Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA and KLIA2)
2.Bayan Lepas International Airport, Pulau Pinang
3.Sultan Ismail, Senai Airport, Johor
4.Kota Kinabalu International Airport, Sabah
5.Kuching International Airport, Sarawak
6.Tuas – Sultan Abu Bakar Complex
Documents Required for the Malaysia VoA Application
- Valid visa from Indonesia, Singapore, or Thailand
- Return or onward ticket
- Proof that you carry sufficient money to fund your stay while you are in Malaysia (at least $1,000)
- At least one blank visa page in the passport
- Copy of the passport data page and separate photo page (if available)
- Other documents specified by the authorities of Malaysian immigration.
- You must possess a valid passport with a minimum six-month validity from the day of entry into the country.
Before applying for VoA, you may also consider checking with the relevant embassy in case the requirements are updated.
Application Process for Foreign Nationals Wanting to Apply for VoA
The application process for foreign nationals looking to apply for a Malaysia Visa on Arrival (VoA) is summarized in the following points:
- Eligibility : Presently, the Government of Malaysia only allows citizens of China and India to apply for the VoA.
- Obtain a valid visa : For the VoA, you must carry a valid visa from Singapore, Indonesia, or Thailand before entering Malaysia. This visa should also have a minimum six-month validity period as mandated by the Malaysian authority.
- Arrival at the Malaysian Entry Point : Once you land in Malaysia, proceed towards the immigration center. Share all your documents and application with the immigration officer, and let them know you want to apply for a VoA.
- Application form : Fill out the VoA application form provided by the immigration officer. Ensure that all information is accurate and complete.
- Supporting documents : Submit the required documents, such as a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity, a return or onward ticket, proof of sufficient funds, and any additional documents requested by the immigration authorities.
- Payment of fees : Pay the applicable visa fee. The fee amount may vary, so it is advisable to confirm the current fee with the immigration officer.
- Processing and approval : The immigration authorities will process your application and decide on granting the VoA. The decision will be communicated to you by the immigration officer.
- Duration of stay : Once you get the VoA, you can stay in Malaysia for 30 days at a stretch.
- Exit requirements : Ensure that you depart Malaysia within the authorized period of stay. Failure to do so may result in penalties or difficulties in future travel to Malaysia.
Note : It is recommended to check with the relevant embassy or consulate for any updated information or changes in the VoA application process.
Names Of Nations Who Are Allowed To Apply For VoA 2024
The eligible countries and nationalities for the Malaysia Visa on Arrival (VoA) in 2024 are limited to the citizens of:
- China (PRC)
- India
Citizens of these two countries who visit Malaysia from its neighboring countries can avail of the VoA facility. However, the Malaysian immigration authorities reserve all rights over the decision to grant you a visa on arrival. If they feel that your documents are not correct, your application might be rejected, and you will not be allowed to enter the country.
Cost of Applying for a Malaysian Visa on Arrival
The approximate cost of applying for a Malaysia visa on arrival is around 44 US dollars. This fee is subject to change. So we recommend visiting the Malaysian immigration official website to check for the fee before applying. You can also check the website for more details on Malaysia visas for Pakistani citizens.
In addition to this, you may be asked to pay charges like processing fees and convenience fees. The processing fee will be around 24 US dollars, and you may be charged a convenience fee of 0.8% for e-commerce or MasterCard payments.
So keep around $100 in hand while applying for VoA. But note that this amount has to be paid in local currency. So make sure that you have the exact amount in local currency in malaysia, or the process might be delayed.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, Malaysia’s Visa on Arrival program in 2024 is a fantastic gateway to our beautiful country! So whether you are visiting Malaysia for tourism or business or visiting a relative, make sure that you go through this blog to fully enjoy your trip in this enchanting country.
FAQ’s
Q1. What is the Malaysia visa photo size?
Q2. Why is a Malaysian visa on arrival rejected?
- If the documents submitted are not correct or fake.
- If blurred scanned copies of the passport are submitted.