New Delhi: The Indian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur has cautioned Indian nationals against using Malaysia’s 30-day visa-free entry facility to seek employment.
The advisory comes amid a ‘noticeable increase’ in Indians arriving in the country after allegedly being lured by false job offers.
Advisory issued
The High Commission said the visa-free facility is meant for tourism and social visits and cannot be used to take up employment. Using it to seek or undertake work would violate Malaysian immigration rules. “Many Indian nationals are misled by unscrupulous agents with false job promises, leading to overstay, illegal status, exploitation, detention, and legal action,” the mission said in its advisory.
It urged Indians travelling to Malaysia for employment to obtain a valid work permit or Visa With Reference (VDR) before travelling. Malaysia’s Immigration Department also states that a VDR is used for foreign nationals entering the country for purposes including employment.
What Indian tourists need to carry
The High Commission also reminded genuine tourists to carry documents that can be verified by Malaysian immigration authorities. These include a confirmed return ticket, hotel booking and a passport valid for at least six months.
Travellers must also submit the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online three days before arriving in the country, according to the advisory.
Malaysia has extended its visa waiver for Indian passport holders until December 31, 2026, allowing stays of up to 30 days. Malaysian government information says the waiver covers purposes such as tourism, social visits, transit and business, while employment requires the appropriate immigration approval and documentation.
The Indian mission’s warning specifically highlights the risks posed by agents who allegedly promise jobs and ask prospective workers to enter Malaysia using the visa-free facility. Those who overstay or work without the required authorisation can face immigration and legal consequences.
