Malaysia: Visa-Free Entry Confirmed Until End of 2026
For those planning a trip to Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, or Penang, the rules are clear and favourable. The Malaysian government has officially extended its visa-free entry policy for Indian passport holders until December 31, 2026. This allows for a stay
of up to 30 days for tourism and social visits, making short holidays and business trips incredibly convenient. The policy, which was first introduced to boost tourism, has proven successful and continues to make Malaysia one of the most accessible international destinations for Indians.
The Mandatory Step: Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)
Here is the most crucial update for Malaysia: visa-free does not mean paperwork-free. Every Indian citizen travelling to Malaysia must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online before their trip. This is a mandatory pre-arrival declaration that replaces the old paper forms. You must submit the MDAC through the official immigration portal within the three days leading up to your arrival in Malaysia. Immigration officers will verify this digitally. Forgetting this step is a common cause for delays at the airport, so it is essential to get it done before you fly.
Checklist for a Smooth Malaysian Holiday
While the MDAC is the main digital requirement, immigration officials will still expect you to have your documents in order upon arrival. To ensure a hassle-free entry, make sure you have a passport with at least six months of validity from your date of arrival. You must also carry proof of a confirmed return or onward flight ticket, details of your hotel booking or accommodation, and evidence of sufficient funds (around 50 USD per day is a common guideline) for your stay.
Thailand: Visa-Free Access Continues, With a Twist
The situation in Thailand is slightly more nuanced due to recent policy changes in mid-2026. The great news is that after some uncertainty, the Thai Cabinet has confirmed that Indian travellers will continue to benefit from visa-free entry. An earlier, widely reported proposal to move India to a paid Visa on Arrival category was officially dropped. This decision ensures that Thailand remains a top choice for a quick and easy international getaway from India.
The New Rule: A 30-Day Stay
The most significant change is the duration of stay. The previous, more generous 60-day visa-free period is being replaced. Under the new framework approved by the Thai Cabinet in July 2026, Indian passport holders will be granted a 30-day visa-exempt stay per entry. According to officials, this duration better aligns with the typical holiday patterns of most tourists from India. While this affects long-stay travellers, it keeps short holidays, wellness retreats, and city breaks simple and visa-free.
When Do The New Thai Rules Apply?
This is a key point for anyone travelling in the near future. While the 30-day rule has been approved, it is not yet in effect. The new regulation will only be implemented 15 days after it is officially published in the Thai Royal Gazette. Until that publication happens, travellers arriving in Thailand will likely continue to receive the older 60-day stamp. Because the change can happen with little advance notice, it is crucial to check the latest status from official sources like the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) newsroom just before you travel.
Other Essentials for Your Thai Trip
Like Malaysia, Thailand is also enhancing its digital systems and may require travellers to fill out a Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). Beyond that, standard requirements apply. Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity and carry proof of your return flight and accommodation. While the visa is free, Thai authorities have regulations regarding proof of sufficient funds, which can be subject to checks at immigration. Travellers may be asked to show they have access to funds, with amounts like 20,000 THB per person often cited as a guideline.
