India has warned its citizens against using Malaysia’s 30-day visa-free entry facility to travel to the country in search of employment.
The Indian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur said it has noticed an increase in Indian nationals arriving in Malaysia through the visa-free route with the intention of finding jobs. The mission also warned that some travellers are being misled by agents making false employment promises.
Visa-Free Entry Is Only For Tourism
The 30-day visa-free facility for Indian passport holders is intended for tourism and social visits.
It does not permit travellers to take up employment in Malaysia. Indian nationals who enter the country under the facility and then begin working would be violating Malaysian immigration rules.
The High Commission has advised people travelling to Malaysia for employment to obtain the appropriate work permit or Visa With Reference before travelling.
Warning About Fake Job Offers
The advisory highlighted the role of unscrupulous agents who allegedly promise Indian citizens jobs in Malaysia.
Some individuals may be encouraged to travel on the visa-free facility with the expectation that a job and work authorisation will be arranged after arrival.
The Indian mission warned that such arrangements can leave travellers vulnerable to exploitation and other immigration-related problems.
Overstay And Detention Risks
Indian nationals who misuse the visa-free facility could face several consequences, including overstaying their permitted period, acquiring an illegal immigration status, exploitation, detention and legal action.
The High Commission has therefore urged citizens to verify employment opportunities and ensure that they have the necessary authorisation before travelling to Malaysia for work.
Documents Tourists Must Carry
Genuine tourists travelling to Malaysia have also been advised to carry valid and verifiable documents.
These include a confirmed return ticket, hotel booking and a passport with at least six months of validity.
Travellers are also required to submit the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card, or MDAC, online three days before their arrival.
Having these documents ready can help travellers address questions from immigration authorities regarding the purpose and duration of their visit.
Malaysia’s Visa-Free Facility Continues
Malaysia currently allows Indian passport holders to enter without a visa for stays of up to 30 days for tourism and social visits, subject to applicable entry requirements.
The visa exemption is currently scheduled to remain in effect until December 31, 2026.
However, visa-free entry does not mean that travellers can freely change the purpose of their visit after entering the country.
Work Visa Required For Employment
Indian citizens planning to work in Malaysia should obtain the required employment authorisation before travelling.
The High Commission’s latest warning is particularly focused on people who are being encouraged to enter Malaysia as tourists and look for employment after arrival.
The mission has urged travellers to rely on legitimate employment channels and verify the required immigration documents rather than depending on agents promising jobs after arrival.
Summary
India has warned citizens against using Malaysia’s 30-day visa-free entry facility to search for jobs. The facility is meant for tourism and social visits and does not permit employment. The Indian High Commission has also warned about agents offering false job promises and highlighted risks including overstay, exploitation, detention and legal action. Workers must obtain the required employment authorisation before travelling.
