iVisa | Updated on Aug 02, 2023
According to the most recent travel information for Malaysia, travelers currently cannot extend the validity of their visas while in the country. This measure includes all foreign holders of standard tourist visas. The only other option is to apply for a new Malaysian visa. Read more in this article.
If you want to stay longer in Malaysia, you will have to leave the country and apply for a new Malaysia visa. Eligible passport holders can complete an online application and receive the electronic visa in their email without visiting a Malaysian embassy.
All you have to do is meet the Malaysia visa requirements and provide the required documents. Learn more about applying for a new Malaysia eVisa with iVisa, and the penalties for overstaying below.
![Fill me in]()
Everything you need to know about the Malaysia Tourist Visa extension
Unfortunately, the Immigration Department of Malaysia does not allow Malaysia tourist visa extensions. Foreign nationals must apply for a new Malaysia tourist visa. They must, however, leave the country before their current visa expires.
Nationalities eligible to apply for an eVisa to visit Malaysia can get a single-entry electronic travel registration online. You should consult the embassy if you cannot apply online, or if you need a multiple-entry visa or long-term visa for Malaysia.
What if I want to stay longer than the expiration date of my visa in Malaysia?
The Immigration Department of Malaysia does not permit visa extensions for foreign citizens at the moment. If you overstay your visa, you will be penalized. Our advice is to not let your visa expire, and leave the country to apply for a new Malaysia visa.
Who needs a visa to enter Malaysia?
The Malaysian government needs to ensure that all visitors entering their borders are recorded and qualified to enter. Therefore, certain foreign nationals need to apply for a Malaysia Visa to explore this nation, while some others are visa-exempt.
Some nationals from certain countries can apply for electronic visas. This means that they can apply online rather than having to visit the Malaysian embassy to apply. If you’re not sure if you are eligible, use our handy visa checker tool or keep reading.
Travelers from the following countries can get an eVisa online to travel to Malaysia:
Required documents to apply online for the Malaysian eVisa
Submit the following documents to apply online to obtain the Malaysian eVisa:
-
A copy of your passport - The passport must be valid for at least six months after arrival. You’ll need to scan its information page.
-
Recent passport-size photo - If you don’t have one, use iVisa digital photo service.
-
Valid return ticket - You’ll need to show a return flight ticket with a confirmed e-ticket number.
-
Proof of accommodation - For example a hotel reservation or an invitation letter.
-
Valid email address - This is important to receive your approved document.
-
Methods of payment- A credit or debit card to pay for the visa fees.
-
Birth certificate for minors (if applicable).
-
Cover letter (if applicable).
Costs and processing times for the Malaysian eVisa
Based on the price and how quickly you need the document, you have three options for processing time:
- Standard Processing Time – This option takes 13 days, and the total cost is USD $64.99.
- Rush Processing Time – Get your document in 11 days for USD $96.99.
- Super Rush Processing Time – The price will be USD $116.99, and takes 9 days.
It is recommended to print a copy of your eVisa confirmation to show to an immigration officer on arrival in Malaysia if needed.
How to apply for the Malaysian eVisa online
The iVisa platform makes applying pretty simple. We've developed a system that does all the work for you, so you just fill out the information and wait.
Simply follow these steps:
-
First, answer the questions in the iVisa application form and select your preferred processing time.
-
Second, double-check your information carefully and continue with the payment.
-
Third, upload and attach all the required documents and submit your application.
As soon as iVisa receives the online form, our visa experts will review the information and process it. Once it’s approved, you receive the confirmation of your eVisa via email with further instructions.
How long can I stay in Malaysia with the eVisa?
Travelers with an eVisa get a maximum stay of 30 days Per Entry in Malaysia, Single Entry.
What happens if I overstay my visa in Malaysia?
The Malaysian Immigration Department takes the offense of overstaying a visa very seriously.
A foreigner who stays in Malaysia exceeding the expiry date or cancellation of their visa, can be convicted and are liable to pay 1,000 Malaysian Ringgit (about 214 USD) or be imprisoned for up to five years or a combination.
What to do if you have overstayed your visa
Upon realizing that you have overstayed your Malaysian Visa, immediately head to the Malaysian Immigration Enforcement Division to explain your situation to them while presenting the following documents:
-
Valid passport.
-
Police report (in the case of a lost/missing passport).
-
Any evidence of overstaying, like the confirmation of your eVisa.
-
Plane, bus, or ferry ticket to leave the country within 7 days.
If you are an employee of a Malaysian company, your Malaysian employer would need to join you to the Malaysian Immigration Enforcement Division in addition to providing the documents above.
They would also need to provide the following:
-
Cover letter (from the company).
-
Business License / Registration of the Company.
-
Identity Card (NRIC/Yellow Card/Employee Card).
-
Memo references from the relevant authorities (if applicable).
The Malaysian Immigration Department has the final say on whether to allow you to leave (if your reason for overstaying is deemed acceptable) or to prosecute you for overstaying. Should they choose the latter option, you must seek legal representation.
Extending your visa due to special circumstances
The Malaysia Special Pass is a temporary pass that allows foreigners to extend their stay in Malaysia due to ‘special’ circumstances. A few examples of these circumstances are illnesses, accidents, conflicts in your home country, etc. You must apply at least 7 days before your current visa expires to get this permit.
Generally, there are three common circumstances under which the Malaysian Immigration Department will grant a Special Pass:
-
Pending approval of an employment pass (or other related passes): This applies to scenarios where foreigners have to renew their work visa (or another related pass). They may apply to remain in Malaysia with a Special Pass for another 30 days beyond the expiry date of their current visa, while awaiting the decision of their renewal application.
-
Making arrangements to exit Malaysia: The Special Pass is only for situations in which foreigners need to extend their stay in Malaysia for less than 30 days. They need to submit the supporting documents for approval:
-
A copy of an original passport.
-
A copy of the current visa.
-
Reserved flight ticket within the next 30 days.
-
Typed letter explaining the reason for requesting the Special Pass.
-
Completing in-country immigration process: This is for situations in which foreigners have yet to complete an in-country immigration process and might receive the Special Pass for 30 days to remain in Malaysia. During this time, they must complete any immigration formalities to update their status in Malaysia.
If you have time, and you are traveling for tourism purposes, the best thing to do is to prevent the offense of overstaying.
Where can I get more info?
If you have more inquiries about how to apply for a Malaysian eVisa or any other travel document, don't hesitate to contact our support team via online chat. You can also send them a message to [email protected].
