Malaysia enforces stricter controls on visa-free stays for Chinese nationals

Chinese visitors are limited to 90 days cumulative stay within any 180-day period, not continuous 90-day visits

Malaysia is enforcing stricter controls on Chinese nationals using the visa-free facility under the Malaysia-China Mutual Visa Exemption Agreement. According to The Star, Home Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail clarified that while Chinese visitors can enter visa-free for up to 30 days per visit, they are subject to a cumulative stay limit of 90 days within any 180-day window.

The minister noted that the provisions under this agreement do not grant continuous 90-day visa-free stays, unlike arrangements extended to certain other countries.

Saifuddin made the statement in a parliamentary written reply to Puchong MP Yeo Bee Yin, who had asked about measures to prevent abuse of the visa exemption for work purposes, particularly in the construction, renovation, and service industries.

Policy refinements from previous arrangement

Before the current agreement took effect, Chinese nationals could enter Malaysia under the Visa Liberalisation Plan from December 1, 2023, which allowed visa-free stays of up to 30 days per entry without any cumulative annual limit.

Saifuddin said the new policy reflects a more cautious approach in balancing traveller facilitation with strengthened border controls.

Visa-free entry is for tourism only

The minister emphasized that the visa-free facility applies strictly to social visits and tourism.

"For other purposes, such as employment or paid professional activities, Chinese nationals are required to obtain the appropriate visa and a valid employment pass from the Immigration Department."

Malaysian citizens enjoy reciprocal benefits under the same agreement when traveling to China.