Melaka Entry Requirements
Visa, immigration, and customs information
Visa Requirements
Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.
Malaysia operates a tiered visa policy based on nationality and purpose of visit. Many countries enjoy visa-free entry for tourism purposes, while others require electronic authorization or traditional visa applications.
Citizens of these countries can enter Malaysia without a visa for tourism purposes
Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from date of entry. Proof of onward travel and sufficient funds may be required. Extensions possible through Malaysian Immigration Department.
Citizens of certain countries can apply for electronic visa online before travel
Cost: Approximately USD 20-200 depending on visa type and nationality
Print eVisa approval and present upon arrival. Single entry, multiple entry, and transit visas available. Requirements vary by nationality.
Limited countries eligible for visa on arrival at designated entry points
Cost: Approximately USD 100-330 depending on nationality
Very limited availability. Most travelers should apply for eVisa instead. Not available at all entry points.
Citizens of countries not listed above must obtain visa from Malaysian embassy or consulate before travel
Some nationalities face additional restrictions or requirements. Check with your local Malaysian diplomatic mission for specific requirements.
Arrival Process
The entry process into Malaysia is straightforward for most travelers. You'll typically arrive at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), Penang International Airport, or enter by land from Singapore or Thailand before traveling to Melaka. Immigration procedures follow standard protocols with document verification and biometric data collection.
Documents to Have Ready
Tips for Smooth Entry
Customs & Duty-Free
Malaysian customs regulations are designed to prevent illegal imports while allowing reasonable personal items for travelers. All travelers must pass through customs upon arrival and may be subject to random inspections. Malaysia has strict penalties for drug trafficking and smuggling prohibited items.
Prohibited Items
- Illegal drugs and narcotics - Malaysia has mandatory death penalty for drug trafficking
- Weapons including firearms, ammunition, explosives, and certain knives without proper permits
- Counterfeit currency and goods
- Pornographic materials in any form
- Endangered species and products made from them (ivory, certain animal skins, etc.)
- E-cigarettes and vaping devices/liquids - currently banned for import
- Turtle eggs and certain protected wildlife
- Indecent or obscene articles, publications, and materials
- Treasonous or subversive materials
- Radio communication equipment without proper authorization
Restricted Items
- Prescription medications - bring only what you need with doctor's prescription and original packaging
- Plants and plant products - require phytosanitary certificate from Department of Agriculture
- Animals and animal products - require import permit from Department of Veterinary Services
- Telecommunication equipment - may require approval from Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission
- Religious materials - may be subject to review, particularly if in large quantities
- Drones and UAVs - require permit from Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia
- Certain chemicals and laboratory equipment
- Professional video and photography equipment - may require temporary import permit if for commercial use
Health Requirements
Malaysia has specific health requirements for entry, particularly for travelers arriving from countries with certain disease risks. While most travelers from developed countries face minimal health entry requirements, it's important to check current regulations before travel.
Required Vaccinations
- Yellow Fever - Required ONLY if arriving from or transiting through countries with risk of yellow fever transmission. Certificate must be presented at immigration. Not required for most travelers from North America, Europe, or East Asia.
Recommended Vaccinations
- Hepatitis A and B - Recommended for most travelers
- Typhoid - Especially if visiting rural areas or eating street food
- Japanese Encephalitis - If spending extended time in rural areas
- Rabies - For travelers who may have contact with animals
- Routine vaccinations - Ensure MMR, DPT, and other routine vaccines are up to date
- COVID-19 - While not currently required, staying up to date with vaccinations is recommended
Health Insurance
Travel health insurance is highly recommended but not mandatory for entry. Malaysia has good medical facilities, especially in major cities, but medical costs can be high for foreigners. Ensure your insurance covers medical evacuation if needed. Some activities may require proof of insurance.
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Special Situations
Additional requirements for specific circumstances.
Children must have their own passport regardless of age. If traveling with only one parent, carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent. If traveling with children who are not your own, carry notarized consent letters from both parents plus copies of their birth certificates. Single parents should carry child's birth certificate showing sole custody if applicable. Unaccompanied minors require special arrangements with airlines and may need additional documentation from Malaysian immigration.
Pets require an import permit from the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services (MAQIS) obtained at least 4 weeks before travel. Must have valid rabies vaccination (at least 30 days old but not more than 12 months). Need health certificate from licensed veterinarian issued within 7 days of travel. Microchip required for identification. Quarantine period may be required depending on country of origin (up to 30 days). Certain breeds may be restricted. Contact Department of Veterinary Services for detailed requirements: +603-8870 2000. Melaka has limited pet-friendly accommodations.
Tourist visa extensions possible through Malaysian Immigration Department offices. Apply at least 7 days before current visa expires. Visit the Immigration Office in Melaka or nearest location with passport, completed application form (IMM.55), passport photos, proof of sufficient funds, and extension fee (approximately RM100-300). Extensions granted at discretion of immigration officers, typically 30 days maximum. For longer stays, consider Social Visit Pass (Long Term), Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program, work permits, or student visas. Overstaying results in fines (RM100 per day), possible detention, and future entry bans.
Business visitors on tourist visa/visa-free entry can attend meetings, conferences, and negotiations but cannot engage in paid employment. For actual work, require Professional Visit Pass or Employment Pass obtained through sponsoring Malaysian company. Business travelers should carry invitation letter from Malaysian company, business cards, and proof of employment. Multiple-entry visas available for frequent business visitors.
Students require Student Pass obtained through their educational institution in Malaysia. Initial entry usually on Social Visit Pass, then convert to Student Pass after arrival. Need acceptance letter from registered Malaysian educational institution, financial proof, medical examination results, and passport-sized photos. Student Pass allows part-time work with restrictions.
Transit passengers remaining airside and departing within 24 hours typically don't require visa regardless of nationality. If exiting airport during transit, visa requirements apply based on nationality. Malaysia offers Transit Pass (up to 120 hours) for certain nationalities with confirmed onward tickets. Check if your nationality is eligible for transit without visa.
Malaysia does not officially recognize dual citizenship for Malaysian nationals. If you hold Malaysian citizenship and another passport, you must enter and exit Malaysia on your Malaysian passport. Using a foreign passport to enter Malaysia when you're a citizen can result in complications and penalties.