Travel Information for Internationals

Welcome to the travel information page for the upcoming APAIE 2027 in Kuala Lumpur. We are excited to host you and want to ensure your journey is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Below, you will find essential information to help you plan your trip.

This is general information only. It is the responsibility of each APAIE delegate to ensure that they have the correct visa and travel documents.

Visa Requirements

It is the delegate’s responsibility to investigate the visa requirements for entry to Malaysia and to apply for a visa, if necessary. Delegates who require an entry visa must allow sufficient time for the application procedure.

Visitors from most countries do not need a visa to enter Malaysia, just a valid passport. However, visitors should check and learn whether you need a visa or entry permit to enter Malaysia for a visit or transit when planning your travel.

Visa Requirement By Country

Citizens as stated below are eligible for three months visa free entry.

  • Afghanistan
  • Angola*
  • Bangladesh
  • Bhutan
  • Burkina Faso*
  • Burundi*
  • Cameroon*
  • Central African Republic
  • China**
  • Colombia*
  • Congo Democratic Republic*
  • Congo Republic
  • Djibouti*
  • Equatorial Guinea*
  • Eritrea*
  • Ethiopia*
  • Ghana*
  • Guinea-Bissau*
  • Hong Kong (C.I/D.I)
  • India***
  • Ivory Coast*
  • Kosovo
  • Liberia*
  • Mali
  • Montenegro
  • Mozambique*
  • Myanmar
  • Nepal
  • Nigeria*
  • Niger*
  • Pakistan
  • Rwanda*
  • Serbia
  • Sri Lanka

 

NOTE

For the countries marked as (*) are allowed to enter Malaysia by air only.

China** Citizen: visa exempt until 31st December 2026.

India*** Citizen: visa exempt until 31st December 2024.

Visa is not required for a stay of less than one (1) month for ASEAN nationals except Myanmar. Visas are required for duration of stay exceeding one (1) month except for Brunei and Singapore nationals.

Visa Application Process

Apply online via the Malaysia eVISA Portal or at the nearest Malaysian Embassy/Consulate.

  • Processing time: 3–7 working days, but we recommend you apply early to avoid delays.
  • Required documents typically include:
    • Completed visa application form
    • Passport (Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay)
    • Conference details (dates, venue)
    • Proof of accommodation
    • Return/onward ticket
    • Financial proof
    • Travel insurance
    • Invitation letter from ISBT (available upon request after registration)

Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)

All foreign travellers must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) within three days prior to their scheduled arrival in Malaysia.

Effective January 1, 2024, completion of MDAC will be mandatory, except for the following list:

  • Citizens of Singapore
  • Diplomatic and Official Passports holders
  • Malaysian Permanent Residents (PR) and Long-Term Pass holders
  • General Certificate of Identity (GCI) Brunei Darussalam holders
  • Brunei-Malaysia Frequent Traveller Facility holders
  • Thailand Border Pass holders
  • Indonesia Cross-Border Travel Document (PLB) holders

Here are the required steps:

Step 1: Fill out the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC).

Step 2: Submit the MDAC no later than three (3) days prior to your arrival to Malaysia. Proof of submission will be sent to your registered email.

Step 3: Upon arrival in Malaysia, show your MDAC registration and verify your passport at the immigration counters.

For more information, kindly refer to the Malaysian immigration website.

Passport Validity

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival in Malaysia.

Documents Required Upon Arrival

The following documents are required to be presented upon arrival in Malaysia entry check-points:

  • Valid passport / travel document.
  • Valid eVISA printout (eVISA Note).
  • Boarding pass.
  • Sufficient funds (Cash / Traveler’s Cheque / Debit or Credit Cards / e-Wallets recognized by Malaysian Government) to cover your expenses during your stay in Malaysia.
  • Confirmed returned flight ticket.
  • Proof of accommodation.
  • Other supporting documents.

Currency and Payments

The currency unit of the Malaysian currency is the Malaysian Ringgit, with the code MYR. It is commonly recognized by the symbol RM and is also referred to as Ringgit Malaysia.

When it comes to payment methods, most hotels, shopping complexes, restaurants, and shops in Malaysia readily accept international credit cards like Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Diners Club.

In addition, for those who prefer a convenient, cashless experience. Furthermore, the country has embraced digital payment methods such as Touch N Go, GrabPay, and Boost as well as bank transfers which are widely accepted and utilized by locals and tourists alike.