Malaysia Travel Advisory: India Warns Nationals Against Using Visa-Free Entry To Seek Jobs

The High Commission of India in Kuala Lumpur has issued an advisory to Indian nationals travelling to Malaysia, warning them against using the country’s 30-day visa-free entry facility to look for employment.

The advisory, issued on September 22, comes amid what the mission described as a noticeable increase in Indian nationals arriving in Malaysia under the visa-free facility with the intention of seeking jobs.

Visa-Free Facility Meant For Short Visits

The Indian mission clarified that the 30-day visa-free facility is intended for short-term visits, including tourism and social purposes. It cannot be used to enter Malaysia for employment.

The High Commission cautioned travellers against falling for promises of jobs made by unscrupulous agents. According to the advisory, some Indian nationals have reportedly been encouraged to travel to Malaysia on the visa-free facility after being offered employment opportunities.

Risk Of Overstay, Detention And Legal Action

The mission warned that people who travel to Malaysia without the appropriate employment authorisation could face serious consequences.

These include overstaying their permitted period, falling into an illegal immigration status, exploitation, detention and legal action under Malaysian regulations.

The advisory therefore urged Indian travellers to verify employment offers carefully and ensure that they have the appropriate visa or work authorisation before travelling to Malaysia for a job.

Indian Travellers Asked To Exercise Caution

Malaysia has been a popular destination among Indian tourists, helped in part by simplified entry arrangements. However, the High Commission’s latest warning makes clear that visa-free tourist entry should not be treated as a route to employment.

Indian nationals planning to visit Malaysia for tourism or social visits should comply with the conditions of their permitted stay and avoid relying on unverified job offers or intermediaries.

The advisory comes against the backdrop of concerns involving illegal immigration, exploitation and human trafficking affecting Indian nationals in Malaysia. India’s Ministry of External Affairs has previously identified these issues as areas of concern in bilateral relations.