India Warns Indians Against Using Malaysia’s 30-Day Visa-Free Entry to Seek Jobs, Says It’s Only for Tourism

India’s High Commission in Kuala Lumpur has warned Indian nationals against using Malaysia’s 30-day visa-free entry facility to look for jobs, citing risks of illegal immigration, exploitation, detention and legal action.

In an advisory issued on Tuesday, the High Commission said there had been a ‘noticeable increase’ in Indians travelling to Malaysia under the visa-free facility to seek employment.

The mission said the visa-free facility is meant only for tourism and social visits. Indian nationals entering Malaysia as tourists have been urged to follow the conditions of their stay and not take up employment.

Warning Over Fake Job Offers

The High Commission also cautioned Indians against unscrupulous agents offering fraudulent employment opportunities. It said many nationals had been misled by false job promises, which could result in overstaying, illegal immigration status, exploitation, detention and legal action.

The mission stressed that seeking employment through the visa-free facility violates Malaysian immigration rules. Indians travelling for work have been advised to obtain the required work permit or visa with reference (VDR) before entering Malaysia.

Travellers visiting Malaysia for tourism have also been advised to carry valid and verifiable documents, including a confirmed return ticket, hotel booking and proof of online submission of the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) three days before arrival.

The High Commission also reminded travellers that their passports must have at least six months of validity.

Reiterating its warning, the mission said Indian nationals should “not travel to Malaysia for work/employment purposes without work permit or visa with reference (VDR).”