India Warns Nationals Against Misusing Malaysia’s Visa-Free Entry for Employment
Indian mission flags misleading job offers and warns travellers of possible detention, exploitation and legal action.
Singapore, Sept 22: India has advised its nationals travelling to Malaysia not to use the country’s 30 day visa free entry facility to look for jobs or take up employment.
The High Commission of India in Kuala Lumpur issued the advisory on Tuesday, warning that it has observed a rise in Indian nationals reaching Malaysia on the visa free facility after being lured by agents with false employment offers.
The mission clarified that the 30-day visa free arrangement for Indian passport holders is intended only for tourism and social visits and does not authorise employment.
It cautioned that people misled by fraudulent agents could face several consequences, including overstaying their permitted period, acquiring illegal immigration status, exploitation, detention and legal action.
The High Commission stressed that seeking employment through the visa-free route amounts to a violation of Malaysian immigration regulations. Indians planning to work in Malaysia have been advised to obtain the required work permit or visa with reference (VDR) before travelling.
For genuine tourists, the advisory recommends carrying verifiable travel documents, including a confirmed return ticket and hotel booking. Travellers should also complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online three days before arrival and ensure that their passports have at least six months of validity.
The mission urged Indian nationals to exercise caution when approached with overseas employment offers and to verify the relevant immigration and work requirements before travelling to Malaysia.
