High Commission says 30-day facility is for tourism and social visits, amid rise in Indians arriving with false job promises
The Indian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur has warned Indian nationals against using Malaysia’s 30-day visa-free entry facility to look for or take up employment, following a noticeable increase in people arriving in the country after being promised jobs.
In an advisory issued on September 22, the mission said the visa-free arrangement for Indian passport holders is intended for tourism and social visits. Using the facility to seek employment or work in Malaysia is a violation of the country’s immigration rules.
The High Commission said some Indians were being misled by agents offering false employment opportunities. Such travellers could face overstaying, illegal immigration status, exploitation, detention and legal action if they remain in Malaysia without the required authorisation.
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The mission has therefore advised Indians travelling to Malaysia for work to obtain the appropriate employment authorisation before leaving India
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Travellers should not rely on claims that a tourist entry can later be converted into a work permit after arrival
For genuine tourists, the High Commission said travellers should carry a confirmed return ticket and hotel booking, complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) three days before arrival and hold a passport valid for at least six months.
The advisory comes amid continuing concerns over fraudulent recruitment schemes targeting Indians seeking overseas employment. The High Commission has urged prospective workers to verify job offers and recruitment agents before travelling.
Indian nationals intending to work in Malaysia must therefore follow the country’s employment visa and work-permit procedures rather than entering under the visa-free arrangement and attempting to find employment after arrival.
