malaysia tourist visa from singapore

Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

Malaysia tourist visa: Visa types, requirements and application procedure

Updated: February 4, 2023

Malaysia tourist visa requirements are fairly easy to understand. Most nationalities are exempt from a tourist visa. Rest can obtain an eVisa or Visa on Arrival.

Currently, there are 5 different visa options available to enter Malaysia as a tourist.

• Visa Exemption: 167 nationalities are visa exempt for stays up to 90 days
• Visa on Arrival: 2 nationalities are eligible to obtain Visa on Arrival for stays up to 15 days
• eVISA: 34 nationalities can obtain eVisa for stays up to 30 days
• Transit Without Visa (TWOA): 9 nationalities are eligible to obtain TWOA for 120 hours (5 days)
• Visa from the embassy: 35 nationalities require a pre-approved visa from the Malaysian embassy prior to arrival

Table of Contents

MALAYSIA TOURIST VISA REQUIREMENTS BY NATIONALITY

Minimum passport validity required to enter Malaysia as a tourist

The minimum passport validity required to enter Malaysia is 6 months.

VISA EXEMPT nationalities

90-day entry.

• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Saudi Arabia
• Sint Maarten
• South Africa
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• Turkmenistan
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States

30-day entry

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Marshall Islands
• North Macedonia
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Sao Tome and Principe
• Sierra Leone
• Solomon Islands
• South Sudan
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• Timor-Leste
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Vatican City

14-day entry

Visa on arrival eligible nationalities, 15-day, single-entry, evisa eligible nationalities, 30-day, single-entry.

• Afghanistan
• Burkina Faso
• Central African Republic
• Congo, Dem. Rep. of
• Congo Rep. of
• Equatorial Guinea
• Guinea – Bissau
• Ivory Coast

VISA REQUIRED nationalities

• Congo Dem. Rep.
• Cote d’Ivoire
• Guinea-Bissau
• North Korea

TRANSIT VISA EXEMPT nationalities

A Malaysia transit visa is NOT REQUIRED if

• You are NOT leaving the airport and
• Continuing to the next destination with the same flight/airline

TRANSIT WITHOUT VISA (TWOV) nationalities

120-hour (5-day), single-entry, visa requirement for cruise passengers.

A Malaysia visa is REQUIRED to disembark the cruise at Malaysian ports.

MALAYSIA VISA EXEMPTION

Malaysia has a liberal visa policy offering visa exemption to over 160+ nationalities. Most nationalities can stay up to 30 days without requiring a tourist visa. About one-third of these nationalities can stay up to 90 days without a visa. 

Entry permission

As a visa-exempt nationality, you can stay either 30 days or 90 days depending on your nationality.

Documents to carry

Apart from your passport, you must also carry the below documents in print or on your smartphone.

• Proof of return or onward travel (your return or onward flight/bus/train ticket)
• Proof of accommodation (a hotel reservation for the first few days)
• Proof of funds to sustain your trip (some cash or ATM/Credit cards)

If you are traveling on a one-way ticket, make sure to get proof of return ticket from an onward ticket agency such as onwardticket.com .

MALAYSIA VISA ON ARRIVAL

Malaysia Visa on Arrival (VOA) is available to China and India passport holders arriving from Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia or Brunei with a valid visa from those countries. 

Visa on Arrival is granted only for stays up to 15 days. There are some specific rules to follow for Malaysia Visa on Arrival.

Visa on Arrival can be obtained at the following international airports, land borders and seaports.

• Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA and KLIA2)
• Penang International Airport, Penang
• Langkawi International Airport, Kedah
• Senai International Airport, Johor Bahru
• Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah International Airport, Selangor
• Kota Kinabalu International Airport, Sabah
• Kuching International Airport, Sarawak
• Miri International Airport, Sarawak

Land borders

• Sultan Abu Bakar Complex (KSAB), Second Link, Johor Bahru
• Bukit Kayu Hitam Immigration, Customs, Quarantine & Security (ICQS) Complex, Kedah
• Sungai Tujoh Immigration Cont rol Post, Sarawak
• Labuan International Ferry Terminal Immigration Control

Validity of Malaysia Visa on Arrival

Visa on Arrival is valid for 15 days, single entry only. 

How long can you stay in Malaysia with Visa on Arrival

Malaysia Visa on Arrival allows you to stay up to 15 days. 

Passport validity required for Visa on Arrival

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months at the time of obtaining Visa on Arrival.

Documents required

You must present the following documents.

• Original passport
• Valid visa from the arriving country (Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia or Brunei)
• Confirmed return or onward ticket
• Proof of financial ability of at least 500 MYR (must be in the form of cash or credit/debit card)

The Visa on Arrival fee is 200 MYR, payable only with a credit/debit card. 

MALAYSIA E-VISA

Malaysia eVISA application is online and you can apply from anywhere in the world. 

If you are applying from a country other than your country of passport, you must provide proof of residency in that country. The Malaysia eVISA portal tracks the IP address. Therefore the eVISA application knows where you are applying from and expects proof of residency from that country. 

If you reside in Singapore, Israel or North Korea, you cannot apply for Malaysia eVISA. You must apply for a Malaysian visa from your nearest Malaysian high commission. 

Also, you cannot apply for a Malaysia eVISA when you are already physically present in Malaysia. If you are already in Malaysia on an eVISA or any other type of visa, you must first exit Malaysia. Then you can apply for a fresh eVISA from your country of passport or legal residence. 

Malaysia eVISAs are single-entry only, valid for 3 months. Visa extensions are not allowed.

Word of caution on Malaysia eVISA Scams

There are fake websites posing as “official websites” and charging three or four times the visa fee. Do not fall prey to such scams. 

There is ONLY ONE OFFICIAL Malaysia eVISA website. The URL is below.

OFFICIAL Malaysia eVISA website: https://malaysiavisa.imi.gov.my/evisa/evisa.jsp  

Validity of Malaysia eVISA

The validity of Malaysia eVISA is 3 months from the day of issue. You can stay in Malaysia for either 15 days or 30 days depending on your nationality.

When to apply for E-Visa

You can apply for your Malaysia eVISA up to 1 month in advance. The E-Visa processing takes 2 working days. But due to high demand, the processing is currently taking much longer than 2 working days. I highly recommend applying for your eVISA at least a month prior to your travel date.

Passport validity required for eVISA

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

How long can you stay in Malaysia on eVISA

Stay granted on a Malaysia eVISA depends on the nationality. Refer to the below table for how long you can stay with an eVISA. 

eVISA application process

Malaysia eVISA is a simple application. Takes about 30 minutes to fill out and submit. The approval process takes about 2 working days. 

IMPORTANT After the approval, you must print your eVISA. A soft copy of eVISA on your phone is not accepted. The immigration officer will stamp the port and date of entry on your eVISA print. You may be asked to show this eVISA print with the stamp at the time of leaving the country. Therefore, carrying a print of your eVISA is very much necessary. 

You will need the following documents.

• Digital passport-size photo
• Passport ID/data page
• Confirmed round-trip flight tickets
• Hotel bookings
• Other supporting documents (ex: proof of residence, etc.)

IMPORTANT Even though the eVISA portal accepts onward tickets to your next destination after Malaysia, the Malaysian embassy/consulate responsible for processing your eVISA will later ask for complete round-trip flight tickets. That means, flight tickets originating and ending in your home country or country of residence are required.

For example, if your home country or country of residence is India and your trip is India-Singapore-Malaysia-Thailand-India, you must upload all flight tickets starting from India and ending in India. If you submit just the inbound and outbound tickets (ex: Singapore-Malaysia-Thailand), you will be later asked to upload your full itinerary.

Photo requirements

The digital photograph must meet the following specifications.

• Must be 35mm x 50mm in dimensions
• Must be on a pure white background
• Must have been taken within the last 6 months 
• Full face must be in the center without any headgear or glasses
• Must be a professional passport photo taken in a studio
• Cellphone photos, selfies and cropped photos are not accepted

The eVISA fee is 50 MYR for India, 30 MYR for China and 20 MYR for all other nationalities. A detailed table with eVISA fee is below.

Apart from the eVISA fee, there is also a processing charge and service charge. 

• Processing charge: 105 MYR
• Service Charge: 0.8% of total transaction value

Processing time

Malaysia eVISA processing time is 2 working days. But due to the high amount of applications, processing times are often longer than 2 working days. I highly recommend applying at least a month in advance.

IMPORTANT In certain cases, the Malaysian embassy/consulate responsible for processing your application may demand additional documentation or an in-person or video interview, which might further delay your processing. 

Application tracking

You can track your Malaysia eVISA application within your dashboard on the Malaysia eVISA portal. You will also be notified of any changes in status via email. Your application can have any of the 6 statuses.

• NEW APPLICATION: Your eVISA application hasn’t been submitted yet
• IN PROGRESS: Your eVISA application is in process
• APPROVED: Your eVISA application has been approved
• REJECTED: Your eVISA application has been refused
• REQUEST DOCUMENT/DATA AMENDMENT: You must correct the information or upload additional documents
• REQUEST INTERVIEW: You must attend an in-person interview

Request Document/Data Amendment

If your Malaysia eVISA application requires any additional information or documentation, the Malaysian embassy/consulate will notify you of the list of additional documents needed. You will be given 5 days to upload the requested documents. 

Once you have uploaded all the requested documents, the processing time will be reset. It will take 2 more working days from that point onward for the processing of your visa.

In certain instances, the Malaysian embassy/consulate may request additional documents multiple times until the embassy/consulate is satisfied with your documents.  

Request Interview

If your eVisa application requires an additional proof, the Malaysian embassy/consulate will simply set up a “request for interview” appointment on your behalf.

This can be annoying as you have no choice in selecting your date/time for the in-person interview. I have seen only a handful of cases where was requested to appear in person for an interview at the embassy or consulate.

NOTE There is no option to change the date/time of the appointment. If you cannot make it to the appointment, I suggest applying for the visa again on the eVISA portal.

Priority visa service (optional, not applicable to all visa guides)

Unfortunately, there is no priority visa processing. The visa process usually takes 2 working days. It can take much longer in some instances. So apply at least one month prior to your trip.

Customer service (optional, not applicable to all visa guides)

You can use the live chat support on Malaysia eVISA portal to ask any questions or inquire about the status of your visa application. The chat agents are available 24×7. 

MALAYSIA TOURIST VISA FROM THE EMBASSY

Validity of malaysia tourist visa.

The validity of a Malaysia tourist visa is 3 months for a single entry and 6 months for a multiple entry visa.

How long can you stay in Malaysia on a tourist visa

You can stay up to 30 days in Malaysia on a tourist visa. Passport holders from the African continent can only stay up to 14 days. 

Passport validity required for tourist visa

Blank pages needed in the passport for tourist visa.

You must have at least 2 blank pages in your passport for the tourist visa. One page for the visa sticker and one page for entry and exit stamps.

• Completed Malaysia visa application form ( download here )
• 2 photocopies of the passport bio page
• 2 passport-size photos (3.5cm X 5cm)
• Round trip flight tickets (return ticket must be within 30 days of arrival)
• Bank statement
• Invitation letter (if any)
• Payment of visa fee
• Yellow fever vaccination if applicable ( these countries require a yellow fever vaccination)

The photo must meet the following requirements.

• Must be of size 3.5cm X 5cm
• Must be in color with white background
• Must be the latest, taken in the last 6 months

The visa fee is anywhere from 6 MYR (about $1.5 USD) to 50 MYR (about $12 USD) depending on the country of your passport.

Please refer to the Malaysia Immigration Portal for the current visa fee for your nationality. 

The tourist visa processing time is about 3-5 working days.

TWOV (TRANSIT WITHOUT VISA) TRANSIT PASS

Transit Without Visa (TWOV) is for those passengers that are transiting via Malaysia but would like to leave the airport and enter Malaysia for a limited amount of time.

TWOV is available at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA1 and KLIA 2) only. TWOV is NOT available at any other airport, land border or seaport in Malaysia.

Issuing of TWOV transit pass is at the discretion of the immigration officer at the airport.

TWOV is available to the following nationalities only.

• GROUP 1: India, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka
• GROUP 2: Bhutan, China, Myanmar, Nepal and Vietnam

TWOV requirements for GROUP 1: India, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka

• Must hold a single/multiple-entry visa or residence permit from Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Taiwan or the USA
• Must enter and exit KLIA1 or KLIA2 with Malaysian Airlines, Air Asia and Malindo Air only
• Must hold a confirmed (with e-ticket number) flight ticket to your country of passport or to a third country within 120 hours

TWOV requirements for GROUP 2: Bhutan, China, Myanmar, Nepal and Vietnam

• Can enter KLIA1/KLIA2 with any airline but must exit KLIA1/KLIA2 with Malaysian Airlines or Air Asia only

NOTE If you are transiting via Malaysia and not leaving the airport, then you do not need a TWOV transit pass. TWOV transit pass is necessary only if you plan to leave the airport.  

Validity of TWOV transit pass

The validity of Malaysia TWOV transit pass is 120 hours (5 days) from the date and time of issue at the port of entry in Malaysia. 

How long can you stay in Malaysia on a TWOV transit pass

You can stay up to 120 hours (5 days) in Malaysia on a TWOV transit pass. Extensions are not allowed.

Passport validity required for TWOV transit pass

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival in Malaysia

• A valid single/multiple-entry visa or a residence permit from Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Taiwan or the USA ( *this requirement is applicable to India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka nationals only )
• A confirmed (with e-ticket number) flight ticket to your country of passport or to a third country within 120 hours
• Proof of financial ability of 500 MYR in the form of cash or credit/debit cards 

TWOV transit pass is issued FREE of cost to all eligible passport holders. 

ENTRY AND EXIT PROCEDURE AT THE AIRPORT

Entering malaysia by air.

If you are obtaining Visa on Arrival or Transit Without Visa (TWOV), head to Visa on Arrival (VOA) section. You must produce all the required documentation and fee in order to obtain your VOA or TWOV. 

If you are visa-exempt or hold an eVisa or a visa from the embassy, head straight to the immigration and customs. Present your eVisa print along with your original passport. 

You may be asked what you plan to do in Malaysia, how many days you plan to stay, etc. You may be asked to show your return/onward flight ticket and hotel booking. If you are traveling on a one-way ticket, make sure to get proof of return ticket from an onward ticket agency such as onwardticket.com .

Leaving Malaysia by air

You will go through passport control on exit. Exit formalities are fairly quick but make sure to account for a bit of extra time for this. No questions will be asked unless you have overstayed your visa.

Malaysia tourist visa requirements are easy to understand. Though there are many types of visas, the requirements for each of them are very clear. Most nationalities are exempt from visas. Rest can obtain eVisa or Visa on Arrival. 

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

MORE VISA GUIDES

UNITED KINGDOM

VIEW ALL VISA GUIDES

• Cookie Policy
• Copyright Notice
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Flight Itinerary
• Hotel Reservation
• Travel Insurance
• Onward Ticket
• Testimonials

Search this site

Do I need a visa to visit Malaysia?

Feb 19, 2022 • 5 min read

Entering the Federal Territory Mosque in Kuala Lumpur © Patrick Foto / Getty Images

Malaysia has a reputation as the easy country for travel in Southeast Asia, and that certainly applies to the visa situation. Citizens of many countries are granted visa-free entry on arrival, meaning there’s no complicated paperwork standing between you and Malaysia’s beaches, jungles and food markets. 

Even better, the relaxed visa situation makes for easy detours to neighboring Singapore , Indonesia , Brunei and Thailand , though you’ll need to check the latest Covid restrictions before you travel. Here’s everything you need to know about visas for Malaysia. 

Can I travel to Malaysia without a visa? 

In normal circumstances, nationals of most countries in Europe, the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan (and many other countries) can visit Malaysia without a visa for a stay of up to 90 days. This applies to entries by air, land and sea. 

In practice, 90-day stays are usually given as the default if you arrive in Malaysia by air, but if you enter by land or by sea, you may be given a 30-day entry stamp unless you specifically ask for a longer permit. It’s worth doing this, as extending your stay may not be possible once the stamp is issued. 

On arrival, your passport will be stamped and you’ll need to fill out an arrival/departure card; just make sure your passport is valid for six months from the date of entry. Technically, the authorities can ask for proof of sufficient funds for your stay and a ticket for onward travel from Malaysia, but this is not usually requested. 

Some countries are granted a shorter stay in Malaysia

Citizens of Russia and many neighboring countries are granted a stay of one month on arrival, and similar rules apply to nationals of many countries in Africa and Central and South America. For longer stays, you’ll need to apply for a visa. 

Note that citizens of Israel can only enter Malaysia with written permission from Malaysia’s Ministry of Home Affairs , which rules out easy overland trips from Thailand to Singapore.

What are the visa requirements for Malaysia? 

If your home country is not on the visa-free travel list, or you’re planning a long stay, you’ll need to apply for a visa. However, be aware that the only visas valid for more than 90 days are the multi-entry visas reserved for business travelers.

Different rules apply to different countries. Tourist E-Visas lasting up to 30 days are issued to citizens of Serbia & Montenegro, China, India, and many other nations in South Asia and Africa. See the Immigration Department of Malaysia website for details of how to apply and a full list of approved countries. 

Other nationals will need to apply for a visa the old-fashioned way at a Malaysian embassy or consulate in their home country. The Malaysian Ministry of Home Affairs has a full list of Malaysian missions overseas; contact your local embassy for advice on the application process. 

Business and transit visas for Malaysia

For business trips, it’s usually fine to enter the country as if you were a tourist, but you are not permitted to work for any Malaysian company. Business travelers can also apply for long-duration multiple-entry visas, but the application process is complex – Malaysian embassies can provide details. 

Transit visas are also available, but as so many people can enter Malaysia without a visa, they’re rarely needed.   

What are the rules for travel to East Malaysia? 

Sabah and Sarawak – the two Malaysian states on the island of Borneo – retain a certain degree of control over their borders. Even if you arrive from Peninsular Malaysia, you must go through passport control and have your passport stamped. This also applies when traveling between Sabah and Sarawak via Brunei, and when traveling to the federal district of Pulau Labuan. 

When entering Sabah or Sarawak from another part of Malaysia, your new visa stamp will be valid only for the remainder of the period you were granted when you first entered Malaysia. If Malaysian Borneo is your first port of call in Malaysia, you’ll get the full, uninterrupted 30 or 90 days. 

Extending a Malaysia visa 

While the entry procedures for Malaysia can seem very relaxed, it’s important not to overstay your visa or the visa-free entry period. If you do, you can be detained, fined, deported, and blacklisted – it’s no laughing matter. 

In the past, it has been possible to extend a 30-day entry up to 90 days through the Immigration Department of Malaysia , but don’t rely on this being possible with the pandemic muddying the waters. Extending a 90-day stay is out of the question. 

The good news is that it is possible to prolong your stay in Malaysia by hopping across the border to a neighboring country. When you re-enter, you’ll be granted a new 30- or 90- day entry stamp on arrival. There’s rarely a problem if you do this once or twice, but the authorities may take a dim view if you repeat the so-called “visa run” too many times. 

On the peninsula, the easiest place to leave and re-enter Malaysia is Johor Bahru ; local buses buzz across the causeway to Singapore day and night. The other easy option is Pulau Langkawi , which has ferries to Satun (year-round) and Ko Lipe (November to May) in Thailand. 

Alternatively, consider crossing the Thai border by train at Padang Besar, or take the ferry to Sumatra in Indonesia from Melaka or Johor Bahru. In East Malaysia, you can cross by bus or boat into Kalimantan in Indonesia, or make the easy hop into Brunei by bus from either Miri or Kota Kinabalu , or by boat from Pulau Labuan. 

You may also like:  12 best things you have to do in Singapore The 15 best things to do in Malaysia: Mountains, marine life, and amazing apes 'Ghosts are a big part of life in Malaysia': healing one year after losing my parents to COVID

Explore related stories

Tips & Advice

Apr 29, 2024 • 6 min read

Explore Indonesia’s diverse culinary landscape across the world's largest island nation, from satay to the globally renowned beef rendang.

Apr 18, 2024 • 5 min read

Apr 16, 2024 • 12 min read

Apr 8, 2024 • 6 min read

Apr 6, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 9, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 8, 2024 • 5 min read

Mar 8, 2024 • 6 min read

Feb 23, 2024 • 7 min read

Feb 9, 2024 • 12 min read

Home → Apply Visa → Visa Type

Visa Information

Select the visa type that is right for you to see important information on visa fees, documents required, forms, photo specifications and processing times.

Documents Required

Photo specifications, processing time, download forms.

Find out whether, depending on your citizenship, country of long-term residence, and the duration and reasons for your stay, you need a visa to enter Singapore

Application Fee

The visa application for each application is MYR 105.00

• The visa and service fee is non-refundable.
• Effective 01 December 2023 VFS Service charge will be MYR 80.00 (0% GST) per application.
• Effective 01 January 2024 Singapore Visa Fee will be MYR 105.00 (0% GST) per application.

Service Charges

Applicants shall be levied a service charge of MYR 80.00 (0% GST) per application. This fee is payable by cash/card.

Additional services

The fees listed here are in addition to the visa application fee and the service charges. The services can be purchased at the visa application. These services are supplied by VFS.

The processing time is between three to five working days, excluding the day of submission. Some applications may take longer to process, especially during peak times.

REQUIREMENT– GENERAL - SOCIAL

Please find the below requirement in order to apply for a Singapore visa:

Please click on below link for more information on visa requirements:

https://www.ica.gov.sg/enteranddeparting/before/entryvisa

• Completed Form 14A in full with the Singapore address and applicant’s signature. (Date should be the Submission date )
• Application declaration note must be signed by applicant. (Date should be the Submission date)
• One recent passport sized coloured photograph with a white background taken less than 3 months . (Photo measurement: 45mm X 35mm) Kindly refer the photo specifications for more information
• Copy of the Original passport (Bio data page, Malaysian valid visa, Latest Malaysia Entry stamp- for visitor in Malaysia, previous Singapore visa, other relevant information pages, Malaysian PR IC and other countries valid visas if any).
• Original passport to bring along during visa application submission.
• MYR 150.00 cash (Singapore visa application fees are MYR 91.00 + MYR 59.00 (Exclusive 6% GST) for our service charge)
• Photocopy of China ID. (China passport holder only)
• Copy of Malaysian marriage cert or Singapore marriage cert and spouse ID copy – if married to Malaysian , Malaysian PR , Singaporean or Singaporean PR
• Bank statement is required if you are under Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Programme. For applicants visiting Singapore for tourism and are travelling alone or only with friends (regardless of Malaysia visit/pass status), needs to provide their latest Malaysia bank statements (last 1-3 months) (case by case basis)
• Other supporting documents e.g. Letter from employer dated less than a month (For Malaysian Employment pass holder) / Letter from School or University dated less than a month (For Malaysian Student pass holder), hotel reservation (accommodation proof), flight itinerary (if already have), signed invitation letter with friend SG id copy- if visiting friends or relatives, travel plan if going as a tourist, return flight ticket back to home country-for visitor in Malaysia, etc... (Basic required supporting documents).

The visa forms should not have any amendment or liquid paper. The processing time is between one to three working days, excluding the day of submission. Some applications may take longer to process, especially during peak times.

P.S : You need to be in Malaysia and walk in physically to Visa Application Centre in order to apply for a Singapore visa.

With effect 14 June 2018, ICA will cease requiring Letters of Introduction (LOIs) or Form V39A, for certain nationals applying for an entry visa for social and business visits. Instead, the LOI requirement will be required on a case-by-case basis. So if assessed that an application requires further verification, VFS may still request the applicant for an LOI to be submitted as supporting document. However, LOIs/Form V39A are still required for all DPRK visa applications

Note : LOI refers to only form V39A. The letter from Embassy should not be called as a LOI unless the Embassy had filled in form V39A for the applicant

Additional supporting documents as below may be required on a case-by-case basis:

Completed form V39A (Please find the form on Download Form link) by a Singapore citizen or a Singapore permanent resident (where local contact is an individual/company ) with the Singapore Citizen or Singapore Permanent Resident IC copy

Reference Letter from your respective Embassy or High Commission with your details and information about your trip to Singapore (Compulsory to have either one)

• Accommodation proof (hotel reservation and etc) at Singapore.
• For applicants visiting Singapore for tourism and are travelling alone or only with friends (regardless of Malaysia visit/pass status), needs to provide their latest Malaysia bank statements (last 1-3 months)(case by case basis)
• The applicant and the local contact may be required to furnish additional documents and information whenever necessary.
• Incomplete/illegible forms and /or documents submitted may result in the application being rejected or the processing delayed.
• Every application for a visa will be considered on its own merits.
• Possession of a visa does not guarantee entry into Singapore. Visitors must also meet entry requirements such as holding a valid passport, sufficient funds for the period of stay in Singapore and confirmed onward/return air ticket.
• All documents must be submitted on A4 size paper only.

Actual submission date should be written on Applicant’s declaration form and PART IV – Declaration by application form 14A

Please refer to www.ica.gov.sg/photo-guidelines for further information.

To Download a Checklist:

Click on the Checklist link

When the checklist opens, save the form on your computer.

Press the right button on your mouse on the required link.

Select Save Target As from the list

Save the form on your computer.

The fees listed  here  are in addition to the visa application fee and the service charges. The services can be purchased at the visa application. These services are supplied by VFS.

REQUIREMENT– GENERAL - BUSINESS

• Copy of Malaysian marriage cert or Singapore marriage cert and spouse ID copy – if married to Malaysian , Malaysian PR , Singaporean .or Singaporean PR
• Bank statement is required if you are under Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Programme.For applicants visiting Singapore for tourism and are travelling alone or only with friends (regardless of Malaysia visit/pass status), needs to provide their latest Malaysia bank statements (last 1-3 months)(case by case basis)
• Other supporting documents e.g Letter from employer dated less than a month (For Malaysian Employment pass holder) / Letter from School or University dated less than a month (For Malaysian Student pass holder), hotel reservation (accommodation proof), flight itinerary (if already have), signed invitation letter with friend SG id copy- if visiting friends or relatives, travel plan if going as a tourist, return flight ticket back to home country-for visitor in Malaysia, etc... (Basic required supporting documents).
• Invitation letter from Singapore Corporation. (Invitation letter dated not more than a month, prepared with official corporation letter head with company name, address and telephone number; proposed date of business meeting/conference conduct, full name and passport number of applicant as per passport, signed with official company stamp and company registration number or Unique Entity Number (UEN) by corporation’s Singapore Citizen or Singapore permanent resident)

The visa forms should not have any amendment or liquid paper. The processing time is between one to three working days, excluding the day of submission. Some applications may take longer to process, especially during peak times. Also note that you may apply the Singapore visa 1-2 weeks before the travel date and the application can only be submitted within 30 days from the intended travel date as the validity of visa depends on the sole discretion of the High Commission and we would not know the validity till you apply. Each application will be considered on its own merits. There is no guarantee any application will be approved. The above paid visa fees are non-refundable and no reason will be provided for those unsuccessful applications.

Each application will be considered on its own merits. There is no guarantee any application will be approved. The above paid visa fees are non-refundable and no reason will be provided for those unsuccessful applications.

With effect 14 June 2018, ICA will cease requiring Letters of Introduction (LOIs) or Form V39A, for certain nationals applying for an entry visa for social and business visits. Instead, the LOI requirement will be required on a case-by-case basis. So if assessed that an - application requires further verification, VFS may still request the applicant for an LOI to be submitted as supporting document. However, LOIs/Form V39A are still required for all DPRK visa applications -

• Accommodation proof (hotel reservation and etc.) at Singapore.

Actual submission date should be written on Applicant’s declaration form and PART IV-Declaration by application form 14A.

• Countries & Regions
• International Organisations (IOs)
• Climate Change
• Counter Terrorism
• Disarmament
• Cybersecurity
• International Peacekeeping
• Singapore's Voluntary National Review
• Small States
• Sustainable Development
• Pedra Branca
• Singapore Universal Periodic Review
• Water Agreements
• Find A Singapore Overseas Mission
• Foreign Representatives To Singapore
• COVID-19 Information
• Travel Tips

Visa Information

• I Need Help Overseas
• Passport Matters
• Legalisation of Documents
• Travel Advisories and Notices
• Useful links
• Press Statements, Transcripts & Photos
• Announcements and Highlights
• Experience Singapore
• Foreign Service Officer (Functional and Corporate)
• Foreign Service Officer (Political and Economic)
• Foreign Service Administration Specialist
• Job Opportunities
• Pre-University
• Undergraduate
• Foreign Service Scholarships
• Recruitment
• Scholarship
• Reach.gov.sg

Entry requirement for all foreigners

If your travel document is issued by one of the countries or regions below, you will need a visa to enter Singapore. For more information, please visit ICA’s website .

Afghanistan, Algeria, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Belarus, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Egypt, Georgia, Holders of Hong Kong Document of Identity, India, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Libya, Macau Special Administrative Region (MSAR) Travel Permit, Mali, Moldova, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, People's Republic of China, Russia, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Tunisia, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Holders of Palestinian Authority Passport, Temporary Passport issued by the United Arab Emirates and Refugee Travel Document issued by Middle-East countries

Visa Applications

The High Commission had outsourced  visa applications to the following three Authorised Visa Agents (AVAs). These AVAs, on behalf of applicants, will liaise with the High Commission for application and submission. Upon processing, the outcome will be made known via email to the applicant.

1.       Global Holidays Sdn Bhd            112-1 Jalan Imbi           55100 Kuala Lumpur           Tel: +60 3 2858 3633

          Email:  [email protected]

          Website:  www.globalmy.com.my

          Operating Hours: 1000 – 1800 hrs (Mon – Fri), 1000 – 1300 hrs (Sat)

          Closed on Sun & PH

2.       Otuss Vacations Sdn Bhd

         (formerly known as  M.P. Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd)  

          Designer Office VO3-03-08,

          Lingkaran SV, Sunway Velocity

         Jalan Peel, 55100 Kuala Lumpur

         Tel:+603-9285 9888 (General Line)

               +6017-878 0313 (Visa Enquiry)

         Email:  visa@otussvacations. com.my

         Website:  http://www. otussvacations.com.my

         Operating Hours: 1000 – 1800 hrs (Mon-Fri)

         Closed on Sat, Sun & PH

Each application will be considered on its own merits.

The visa processing fee payable is RM105 (equivalent to SGD $30) for each application.  A service fee of RM80 for each application is chargeable by the AVAs for their services. The fees collected are non-refundable regardless of the outcome of the application or if the application is withdrawn after submission.  A receipt will be issued upon receiving payment. When the processing is completed, applicant will be given a notification of the outcome from the AVAs.

Applicants with local contact or travel agent in Singapore may submit their applications online directly at Immigration & Checkpoints Authority's website at ( https://www.ica.gov.sg/enter-depart/entry_requirements/visa_requirements ).

Note : Walk-in application will not be accepted at the High Commission. Please contact any of the above AVAs for further assistance.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is a ministry of the Government of Singapore responsible for conducting and managing diplomatic relations between Singapore and other countries and regions.

Travel Page

• Public Education

Visiting Singapore

We welcome all visitors to Singapore. To ensure you have a successful and memorable trip, please read on to find out what you need to know.

You should submit your personal information, trip details and health declaration electronically within three days prior to the date of your arrival in Singapore. This can be done using the SG Arrival Card e-Service.

Please note the SG Arrival Card is  not  a visa and the use of the SG Arrival Card e-Service is  free of charge .

You can submit the SG Arrival Card via https://eservices.ica.gov.sg/sgarrivalcard/  or through " MyICA " mobile application that can be downloaded for free from either the App Store  (iOS) or Google Play  (Android). Please refer to entry requirements for more information on entering Singapore.

You will receive your SG Arrival Card in the form of a PDF document (applicable for web service only, see below for a specimen) or email once ICA has successfully processed your submission. Please note that the SG Arrival Card comes with a unique DE Number that accompanies your passport number.

Please see below for a specimen of the SG Arrival Card.

Click to enlarge the image.

You must present yourself for immigration clearance at a point of entry into Singapore. You must satisfy the basic entry requirements before you can be considered for entry. The grant of an immigration pass will be determined by the ICA officers at the point of entry.

From 11 March 2022 , all foreign visitors arriving in Singapore will be notified digitally of their Visit Pass (e-Pass) through email. There will not be any endorsement on your passport. The e-Pass notification will indicate the period of stay granted and last day of stay allowed. Please ensure that you provide a valid email address when submitting the SG Arrival Card .

Please refer to  entry requirements  for more information.

If you hold a travel document issued by one of the listed countries or places, you will require a valid Singapore visa to travel to, and seek entry, into Singapore. Please refer to  visa requirements  if you require a Singapore visa and for more information.

Upon successful processing of your visa application, you will be issued an e-visa in the form of a PDF document.

Please note that possession of a valid visa does not guarantee entry into Singapore . The grant of an immigration pass will be determined by the ICA officers at the point of entry. The period of stay granted is not tied to the validity of your visa.

Please see below for a specimen of the e-visa.

Related Links

• Applying for Long-Term Immigration Facilities and Submission of SG Arrival Card Through Commercial Entities or Consultants
• Entry Requirements
• SG Arrival Card
• Visa Requirements

Singapore Changi Airport

Can I Get Singapore Visa From Malaysia?

Goh Jun Cheng

October 11, 2023

Table of Contents

Introduction

Many people who are living in or visiting Malaysia often want to also visit neighboring Singapore. A common question is whether you can get a Singapore visa while being in Malaysia. The short answer is yes, it is possible to apply for and obtain a Singapore visa when you are in Malaysia.

In this detailed guide, we will cover everything you need to know about getting a Singapore visa from Malaysia.

Overview of Singapore Visas

Singapore issues several different types of visas, each with specific purposes, validity periods, and eligibility requirements. The main types of visas are:

Tourist Visa

This allows for either single entry or multiple entries for tourism purposes. It is valid for up to 30 days.

Business Visa

For business travelers, valid up to 3 months. Requires a letter of invitation from the Singapore company you will be visiting.

Employment Pass

For foreign professionals working in Singapore. Issued for up to 2 years for qualified candidates. Requires securing employment first.

Dependent Pass

For dependents (spouse and children under 21) of someone holding an Employment Pass. Valid up to 2 years.

Student Pass

For international students studying in Singapore. Valid for the duration of the academic program. Requires letter of acceptance from the educational institution.

Permanent Resident Visa

For foreign nationals who want to live long-term or permanently in Singapore. Issued initially for 5 years.

Getting a Singapore Visa from within Malaysia

Now that we have an overview of the different types of visas, let’s look specifically at how to get a Singapore visa while you are located in Malaysia.

The good news is that Malaysia citizens do not need a visa to enter Singapore for tourism or social visits up to 90 days. So for short visits, you can enter Singapore freely.

For visits longer than 90 days or for purposes other than tourism, you will need to get an appropriate Singapore visa before traveling. This can definitely be done from within Malaysia.

Here are the steps:

1. Determine the Type of Visa Needed

First, figure out which visa category fits your purpose of travel or stay in Singapore. Refer to the overview section above.

2. Gather Required Documents

Each visa type requires specific documents, such as passport, application forms, letters of invitation, etc. Check the requirements and prepare all necessary paperwork.

3. Submit Visa Application

Applications can be submitted online or through the Singapore High Commission in Kuala Lumpur. Follow the directions carefully. Pay the visa application fee.

4. Attend Interview (if needed)

Some visas require an in-person interview at the Singapore High Commission. This is usually short and covers basics like purpose of trip and duration of stay.

5. Receive Visa Approval

If approved, you will either be issued an electronic visa or a physical visa sticker affixed to your passport. Double check that all details are correct.

6. Travel to Singapore!

Once you receive the Singapore visa, you are all set to travel to Singapore from Malaysia! Be sure to carry all required documentation.

Getting a visa for your trip to Singapore while you are still in Malaysia is a straightforward and convenient process. Determine which visa type you need based on your travel purpose and duration. Gather documents, submit application online or in person, and complete any interviews scheduled.

Once approved, you will receive your Singapore visa electronically or as a physical sticker.

Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority, “Apply For A Singapore Visa.” https://www.ica.gov.sg/enter-depart/entry_requirements/visa_requirements

Singapore High Commission in Kuala Lumpur, “Visa Information.” https://www.mfa.gov.sg/kualalumpur-mea/?M=O#3

Goh Jun Cheng is the chief staff writer for SingaporeAirport.com. Jun Cheng graduated with a degree in journalism from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore.

He has over 5 years of experience writing about aviation, tourism, and lifestyle topics relevant to locals and visitors in Singapore. His articles provide insights into the rich culture, cuisine, and attractions of Singapore. Jun Cheng is an avid traveler who has visited over 15 countries.

When he is not writing or traveling, he enjoys photography, trying new foods, and hiking. As a longtime Singapore resident, Jun Cheng is passionate about sharing hidden gems and perspectives about his home country.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

most recent

SG Arrival Card (Singapore e visa) Guide: Everything you need to know

Guía de la tarjeta de llegada SG (visado electrónico de Singapur): Todo lo que necesita saber

Discount singapore tourist sim cards available for changi airport pickup, is the singapore visa free for tunisian citizens, is the singapore visa free for sudanese citizens.

© 2024 SINGAPORE AIRPORT

• The Star ePaper
• Subscriptions
• Manage Profile
• Change Password
• Manage Logins
• Manage Subscription
• Transaction History
• Manage Billing Info
• Manage For You
• Manage Bookmarks
• Package & Pricing

Visa-free travel extension can bring more Chinese nationals

Friday, 10 May 2024

Related News

Biden’s new China tariff wall faces leakages

Green, digital economy key pillars in china ties, warmer ties with china ahead.

United to boost tourism: (From left) Beh, Tan, Low and Chin.

PETALING JAYA: The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme is expected to gain popularity among Chinese nationals following the extension of visa-free travel between Malaysia and China, says a stakeholder.

Malaysia China Business Council director Datuk Beh Hang Kong said visitors from China have been drawn to Malaysia for its favourable climate, language familiarity and rich cultural heritage.“I’m sure demand for the MM2H will grow, especially with Malaysia’s close friendship with China that spans decades.

“The timely arrangement will boost various related sectors, creating opportunities for economic development and shared growth,” he said.

Beh said the announcement of the extension of visa-free travel to China for Malaysian citizens until the end of 2025 came at the perfect time, as both nations are celebrating their 50th anniversary of bilateral relations this year.

“This is an excellent turnout, and I think Malaysia will likely reciprocate with a similar arrangement soon,” he said in an interview on Wednesday.

Reflecting on last year’s initial implementation of the visa-free travel privilege, he said, the tourism sector in Malaysia has since witnessed significant improvements.

“Guided tours, necessitated by visa requirements in the past, have since shifted to a more flexible and personalised travel experience with visa-free requirements.“Travellers can now engage in detailed trip planning, including in-depth exploration and engagement with local culture and communities.

“This change is likely to boost various related sectors, including hotels, homestays and farm stays, creating opportunities for economic growth in smaller towns through enhanced promotion via social media and ecotourism initiatives,” he said.

The durian industry, with only a fraction of its potential currently tapped into China, also presents vast opportunities for market expansion, he said.

“Malaysia’s durians offer superior quality and taste; there is room for growth in our exports to China, offering a competitive edge over other producing countries in the region.

“We should not worry about competition; we just need proactive planning, leveraging our unique selling points, and enhancing engagement with consumers,” he said.

Beh, who is also the China-Malaysia Qinzhou Industrial Park deputy board chairman, called on tourism-related businesses and service providers to prepare themselves well to cater to an influx of Chinese visitors.

“This is the time to take action and expand based on our uniqueness, to attract more visitors.

“For example, durian orchard owners can offer farm stays and durian tours, while the local authorities should identify potential tourism products and have collaborations,” he said.

Malaysian Tourism Federation president Datuk Tan Kok Liang said the visa-free extension for Malaysians by China was more than just a mere convenience in terms of cost and time saved.

“It highlights that this initiative is aimed at enhancing the experience of tourists and making them feel more welcome in China.

“This is a positive step towards fostering exchange and collaboration between the two countries.”

Tan said a reciprocal response from Malaysia is crucial to maintaining a harmonious flow of tourists between the countries and preventing a potential decline in tourist numbers.

“The essential nature of tourism as a sector centres on delivering exceptional services and ensuring visitors feel welcomed and embraced.

“This will certainly boost tourism activities,” he added.

Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia president Tan Sri Low Kian Chuan said the government should negotiate to establish a permanent visa exemption policy with China.

“I am certain that Malaysian businesses and industries will benefit immensely from the permanent removal of travel barriers, especially the tourism and aviation industries.

“Malaysia and China must continue to strengthen exchanges and cooperation with China in the fields of tourism, people-to-people, educational and cultural exchanges,” he said.

Since Malaysia and China are celebrating their 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations, Low noted that the mutual visa waiver will be a catalyst to strengthen deeper human connections and unlock new opportunities for mutual benefits.

Meanwhile, SME Association of Malaysia secretary-general Chin Chee Seong said the tourism industry is expected to experience a significant boom, benefiting businesses in the travel and hospitality sectors.

“Hotels, restaurants, airlines, travel agencies, souvenir shops and transportation services can anticipate an increase in Chinese tourists visiting Malaysia,” he said.The retail industry, said Chin, was likely to see a surge in spending as more Chinese tourists arrive in Malaysia.

“Retailers can capitalise on this by offering a diverse range of goods, including luxury items and everyday necessities,” he said.

Chin noted that easier travel between Malaysia and China would facilitate more business interactions.

“Sectors such as manufacturing, import and export, and professional services stand to benefit from increased business opportunities. This could incentivise further investment and expansion in these sectors, leading to job creation and economic growth,” he said.

Lauding the visa-free travel, Chin said it is a positive development for Malaysia’s economy that fosters a more integrated economic relationship, benefiting businesses in both countries.

“This development can create new job opportunities, promote innovation and facilitate knowledge sharing between Malaysia and China,” he said.

Tags / Keywords: China , visa-free , travel , tourism , business , tourists

Found a mistake in this article?

Report it to us.

Thank you for your report!

IGNITING STEM PASSION

Next in nation.

Trending in News

Air pollutant index, highest api readings, select state and location to view the latest api reading.

• Select Location

Source: Department of Environment, Malaysia

Others Also Read

Best viewed on Chrome browsers.

We would love to keep you posted on the latest promotion. Kindly fill the form below

Thank you for downloading.

We hope you enjoy this feature!

Visa-free travel to China for M'sians extended till end of 2025, says envoy

KUALA LUMPUR: Visa-free travel to China for Malaysian citizens has been extended until the end of 2025, says Ouyang Yujing.

The Chinese ambassador to Malaysia announced in his speech during the launch of the Malaysia-China Commemorative Forum on Tuesday (May 7).

"Just yesterday (Monday), Chinese President Xi Jinping announced in France that the visa-free policy for citizens from 12 countries, including Malaysia, to come to China will be extended until the end of 2025.

"This will further promote the exchange and cooperation in our two countries," he said.

On Monday (May 6), Xi said in France that China has decided to extend visa exemption entry for citizens from 12 countries on short-term visits to China until the end of 2025.

He made the announcement during the closing ceremony of the Sixth Meeting of China-France Business Council.

The 15-day visa-free policy would allow Malaysian citizens holding ordinary passports to enter China for business, tourism, family visits and transit purposes.

China first announced on Nov 24 last year an earlier visa-free travel for six European countries and Malaysia until Nov 30, 2024.

Text: A A A Print Society

Visa-free entry to bring more european tourists.

Foreign tourists walk around on Wednesday near the Palace Museum in the Chinese capital, Beijing. (CHINA DAILY)

China decided last week to extend the short-stay visa-exemption policy for citizens of 12 countries, of which 11 are European nations, to the end of 2025. This extension underscores the prospects of China-Europe engagement in the years ahead and will bring a fresh wave of European tourists to China, analysts said.

The nation announced a visa-free policy for five European countries-France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain — from Dec 1 of last year to Nov 30 this year, with people from these countries allowed to stay on the mainland for up to 15 days for business, tourism, family trips or transit without a visa.

The visa-free policy was then extended to another six European countries: Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium and Luxembourg, from March 14 to Nov 30 to further boost inbound tourism.

During his visit to France last week, President Xi Jinping said that China welcomes visits by more people from France, and will extend the short-stay visa-exemption policy for citizens from 12 countries, including France, to the end of 2025.

"The recent extension of both the time limit and the list of countries brings a positive outlook for the long run. It alleviates concerns among European stakeholders regarding the policy's duration," said Peng Han, chief analyst for tourism media company Travel Daily.

Travel Daily data shows that the total number of inbound tourists from visa-exempt countries in Southeast Asia such as Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand increased by about 2.5-fold year-on-year during the Labor Day holiday. In contrast, inbound tourism from Europe as of this year stood at only 30 percent of 2019 figures.

According to Peng, European operators typically formulate outbound tourism plans for the following year in June and July, and decisions on whether to engage with Chinese products hinge on whether they receive a clear answer in time.

"Will China's visa-free policy for European countries continue next year, or will it be discontinued? The industry has been keeping an eye on long-term China-Europe relations and the continuity of the visa policy," he said.

He added that now that China has given a clear answer on opening its door to Europe through successive policies, it signals to the world the promise of a prosperous future.

Although there has not been a sharp rise in the number of European tour groups coming to China till now, the number of independent travelers indicates the upside of the visa-free policy.

Ctrip data said that on March 14 alone, when the visa-free rules took effect, the number of inbound tourism orders from the six newly-added countries more than doubled compared with last year. The number of orders from Belgium, Hungary and Switzerland tripled.

According to data from tour operator Tongcheng Travel, flight bookings to China from European countries on the first visa-exemption list have shown remarkable growth. Since April, there has been a year-on-year increase of over 150 percent in bookings from France, a 110 percent increase from Germany, and nearly double the growth from Italy.

According to the National Immigration Administration, more than 170,000 international visitors entered China visa-free through Shanghai Pudong International Airport in the first quarter of this year, showing an increase of 23.6 percent year-on-year.

Shanghai, one of the top destinations for European tourists, has prepared itself for a surge in inbound tourism.

"The resumption of international flights, the visa-free policy, and the full recovery of business at Shanghai International Cruise Home Port will contribute to the number of inbound tourists arriving in Shanghai, especially free independent travelers," said Zhou Weihong, deputy general manager of Spring Tour, a travel company in Shanghai.

To accommodate the sudden increase of independent tourists after the implementation of the visa-free policy, tour agencies have designed personalized mini-tour products and city walks in Shanghai. They have also established tourism itineraries covering Shanghai, the Yangtze River Delta and other cities, Zhou said.

Voices from visitors

David Huang, a French national who studied at the University of International Business and Economics in Beijing, and who now works for a French chocolate company in Beijing, said that he has applied for both student and work visas in the past.

"The student visa requires at least two months of preparations, including submitting various documents. I also spent more than two months preparing for my work visa after graduating from UIBE.My French friends have heard about the visa-free access, and it is indeed a positive change," he said.

Young French travelers avoid countries that have lengthy visa application procedures, he said, adding that being on a limited budget, paying for airfare only to have a visa application rejected makes little financial sense for them.

"My colleagues in global companies find it much simpler to travel. When organizing events that require inviting foreign guests, we shouldn't have to worry about visa processing time. Two-week visa-free access allows people to explore business opportunities in China."

Laura Carbonell, a sales manager in Toledo, which is about 75 kilometers away from the Spanish capital Madrid, said she visited China in November before the visa-free policy was introduced. Even something like how far away an embassy or consulate is from a potential visa applicant's home can influence their travel decisions, she said.

"I really wanted to visit China to enjoy its culture and scenery. However, Spain has only two diplomatic missions, the embassy in Madrid and a consulate in Barcelona. People like me who reside in other cities are forced to travel long distances to apply for a visa."

For European countries not on the visa-free list, the application procedures have been streamlined. China has been simplifying its entry visa procedures worldwide, including canceling appointment requirements and fingerprints for qualified applicants temporarily. Visa fees for travel to China before December from all countries have also been cut by 25 percent, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The Chinese embassy in Washington announced the simplification of the tourist visa application process for United States citizens starting from January 1 this year. US citizens can now enter China for tourism purpose without providing roundtrip air tickets, hotel reservations, itineraries and an invitation letter.

"From the implementation of the visa-free policy for six European countries to recent high-level meetings on optimizing inbound tourism payment services, the future looks promising," Peng of Travel Daily said. "The revival of inbound tourism to its previous peak may simply be a matter of time."

While China is sending clear signals of openness, political factors in the West are casting a shadow over cross-border travel. In March the US said it is "taking steps to impose new visa restrictions on multiple Hong Kong officials", without elaborating on the visa measures or the officials targeted.

Last July the US issued a travel warning against China, advising US citizens to "reconsider" whether to travel to the country for "the risk of wrongful detention". Furthermore, the US has long restricted visa applications for Chinese students for "national security" reasons.

The US narrative has had a significant impact on biased perceptions about China in Europe, the US and other countries, said tourism analysts.

"Our travel agencies agree that a trip to China is the best remedy. When European tourists actually visit China, most of them will revise their preconceptions," Peng said.

"With China opening its door, a firsthand experience will expose the falsehoods spread by some Western media."

Related news

Visa-free travel boosts Southeast Asian tourism

China announces visa-free policy for six countries

China implements visa-free policy for 6 more European countries

In Numbers: International Nurses Day

Poster: Happy Mother's Day

Xi attends farewell event held by Hungarian PM Orban

China Brand Day 2024 held in Shanghai

Construction of Changtai Yangtze River Bridge in progress

Starry night with rare aurora borealis in N China

China in Diplomat's Eyes｜Vibrant China through lens by Jordanian diplomat

2,000-year-old Chinese relics exhibited in Hungary

Victory Day military parade held in Moscow

Scenery of karst sinkhole in Guangxi

Insights | China and Europe: Growing cooperation and strong consensus against hegemony

China sends Smart Skynet-1 01 satellite into space

'Panda Train' on China-Laos railway makes debut in SW China

Wheat enters harvest in Yunnan

Xi arrives in Budapest for state visit to Hungary

Xi, Vucic jointly meet press in Belgrade

Xi attends welcome ceremony held by Serbian President Vucic

China's third aircraft carrier completes maiden sea trial

Xi arrives in Belgrade for state visit to Serbia

A glimpse of Serbia's capital Belgrade

French puppet show staged in C China amid 60th anniv. of diplomatic ties

Macron hosts Xi at mountain restaurant in picturesque southern France

In Numbers: Travel boom in May Day holidays

Cradle of civilization: Gongshutang

China's Long March-6C rocket completes maiden flight

Serbia ready to welcome Chinese friends

Culture Fact: Ancient book witnesses China-France cultural exchanges

Culture Fact: Chinese, French experts collaborate to restore ancient building

Xi receives warm welcome upon arrival in Paris

World's largest deinonychosaur footprints found in E China

'Tidal trees' appear on E China wetland

Xi, Macron hold talks in Paris

Xi attends closing ceremony of the sixth meeting of China-France Business Council with Macron

Xi attends welcome ceremony held by Macron

Xi, Macron jointly meet the press

In Numbers: Highlights of China-France relations

Most popular in 24h, more top news.

• China's first high-capacity sodium-ion battery storage station is launched
• S. Korean FM to visit China
• China-U.S. climate talks 'encouraging'
• Digital shift in manufacturing given priority
• High-standard financial opening-up planned

China-Zambia Year of Culture and Tourism boosts opportunity for more exchanges

Ode to Yunnan Tea | French Traveler on Tea and Horse Ancient Road: Benzilan, China's Provence

• 3rd LD-Writethru-China Focus: China welcomes foreign visitors with expanded visa-free policy for cruise travel

BEIJING, May 15 (Xinhua) -- China on Wednesday enforced a policy allowing visa-free entry of foreign tourist groups aboard cruise ships via all cruise ship ports along the country's coastline.

Tourist groups each consisting of two foreigners or more, and organized or received by Chinese travel agencies, can enter China visa free on board cruise ships via the cruise ports in 13 Chinese cities, including Shanghai, Tianjin, Guangzhou and Sanya, according to the National Immigration Administration (NIA).

The tourists can stay in China for no longer than 15 days. While in China, they can visit coastal provinces, municipalities and autonomous regions as well as Beijing, an NIA statement noted.

Additionally, the NIA announced that seven cruise ports, namely Dalian, Lianyungang, Wenzhou, Zhoushan, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Beihai, have been designated as visa-free transit ports for nationals from 54 countries.

This move facilitates the transit and departure of foreign travelers from these ports via cruise ships under China's visa-free transit policy, the statement noted.

To make cruise entry and exit procedures more convenient, the NIA has introduced a range of measures focusing on facilitating clearance for foreign cruise passengers, crew landing, and cruise maintenance, among other services, according to Mao Xu, a senior NIA official.

The adoption of the 15-day visa-free policy for international cruise tour groups came after years of successful trials.

The pilot trial of this policy began in Shanghai in October 2016, allowing foreign cruise travelers to explore Shanghai, Beijing, and other cruise port cities, as well as their neighboring cities.

With more options in entry ports and expanded visit areas, foreign visitors will have a richer experience in China, boosting the country's appeal to international tourists, said Zhu Jialiang, an associate professor with Xiamen University.

With a coastline stretching 18,000 km, China boasts steadily improving port infrastructure, abundant tourism resources, and rapid growth of the service industry, making it a major stop for international cruise liners.

Currently, China's inbound cruise tourism market is experiencing strong momentum. From February to April, over 14,000 tourists from at least 47 countries and regions visited China aboard cruise ships, according to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Zhu highlighted the move's role in further bolstering the development of the cruise economy in China's coastal regions.

Official data showed that since the inception of the pilot initiative, Shanghai has experienced an annual average growth of 10 percent in cruise tourist arrivals.

The expanded adoption of the policy will attract more foreign cruise ships to Chinese cruise ports, driving port development and domestic consumption, Zhu said.

Echoing Zhu's view, Fiona Ma from Singapore-based travel agency EU Holidays said the expanded policy offers a huge opportunity for Singaporean outbound travel planners like her.

She is expecting more tourists from various countries to choose Singapore -- a major hub for international cruise tours -- as their starting point to explore China.

The visa policies announced on Wednesday represent China's latest efforts to honor its commitment to opening its market to the world and enhancing global exchanges, observers said.

Over the years, the Chinese government has endeavored to make visiting China easier for foreign nationals.

By the end of early March, China had established reciprocal visa-exemption agreements with 157 countries, covering different types of passports. Meanwhile, China has reached agreements with 44 countries to simplify visa procedures.

The moves have yielded tangible results. During the Spring Festival holiday in February, the number of inbound tourists to China reached 3.23 million. Notably, there was a significant increase in tourists from countries such as France, Germany and Malaysia.

During the just-ended five-day May Day holiday, China saw 779,000 trips by travelers from abroad, almost doubling the figure for the same period last year.

Li Liangyi, president of Singapore-based China Express Travel Pte. Ltd., noted the changes since China resumed its visa exemption policy for Singaporean passport holders in July 2023. "The number of Singaporeans traveling to China has been steadily increasing," Li said.

Besides, efforts have been made to improve foreign tourists' travel experience in China. For instance, Chinese authorities have rolled out specific measures to facilitate foreigners using mobile payment while visiting China.

"The introduction of policies and measures catering to foreign visitors' needs further demonstrates China's willingness to open up," said Su Xiaohui, an expert with the China Institute of International Studies. Enditem

Go to Forum >> 0 Comment(s)

Add your comments....

• User Name Required
• Your Comment