Kuala Lumpur Entry Requirements

Children must have their own passport (even infants). If traveling with only one parent, carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent authorizing travel. This is particularly important if parents have different surnames from the child. For unaccompanied minors, airlines have specific procedures and most require special forms. Children adopted or in guardianship should carry legal documentation. Birth certificates may be requested at immigration to verify relationships.

Pets require an import permit from Malaysia's Department of Veterinary Services (DVS), obtained at least 4 weeks before travel. Required documents include: valid health certificate issued by official veterinarian in origin country (within 7 days of travel), rabies vaccination certificate (at least 30 days old but not more than 1 year), microchip identification, and blood test results for rabies antibodies. Pets must enter through designated ports with quarantine facilities. Quarantine period varies: typically 7-30 days depending on origin country and documentation. Some breeds are restricted. Cats and dogs from rabies-free countries may have reduced quarantine. Contact DVS (+603-8870 2000) well in advance.

Tourist visas cannot be extended beyond their initial validity in most cases. For stays longer than tourist visa allows, you must apply for appropriate long-term visa before arrival: Social Visit Pass (Long Term) for family visits (up to 6 months), Employment Pass or Work Permit for employment, Student Pass for studies, or Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program for retirees. Overstaying is a serious offense with penalties including fines (MYR 1,000-10,000), detention, deportation, and future entry bans. If circumstances require extension, visit Immigration Department offices before your visa expires. Business travelers requiring frequent visits should apply for Multiple Entry Visa.

Business visitors entering visa-free or on tourist visas can attend meetings, conferences, and negotiations but cannot engage in gainful employment or receive payment from Malaysian sources. For business activities, carry invitation letter from Malaysian company, business registration documents, and proof of business relationship. Professional Visit Pass required for certain business activities like installation, training, or consultancy work. Employment Pass required for actual work. Business travelers should be prepared to explain their activities clearly at immigration and demonstrate ties to home country.

Malaysia does not officially recognize dual citizenship for its nationals. Malaysian citizens must enter and exit Malaysia using their Malaysian passport. Foreign nationals holding dual citizenship should use the same passport for entry and exit. If you hold Malaysian citizenship and another nationality, you must enter Malaysia on your Malaysian passport regardless of which passport you used to leave your other country of nationality. Failure to do so can result in complications and potential citizenship issues.

Foreign journalists, film crews, and media personnel require a Professional Visit Pass and media accreditation from Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) or relevant authorities before arrival. Apply through Malaysian embassy/consulate with detailed itinerary, purpose of visit, and letter from media organization. Filming permits required for commercial production. Tourist visas do not permit professional journalism or filming activities. Penalties for unauthorized media activities can be severe.

Malaysia is constitutionally Muslim and has strict laws regarding religious activities. Proselytizing to Muslims is illegal and can result in deportation and entry bans. Religious workers require specific passes and approval from relevant religious authorities. Do not bring religious materials for distribution without proper authorization. Tourist visas do not permit religious work or missionary activities. Respect local religious sensitivities and laws.

If you have previously overstayed, been deported, or had immigration violations in Malaysia or other countries, you may face entry denial or additional scrutiny. Previous overstays can result in temporary or permanent entry bans. Be honest if questioned about previous visits. Immigration officers have access to historical records. If you have a ban or previous violation, consult with Malaysian embassy before attempting to travel. Some bans can be appealed through proper channels.