India warns nationals against using Malaysia visa-free entry to seek jobs

The High Commission of India in Kuala Lumpur has advised Indian nationals not to use Malaysia’s 30 day visa-free entry facility to seek employment, warning that those doing so could face overstaying, illegal status, exploitation, detention and legal action.

In an advisory posted on X on Tuesday, the High Commission said it had noticed a “noticeable increase” in Indian nationals arriving in Malaysia through the visa-free facility to look for jobs. It said many were being misled by unscrupulous agents making false employment promises.

The 30 day visa-free facility is meant for tourism and social visits and does not permit employment, the High Commission said. Indian nationals travelling to Malaysia for work should have a valid work permit or Visa With Reference (VDR).

The mission also advised genuine tourists to carry documents that can be verified by Malaysian immigration authorities.

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These include a confirmed return ticket, hotel booking and a passport valid for at least six months.

Travellers must also submit the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online three days before their arrival, according to the advisory.

The warning comes amid previous cases of Indian travellers facing entry problems in Malaysia over suspected job-seeking, inadequate accommodation proof, insufficient funds or lack of valid return tickets.