Malaysia visa extension: All you need to know

Generally, it's not possible to extend a Malaysia Tourist eVisa. If you're in Malaysia and want to prolong your stay past your eVisa's expiration, you'll need to exit the country and submit a new eVisa application. To avoid any legal issues, it's crucial to organize your travel plans to fit within your visa's allotted time frame.

Learn more here about applying for a new Malaysia Tourist eVisa, and the penalties you may incur for overstaying.

Malaysia Tourist eVisa extension

Unfortunately, the Immigration Department of Malaysia does not allow Malaysia tourist visa extensions. Foreign nationals must leave the country and apply for a new Malaysia tourist visa.

You can apply for a new Malaysia eVisa with the Immigration Department of Malaysia, or just simply check if you are one of the nationalities eligible to apply for one online with us. If you need a multiple entry visa, you should consult the nearest Malaysian embassy or consulate.

How to apply for a new Malaysia Tourist Visa with us

Simply follow these steps:

• First, answer the questions in the iVisa application form and select your preferred processing time.

• Second, double-check your information carefully and continue with the payment.

• Third, upload and attach all the required documents and submit your application.

As soon as we receive the completed online form, our visa experts will review the information and process it. Once it’s approved, you will receive the confirmation of your eVisa via email with further instructions.

Malaysia Tourist eVisa validity

Travelers should take note of the specific conditions tied to the Malaysia Tourist eVisa:

• Visa validity period: Typically, the Malaysia Tourist eVisa remains valid for 90 days from the date of issuance. You're required to enter Malaysia within these 90 days.

• Permitted duration of stay: Upon entry into Malaysia, the duration of stay allowed is up to 30 days for each entry.

• Entry type: The Malaysia Tourist eVisa usually allows for a Single Entry. This implies you're permitted a single entry into Malaysia with the eVisa. If you exit Malaysia, regardless of whether the 30-day period has been fully utilized, the visa will no longer be valid for re-entry.

What if I need to stay longer than the permitted Tourist Visa validity?

If you wish to stay in Malaysia longer than the expiration date of your visa, it's important to address this situation properly to avoid violating immigration laws. Here are some steps and considerations:

• Check visa extension possibilities: First, determine if your visa type is eligible for an extension. This is not typically possible for tourist eVisas, but other visa categories may have provisions for extensions under specific circumstances.

• Apply for an extension (if eligible): If your visa type allows for extensions, apply for one well before your current visa expires. Visit the nearest Malaysian Immigration Department office to inquire about the process, required documents, fees, and any other requirements. Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration officials and usually for valid reasons such as medical emergencies or unavoidable travel disruptions.

• Exit and re-enter Malaysia: If your visa cannot be extended, you must leave Malaysia before your visa expires. You can then apply for a new visa from outside the country if you wish to return. Some travelers use this method, known as a "visa run," to comply with immigration laws while planning a return to Malaysia.

• Consider applying for a different type of visa: If your travel plans or circumstances have changed, and you have a legitimate reason for a longer stay (such as study, work, or family reasons), you might consider applying for a different type of visa that suits your new situation.

• Consult with Malaysian Immigration: Immigration laws and policies can change, and there may be specific advisories or exceptions in place (for example, due to global health emergencies). It's wise to consult directly with the Malaysian Immigration Department or the nearest Malaysian embassy or consulate for the most current advice and solutions tailored to your situation.

What are the penalties for overstaying my Malaysia Visa?

Avoid overstaying your Malaysia Visa validity period. Overstaying your visa in Malaysia can lead to penalties, including fines, detention, deportation, and a possible ban on re-entry. It's crucial to take steps well in advance of your visa expiration to ensure you remain compliant with Malaysian immigration laws.

You can find a detailed list of the penalties for overstaying your Malaysian visa on the Malaysian Immigration website.

Extending your visa due to special circumstances

The Malaysia Special Pass is a temporary pass that allows foreigners to extend their stay in Malaysia due to ‘special’ circumstances. A few examples of these circumstances are illnesses, accidents, conflicts in your home country, etc. You must apply at least 7 days before your current visa expires to get this permit.

Generally, there are three common circumstances under which the Malaysian Immigration Department will grant a Special Pass:

• Pending approval of an employment pass (or other related passes): This applies to scenarios where foreigners have to renew their work visa (or another related pass). They may apply to remain in Malaysia with a Special Pass for another 30 days beyond the expiry date of their current visa, while awaiting the decision of their renewal application.

• Making arrangements to exit Malaysia: The Special Pass is only for situations in which foreigners need to extend their stay in Malaysia for less than 30 days. They need to submit the supporting documents for approval:

• A copy of an original passport.

• A copy of the current visa.

• Reserved flight ticket within the next 30 days.

• Typed letter explaining the reason for requesting the Special Pass.

• Completing in-country immigration process: This is for situations in which foreigners have yet to complete an in-country immigration process and might receive the Special Pass for 30 days to remain in Malaysia. During this time, they must complete any immigration formalities to update their status in Malaysia.

If you have time, and you are traveling for tourism purposes, the best thing to do is to prevent the offense of overstaying.

Where can I get more info?

If you have more inquiries about how to apply for a Malaysian eVisa or any other travel document, don't hesitate to contact our support team via online chat or WhatsApp.