India Visa for Malaysian Citizens: 2025 e-Visa Guide

Quick Answer

Malaysian citizens require a visa to enter India. The online e-Visa system is the most accessible option for tourism, business, medical, and conference travel. The 30-day e-Tourist visa is currently free for Malaysians through December 31, 2026. Multi-entry visas valid for one or five years are also available. The entire process occurs online, with typical approval within 72 hours.

Key Facts

• Visa Required: A valid visa is mandatory for all Malaysian citizens entering India.
• e-Visa is the Move: The online e-Visa is the most convenient option for most travel purposes.
• Free 30-Day Tourist Visa: A double-entry, 30-day e-Tourist visa is free for Malaysians until December 31, 2026.
• Passport Validity: Your Malaysian passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of arrival in India and have at least two blank pages.
• Processing Time: Expect your e-Visa to be processed within 72 hours, though it can sometimes take up to 5 business days.
• Photo Requirements: You'll need a recent, specific digital photo (360x360 pixels, white background, no glasses).
• In-Person Option: For certain visa types like work visas, you'll need to apply in person at an India Visa Service Centre (VSC).

How to Apply for an Indian e-Visa: Step-by-Step

• Step 1: Head to the Official Site — Go to the official Government of India e-Visa website.
• Step 2: Pick Your Visa — Select the e-Visa category that matches your trip (e.g., e-Tourist, e-Business).
• Step 3: Fill Out the Form — Enter your personal, passport, and travel details accurately.
• Step 4: Upload Your Docs — Upload a scanned copy of your passport's bio page and your digital passport photo.
• Step 5: Pay the Fee (If Needed) — Pay any applicable visa fees using a credit or debit card. Remember, the 30-day tourist visa is free.
• Step 6: Submit and Wait — Double-check your info and submit the application.
• Step 7: Get Your ETA — The approved e-Visa, called an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), will be emailed to you.
• Step 8: Print It Out — Pro tip: always carry a printed copy of your ETA when you travel.

What if I Can't Get an e-Visa?

If you're applying for a visa not covered by the e-Visa system (like a work or student visa) or aren't eligible, you'll need to apply in person. This involves filling out a different online form on the VSC portal, booking an appointment, and submitting your documents and biometrics at an India Visa Service Centre in Malaysia.

FAQs

Do Malaysians need a visa for India?

Yes, all Malaysian passport holders require a visa to enter India, regardless of the purpose of travel.

Is the Indian visa free for Malaysian citizens?

The 30-day, double-entry e-Tourist visa is currently free for Malaysian citizens. This offer is valid until December 31, 2026. All other visa types have associated fees.

How much does a one-year Indian e-Visa cost for Malaysians?

A one-year e-Tourist visa costs approximately 472 MYR. A one-year e-Business visa is around 567 MYR. Note that a 2.5% bank charge may apply to these fees.

How long does it take to get an Indian e-Visa?

The standard processing time is about 72 hours (3 days). However, it's smart to apply at least a week in advance, as it can sometimes take up to 5 business days.

Can Malaysians get a visa on arrival in India?

No, India does not offer a visa-on-arrival facility for Malaysian citizens. You must obtain an e-Visa (ETA) online before you travel.

What are the photo requirements for the Indian e-Visa?

You need a recent passport-style digital photo in JPEG format. It must be between 10 KB and 1 MB, measure 360x360 pixels, and show your full face against a white or light background without glasses.

What are the passport requirements for the Indian e-Visa?

Your Malaysian passport must have at least six months of validity remaining from your intended date of arrival in India. It also needs a minimum of two blank pages for stamps.

Your India Trip, Sorted

Now that you understand the visa requirements, you can focus on planning your actual journey. Plandora offers AI-powered travel planning with visual tools and features for collaborative trip planning.