The High Commission of India in Kuala Lumpur has issued a public advisory after noticing ‘a surge’ in Indians entering Malaysia visa-free and then job-hunting, a practice that violates Malaysian immigration law. Indians currently enjoy visa-exemption for tourism until 31 December 2026, but the mission said offenders risk overstay fines, detention and blacklisting. Many travellers, the notice said, are lured by agents promising work permits that never materialise. Genuine tourists should therefore carry hotel bookings, return tickets and proof of Malaysia Digital Arrival Card submission. Those seeking employment must obtain a Visa With Reference (VDR) before travel. For global-mobility managers, the episode is a cautionary tale: sending staff on a business trip under the wrong immigration classification can expose companies to penalties and delay future work-permit approvals. The High Commission’s intervention also shows India’s growing use of overseas missions to police outbound mobility and protect citizens from exploitation. Travel-policy update: firms should add a compliance line reminding employees that Malaysia’s visa-free entry is for tourism/social visits only and that business meetings exceeding seven days require an invitation letter and Single-Entry Visa processed via the Malaysian High Commission in New Delhi.
Source: Hindustan Times
