Visa Requirement

1. Check Whether You Need a Visa First

Whether you must apply for a visa before travel depends on your nationality:

✅ Visa-exempt nationals: Many countries’ citizens (e.g., most EU countries, US, Australia, ASEAN nations, etc.) can enter Malaysia visa-free for short stays (usually up to 30–90 days). In many cases attending a conference/seminar is permitted under this visa-exemption as a social/business visit.

❌ Visa-required nationals: Some nationalities must obtain an entry visa before travel to Malaysia. If you need a visa, you’ll apply either via an online system (eVisa/eNTRI/MEV) or at the nearest Malaysian embassy/high commission.

👉 Tip: The official list of countries requiring a visa is provided by the Malaysian Immigration Department. Always check the list for your specific nationality on an embassy or immigration website click here.

2. Determine the Correct Visa Type

For most conference/symposium visits there are two relevant short-term visas:

a) Social Visit Pass / Business/Conference eVisa

This is the standard short-term visa used for:

• Attending conferences, seminars, workshops

• Business meetings

• Professional networking events

• Short-term training or discussions

• Trade exhibitions and related business activities

Features:

• Valid for up to ~30 days (often extendable)

• Can be single-entry or multiple-entry (Multiple Entry Visa – MEV) depending on category chosen.

Not allowed:

• Employment (paid work) or long-term residency activities.

b) Visa With Reference (VWR)

For some nationalities that require special approval, the conference organizer may need to go through Ministry of Home Affairs (MOHA) clearances before you can apply at an embassy. This is less common but possible for certain countries.

3. Collect Required Documents

For almost all conference visa applications, you will typically need:

a. Valid passport: With at least 6 months validity beyond your intended entry date.
b. Visa application form: Completed (online or paper form depending on the visa type).
c. Passport-sized photos: Recent and meeting the specifications.
d. Conference Invitation / Acceptance letter: Issued by the conference organizer; states your name, event, dates, purpose. This is often required to support your visa application.
e. Flight itinerary: Proof of round-trip travel booking.
f. Proof of accommodation: Hotel or place of stay confirming dates.
g. Proof of sufficient funds: Bank statements, financial means to cover your stay.
h. Travel insurance (recommended/required): Sometimes required by the embassy.

4. Submit Visa Application

🖥️ If Applying Online (eVisa / MEV)

Most nationalities who require a visa can apply online via the official Malaysia eVisa portal.
Typical steps:

1. Register and  log into the Malaysia eVisa Portal.

2. Fill in the application with accurate personal data.

3. Upload all supporting documents (passport copy, invitation letter, photos, etc.).

4. Pay the visa fee online.

5. Submit the application and note the reference number for tracking.

Typical online processing time is 3–7 working days, but it can vary, so apply well before your event.

📍 If Applying at a Malaysian Embassy/Consulate

If your nationality doesn’t support eVisa or requires special permission:

1. Contact the nearest Malaysia Embassy/High Commission in your home country.

2. Prepare physical copies of your documents.

3. Submit the application in person or by mail as per the embassy’s instructions.

4. Pay embassy fees (varies by location).

5. Attend an interview if required.

6. Collect your passport with visa stamp once approved.

Some cases (e.g., Visa With Reference) require the organizer to get MOHA clearance before this step.

5. Before Departure — Mandatory Steps

🛂 Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)

All foreign visitors (including visa-exempt travelers) must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card online within 3 days before arrival.
This is separate from the visa and is required for immigration.

📌 Prepare Your Documents for Entry

At immigration when you arrive in Malaysia, be ready to show:

1. Passport

2. Visa (eVisa printout or visa stamp)

3. MDAC confirmation

4. Invitation letter

5. Conference/event details

6. Flight return ticket

7. Proof of funds / accommodation bookings

Official entry is ultimately at the discretion of Malaysian immigration officers.

Reminder

Please ensure that you apply for your visa in advance to avoid any delays in processing.

If you require a visa invitation or confirmation letter, kindly contact us at sss15malaysia@utm.my. Invitation letters can be issued on behalf of the conference provided that the participant has completed registration and payment.

To request an invitation letter, please provide the following information:

1. Full name as it appears on your passport

2. Passport number

3. Date of birth

4. Institutional or organizational affiliation