The Indian government has announced a new initiative, offering a free double-entry e-visa for Malaysian tourists. This policy will be in effect for one year, aiming to boost tourism between the two countries.
Starting July 1, 2024, Malaysian tourists can apply for a free 30-day e-tourist visa, valid until June 30, 2025. This initiative is expected to attract more visitors from Malaysia, allowing them to explore India’s famous landmarks such as the Taj Mahal, India Gate, and Hawa Mahal. Normally, the double-entry e-visa costs RM465, but Malaysian travelers will soon be able to save this amount by applying for the visa before their trip to India.
It is important to note that this waiver applies only to the e-tourist visa. Other visa categories will not be included in this offer, and the existing rules regarding e-visas will remain unchanged. Malaysian travelers who prefer to obtain a standard paper visa from the IVS Visa Global Centre or the High Commission of India will still need to pay the usual fees.
While India introduces this free e-tourist visa policy for Malaysians, Malaysia already offers a visa waiver for Indian nationals. From December 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, Indians can enter Malaysia without a visa, provided they complete a pre-registration similar to an e-visa. This visa-free policy allows Indian travelers to stay in Malaysia for up to 30 days per visit.