Travel.State.Gov >
International Travel > Learn About Your Destination > Malaysia International Travel Information
Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.
Exercise normal precautions in Malaysia. Some areas have increased risk.
Exercise Increased Caution in:
Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Malaysia.
If you decide to travel to Malaysia:
Eastern Area of Sabah State – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
There is a threat of kidnappings-for-ransom from both terrorist and criminal groups. These groups may attack with little to no warning, targeting coastal resorts, island resorts, and boats ferrying tourists to resort islands.
The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in eastern Sabah as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to parts of eastern Sabah.
Six months beyond date of arrival
At least one blank page required for entry stamp
Not normally required for stays of less than 90 days.
None
$10,000 or equivalent
$10,000 or equivalent
376 Jalan Tun Razak
50400, Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Telephone: +(60) (3) 2168-5000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(60) (3) 2168-5000 (press 0 at the recording)
Fax: +(60) (3) 2148-5801
Email: klacs@state.gov
To enter Malaysia, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your arrival. You must have at least one blank page for the entry stamp. The Malaysian Immigration Department grants permission to enter and remain in the country. Visit the websites of the Embassy of Malaysia in Washington D.C. or the Malaysian Immigration Department for more information. You do not need a Malaysian visa if you are coming for business or tourism for 90 days or less.
Upon arrival, all travelers must complete the Malaysian Digital Arrival Card (MDAC). Permanent residents of Malaysia, long term-pass holders, and diplomatic and official passport holders are exempt from this requirement.
For the latest information, travelers should review the Malaysian Immigration website. You can submit an online inquiry form or contact the Malaysian Government call center (MyGCC) at +60 3-8000-8000. If you are outside of Malaysia, contact the nearest Malaysian embassy or consulate for visa questions.
Other countries in the region also require your passport have at least two blank pages or more and be valid for six months beyond entry. Please be sure to check your passport validity carefully before traveling.
At the border, officials will stamp your passport with a “social visit pass” (visa), allowing you to stay up to 90 days. You can apply to the Malaysian Immigration Department for extensions, and they are not guaranteed. You must exit Malaysia using the same passport that you used to enter. If you get a new passport while you are in Malaysia, you must apply for a special exit permit from Immigration authorities. This permit will go in your new passport and will be required to leave Malaysia.
The U.S. Government and the U.S. Embassy in Kuala Lumpur cannot help you apply for a Malaysian visa. We cannot advocate for your admission into Malaysia if you are denied entry.
Travel Document: Travelers using a Refugee Travel Document (issued by USCIS) must get a visa before traveling to Malaysia. You may not arrive at the border in Malaysia without a visa. Contact your nearest Malaysian Embassy or Consulate to apply for a visa.
Border Crossings: Follow all instructions for entering the country. Be sure your passport is stamped with the correct date when entering and exiting the country. Incorrect documentation or proof of entry into Malaysia can result in serious penalties. Be sure not to stay beyond your allowed time, usually 90 days for U.S. citizen tourists.
Autogate: U.S. citizens who registered for a Malaysia Digital Arrival Card can use the autogate at some Malaysian airports. The autogate lets travelers scan their passport and walk through an automated gate for immigration clearance. U.S. citizens using the autogate will not get an entry stamp in their passport. Sabah and Sarawak: You must show your passport to enter or exit the eastern states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo. This is true even if you travel on a domestic flight to or from another part of Malaysia.
Dual Nationality: Malaysia does not recognize or permit dual nationality. If local authorities learn you are a U.S.-Malaysian dual national, they may make you give up your U.S. passport or you risk losing your Malaysian citizenship. U.S.-Malaysian dual nationals should consider this seriously before traveling to Malaysia. See our dual nationality page for more information.
U.S.-Israeli Dual Nationals: Malaysia does not have diplomatic relations with Israel. U.S.-Israeli dual nationals have reported problems at Malaysian border control when showing their Israeli passports. U.S.-Israeli dual nationals should use their U.S. passports to depart the last country on their itinerary prior to arriving in Malaysia.
Visa Overstays: Malaysian immigration authorities take visa violations very seriously. They regularly fine and arrest foreigners who overstay their social visit passes (visas). Contact the Immigration Department of Malaysia if you overstay your visa. You will only be allowed to leave the country after resolving the overstay.
Carry your passport with you at all times. Authorities may want to see the entry stamp in your passport to confirm you are in the country legally. If you entered Malaysia using an autogate and don't have an entry stamp, explain this to the local authorities you meet. U.S. citizens who cannot prove their nationality and legal status may be arrested. Be prepared to show your passport with a valid entry stamp. Detentions may last from a few hours to several weeks. Strictly follow immigration laws and regulations while in Malaysia. Check your visa status regularly while in the country.
Visit the Embassy of Malaysia website for the most current visa information.
The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to Malaysia. This is also true for foreign residents of Malaysia.
For information about international child abduction and customs regulations, please visit our website.
Terrorism: Terrorist groups and copycat organizations aspire to attack U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists often use knives, firearms, and vehicles to target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:
Malaysia remains a transit point and, to a lesser extent, a destination country for members of terrorist groups. Information from credible sources suggests that there is a continued risk of armed terrorist and criminal groups operating and planning attacks against foreigners, including U.S. citizens, in the East Asian and Pacific region, including Malaysia.
Use caution in eastern Sabah. Dangers include kidnappings-for-ransom, criminal violence, and terrorist activities. Criminal or terrorist groups may target tourist resorts or attack boats carrying tourists.
Due to safety concerns, U.S. government employees may not travel to eastern Sabah in most circumstances. They may travel to the following areas with some restrictions: the cities of Sandakan, Lahad Datu, Tawau, the Sepilok Nature Reserve, and the Kinabatangan River areas. “Eastern Sabah” is considered everything east of the north-south line drawn from the cities of Kudat to Tawau, including all islands.
Due to the security situation, there are dusk-till-dawn curfews at sea in the coastal areas around Lahad Datu, Kunak, Semporna, Sandakan, Kinabatangan and Beluran. Check local media or ask local police for the most recent curfew information.
For more information, see our Terrorism page.
Crime: Petty theft and crime in Kuala Lumpur continue to be concerns. The most common crimes are purse snatchings, pickpocketing, smash-and-grab thefts, and residential burglaries. These crimes are committed against locals and foreigners alike. Avoid wrapping purse straps around arms or shoulders to avoid injury. Violent and more serious crimes are less common. Taxi drivers in central Kuala Lumpur have perpetrated violent crimes against passengers. It is safer to use a ride-hailing app or book a taxi by phone rather than hailing a taxi on the street. This is particularly true after dark.
Criminals sometimes rob motorists stuck in traffic or stopped at a light. Keep valuables out of sight while driving and remove them from the car when parked. Do not leave GPS devices on the windshield or dashboard.
Demonstrations occur frequently. They can occur due to political issues, on holidays, or during international events.
Local law pertaining to peaceful assembly prohibits non-Malaysians from participating in public protests.
International Financial Scams: See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information.
Sophisticated internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Malaysia. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings or dating profiles. Sometimes they start with unsolicited emails, letters, text messages, or social media messages. Scammers frequently pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:
Victims of Crime: Report crimes to the local police by calling 999 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +60 3-2168-5000. We encourage crime victims to obtain a police report from local authorities. For advice on how to file a police report, call the Royal Malaysia Police (RMP) Operations Center in Kuala Lumpur at +60 3-2115-9999 or 3-2266-2222. In some areas, there are small "Tourist Police” stations. Staff at these Tourist Police stations are familiar with helping international visitors. Remember that only local officials have the authority to investigate and to prosecute a crime.
See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.
We can:
Domestic Violence: If you are a U.S. citizen and a victim of domestic violence, contact the Embassy at +60 3-2168-5000. Local “One Stop Crisis Centers” are in all government hospitals. They offer medical care, temporary shelters, legal aid, and counseling. These services are available to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse.
Tourism: Malaysia regularly checks safety standards across the tourism industry. Clear signs identify hazardous areas and activities. Professional staff are usually there to help with organized activities. Medical care is widely available throughout the country if you get hurt. In remote areas, particularly in the eastern states of Sabah and Sarawak, first responders may take longer to reach patients than in large cities.
We encourage U.S. citizens to get medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.
Criminal Penalties: You must follow local laws. If you break them, even by accident, you could be expelled, arrested, or jailed. Get information from local authorities before starting a business or job that requires additional permits or licenses.
Penalties for using, having, or selling illegal drugs in Malaysia are much harsher than in the United States. You could face the death penalty, long jail sentences, and/or heavy fines.
It is illegal to take pictures of certain buildings in Malaysia, such as military facilities, government buildings, and Ministry of Health facilities, like public hospitals and clinics.
Driving under the influence can land you in jail immediately.
Some white-collar crimes are punishable by caning.
If you buy or collect local plants or animals without permission, you could face heavy fines, expulsion, or jail time.
It is illegal to give religious literature of another faith to Malaysian Muslims. Special religious authorities and local police sometimes raid popular nightspots and hotels to stop activities that go against Muslim religious custom, like drinking alcohol and adultery.
Some crimes are punishable in the United States, no matter what local laws say. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.
Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask the police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for more information.
Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many countries. However, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You will have to pay fines or give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the Customs and Border Protection website for more information.
Currency: Currency exchange and Western Union money transfers are easy to find. Credit cards are accepted throughout the country but be aware of the risk of fraud. If possible, make sure your credit card remains in your sight during every transaction. ATMs can be a safer way of obtaining local currency than a currency exchange or money transfer. However, PINs in Malaysia are six digits long. Some travelers have reported trouble using four-digit PINs at ATMs.
Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:
Faith-Based Travel Information
International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
Human Rights Report – see country reports
Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad
LGBTQI+ Travelers: Malaysia’s laws make homosexual acts illegal. Punishments can be up to 20 years in prison and/or whipping. Police sometimes raid nightclubs and events that are popular with LGBTQI+ travelers. Same-sex marriages and civil unions performed in other countries are not legally recognized. Some Malaysian states have Islamic Sharia laws that apply to male and female Muslims. These laws make same-sex activity illegal with punishments up to three years in prison and whipping. Transgender individuals can be arrested and charged with "indecent behavior.” They can face fines and sentences of up to three months in prison. They may also be denied entry to Malaysia at the border. LGBTQI+ persons might face discrimination or violence, especially in more conservative rural areas. Visit our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights Report for further details.
Travelers With Disabilities: Malaysian law prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities. However, the law is not always enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities is similar to the United States. Accessibility is common in government facilities, information, and services, but can be limited in public transportation, older lodging, and older public infrastructure. Newer lodging, communication/information, and newer public infrastructure may be more accessible. Accessibility is more limited in rural areas.
Malaysia has an active NGO community focused on disability welfare and protection. They can provide information and help with employment services, assistive devices and equipment, chore services, companion-based services, day services, and support network for parents.
See our Travelers with Disabilities page.
Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips.
Sexual Violence: If you are a victim of sexual assault, go to the nearest major hospital right away. Public hospitals offer a “one-stop” response, including medical care, forensic testing, help filing a police report, legal assistance, counseling, and temporary shelter. Most private hospitals do not offer mental health or counseling services, but U.S. citizens might find better and faster care at private hospitals in Malaysia. However, if a victim of crime wants to take legal action against the perpetrator, they must visit a public hospital for forensic evidence collection. See additional travel tips for Women Travelers.
For emergency services in Malaysia, dial 999. When you call for emergency assistance, the dispatcher will connect you to a government hospital of their choice. To get emergency care at a private hospital in Malaysia, call that hospital's emergency hotline. Alternatively, you can arrange your own transportation to the hospital.
Ambulance services are:
The Department of State, U.S. Embassies, and U.S. Consulates do not pay for medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.
Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance covers you overseas. Some care providers overseas only accept cash payments. All hospitals and clinics require payment prior to providing care to foreigners. See our webpage for information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the CDC for more information on the type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.
We strongly recommend getting MEDEVAC insurance to cover medical evacuation. This is separate and in addition to health insurance.
Always carry your prescription medication in its original packaging. Also carry the original prescription. Check with the Royal Malaysian Customs Department to make sure the medication is legal in Malaysia.
Vaccinations: Make sure you are up to date on all CDC-recommended vaccines.
Further health information:
Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.
Air quality in Malaysia changes often and fluctuates with the seasons. It is usually the worst in the dry season from July to October because of large agricultural fires in the area. People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include:
The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
Medical Facilities and Services:
Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery
Pharmaceuticals
Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Surrogacy
Water Quality
In many areas, tap water is not reliably safe to drink. Bottled water and drinks are usually safe but be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless you ask for bottled water. Ice for drinks might be made from tap water.
Adventure Travel
Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Adventure Travel.
General Health Language
The following diseases are prevalent:
Use mosquito repellents recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and sleep under mosquito nets treated with insecticide. Medicine to prevent malaria is recommended for all travelers, even for short stays.
Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for Resources for Travelers and on specific issues in Malaysia.
Road Conditions and Safety: Road safety is a very serious safety concern in Malaysia. In 2023, about 600,000 traffic accidents occurred in Malaysia, resulting in 6,443 deaths. It is one of the most dangerous countries to drive in. The main cause of traffic accidents is undisciplined motorcycle and motor scooter operators. They make up nearly two-thirds of all traffic deaths. Motorcyclists often do not follow traffic laws and drive without considering their safety or that of others. Use turn signals well in advance to alert motorcycles when you are turning.
Traffic jams are common in major cities because road construction has not kept up with the increase of vehicles. Multi-lane highways often narrow down into two-lane roads, causing congestion. Many streets are narrow and winding. Traffic is heavy during the morning and afternoon rush hours and slows down a lot when it rains. Monsoonal rains can quickly flood roads in low-lying areas.
Traffic Laws: Traffic in Malaysia moves on the opposite side of the road to the United States. Most vehicles have the steering wheel on the right side. By law, you must wear your seat belt in both the front and back and must not use your cell phone while driving (unless it is hands-free). Turning left at a red light is not allowed unless there is a sign that says it is. Always carry your passport or Malaysian identification card when driving.
If you are involved in a traffic accident:
Reports of road rage incidents, especially after midnight, are increasing. Avoid confrontational behavior if you are in an accident. If you are threatened, stay in your car and lock the doors. If you can, leave the scene and file a report with the local police within 24 hours.
Sobriety Checkpoints: Laws against drinking and driving are strictly enforced. Violations carry serious penalties. Police operate sobriety checkpoints in many entertainment districts frequented by expatriates. At these checkpoints, all drivers must submit to alcohol breath tests. If you fail a breath test, you will be arrested.
Driver’s License Requirements: You can use an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with a valid U.S. license to drive in Malaysia. You must get the IDP outside of Malaysia. If your IDP or U.S. license has expired, you must obtain a local driver’s license. Some visa holders may be eligible for a process called “conversion” to get a local license. For information on this process, please contact the Malaysian Ministry of Transportation. The Ministry of Transportation recommends engaging a local driving school to help with the paperwork. To obtain a local license, you also need a valid long-term visa or work permit.
Many car rental agencies in Malaysia will rent vehicles for a short term to U.S. citizens with only a valid U.S. driver’s license. However, if you plan to drive in Malaysia, obtain an IDP before leaving the United States. For information on how to obtain an IDP, visit the Driving Abroad section of the Department of State website.
Public Transportation: There have been fatal and other serious accidents involving long-distance tour buses in Malaysia, especially at night or in bad weather. If you plan to travel by bus, choose a reputable company, and avoid overnight routes.
Taxis are metered, but many drivers refuse to use the meter and charge much higher rates, especially during peak hours, when it is raining, or when the destination is in a busy area. By regulation, metered fares go up by 50 percent between midnight and 6:00 a.m.; meters automatically show the higher fee during these hours. Many people prefer booking taxi or ride services through popular smartphone apps for convenience and clear pricing. If you are visiting Malaysia by cruise ship, use taxis or tour operators that have an official relationship with the cruise company.
See our Road Safety page for more information.
Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that the government of Malaysia’s Civil Aviation Authority meets the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for overseeing Malaysia’s air carrier operations. For more information, visit the FAA’s safety assessment page.
Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Malaysia should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard “Homeport” website, and the NGA broadcast warnings website.
Learn more about International Parental Child Abduction (IPCA) in Malaysia. For more information on IPCA, see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act (ICAPRA) report.
Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.
Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.
Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.
You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.
Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.
You are about to visit: