Chinese citizens need a visa or eNTRI to enter Malaysia. PRC passport holders are not eligible for visa-free entry, but can apply for an eVisa or eNTRI online through the Malaysian Immigration portal. The process is fully digital, takes 24-48 hours, and costs between RM20 and RM105 depending on the visa type. Hong Kong and Macao SAR passport holders enjoy visa-free entry for 30 and 14 days respectively.
This guide covers every visa option for Chinese nationals traveling to Malaysia, including eligibility, fees, documents, and step-by-step application instructions.
Visa Options for Chinese Citizens at a Glance
Chinese passport holders have several pathways to enter Malaysia, each suited to different travel purposes and durations.
| Visa Type | Duration | Entry Type | Fee (RM) | Application Method | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| eNTRI | 15 days | Single | 20 | Online | Short tourism trips |
| eVisa | 30 days | Single | 105 | Online | Tourism, social visits |
| Multiple Entry Visa | 30 days per entry | Multiple (up to 1 year) | 30 | Embassy/consulate | Frequent business travel |
| Single Entry Visa | 30 days | Single | Varies | Embassy/consulate | Standard visits |
| Transit Visa | 120 hours | Single | Varies | Embassy/consulate | Airside transit |
The most popular option for Chinese tourists is the eNTRI (Electronic Travel Registration and Information), which is the fastest and cheapest route. For longer stays or non-tourism purposes, the eVisa or embassy visa is required. If you are unsure which type of visa you need, our overview of Malaysia visa types explains every category in detail.
eNTRI: The Easiest Option for Chinese Tourists
The eNTRI is a special electronic travel registration available to citizens of India and China. It is not a traditional visa but an online registration that grants entry to Malaysia for short tourism visits.
eNTRI Requirements for Chinese Citizens
- Valid PRC passport with at least 6 months validity from the date of entry
- Confirmed return flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation in Malaysia
- Sufficient funds for the stay (minimum USD 100 per day recommended)
- A recent passport-size photograph (digital upload)
eNTRI Key Details
- Stay duration: Up to 15 days (non-extendable)
- Entry type: Single entry only
- Purpose: Tourism only (not valid for business, study, or work)
- Fee: RM20 (approximately USD 4.50)
- Processing time: Immediate approval in most cases
- Validity: 3 months from the date of issue
- Entry points: All Malaysian international airports and land checkpoints from Singapore and Thailand
eNTRI Restrictions
The eNTRI has several important limitations that Chinese travelers should be aware of:
- You cannot extend your stay beyond 15 days
- You can only use the eNTRI once every 3 months
- It is valid for tourism purposes only – you cannot work, study, or conduct business
- If you need to stay longer or have a non-tourism purpose, you must apply for an eVisa instead
Malaysia eVisa for Chinese Citizens
The Malaysia eVisa is a full electronic visa that allows Chinese citizens to enter Malaysia for up to 30 days. It covers tourism, social visits, and business meetings.
eVisa Eligibility
All PRC passport holders are eligible to apply for the Malaysia eVisa online through the official portal at malaysiavisa.imi.gov.my. You do not need to visit an embassy or consulate.
eVisa Requirements
To apply for a Malaysia eVisa, Chinese citizens need:
- Valid PRC passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Recent passport-size photograph (white background, 35mm x 50mm)
- Confirmed return flight ticket
- Hotel reservation or proof of accommodation
- Bank statement showing sufficient funds (last 3 months)
- Completed online application form
eVisa Application Process
The eVisa application is completed entirely online:
- Create an account on the official Malaysian eVisa portal
- Fill in your personal details and travel information
- Upload your passport bio-data page and photograph
- Upload supporting documents (flight booking, hotel reservation, bank statement)
- Pay the visa fee of RM105 (approximately USD 23) online
- Submit your application and wait for processing
- Download and print your eVisa approval letter once approved
eVisa Processing Time
Standard eVisa processing takes 48 hours (2 working days). During peak travel seasons such as Chinese New Year, Golden Week, and summer holidays, processing may take up to 5 business days. Apply at least one week before your intended travel date to avoid delays.
Hong Kong and Macao SAR Passport Holders
If you hold a Hong Kong SAR passport or a Macao SAR passport, the visa requirements are significantly different from mainland Chinese citizens.
Hong Kong SAR Passport Holders
- Visa-free entry for up to 30 days
- No visa or eNTRI required
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
- MDAC (Malaysia Digital Arrival Card) must be submitted before arrival
Macao SAR Passport Holders
- Visa-free entry for up to 14 days (with Macao SAR Travel Permit)
- No visa required for short tourism visits
- MDAC submission required before arrival
- For stays longer than 14 days, a visa must be obtained from the nearest Malaysian embassy
Chinese Diplomatic and Official Passport Holders
Holders of PRC diplomatic or official passports can enter Malaysia without a visa for stays of up to 30 days. This exemption applies to government officials traveling on official business and does not extend to ordinary passport holders.
Embassy Visa Application for Chinese Citizens
For purposes not covered by the eNTRI or eVisa, Chinese citizens must apply for a visa at a Malaysian embassy or consulate. This applies to:
- Employment or work purposes
- Study or student visas
- Long-term stays exceeding 30 days
- Investment or MM2H (Malaysia My Second Home) applications
Where to Apply
Chinese citizens can apply for a Malaysian visa at:
- Embassy of Malaysia in Beijing
- Consulate General of Malaysia in Shanghai
- Consulate General of Malaysia in Guangzhou
- Consulate General of Malaysia in Kunming
- Consulate General of Malaysia in Nanning
Embassy Visa Documents
The standard documents required for an embassy visa application include:
- Completed visa application form (Form IMM.47)
- Valid PRC passport with at least 6 months validity
- Two recent passport-size photographs
- Confirmed return flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation
- Bank statements (last 3 months)
- Invitation letter (for business or social visits)
- Employment letter or proof of enrollment (if applicable)
Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)
Regardless of which visa type you hold, all Chinese citizens must submit a Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) before entering Malaysia. This is a mandatory electronic arrival declaration that replaced the paper-based disembarkation card.
MDAC Requirements for Chinese Travelers
- Submit online at imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main
- Must be completed within 3 days before arrival
- Required for all foreign visitors except Singapore citizens and certain exempt categories
- The MDAC is completely free of charge
- Airlines may check your MDAC confirmation at check-in
The MDAC is not a visa – it is a separate arrival declaration. You still need a valid visa or eNTRI to enter Malaysia. For detailed instructions, see our guide on how to fill out the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card.
Passport Requirements for Chinese Citizens
Your PRC passport must meet these Malaysia passport requirements to enter Malaysia:
- Validity: At least 6 months from the date of entry
- Condition: Undamaged, with no pages missing
- Blank pages: At least 2 blank pages for entry and exit stamps
- Same passport: Enter and exit Malaysia on the same passport
If your passport is due to expire within 6 months, renew it before applying for a visa or traveling to Malaysia. You will be denied entry if your passport does not meet the validity requirement.
Entry Requirements at the Malaysian Border
When arriving at a Malaysian port of entry (airport, land border, or seaport), Chinese citizens must present the following documents in addition to meeting the standard Malaysia entry requirements:
- Valid passport
- Approved eVisa printout or eNTRI registration
- Confirmed return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation
- Sufficient funds for the stay
- Completed MDAC confirmation
Malaysian immigration officers may ask additional questions about your travel plans, accommodation, and return date. Overstaying your visa is a serious offense in Malaysia and can result in fines, detention, deportation, and a ban from re-entering the country.
Visa Fees Summary for Chinese Citizens
| Visa Type | Fee | Currency Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| eNTRI | RM20 | ~USD 4.50 / ~CNY 32 |
| eVisa | RM105 | ~USD 23 / ~CNY 165 |
| Multiple Entry Visa | RM30 | ~USD 6.50 / ~CNY 47 |
| Single Entry Visa | RM50-100 | ~USD 11-22 / ~CNY 78-156 |
All fees are non-refundable, even if your application is rejected. Payment for online applications is made by credit or debit card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Chinese citizens enter Malaysia without a visa?
No. PRC passport holders (mainland China) need either an eNTRI or eVisa to enter Malaysia. However, Hong Kong SAR passport holders can enter visa-free for 30 days, and Macao SAR passport holders can enter visa-free for 14 days.
How long can Chinese citizens stay in Malaysia?
With an eNTRI, Chinese citizens can stay up to 15 days. With an eVisa, the maximum stay is 30 days. For longer stays, a visa from a Malaysian embassy is required.
What is the cheapest visa option for Chinese citizens going to Malaysia?
The eNTRI is the cheapest option at only RM20 (about USD 4.50). It is available for tourism visits of up to 15 days and can be approved instantly online.
Can I work in Malaysia with an eVisa?
No. The eVisa and eNTRI are for tourism and social visits only. To work in Malaysia, you need an Employment Pass, Professional Visit Pass, or Temporary Employment Pass, which requires sponsorship from a Malaysian employer.
How early should I apply for a Malaysia eVisa?
Apply at least 1-2 weeks before your travel date. Standard processing takes 48 hours, but during peak seasons it can take up to 5 business days. The eNTRI is usually approved instantly.
Do I need to submit the MDAC if I already have a visa?
Yes. The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card is mandatory for all foreign visitors, regardless of visa status. It is a separate requirement from your visa and must be submitted within 3 days before your arrival.
Can I extend my eNTRI stay in Malaysia?
No. The eNTRI cannot be extended. If you need to stay longer than 15 days, you must leave Malaysia and re-enter with a new eNTRI (after 3 months) or apply for an eVisa before traveling.
Is the Malaysia eVisa the same as the eNTRI?
No. The eNTRI is a travel registration for short tourism stays (15 days, RM20). The eVisa is a full visa for longer stays (30 days, RM105). The eNTRI is only available to citizens of India and China.
Important Tips for Chinese Travelers to Malaysia
- Apply early – Do not wait until the last minute. Apply for your eVisa or eNTRI at least one week before departure.
- Print your eVisa – Even though the eVisa is electronic, carry a printed copy of your approval letter. Some airlines require it at check-in.
- Complete the MDAC – This is a separate requirement from your visa. Submit it within 3 days before arrival.
- Check your passport validity – Ensure at least 6 months validity. Malaysian immigration strictly enforces this rule.
- Carry proof of funds – Immigration officers may ask to see evidence of sufficient funds (bank statement or cash).
- Respect your visa duration – Overstaying is a criminal offense in Malaysia with serious consequences including detention and deportation.
- Beware of scam websites – Only use the official Malaysian Immigration portal for eVisa and eNTRI applications. Fraudulent websites may steal your personal data and money.
