Entry Requirements for U.S. Citizens: Malaysia

Last checked: September 19, 2025. Regulations are generally stable but can change without notice - check with the Embassy of Malaysia in Washington, D.C. or the U.S. Department of State before traveling.

Passport & Visa Requirements

• Passport validity: Your U.S. passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry.
• Blank pages: At least one blank page is required for entry and exit stamps.
• Visa requirement: U.S. citizens do not need a visa for tourist or business visits of up to 90 days.
• Longer stays: For visits longer than 90 days, travelers must obtain the appropriate visa or pass from Malaysian immigration authorities before arrival.

Entry Procedures

• Onward/return ticket: Immigration officers or airline staff may request proof of onward or return travel.
• Proof of funds and accommodation: Travelers should be prepared to show hotel bookings and evidence of sufficient funds if asked.
• Entry points: Travelers can enter via international airports (such as Kuala Lumpur International Airport), seaports, or official land border crossings.
• 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.

Health & Vaccinations

• Routine vaccinations: No mandatory vaccinations are required for entry from the U.S.
• Yellow fever: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if arriving from or transiting through a country with yellow fever risk.
• COVID-19: There are no COVID-related entry requirements (no proof of vaccination or testing as of 2025).

Traveling with Minors

• Parental authorization: No special requirements exist, but a notarized parental consent letter is strongly recommended if a child is traveling alone or with only one parent.

Additional Restrictions & Considerations

• Currency declaration: Declare if carrying more than $10,000 USD (or equivalent) in cash or monetary instruments when entering or leaving Malaysia.
• Security advisory: The U.S. Department of State advises Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions in most of Malaysia, and Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution in eastern Sabah due to risk of kidnapping.
• Overstays: Overstaying beyond 90 days can result in fines, detention, and possible future entry bans.