India Boosts Travel Industry with Free 30-Day E-Tourist Visa For Malaysian Nationals, Valid Until 2026

To encourage tourism and further strengthen the relationship between the two nations, India announced a 30-day complimentary double-entry e-Tourist visa for all Malaysian passport holders with travel validity unto December 31, 2026. The move to waive off visa fees and encourage online applications without visiting embassies is to make travel more convenient, affordable and a hassle-free experience for Malaysians who want to visit India for its cultural treasures, spiritual havens, historical wonders and natural beauty.

India Launches Free 30-Day e-Tourist Visa for Malaysian Nationals, Valid Through 2026

For Malaysian passport holders eager to explore India, the Indian government has made traveling to the vibrant subcontinent easier and more affordable than ever. In a move to enhance tourism and strengthen bilateral relations, India has extended a complimentary 30-day e-Tourist visa to Malaysian nationals, which comes with double entry and is completely free of charge. Valid through December 31, 2026, this initiative marks a significant milestone in India’s push to simplify the visa process for international visitors.

How the 30-Day Free e-Tourist Visa Works

The Indian government’s 30-day e-Tourist visa is an ideal travel document for tourists seeking to experience India’s rich culture, bustling cities, spiritual sites, and breathtaking landscapes. This visa offers convenience and flexibility, allowing travelers to apply online and avoid the usual hassles associated with embassy visits or lengthy paperwork. Below is an overview of the key features of the free visa program:

• Visa Type: e-Tourist Visa
• Duration: 30 days from the date of arrival
• Entries Allowed: Double entry (ideal for those wishing to visit neighboring countries like Sri Lanka or Nepal and return to India within the visa’s validity period)
• Visa Fees: Free of charge (zero visa fees)
• Deadline: Available until December 31, 2026
• Application Process: 100% online; no need to visit the embassy

Key Benefits of the Free e-Tourist Visa

• Zero Visa Fees: The most attractive feature of this offer is the elimination of all visa fees. Malaysian citizens can apply for and receive their visa entirely free of charge, making it a budget-friendly option for those wanting to explore India.
• Double Entry: This visa allows Malaysian nationals to enter India twice within the validity period. This flexibility is perfect for travelers who wish to take side trips to neighboring countries and return to India within the 30-day window.
• Simple Online Application: Forget about complicated forms or embassy queues. The entire process can be completed online through the official e-visa portal. All you need is a valid passport (with at least six months of validity and two blank pages) and a few supporting documents.
• Convenient Approval Process: After applying online, applicants will typically receive their Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) within 72 hours via email. Upon arrival in India, travelers can present their ETA at immigration to receive the final visa stamp in their passport.

How to Apply for the Free 30-Day e-Tourist Visa

Applying for the free e-Tourist visa is a straightforward process. Simply follow these steps:

1. Visit the official e-visa portal
2. Fill out the application: Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months and contains two blank pages for the visa stamp. Complete the online form with the necessary details.
3. Upload documents: Along with the application, you’ll need to upload a recent photograph of yourself and any other required documents. Check the portal’s guidelines for a full list of acceptable documents.
4. Submit your application: Since this is a free visa offer, skip the payment step and submit your application. There is no need to enter payment details.
5. Wait for the approval: After submitting the application, you’ll typically receive an approval email within 72 hours. This email will contain your ETA.
6. Immigration Process: Upon arrival in India, present your ETA at the immigration counter. The visa will be stamped into your passport, and you’re all set to explore India.

What’s Not Covered by the Free Visa Offer?

While the 30-day e-Tourist visa is entirely free for Malaysian nationals, there are a few things to keep in mind. The gratis offer only applies to the e-Tourist visa category, which is designed for tourism purposes. Other visa categories, such as:

• e-Business Visa
• e-Conference Visa
• e-Medical Visa
• e-Ayush Visa
• e-Emergency Miscellaneous Visa

…are not included in this offer, and standard visa fees still apply to these types of visas.

Options for Those Preferring a Regular Paper Visa

For those who prefer a traditional paper visa instead of the e-Tourist visa, the Indian government still offers the option to apply for one through its Consular Application Centres (IVS Global Services) in Malaysia. There are six cities across Malaysia where applicants can apply for paper visas. Alternatively, you can apply through the High Commission of India in Kuala Lumpur. However, the usual visa fees will apply for paper visa applications.

Important Notes to Remember

• The free e-Tourist visa offer is subject to the terms and conditions of India’s e-visa policy, which can be found on the official website.
• Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months before applying for the visa.
• Only the 30-day e-Tourist visa is eligible for this free offer. Other visa categories, like business or medical visas, still require payment.

India’s free 30-day e-Tourist visa for Malaysians is a real game changer for those who wish to visit one of the most diverse and culturally rich countries in the world. Whether you’re journeying to India to witness the giving beauty of the Taj Mahal, stretch your legs in the serenity of Rishikesh or indulge in the street food glories of Mumbai, this visa offer means it is now more accessible and affordable than ever to plan your visit.

India has launched a free 30-day double-entry e-Tourist visa for Malaysian nationals to boost tourism and ease travel formalities. This move aims to attract more Malaysian visitors by removing visa fees and simplifying the entry process through an online system.

The offer is good through 2026, so there’s ample time to organize your adventure. Fill in your application online today, receive your ETA within a few days, and start your unforgettable journey to India, no fuss.