Malaysia enforces stricter controls on China visa-free entry to curb abuse

Saifuddin explained that while Chinese nationals are permitted visa-free entry for up to 30 days per visit, they are subject to a cumulative stay limit of 90 days within any 180-day window.

“The provisions under this agreement do not grant continuous 90-day visa-free stays, unlike arrangements extended to certain other countries,” he said in a parliamentary written reply to Puchong MP Yeo Bee Yin.

Yeo had asked the ministry to outline the measures taken to ensure the 90-day visa exemption for Chinese nationals would not be abused to obtain projects or work in Malaysia, particularly in the construction, renovation and service industries.

According to Saifuddin, before the agreement’s enforcement, Chinese nationals were permitted entry under the visa liberalisa­tion plan from December 1, 2023, which allowed visa-free stays of up to 30 days per entry without any cumulative annual limit.

“The policy refinements introduced through the agreement reflect the government’s more cautious approach in balancing traveller facilitation with strengthened border controls,” he said.

He also said the government’s emphasis is that this facility is meant to apply strictly to social visits and tourism.