Asia and Oceania

British nationals do not need a visa to enter Malaysia as a visitor.  You will normally be given permission to stay for three months on arrival.  Visas for longer stays or for non-tourist purposes must be obtained from the nearest Malaysian diplomatic mission before travel.
 

The Malaysian authorities are running a vigorous campaign against illegal immigration and are therefore inspecting immigration documents, such as work permits, very closely.

 

It is important that you neither overstay your visa, nor infringe the terms of entry.  Persons doing so (even overstaying for just a few days) will incur a fine and possibly detention and deportation.

 

UK citizens travelling from Peninsular Malaysia to East Malaysia (sometimes known as Malaysian Borneo and comprising the states of Sabah and Sarawak) need to carry their passports to enter East Malaysia.

 

Passport validity

 

Entry to Malaysia is normally refused to visitors holding passports with less than six months' validity.

 

Dual nationals

 

Dual nationals should also be aware that Malaysia does not recognise dual nationality, so technically you can be refused entry if you are found to be holding two passports of different nationality.  If you are a dual national it is advisable to enter Malaysia on the passport on which you exited your last country of departure.

 

Exchange control rules

 

Under current Malaysian exchange control rules, you may import or export up to 1,000 Malaysian Ringgit per person without prior approval.  There are no limits on the amount of foreign currency (notes and or travellers' cheques) you may import.  Non-residents may export foreign currency (notes and or travellers' cheques) up to the amount they previously imported, provided they have documentary evidence of the amount they imported.  All travellers must complete travellers' declaration forms on entering Malaysia.  Penalties for offences under the Exchange Control Act 1953 are a fine of up to 10,000 Malaysian Ringgit, three years' imprisonment or both.

 

Travelling with children

 

Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country.  They may want to see birth certificates, a letter of consent from the other parent or some evidence as to your responsibility for the child. Malaysian authorities do not normally require such evidence but if you have any concerns please check with Malaysian representation in the UK.