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New rules for foreign visitors to Malaysia

Sunday, 03 Dec 2023

PETALING JAYA: Foreigners who wish to enter Malaysia will have to fill up the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) three days prior to their arrival, effective immediately.

In a post on its Facebook page on Friday, the Immigration Department said the requirement to submit the MDAC before arriving in Malaysia applies to all travellers, except for those transiting or transferring through Singapore without seeking immigration clearance, Malaysian permanent residents and Malaysian Automated Clearance System (MACS) holders.

In the MDAC form, travellers are required to fill up their date of arrival, date of departure, mode of transport (air, land or sea) and last port of embarkation.

According to the requirements for entry into Malaysia, visitors must show both their passports and the completed MDAC to the immigration officer on duty upon arrival.

Meanwhile, based on an infographic at the Immigration Department’s MDAC website, visitors from 10 countries (Australia, Brunei, Germany, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, the United States and the United Kingdom) will be eligible to use auto gates when arriving and leaving KLIA’s Terminal 1 or Terminal 2.

To use the autogates at KLIA for immigration clearance, they must have passports with a validity period of six months or more.

Visitors must also submit their MDAC three days before arrival (except for permanent residents and long-term pass holders).

First-time visitors will not be able to use the autogate on their first trip as their passports need to be verified at the manual counter manned by Immigration personnel.These visitors can use the autogates upon arrival and departure only for subsequent visits (where their MDAC would still have to be submitted three days before every visit to Malaysia) and only after they have successfully enrolled to use the autogate for immigration clearance.

The registration and submission for MDAC can be done at imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main?registerMain.

Tags / Keywords: Malaysia Digital Arrival Card , Foreigner Visitors , KLIA , Immigration Department

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Malaysia Entry Requirements

Planning an international trip can be an exciting endeavor, but it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the Malaysia entry requirements. Malaysia, a captivating Southeast Asian nation known for its diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities, has its own set of entry regulations.

Understanding the Malaysia entry requirements beforehand will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various aspects of Malaysia’s entry requirements, including visa regulations, passport validity, vaccination requirements, and more. So let’s dive in and equip ourselves with the necessary knowledge for a hassle-free visit to Malaysia.

Malaysia Entry Requirements: A Brief Overview

Before delving into the specifics, let’s take a quick look at the Malaysia entry requirements:

• Valid passport with at least six months’ validity.
• Appropriate visa (unless exempted).
• Sufficient funds for the duration of your stay.
• Proof of onward or return travel.
• Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if applicable).
• Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)

Now, let’s explore each of these requirements in detail to ensure you have a seamless entry into Malaysia.

Malaysia Entry Requirements: Detailed Information

1. valid passport with sufficient validity.

To enter Malaysia, you must possess a valid passport with a minimum validity of six months beyond your intended stay. It is essential to check your passport expiration date before making any travel arrangements to ensure it meets this requirement. Failure to comply may result in denial of entry or difficulties during your stay.

2. Visa Regulations for Malaysia

Malaysia has different visa regulations based on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Here are some common visa categories:

Tourist Visa (Social Visit Pass)

Most travelers visiting Malaysia for tourism purposes can enter the country without a visa. Under the Malaysia visa exemption program , citizens of certain countries are allowed to stay for a specified period without obtaining a visa beforehand. The duration of stay varies depending on the traveler’s nationality. Currently, passport holders from countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, and many European nations can enjoy visa-free entry for up to 90 days. However, it’s crucial to check the latest updates and confirm your eligibility before traveling.

Business Visa

If you are planning to engage in business-related activities during your visit to Malaysia, such as attending conferences or meetings, you may need a business visa. This type of visa allows you to stay for a specific period and conduct business within the country. It is essential to consult the nearest Malaysian embassy or consulate in your home country to determine the specific requirements for obtaining a business visa.

Student Visa

Students intending to pursue educational programs in Malaysia must obtain a student visa. To obtain a student visa, you typically need an acceptance letter from a recognized Malaysian educational institution. The institution will guide you through the visa application process, including the necessary documentation and requirements.

3. Sufficient Funds for Your Stay

To ensure a comfortable stay in Malaysia, it is important to have sufficient funds to cover your expenses. The Malaysian immigration authorities may request proof of financial capability upon arrival, so it is advisable to carry relevant documents such as bank statements or credit cards to demonstrate your financial readiness.

4. Proof of Onward or Return Travel

To comply with Malaysia’s entry requirements, you must provide proof of onward or return travel. This can be in the form of an airline ticket or a confirmed itinerary showing your departure from Malaysia. This requirement ensures that you have plans to leave the country within the allowed period and helps prevent individuals from overstaying their visa.

5. Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate (if applicable)

If you are traveling to Malaysia from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission, you may be required to present a yellow fever vaccination certificate upon arrival. It’s essential to check if your home country falls under the yellow fever endemic zone and if vaccination is mandatory. The certificate must be valid and obtained at least ten days before your arrival in Malaysia.

6. Malaysia Digital Arrival Card

The Malaysia Arrival Card is a standard immigration form that collects important information about travelers entering the country. Ensure that all the information provided is accurate and matches the details in your passport and travel documents.

Visitors are required to present the Malaysian Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) and passport to the Immigration Officer on duty. Visitors must ensure that the passport or travel document is validated before leaving the immigration counter.

FAQs about Malaysia Entry Requirements

To provide further clarity on Malaysia’s entry requirements, here are some frequently asked questions:

Do I need a visa to visit Malaysia?

For most tourists, Malaysia offers visa-free entry for a specific period. However, visa regulations may vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. It’s recommended to check the latest information and verify your eligibility before traveling.

How long can I stay in Malaysia without a visa?

The duration of visa-free stay in Malaysia varies depending on your nationality. Currently, passport holders from eligible countries can enjoy a stay of up to 90 days. However, it’s essential to confirm the latest updates before your trip.

What documents do I need to carry for Malaysia immigration?

When arriving in Malaysia, make sure to carry your valid passport with at least six months’ validity, proof of onward or return travel, and sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay. It’s also recommended to have a copy of your accommodation booking and any relevant travel insurance documents.

Are there any vaccination requirements for Malaysia?

While there are no specific vaccination requirements for all travelers entering Malaysia, individuals coming from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission may need to present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. It’s important to check if your home country falls under this category.

Can I extend my stay in Malaysia?

Under certain circumstances, it may be possible to extend your stay in Malaysia. You can inquire about visa extensions at the nearest immigration office or consult the Malaysian immigration website for detailed information and requirements.

What should I do if my passport expires soon?

To comply with Malaysia’s entry requirements, it’s crucial to have a passport with at least six months’ validity beyond your intended stay. If your passport is nearing expiration, it’s recommended to renew it before traveling to Malaysia to avoid any complications or potential denial of entry.

Is Covid-19 test and vaccination required?

COVID-19 vaccination and test results are no longer required for entry into Malaysia. If you are not feeling well, it is strongly advised to delay your travel plans. Your health and well-being should always take precedence.

Is Travel Insurance required?

Travel insurance is not compulsory but highly recommended. It provides valuable coverage and protection against unforeseen events that can disrupt or impact your travel plans. Travel insurance typically includes benefits such as trip cancellation/interruption coverage, medical expenses coverage, emergency medical evacuation, baggage loss/delay coverage, and more.

Arrival in Malaysia

Upon arriving in Malaysia, you’ll be asked to provide your fingerprints and have a photograph taken, as part of the biometric data collection process. Immigration authorities use this information to verify your identity and ensure that you’re authorized to enter the country.

Temperature screening is mandatory for all travelers entering the country. Visitors will be required to undergo temperature screening at the airport upon arrival. Those with fever or other symptoms of COVID-19 will be denied entry and may be required to undergo further medical evaluation.

It’s important to note that temperature screening is just one measure used to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, and it may not detect all cases of the virus. Therefore, travelers should also be aware of other preventive measures such as wearing a mask, practicing good hand hygiene, and maintaining social distancing.

The use of masks is no longer compulsory, but the government encourages its use. Most Malaysians still wear masks when they are indoors and in crowded places, as a preventive measure to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Catching Covid-19 in Malaysia

In case you catch COVID-19 while in Malaysia, it is important to follow the guidelines and protocols set by the local authorities. This may include self-quarantine or isolation and seeking medical treatment if necessary.

It is also important to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses related to COVID-19, as medical treatment in Malaysia can be costly. This will ensure that you have financial coverage in case you need medical treatment while in the country.

If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, it is important to contact the local health authorities immediately and follow their instructions. They will provide guidance on testing, treatment, and quarantine measures.

It’s also important to stay informed about the situation in Malaysia, and to follow any travel restrictions or guidelines set by the local authorities. This may include avoiding non-essential travel to certain areas or following social distancing measures.

Before jetting off to Malaysia, familiarizing yourself with the country’s entry requirements is essential for a seamless and enjoyable journey. Ensuring you have a valid passport, understanding the visa regulations, having sufficient funds, carrying proof of onward travel, and being aware of any vaccination requirements will help you avoid unnecessary complications at immigration checkpoints. By following these entry requirements, you’ll be well-prepared to explore the wonders of Malaysia with peace of mind.

Book your dream holiday with Traveution Holidays and make the most of your trip to this Southeast Asian paradise. With our expertise and insider knowledge, we’ll ensure that your Malaysia holiday is seamless, stress-free, and unforgettable. Don’t wait, book now and take the first step towards your next adventure in Malaysia with Traveution Holidays.

Eugene is the co-founder of Travelution Holidays. He has been a part of the travel industry since 1996. With over a decade of experience as a certified Club Med specialist, he is a travel enthusiast, and food lover. He enjoys sharing travel experiences, updates, and tips to help you explore the world.

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Travel Advisory July 24, 2023

Malaysia - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Malaysia. Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory. 

Exercise Increased Caution in:

• The eastern area of Sabah State due to kidnapping .

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Malaysia.

If you decide to travel to Malaysia:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Malaysia.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.  
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist . 

Eastern Area of Sabah State – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

There is a threat of kidnappings-for-ransom from both terrorist and criminal groups. These groups may attack with little to no warning, targeting coastal resorts, island resorts, and boats ferrying tourists to resort islands.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in eastern Sabah as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to parts of eastern Sabah.

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

Six months beyond date of arrival

At least one blank page required for entry stamp

Not normally required for stays of less than 90 days.

$10,000 or equivalent

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Kuala Lumpur

376 Jalan Tun Razak 50400, Kuala Lumpur Malaysia Telephone: +(60) (3) 2168-5000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(60) (3) 2168-5000 (press 0 at the recording) Fax: +(60) (3) 2148-5801 Email:  [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

To enter Malaysia, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your arrival in Malaysia.  You must have at least one blank page for the entry stamp.  Permission to enter and remain in Malaysia is under the authority of the Malaysian Immigration Department.  Visit the websites of the Embassy of Malaysia in Washington D.C . and the  Malaysian Immigration Department for more information.

Effective January 1, 2024, the Malaysian Immigration Department requires all travelers to complete the Malaysian Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) .  Permanent residents of Malaysia, long term-pass holders, and diplomatic and official passport holders are exempt from this requirement.  

For the latest information, travelers should review the Malaysian Immigration website .  You can submit an online inquiry form or contact the Malaysian Government call center (MyGCC) at +60 3-8000-8000.  If you are outside of Malaysia, you should contact the nearest Malaysian embassy or consulate if you have questions about Malaysian entry and exit requirements. 

If you are planning onward travel after departing Malaysia, please note that many other countries in the region require at least six months’ remaining validity on your passport to enter.

You do not need a visa if you are coming for business or tourism for 90 days or less.

Immigration officials will place an entry stamp, known as a social visit pass (visa), in your passport authorizing a stay of up to 90 days.  Travelers may apply to the Malaysian Immigration Department for extensions, which may or may not be granted.  You must exit Malaysia using the same passport that you used to enter.  If this passport is replaced for any reason before you depart Malaysia, you must apply with Immigration to obtain a “special pass” (exit permit) in your new passport prior to departing. 

Neither the U.S. Government nor the U.S. Embassy in Kuala Lumpur can intervene on your behalf when you apply for a Malaysian visa, nor can we advocate for your admission into Malaysia if you are denied entry.

Travel Document : Persons traveling on a USCIS-issued Refugee Travel Document issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) must apply for a visa prior to traveling to Malaysia.

Border Crossings:  Follow all entry instructions, present your passports only to immigration officials, and be sure immigration officials stamp your passport with the correct date upon entering and exiting Malaysia.  Lack of correct documentation or proof of entry into Malaysia may result in high fines and/or detention.

Sabah and Sarawak:  The eastern states of Sabah and Sarawak (on the island of Borneo) maintain semi-autonomous immigration controls and may have additional have special entry requirements.  You must have your passport to enter or exit Sabah or Sarawak, even when arriving from peninsular Malaysia on domestic flights. 

Dual Nationality:  Malaysia does not recognize or permit dual nationality.  If Malaysian authorities learn that you are a U.S.-Malaysian dual national, they may require you to immediately forfeit your U.S. passport or your Malaysian citizenship.  U.S.-Malaysian dual nationals should consider this issue seriously before traveling to Malaysia.  See our  dual nationality page  for more information.

U.S.-Israeli Dual Nationals:  The Malaysian government does not maintain diplomatic relations with Israel, and Immigration officials have denied entry to U.S.-Israeli dual nationals who have presented their Israeli passports to show exit stamps from their last destination point of departure.  U.S.-Israeli dual nationals should use their U.S. passports to depart the last country on their itinerary prior to arriving in Malaysia.

Visa Overstays:  Malaysian immigration authorities have exit controls at all official ports of departure and routinely fine and detain foreigners who overstay their social visit passes (visas).  If you overstay your visa, you will not be allowed to exit Malaysia until you resolve the overstay with the Immigration Department of Malaysia.

Carry your passport (containing the Malaysian entry stamp) with you at all times in case authorities question your immigration status.  Several U.S. citizens have been arrested during immigration sweeps based on inability to establish nationality and legal status in Malaysia.  Detentions may last from a few hours to several weeks.  Check your visa status periodically while in Malaysia and strictly follow immigration laws and regulations. 

Visit the Embassy of Malaysia website for the most current visa information.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Malaysia.

Find information on  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our website.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad.  Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds.  Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights) 

Malaysia remains a transit point and, to a lesser extent, a destination country for members of terrorist groups including ISIS, Abu Sayyaf Group, al-Qa’ida, and Jemaah Islamiyah.  Information from credible sources suggests that there is a continued risk of armed terrorist and criminal groups operating and planning attacks against foreigners, including U.S. citizens, in the East Asian and Pacific region, including Malaysia.  Since 2013, Malaysian authorities have arrested more than 500 supporters of ISIS, including many individuals who planned to fight in Syria and Iraq.

Use caution in eastern Sabah because of the threat of kidnappings-for-ransom and violence from both terrorist and criminal groups, including the Philippines-based Abu Sayyaf Group (see the  Philippines Travel Advisory for more information ).  In addition to targeting coastal or resort islands themselves, criminal or terrorist groups may attempt to intercept boats ferrying tourists from the mainland to resort islands. 

Due to safety concerns, U.S. government employees traveling for both personal and official travel to Sabah east of the north-south line drawn from the cities of Kudat to Tawau, including all islands, must obtain official written permission from the U.S. Embassy in Kuala Lumpur.  The exceptions are the cities of Sandakan, Lahad Datu, Tawau, the Sepiloolik Nature Reserve, and the Kinabatangan River areas, which require U.S. government employees to officially notify the Embassy prior to travel.

Malaysian law enforcement officials have enacted land and water-based curfews in the coastal areas of eastern Sabah.  Check local media or ask local police for the most recent curfew information if traveling to eastern Sabah.

For more information, see our  Terrorism  page.  

Crime:   Petty theft and violent crime in Kuala Lumpur continue to be concerns. Purse snatchings, pickpocketing, smash-and-grab thefts from vehicles, and residential burglaries are the most common crimes committed against both locals and foreigners.  Avoid wrapping purse straps around arms or shoulders to avoid injury.  Violent and more serious crimes are less common; however, in October 2022, following local media reports of an increase in violent crime in the area of 430-440 Jalan Tun Razak, which houses multiple bars, clubs, and restaurants, the Embassy has advised U.S. government employees visiting establishments in this general vicinity to depart the neighborhood no later than 9:00 pm.

Taxi drivers in central Kuala Lumpur have perpetrated violent crimes against foreign tourists and local residents.  Use e-hailing services or book taxis in downtown shopping areas by phone or online, rather than hailing a taxi on the street, particularly after dark.

Criminals also target motorists stuck in traffic or stopped at a light with smash and grab robberies.  Keep valuables out of sight while driving or remove them from the car (including from the trunk) when parked.  GPS devices should not be left on the windshield or dashboard.

Demonstrations occur frequently.   They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.  

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Local law pertaining to peaceful assembly  prohibits  non-Malaysians from participating in public protests.

International Financial Scams:   See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information. 

Sophisticated internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Malaysia.  Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or, less frequently, by unsolicited emails, letters, text messages, and messages on social media.  Scammers frequently pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help.  Common scams include:   

• Romance/Online dating 
• Money transfers 
• Lucrative sales 
• Gold purchase 
• Contracts with promises of large commissions 
• Inheritance notices 
• Work permits/job offers 
• Bank overpayments

Victims of Crime:  U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.  Report crimes to the local police via the emergency line at 999 (landline) or 112 (cell/mobile).  Alternatively, call the Royal Malaysia Police (RMP) Operations Center in Kuala Lumpur, 03-2115-9999 or 03-2266-2222 for advice on how to make a non-emergency police report.  Contact the U.S. Embassy at +(60) (3) 2168-5000 for assistance.  A police report is necessary for the Embassy to help victims follow up on incidents of crime.  In some tourist areas, the police have established small "Tourist Police” stations manned by personnel familiar with helping visitors to Malaysia.  Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting a crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care  
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police 
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent 
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion 
• Provide a list of local attorneys  
• Provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution 
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home 
• Replace a stolen or lost passport 

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy at +(60) (3) 2168-5000 for assistance.  Victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse may receive comprehensive care at the One Stop Crisis Centers (OSCC) located in all government hospitals.  The OSCC provide survivors medical care, temporary shelter, legal aid, and counseling.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced.  Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities.  In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country.  Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance, and first responder capabilities may vary.  When participating in trekking or other activities in extremely remote areas, particularly in the eastern states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo, it may be difficult for first responders to reach patients quickly.  

U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.  See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws.  If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.  Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Penalties for using, possessing, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Malaysia are more severe than those in the United States, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines, or death.   

It is illegal to take pictures of certain buildings such as military facilities, government buildings and offices, and Ministry of Health facilities including public hospitals and clinics.

Driving under the influence could land you immediately in jail.

Certain white-collar crimes are punishable by caning.

If you purchase or collect local plants or wildlife without authorization from the Malaysian government, you may be prosecuted and sentenced to heavy fines, expulsion and/or imprisonment.

It is illegal to distribute religious literature of another faith to Malaysian Muslims.  Special religious authorities and local police occasionally conduct raids on popular nightspots and hotels to deter activities among local Muslims that contravene religious customs, including drinking alcohol and adultery.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law.  For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask the police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately.  See our  webpage  for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws.  You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States.  See the  U.S. Department of Justice website  for more information.

Currency:  Currency exchange and Western Union money transfers are readily available.  Credit cards are accepted throughout the country, but you should be aware of the risk of fraud.  If possible, ensure your credit card remains in your presence during every transaction.  ATMs can be a safer means of obtaining Malaysian Ringgit.  PINs in Malaysia are six digits long, and some travelers have reported having difficulty retrieving cash from ATMs using four-digit PINs.

Faith-Based Travelers:   See the following webpages for details:

Faith-Based Travel Information

International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports

Human Rights Report  – see country reports

Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers  

Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad   

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  Malaysia’s penal code criminalizes homosexual acts, termed “carnal intercourse against the order of nature,” leading to punishment of up to 20 years in prison and/or whipping, and police periodically raid LGBTQI+ frequented nightclubs and events.  Foreign same-sex marriages or civil unions are not recognized as legally valid.  Several states in Malaysia have instated Islamic Sharia laws, applying to male and female Muslims, criminalizing same-sex activity with up to three years imprisonment and whipping.  Transgender individuals have been arrested and charged with "indecent behavior,” and received fines and prison sentences of up to three months.  Transgender individuals may also be denied entry to Malaysia at the discretion of the Malaysian immigration authorities.  LGBTQI+ individuals may face discrimination or even violence, especially in more conservative rural areas. See  LGBTQI+ Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights Report  for further details.

Travelers With Disabilities:  The law in Malaysia prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities, but the law is not regularly enforced.  Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States.  The most common types of accessibility may include accessible government facilities, information, and communication/access to services.  Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, older lodging, and older public infrastructure, and common in newer lodging, communication/information, and newer public infrastructure.  Accessibility is more limited in rural areas.

Malaysia has an active civil society and NGO community focused on disability welfare and protection. They are usually able to provide information and assistance in employment services, assistive devices and equipment, chore services, companion-based services, day services, and support network for parents.

See our Travelers with Disabilities page. 

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .  

Women Travelers:  In cases of sexual assault, victims should go directly to the nearest major public hospital which will offer “one-stop” response including medical care and testing, forensic testing, access to the police to make a criminal report, legal assistance, counseling, and temporary shelter.  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers . 

For emergency services in Malaysia, dial 999 (landline) or 112 (cell/mobile).  Callers to 999 emergency number are directed to whichever government hospital the dispatcher chooses.

Ambulance services are:

• Widely available but training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.
• Not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.  
• Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance (45+min).  

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas.  Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.  Malaysian hospitals will not bill your insurance directly.  You must provide payment and seek reimbursement.

Medical Insurance:   Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas.  Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.  See  our webpage  for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.  Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental MEDEVAC insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.  Check with the  Royal Malaysian Customs Department  to ensure the medication is legal in Malaysia.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations recommended  by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)  

Air Quality:  Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The air quality varies considerably and fluctuates with the seasons.  It is typically at its worst in the dry season from July to October due to large agricultural fires in the region.  People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include: 

• Infants, children, and teens 
• People over 65 years of age 
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema; 
• People with heart disease or diabetes 
• People who work or are active outdoors 

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals .  We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Medical Facilities and Services:

• Adequate health facilities are available throughout the country but health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards.
• Private hospitals usually require advance payment before admitting a patient.  
• Medical staff in rural areas may speak little English. 
• Generally, in public hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse or having family spend the night with the patient, especially a minor child. 
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care typically only available through government institutions.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery

• Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations.  Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for more information on Medical Tourism.
• Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for information on Medical Tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Malaysia. 
• We strongly recommend supplemental MEDEVAC insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.  
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in Malaysia.
• Although Malaysia has many elective/cosmetic surgery facilities that are on par with those found in the United States, the quality of care varies widely.  If you plan to undergo surgery in Malaysia, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available and professionals are accredited and qualified.  

Pharmaceuticals

• Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas.  Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls.  Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients.  Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States.  Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States.  Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States.  Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy

• If you are considering traveling to Malaysia to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our ART and Surrogacy Abroad page .
• Although surrogacy agencies/clinics claim surrogacy is legal in Malaysia, there is no legal framework for foreigners or same-sex couples to pursue surrogacy in Malaysia.  As a result, surrogacy agreements between foreign or same-sex intending parents and gestational mothers are not enforced by Malaysia courts. 
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Malaysia via assisted reproductive technology (ART) with a gestational mother, be prepared for long and unexpected delays in documenting your child’s citizenship.  Be aware that individuals who attempt to circumvent local law risk criminal prosecution.

Water Quality

• In many areas, tap water is not potable.  Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested.  Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water. 

Adventure Travel

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Adventure Travel .

General Health Language

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Chikungunya
• Leptospirosis 
• Use the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended mosquito repellents and sleep under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets.  Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers even for short stays.
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Resources for Travelers  regarding specific issues in Malaysia.   

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Road safety is a very serious safety concern.  Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Malaysia averagesd approximately 2219 traffic fatalities a day, placing it among the top 1020 most dangerous countries in which to operate a vehicle worldwide.  Undisciplined motorcycle and motor scooter operators are the principal cause of traffic accidents and constitute nearly two-thirds of all traffic fatalities.  Motorcyclists tend not to obey traffic laws and often travel without regard for their safety or that of other motorists.  As such, use turn signals well in advance of turning to alert motorcycles. 

Bottlenecks are common in major cities because road building has not kept pace with the spread of motorized vehicles.  Multi-lane highways often merge into narrow two-lane roads in the center of town and cause congestion.  Many streets are narrow and winding.  Traffic is heavy during the morning and afternoon rush hours and slows down considerably when it rains.  Monsoonal rains can quickly flood roads located in low-lying areas.

Traffic Laws: Traffic in Malaysia moves on the left side of the road, and most vehicles are right-hand drive.  By law, you must use your front and back seat belts and must not use your cell phone while driving unless it is hands-free (e.g., Bluetooth).  Turning left at a red light is not legal unless otherwise marked.  Carry your passport or Malaysian identification card at all times when driving.

If you are involved in a traffic accident:

• Call the police immediately. Depending on the severity of the accident, you should call either the emergency number 999 (or 112 from a mobile phone) or the Royal Malaysia Police Operations Center in Kuala Lumpur, 03-2115-9999 or 03-2266-2222.
• Stay in your car and wait for the police to arrive before exchanging information with other parties involved in the accident.

Reports of road rage incidents, especially after midnight, are rising.  Avoid confrontational behavior if you are involved in an accident.  If you are threatened, stay in your car and lock the doors.  If able, lleave the scene and file a report with the local police within 24 hours.

Sobriety Checkpoints: Laws against drinking and driving are strictly enforced and carry serious penalties.  Police operate sobriety checkpoints in many entertainment districts frequented by expatriates.  At these checkpoints, all drivers must submit to alcohol breath tests.  If you fail a breath test, you will be arrested.

Driver’s License Requirements: International Driving Permits (IDP) may be used in conjunction with a valid U.S. license.  The IDP must be obtained outside of Malaysia.  If your IDP or U.S. license has expired, you will need to obtain a local driver’s license.  Some classifications of visa holders may also be eligible for driver’s license “conversion,” a quicker process to obtain a local license.  For additional information on this process, please contact the Malaysian Ministry of Transportation directly.  The Ministry of Transportation recommends contacting a local driving school to arrange the paperwork.  In order to obtain a local license, you will also need a valid long-term visa or work permit.

Many car rental agencies in Malaysia are willing to rent vehicles for a short term to U.S. citizens with valid U.S. driver’s licenses.  Nevertheless, if you plan to drive in Malaysia, obtain an IDP before leaving the United States. More information on how to obtain an IDP is available on the  Driving Abroad  section of the Department of State website.

Public Transportation: There have been fatal and other serious accidents involving long-distance tour buses in Malaysia, particularly at night or in adverse weather conditions.  If you plan to travel by bus, choose a reputable company, and avoid overnight routes.

Taxis are metered, but many drivers refuse to use the meter and instead charge a much higher rate, particularly during peak hours, when it is raining or when the passenger’s destination is to or through a heavily congested area.  By regulation, metered fares increase by 50 percent between midnight and 6:00 a.m.; meters are programmed to display the higher fee automatically during these hours.  Many individuals prefer to book taxi and car services through widely-used smart phone apps both for convenience and fare transparency.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Malaysia’s Civil Aviation Authority as not being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Malaysia’s air carrier operations.  Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Malaysia should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts .   Information may also be posted to the   U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Malaysia . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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All you need to know before you go: Malaysia entry requirements

• 1. Do I need a COVID-19 test to enter Malaysia?

2. What are the requirements for going to Malaysia? Do I need a COVID-19 test to enter Malaysia?

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Famous for a wide variety of things, from delicious delicacies and modern marvels, to its natural treasures and vibrant sacred sites, Malaysia is ready to welcome travelers from home and abroad.

From 1 August 2022 , all travellers can enter Malaysia regardless of their COVID-19 vaccination status and do not require a pre-departure or on-arrival COVID-19 test. There are no quarantine orders related to COVID-19 enforced by the Malaysian Government upon arrival.

Visitors can download and activate the MySejahtera application before or after arrival to Malaysia to indicate their COVID-19 risk status while staying in Malaysia. The COVID-19 risk status in MySejahtera may be checked upon entering premises.

Visitors who develop COVID-19 symptoms while in Malaysia should get COVID-19 tested and if they are found to be positive, they are subject to the current protocol for positive COVID-19 cases as below.

Individuals who test positive for COVID-19 must undergo isolation via a Home Surveillance Order (HSO) for seven (7) days. Individuals can be released from isolation on the 4th, 5th or 6th day when they are asymptomatic and the result of an RTK Ag test supervised by a registered medical practitioner is negative. Discharge on the 7th day does not require any COVID-19 detection test.

Visitors are required to practice COVID-19 preventive measures while in Malaysia.

Malaysia entry requirements: Frequently asked questions

1 . do i need a covid-19 test to enter malaysia.

From 1st August 2022 , all travellers are allowed to enter Malaysia regardless of their COVID-19 vaccination status and do not require a pre-departure or on-arrival COVID-19 test.

In summary, as of November 4, 2022, all travellers are allowed to enter Malaysia regardless of their COVID-19 vaccination status. Based on our recent travel experience, no travel requirements are needed to enter Malaysia .

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Malaysia travel advice

Latest updates: Editorial change

Last updated: June 5, 2024 06:24 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, malaysia - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Malaysia due to the threat of criminality and terrorism.

East coast of Sabah - Avoid non-essential travel

• Kinabatangan

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Demonstrations in Kuala Lumpur

Due to the ongoing situation in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, calls for protests on Fridays and weekends may continue for the duration of the conflict. Large-scale demonstrations are expected to continue.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. If you're in Kuala Lumpur:

• remain vigilant at all times, especially near embassies, tourist attractions and markets
• monitor local media for the latest information on these demonstrations
• avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings
• follow the advice of local authorities

East coast of Sabah

Eastern Sabah is deemed a Special Security Area by the Malaysian government. Despite increased security in the region, the risk of kidnapping and violence perpetrated by Philippine militants remains, especially in the coastal areas. Tourist resorts, restaurants and watercrafts are targeted as well as resort islands and surrounding waters, including around Sipadan. The risk increases on the water and waterfront after nightfall. Land- and water-based curfews, including a Movement Control Order, are in effect in the coastal areas of Eastern Sabah.

The Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZone) includes:

Check local media or with local police for the most recent curfew information. Follow the instructions of local authorities.

Violent crime against foreigners is not common. Petty crime, however, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, and snatch-and-grab incidents is prevalent, especially in tourist areas and at the airport. Thieves on motorcycles frequently grab bags and other valuables from pedestrians, often resulting in injury. Women walking alone or with children are common targets.

• Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Try to limit the number of valuables you carry
• Wear your purse facing away from the street and don’t put the strap over your shoulder or wrap it around your arm
• Don’t leave valuables unattended in vehicles

Scam artists operate in Malaysia. Male travellers, usually alone, have been approached in public places with invitations to participate in card games offering attractive opportunities for winning large amounts of money. Victims have lost thousands of dollars before realizing they were being scammed. Companies have also been the target of scams. Scammers will often pose as representatives from phony loan companies and fabricate documents, emails and receipts to appear legitimate. They then ask for up-front payments in order to facilitate the fake loans. Don’t enter into agreements without conducting appropriate research.

There are reports of travellers encountering serious problems after responding to advertisements to do volunteer work with some adventure or environmental organizations. If you are interested in doing volunteer work abroad, conduct careful research before making a commitment.

Internet dating and other financial scams are common. Foreigners, including Canadian expatriates, may be targeted.

Credit cards and debit cards should be safeguarded at all times as theft, fraud and skimming does occur. Credit card magnetic strips have been duplicated, even in international hotels. Swiping your own card may not always be possible.

• Pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• Use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• Avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• Cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• Check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as the items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Advice for women travellers

There is a threat of terrorism. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time. Terrorist targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Stay at hotels that have robust security measures; however, keep in mind that even the most secure locations cannot be considered completely free of risk.

Demonstrations

Large-scale demonstrations may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. Demonstrations are usually accompanied by a heightened police presence and traffic delays. Law enforcement officials have deployed crowd control measures such as tear gas and water cannons, and participants and bystanders have been injured.  It is illegal for foreigners to participate in demonstrations.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Public transportation

Touts at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, including at the KLIA2 terminal, attempt to get travellers to take their “taxi” into town. Several incidents of robbery and/or assault have occurred, as well as gross overcharges by such individuals. Take registered airport taxis only: before leaving the customs and arrivals hall, obtain a coupon from the airport taxi stand near the exit.

Many taxi drivers will often refuse to use the meter even though it is illegal not to use it. You should either look for another taxi or agree on a rate before entering the taxi.

If possible, book taxis by phone. Use a taxi desk or a trusted application on a smartphone, and confirm that the identity of the driver matches that of the photo in the dashboard and seatback.

Taxis are not permitted to pick up additional passengers. If they do, disembark when it is safe to do so.

Report any taxi-related problems to the SPAD (Malaysian body regulating public land transportation) at 1 800 88 7732. English-speaking operators are available. Be ready to provide details such as the vehicle number, the taxi company name as well as the time, date, locations and the nature of the incident.

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country. Signage is in the local language. In some remote areas, there may be a lack of guard rails.

Be extra cautious when driving in the rain as your visibility may be impaired.

Aggressive driving habits by motorcyclists, including driving between vehicles, may pose a risk to foreign drivers who may not be accustomed to these driving techniques.

Bus accidents have occurred on long-distance tour buses, particularly at night. Choose a reputable tour company and avoid overnight routes.

Maritime travel

Boat accidents occur. Don’t board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy.

Pirate attacks and armed robberies occur against ships in and around Malaysia, particularly in the Strait of Malacca and in the waters between Sabah and the southern Philippines. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report - International Maritime Bureau

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Malaysian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Malaysia.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays of up to 90 days Business visa: required Student visa: required

For stays of over 90 days, you must apply for an extension at any Malaysian Immigration office.

Immigration Department of Malaysia  - Government of Malaysia

A special visa is available to individuals who participate in the Malaysia My Second Home or Mm2h program.

Other entry requirements

From December 1, 2023, you must complete a Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC). This is an online pre-arrival form and can be filled in up to three days prior to your arrival in Malaysia.

You must present your passport and a complete MDAC for border officers to validate before leaving the immigration counter.

Malaysia Digital Arrival Card –  Immigration Department of Malaysia

Employment pass

Before you apply for an employment pass (at an immigration office or a Malaysian high commission overseas), your prospective employer must apply for approval from the Standing Committee for Malaysianisation or the Malaysian Industrial Development Authority to fill the position with an expatriate. While waiting for the approval, your employer can apply to bring you into the country on a social visit pass (for example, temporary employment). We strongly recommend against this last step: you should obtain your employment pass before arrival because it is very difficult to change visa status once in Malaysia. Foreigners are limited to three visit pass extensions, after which they must leave the country or a fine will be imposed for overstaying.

Foreigners are required to register their biometrics (fingerprints) at their port of entry. Children under 12 years of age and diplomats accredited to Malaysia are exempt from this process.

Screening measures

Malaysian authorities have implemented screening measures in response to various virus outbreaks. Travellers entering Malaysia from Canada may be subject to a body temperature check. In some cases, travellers may be isolated and treated.

Drug screening

Custom officers can subject you to a drug screening test at the point of entry to Malaysia. If you test positive for drugs, you can be arrested and prosecuted, even if the drugs were consumed prior to your arrival in the country.

• Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 6 May, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain.  It is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is very low for most travellers. Travellers at relatively higher risk may want to consider vaccination for JE prior to travelling.

Travellers are at higher risk if they will be:

• travelling long term (e.g. more than 30 days)
• making multiple trips to endemic areas
• staying for extended periods in rural areas
• visiting an area suffering a JE outbreak
• engaging in activities involving high contact with mosquitos (e.g., entomologists)

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Cholera is a risk in parts of this country. Most travellers are at very low risk.

To protect against cholera, all travellers should practise safe food and water precautions .

Travellers at higher risk of getting cholera include those:

• visiting, working or living in areas with limited access to safe food, water and proper sanitation
• visiting areas where outbreaks are occurring

Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travellers, and should be discussed with a health care professional.

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Covid-19 - testing.

Contact local health authorities, or the nearest Government of Canada office abroad to find out where you can get a COVID-19 test.

Good health care is only available in major cities. Quality of care varies greatly throughout the country.

Payment is expected at time of service and can be made either in cash or by using a major credit card.

Decompression/hyperbaric chambers are located in Ipoh, Kuantan, Labuan Lumut and Semporna.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Some aspects of Shari’a (Islamic) law have been introduced in Malaysia. Muslim travellers may be subject to these laws. In some states, such as Kelantan and Terengganu, particularly strict regulations on alcohol and public decency can be applied.

Religious preaching to Muslims, including distributing non-Islamic religious materials, is illegal.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can face the death penalty. Possession of as little as 15 grams of some prohibited substances will be considered trafficking.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identification

You must carry photo identification, such as your passport. Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place, in case it’s lost or confiscated.

Traffic drives on the left.

Canadian driver’s licenses are valid in Malaysia and can be used locally for a period of 3 months. After this time, you can either drive with an international driving permit, or apply for a Malaysian driver’s license at a certified driving institute.

• More about the International Driving Permit
• Certified driving institutes

Seat belts are mandatory. Penalties for drinking and driving are severe. Convicted offenders can expect fines or imprisonment and could have their driver's licence suspended or revoked.

The use of cellular phones while driving is prohibited.

It is common to receive on the spot fines for disobeying traffic laws.

Marine transportation

Foreign vessels travelling in the waters off Sabah are subject to Malaysian law and must use routes designated by Malaysian authorities. Vessels must also fly both a Malaysian flag and the flag of their home country.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

The laws of Malaysia prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex, and transgender individuals have been arrested. LGBTQ2 travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Malaysia.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Malaysia.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Malaysia, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Malaysia.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Malaysia by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Malaysia to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

The majority of the population is Muslim. Dress conservatively, behave discreetly and avoid discussions on race or religion.

In 2025, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around February 28.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

The currency is the ringgit (MYR).

Some major hotels don’t accept credit cards. ATMs are readily available across the country.

A special permit is required to bring in more than US$10,000 in the form of cash or other negotiable items. Without the permit, excess amounts are seized upon arrival. Visitors may leave the country with only the amount of currency declared on the Traveller’s Declaration Form on arrival.

Monsoon season

The rainy (or monsoon) season extends from November to March. Severe rainstorms have occasionally caused flooding and landslides, resulting in loss of life and damage to infrastructure. Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons

Unrestricted burning periodically causes atmospheric pollution (haze) to rise to unhealthy levels in various parts of the country, especially from June to October. Levels change quickly and should be closely monitored.

• Level of air pollution - Department of Environment of Malaysia
• Recommendations on reducing health risks - Ministry of Health of Malaysia

Local services

Dial 999 for emergency assistance.

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada in Malaysia and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Register to vote Register by 18 June to vote in the General Election on 4 July.

• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice.

Eastern Sabah coastal islands

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to all islands and dive sites off the coast of eastern Sabah from Sandakan to Tawau, including Lankayan Island, due to the threat of kidnapping. This does not apply to the mainland of Sabah.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you: 

• disabled people  
• LGBT+ people

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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All you need to know before you go: Malaysia entry requirements

• 1. Do I need a COVID-19 test to enter Malaysia?

2. What are the requirements for going to Malaysia? Do I need a COVID-19 test to enter Malaysia?

Top 5 best instagram-worthy hotels in penang, top 7 best hotels for local experiences in penang.

Show More 

Famous for a wide variety of things, from delicious delicacies and modern marvels, to its natural treasures and vibrant sacred sites, Malaysia is ready to welcome travelers from home and abroad.

From 1 August 2022 , all travellers can enter Malaysia regardless of their COVID-19 vaccination status and do not require a pre-departure or on-arrival COVID-19 test. There are no quarantine orders related to COVID-19 enforced by the Malaysian Government upon arrival.

Visitors can download and activate the MySejahtera application before or after arrival to Malaysia to indicate their COVID-19 risk status while staying in Malaysia. The COVID-19 risk status in MySejahtera may be checked upon entering premises.

Visitors who develop COVID-19 symptoms while in Malaysia should get COVID-19 tested and if they are found to be positive, they are subject to the current protocol for positive COVID-19 cases as below.

Individuals who test positive for COVID-19 must undergo isolation via a Home Surveillance Order (HSO) for seven (7) days. Individuals can be released from isolation on the 4th, 5th or 6th day when they are asymptomatic and the result of an RTK Ag test supervised by a registered medical practitioner is negative. Discharge on the 7th day does not require any COVID-19 detection test.

Visitors are required to practice COVID-19 preventive measures while in Malaysia.

Malaysia entry requirements: Frequently asked questions

1 . do i need a covid-19 test to enter malaysia.

From 1st August 2022 , all travellers are allowed to enter Malaysia regardless of their COVID-19 vaccination status and do not require a pre-departure or on-arrival COVID-19 test.

In summary, as of November 4, 2022, all travellers are allowed to enter Malaysia regardless of their COVID-19 vaccination status. Based on our recent travel experience, no travel requirements are needed to enter Malaysia .

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Latest update

Exercise normal safety precautions in Malaysia.

Malaysia (PDF 367.29 KB)

Asia (PDF 2.21 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 999 or contact the Royal Malaysia Police Operations Centre on 321 159 999 or 322 662 222.

Advice levels

Reconsider your need to travel to the coastal region of eastern Sabah, including the islands, dive sites and associated tourist facilities.

Reconsider your need to travel to the coastal region of eastern Sabah, including the islands, dive sites and associated tourist facilities, due to the high threat of kidnapping. The risk of kidnapping increases on the water and waterfront after nightfall and is highest in the area between the towns of Sandakan and Tawau.

See Safety .

• There is a risk of terrorism in Malaysia. Terrorism is a global threat. Attacks could be random and small-scale. Possible targets could include tourist areas and a range of other locations frequented by foreigners (see Full Advice - Safety below), including in Kuala Lumpur. Take official warnings seriously. There was an armed attack on a police station in Johor Bahru on 17 May in which two police officers were killed.  
• There's an ongoing high risk of kidnapping in the coastal areas of eastern Sabah. There have been a number of attempted and successful kidnappings. This includes islands, dive sites and tourist facilities. If, despite our advice, you travel to these areas, get professional security advice. Obey all local governments' curfews.
• Petty crime is common. Bag-snatching, including by thieves on motorbikes, happens often. When walking, hold your bag on the opposite side to the traffic. Safeguard your belongings, especially in shopping centres, at the airport and on trains. Credit card fraud is common. Always keep your credit card in sight when paying for purchases.
• Assault, sexual assault, robbery and drink spiking can occur, including in tourist areas of Kuala Lumpur and Penang. Don't leave your food or drinks unattended. Never accept food, drinks, cigarettes or gum from strangers. Stay with people you trust at parties, bars, nightclubs and taxis.
• Piracy in South-East Asian waters is an ongoing problem. Avoid travelling by boat in the southern Sulu Sea. If you intend to travel in the region by boat, check the International Maritime Bureau's piracy reports . Arrange personal security measures.

Full travel advice: Safety

• Strict rules control the importation of prescription and non-prescription medication. If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Malaysia.
• Dengue fever is common, including in major urban areas. Zika virus is also a risk. Malaria is a risk in rural areas. Other insect-borne diseases include chikungunya, filariasis and Japanese encephalitis. 
• Rabies is present in Malaysia. It's fatal without immediate treatment. Avoid dogs, monkeys and other mammals. Get medical help straight away if an animal bites or scratches you.
• Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are common. These include hepatitis, tuberculosis, typhoid and cholera. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food.
• Private hospitals in major cities are of an international standard. You'll need to pay up-front at all hospitals unless you have travel insurance, and your travel insurance policy covers your hospitalisation. Services are more limited in rural areas. Government hospitals require a deposit even if you have travel insurance.
• Cases of pertussis (whooping cough) have increased in Sabah. Ensure you're immunised against pertussis and practice good personal hygiene.

Full travel advice: Health

• If you're suspected of using drugs, you may be required to take a urine test on arrival in Malaysia. This includes if you're travelling from a country where possession and use of drugs such as cannabis is legal. Penalties for drug offences are severe. 
• Don't use, carry or traffic illegal drugs. Punishments include the death penalty.
• It's unclear if surrogacy is legal under Malaysian civil law and what conditions apply. Get legal advice before arranging a surrogacy.

Malaysian law requires that you carry identification, such as your passport or a Malaysian Immigration Issued Card (IKAD), with you at all times. If you are asked by police and are unable to provide it, you may be detained until you can present valid identification.

• Malaysia is a multicultural but mostly Islamic country. Many areas have conservative standards of dress and behaviour, including at religious sites and government offices. Get advice on local customs.
• Malaysia enforces some aspects of sharia law. These laws apply to all Muslims, including visitors from Australia. Research laws that apply to you before you travel.
• Malaysia doesn't recognise dual nationality. Always travel on your Australian passport. If Malaysian authorities find out you're a dual citizen, you may need to renounce one of your citizenships immediately, or you may not be permitted to depart Malaysia.

Full travel advice: Local laws

You must complete a  Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)  before arrival in Malaysia. The MDAC must be submitted through the  Malaysian Immigration website . See the  Malaysian Immigration website  for further information, including exemption details.

• In most circumstances, you can get a 90-day tourism visa on arrival. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Malaysian High Commission, Embassy or Consulate for the latest details.
• Malaysia has an auto gate facility for visitors from several countries, including Australia. The option to use the manual counter for a visa is still available. To use the auto gate facilities, Australian travellers must have a passport valid for at least 6 months and must complete and submit their  Malaysian Digital Arrival Card  (MDAC) 3 days before arriving. The auto gate facility is unavailable for Australian passport holders with Malaysian permanent residency or a long-term pass. This auto gate facility is available at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminals 1 and 2. Further information can be found on the  Malaysia Digital Arrival Card  website.
• Monitor the websites of the  Malaysian Department of Immigration,  My Safe Travel , the  Malaysian Ministry of Health , and social media for any changes to entry requirements. Before travel, confirm entry requirements with the  Malaysian High Commission or Consulate-General in Australia .

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The Consular Services Charter details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the Australian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the High Commission's social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Terrorist attacks could happen in Malaysia. Attacks could be random and may affect locations popular with foreigners or during major events or holidays that attract large crowds.

Malaysian authorities have arrested people for planning terror attacks. This includes attacks against entertainment venues in Kuala Lumpur.

There was an armed attack on a police station in Johor Bahru on 17 May in which two police officers were killed.

Other possible targets include:

• hotels, clubs, restaurants and cafes
• markets and shopping malls
• places of worship or religious holidays
• outdoor recreation events
• tourist areas
• government facilities
• public transport

To stay safe:

• be alert to possible threats, especially in public places
• be cautious around places known to be possible terrorist targets
• report any suspicious activity or items to police
• check the media for any new or emerging threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local authorities

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. 

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

Terrorist threats

Overland travel through Thailand

Read our travel advice for Thailand if you're planning to go there overland.

Avoid travelling to or through the far southern provinces of Thailand.

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas whilst travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk.  

There's an ongoing high threat of kidnapping in the coastal areas of eastern Sabah, including islands, dive sites and other tourist facilities.

Extremists based in the southern Philippines are active in the area between the towns of Sandakan and Tawau in eastern Sabah.

Foreigners have been kidnapped from the nearby islands of Sipadan and Mataking and surrounding waters.

Some attempted and successful kidnappings have happened in coastal areas of eastern Sabah in recent years.

• In April 2024, two Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency personnel were injured in a shootout with a suspicious vessel while on patrol near Kunak.
• In May 2021, Malaysian authorities arrested eight suspected Abu Sayyaf militants who they suspect may have been planning kidnappings in Malaysia.
• In September 2019, 3 fishermen were abducted in the waters off Lahad Datu.
• In June 2019, 10 fishermen were abducted in waters between Lahad Datu, Sabah and Sitangkai, Southern Philippines.
• In December 2018, 3 fishermen were abducted from Pegasus Reef near Kinabatangan, Sabah.
• In November 2016, militants based in the southern Philippines attacked a yacht in waters between eastern Sabah and the Sulu archipelago. One German national was killed and another kidnapped and later killed.  Further in 2016, some commercial seamen were kidnapped from cargo vessels in the area.
• In May 2015, gunmen entered a local seaside restaurant in Sandakan and abducted the manager and one customer.

Malaysian authorities increased security in the region in response to kidnapping incidents. The Sabah Government has restricted the use of waterways.

Security measures

There's a 6pm to 6am curfew on water travel in 6 coastal districts of eastern Sabah state. This includes offshore areas up to 3 nautical miles (5.5km) from the coast.

All vessels travelling in the waters off Lahad Datu and Sandakan in daylight hours must get a permit or permission from police.

Vessels must travel only on designated routes.

There's a ban on resort-organised water activities at night. This includes diving and fishing.

Authorities established the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZone), which includes the regions of:

• Kinabatangan
• Kota Marudu

There's an increased presence of security forces in the ESSZone.

Authorities may extend the water travel curfew each fortnight. If you travel by water during curfew hours without permission, authorities could fine you or jail you for up to 6 months.

If, despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping, our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations will be limited.  

To reduce the risk of kidnapping:  

• always be alert to your personal security and surroundings  
• get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk  
• check your accommodation has appropriate security measures  
• avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone  
• notify family or friends of planned travel and share your location   
• avoid talking about your money or business affairs  
• use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours  
• avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Paying a ransom to terrorist groups will likely break Australian counter-terrorism financing laws.  

Civil unrest and political tension

You could encounter protests or demonstrations on the streets or at certain venues.

Protest activity could lead to violence and disrupt public services, including public transport, and cause traffic congestion. However, this is rare.

Police permission is needed for public gatherings and demonstrations. If you take part in a protest or demonstration, authorities could arrest and deport you.

Avoid protests and demonstrations.

During periods of unrest:

• check the news and other sources for information on planned and possible unrest or strikes
• plan your activities to avoid unrest on national or commemorative days
• be ready to change your travel plans

If civil unrest disrupts your transport plans, contact your airline, travel agent or insurer for help.

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Petty crime

Petty crime is common.

Opportunistic pickpocketing and snatch-and-grab robberies happen often where thieves snatch handbags, shoulder bags, jewellery, mobile phones and other valuables from pedestrians.

Hotspots include busy pedestrian crossings near major shopping malls, including within the KLCC area.

Motorcyclists, and sometimes thieves in other moving vehicles, pull bags from victims. This often causes injuries.

Smash-and-grab attacks against slow-moving and parked vehicles also happen.

To avoid petty crime:

• don't carry bags that are easy to snatch
• walk on footpaths when you can and stay away from the curb
• hold your bag on the opposite side to the traffic
• when driving or parking your car, keep valuables out of sight
• always keep vehicle windows up and doors locked, even when moving

Handbags, expensive watches, jewellery, mobile phones and cameras are tempting targets for thieves.

Many travellers have lost passports and other valuables to thieves on trains and at airports.

Carry only what you need and leave other valuables, in a secure location.

Thieves sometimes work in groups at busy shopping centres. One or more may approach you with stories of distress or warnings for your safety. When you're distracted, others steal your belongings.

Watch your personal belongings, especially:

• in crowded areas and during holiday periods
• when travelling on trains from the airport
• at airports

Be wary of approaches from strangers, especially in shopping centres.

Credit card fraud

Credit card fraud is common.

Credit cards are often copied for illegal use. This can happen anywhere, from small shops to large department stores and hotels.

Always keep your credit card in sight.

Online scams

Online scams  have increased in recent years. Scammers often pretend to be people in need of financial help.

They prey on people looking for companions on online dating websites.

To protect yourself from being scammed:

• be wary of people asking for money
• don't send money or provide your bank details to anyone you don't know
• be careful when sharing personal information with people you haven't met in person

Scams involving gambling are also common.

Violent crime

You could experience violent crime in Malaysia. Australians have been victims of violent crime in Kuala Lumpur, Penang and other areas of the country. You should exercise vigilance and take sensible precautions. If you're a victim of crime, inform the local police and get a police report.

Incidents of assault, sexual assault, robbery and drink spiking, including in tourist areas of Kuala Lumpur and Penang have occured. Don't leave your food or drinks unattended. Never accept food, drinks, cigarettes or gum from strangers. Stay with people you trust at parties, bars, nightclubs and taxis.

To stay safe while using taxis:

• don't hail taxis on the street, especially after dark
• book taxis by phone at a shopping centre taxi desk
• check there's a licence with photo on the dashboard or seat back before getting into a taxi
• check the driver matches the photo.

If you're alone in a taxi, sit in the back seat. Keep your belongings with you in the taxi.

If your taxi stops to pick up other passengers, get out of the taxi when it's safe to do so. Taxi drivers aren't allowed to pick up extra passengers, but it sometimes happens.

E-hailing services are available. Use the same precautions as taxis.

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Climate and natural disasters

Malaysia experiences severe weather and natural disasters , including:

• earthquakes
• severe rainstorms

If there's a natural disaster:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• keep in contact with your friends and family
• monitor local media and weather reports
• check with tour operators before travelling to affected areas

Register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System to receive alerts on major disasters.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Earthquakes can happen in Malaysia.

In 2018, a 5.2 magnitude earthquake hit Sabah. No deaths or injuries were reported. The earthquake's tremors were felt and climbing activities were suspended.

Coastal regions of the world can experience tsunamis. Malaysia and its neighbours are vulnerable to earthquakes, which make destructive tsunamis more likely.

US Tsunami Warning Centre

Severe weather

Flooding and landslides are common during the wet season which is usually from October to February.

Severe rainstorms can result in deaths and extensively damaged infrastructure.

Essential services can be interrupted.

Tours and adventure activities

The safety standards you might expect of transport and tour operators aren't always met. This includes for adventure activities, such as diving.

Operators may not provide enough safety equipment. They also may not pay attention to maintenance standards and safety precautions.

If you plan to do a tour or adventure activity:

• check your travel insurance covers you for it
• ask and insist on minimum safety requirements
• use available safety equipment, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If appropriate safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Piracy in South-East Asian waters is an ongoing problem, especially in the:

• Strait of Malacca
• waters between Sabah and the southern Philippines

The International Maritime Bureau (IMB) issues weekly piracy reports.

Avoid travelling by boat in the southern Sulu Sea. This includes waters between Sabah, Malaysia and Palawan in the Philippines.

If you decide to travel by boat in these regions:

• check IMB piracy reports
• get local advice
• arrange security measures

Travelling by boat

• Going on a cruise

Travel Insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

You'll probably need a specialised insurance policy that covers travel to high-risk destinations if, despite our advice, you're travelling to the coastal region of eastern Sabah.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up   
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Malaysia. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Strict rules control the importation of prescription and non-prescription medication. Contact the  high commission or embassy of Malaysia  to check what documentation local authorities may need you to have. Further information can be found on the  Pharmaceuticals Services website.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating: 

• what the medication is 
• your required dosage 
• that it's for personal use 

More information: 

Health risks

Smoke haze often happens from June to October, but it can happen at any time.

Check the haze situation and any health warnings the Malaysian Government issues.

When haze levels are high, authorities recommend limiting outdoor activity. Get your own medical advice.

• World Air Quality

Insect-borne diseases

Dengue  is common, including in major urban areas. Sometimes serious outbreaks happen.

There's no vaccination or treatment available for dengue fever.

Zika virus is a risk. There's no vaccination for it.

If you're pregnant, the Australian Department of Health recommends you:

• discuss any travel plans with your doctor
• consider deferring non-essential travel to affected areas

The Zika virus bulletin includes advice on how to minimise Zika virus risks.

Malaria is a risk in rural areas. It's less common in urban and coastal areas. Consider taking medicine to prevent malaria.

Outbreaks of other insect-borne diseases can happen. This includes chikungunya and filariasis .

Reported cases of Japanese encephalitis have increased in recent years. Get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis before you travel

The risk of contracting insect-borne diseases increases during the wet season.

To protect yourself from disease:

• ensure your accommodation is insect-proof
• always use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Ministry of Health Malaysia

Rabies is a potentially fatal viral disease. It's found in dogs, monkeys, bats and other mammals.

The most recent cases were reported in Sarawak. It was transmitted through feral dog and cat bites.

Rabies can also be contracted when a rabid animal's saliva gets directly into your eyes, nose, mouth or broken skin.

Avoid direct contact with dogs and other mammals.

If a dog, monkey or other mammal bites or scratches you, use soap and water straight away to wash the wound thoroughly.

Get urgent medical attention.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are common.

These include:

• tuberculosis
• hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD)

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid uncooked and undercooked food, such as salads
• wash your hands often and thoroughly

Get medical attention if you suspect food poisoning, or if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Cases of pertussis (whooping cough) have increased in Sabah since the beginning of 2023. If you're planning to travel to Sabah:

• ensure you're immunised against pertussis
• practice good personal hygiene including frequent hand washing, not sharing drinks or lip balm
• keep your distance from people who appear sick
• seek medical attention if you develop symptoms

Infectious diseases

Marine stings

Stings from jellyfish and other marine animals can be fatal.

Ask local authorities, your tour operator or hotel about:

• swimming conditions
• precautions to take
• other dangers

Black henna tattoos

Avoid temporary black henna tattoos as they often contain a dye that can cause serious skin reactions.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

You can find private hospitals with international-standard facilities in major cities.

Public hospitals in major cities have a good range of medical services. However, access can be slow. Services are more limited in rural areas.

Most private hospitals need a cash deposit or a confirmation of insurance before they will admit you. They also expect immediate payment for services.

You need to pay up-front for treatment at government hospitals.

There are decompression chambers in:

Medical tourism

Medical tourism , including for cosmetic surgery, is common.

Standards at discount and uncertified medical facilities can be poor.

Serious and possibly life-threatening complications can result.

Before travelling for medical tourism:

• research and choose medical service providers carefully
• don't use discount or uncertified medical service providers
• check your travel insurance covers you if things go wrong with your surgery, as most don't

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

If you're suspected of using drugs before you visit Malaysia, you may be required to take a urine test on arrival. This includes if you're travelling from a country where possession and use of drugs such as cannabis is legal. 

Penalties for drug offences are severe, including drug possession and the presence of drugs in your bloodstream. Malaysia still carries the death penalty for drug trafficking.

Carrying or using drugs

Surrogacy laws

Malaysian civil law applies to everyone in Malaysia. Under this law, it's unclear if surrogacy is legal and what conditions apply.

Under sharia law, surrogacy is illegal. However, sharia law only applies to Muslims.

Surrogacy isn't practised openly in Malaysia. If you want to pursue surrogacy, it's mostly a private arrangement between you and the surrogate.

Get independent legal advice before entering into a surrogacy arrangement.

• Going overseas for international surrogacy
• Going overseas to adopt

Malaysia enforces some aspects of sharia law. These laws apply to all Muslims, including those from Australia.

Research laws that apply to you before you travel.

Serious crime

Crimes that may attract corporal punishment include:

• certain drug offences
• commercial crime

LGBTQIA+ law

Same-sex sexual relations are illegal.

Punishment can include whipping and up to 20 years in prison for same-sex acts involving either men or women.

LGBTQIA+ travellers

Drink driving

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious offence, which can result in fines and/or a jail sentence. Authorities strictly enforce these laws. 

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Local customs

Malaysia is a multicultural but mostly Islamic country.

Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative in many areas. This includes at religious sites and government offices.

Always respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions.

Learn about customs at your destination. If in doubt, get advice from locals. Take care not to offend cultural or religious beliefs.

The Islamic holy month of Ramadan  is observed in Malaysia. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking may be illegal in public during the day. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. Seek local advice to avoid offence.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Dual citizenship

Malaysia doesn't recognise dual nationality.

If you're a dual citizen, this limits the consular services we can give if you're arrested or detained.

Always travel on your Australian passport .

If Malaysian authorities find out you hold both Australian and Malaysian citizenship, you may need to renounce either your Australian or Malaysian citizenship straight away, or you may not be permitted to depart Malaysia.

Dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

In most circumstances, Australian passport holders can get a 90-day tourism visa on arrival. 

Arrange a visa before you travel if you're visiting for:

• volunteer work

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest high commission, embassy or consulate  of Malaysia for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

If you breach your visa conditions or overstay your visa, authorities may fine, detain or deport you.

Always check the correct dates are on the visa stamp placed in your passport.

Follow immigration rules, including your visa conditions.

Border measures

Malaysia has an auto gate facility for visitors from several countries, including Australia. The option to use the manual counter for a visa is still available. To use the auto gate facilities, Australian visitors must have a passport valid for at least 6 months and must complete and submit their  Malaysian Digital Arrival Card  (MDAC) 3 days before arriving.

The auto gate facility is unavailable for Australian passport holders with Malaysian permanent residency or a long-term pass. This auto gate facility is available at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminals 1 and 2. Further information can be found on the  Malaysia Digital Arrival Card  website.

Entry requirements may change at short notice. Monitor the websites of the  Malaysian Department of Immigration ,  My Safe Travel , the  Malaysian Ministry of Health , and social media for any changes. Before travel, confirm entry requirements with the  Malaysian High Commission or Consulate-General in Australia .

Staying in Malaysia

You should ensure you keep your visa up to date.

Other formalities

Foreigners need to provide biometric identification (fingerprints and/or face) on arrival.

Children aged younger than 12 years and visitors with finger disabilities don't have to do this.

Some countries including Malaysia won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for more than 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

More information:   

• LGBTQIA+ travellers 

The official currency is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR).

When you depart, declare any MYR over MYR30,000, $US10,000 or equivalent. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

You can take larger amounts out of the country if you declare it when you arrive.

ATMs are widely available.

Local travel

If you travel between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia, you need your passport. East Malaysia includes Sabah and Sarawak.

Check if your travel insurance policy covers you for any related damage and injuries if you plan to hire:

• a motorcycle
• any other vehicle

Driving permit

To drive in Malaysia, you need both:

• a valid Australian driver's licence
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Get your IDP before you leave Australia.

If you don't have both, you need to apply for a Malaysian licence.

Driving or riding

Road travel

Motorcyclists are a common traffic hazard. They often:

• weave through traffic
• drive through red lights and pedestrian crossings
• travel on the wrong side of the road

Motorcyclists have been increasingly confronting drivers who shout, gesture or toot their horn at them. They sometimes assault drivers.

You're more likely to die in a car accident in Malaysia than in Australia.

To stay safe, drive carefully and avoid road rage.

On a motorcycle, always wear a helmet.

Some taxi drivers, especially in tourist spots or when roads are jammed, don't use their meter. This is illegal.

Malaysia's taxi regulator has an English-language hotline for reporting problems. To make a report, call 1 800 88 7723 and provide the:

• vehicle number
• taxi company name
• time, date and location of the incident
• name of the driver if known

Always ask if the driver will use the meter, or agree the fare, before you get in a taxi.

At the start of your trip, take note of the vehicle number, the taxi company name and the name of the driver.

Public transport

There have been fatal and other serious accidents involving long-distance tour buses. This often happens at night or in bad weather.

If you plan to travel by bus, choose a company with a good reputation and avoid overnight travel.

Transport and getting around safely

In recent years, several passenger boats have sunk due to overloading and poor maintenance.

Before booking tickets on a passenger ferry, speedboat or other vessel, check there is appropriate safety equipment available.

Don't travel on any vessel that looks overloaded or in poor condition.

When you board, confirm there are enough life jackets for all passengers. Know where they are.

In bad weather, wear a life jacket, even if others don't.

There is a curfew on travel by water from 6pm to 6am in the coastal districts of eastern Sabah. See ( Safety) .

Airline safety

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Malaysia's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

National parks

National parks are protected areas, and some are home to ethnic minority groups.

Be respectful of the law and customs in these areas. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Don't remove any wildlife or plants from the park.

Before entering a park, register your plans with park officials and let someone you trust know where you're going.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Call 999 or contact the Royal Malaysia Police Operations Centre on +60321 159 999 or Royal Malaysia Headquarters (Bukit Aman) +603 22662 222.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact the Australian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur.

Australian High Commission, Kuala Lumpur

6 Jalan Yap Kwan Seng 50450 Kuala Lumpur Malaysia Phone: (+60 3) 2146 5555/2146 5575 Fax: (+60 3) 2141 5773 Website: malaysia.highcommission.gov.au Email: [email protected] Facebook: Australia in Malaysia X: @AusHCMalaysia

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

You can get limited consular help, including lodging Australian passport applications, at the following Australian consulates headed by honorary consuls:

Australian Consulate, Penang

Level 3 Jalan Macalister  10400 Penang Malaysia Phone: (+60 4) 226 8955 Fax: (+60 4) 228 3366 Email: [email protected]

Australian Consulate, Kota Kinabalu

Lot 01-05, 11th Floor Jubili Tower (Menara Jubili) 53, Jalan Gaya 88000 Kota Kinabalu Sabah Malaysia Phone: (+60 88) 267 151 Fax: (+60 88) 266 509 Email:  [email protected]

Australian Consulate, Sarawak

E39 Level 2 Taman Sri Sarawak Mall Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman 93100 Kuching Sarawak Malaysia Phone: (+60 19) 898 9787 Email: [email protected]

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Malaysia?

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Updated malaysia travel requirements for tourists.

Planning a trip to Malaysia? What are the travel requirements to enter Malaysia?

Step-by-step procedures when traveling to Malaysia

• Upon arrival at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) terminal 3, proceed to the Cebu Pacific check-in counter.
• Present your passport to the check-in counter staff. Drop your baggage if you have check-in baggage. If travel tax was already paid, the staff will give you your boading pass.
• If travel tax not yet included in your ticket, pay the travel tax (PHP 1,620) at the travel tax counter. Then go back to the check-in counter to get your boarding pass.
• Get a departure card and fill out the form with the required information.
• Pass through immigration. Just give your passport and departure card.
• After immigration, pass through security check.
• Proceed to your flight's boarding gate. Be sure to be at the boading gate one hour before the estimated time of departure.
• Wait for the Cebu Pacific staff to call the passengers for flight departure.
• At the boarding gate, you just need to present your passport and boarding pass.
• Board the plane and enjoy your flight.
• Upon arrival at Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), proceed to the immigration and present your passport.
• After immigration, pass through customs check.
• Welcome to Kota Kinabalu, in Sabah Malaysia!

Travel Requirements when Traveling Back to the Philippines

Important note: use etravel portal starting december 2, 2022.

How to get to Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia from Manila, Philippines?

Cebu Pacific Air flies from Manila to Kota Kinabalu twice a week! Flights from Manila depart Ninoy Aquino International Aiport (NAIA) Terminal 3 every Friday and Monday at 11:25 PM and arrive at Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) at 01:50 AM the following day. Flights from Kota Kinabalu depart every Saturday and Tuesday at 02:35 AM and arrive in Manila at 04:40 AM. Book your flight via www.cebupacificair.com and #LetsFlyJuansMore to Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia!

Where to stay hotels & resorts in kota kinabalu.

• Pantai Inn - See room rates & availability
• Tune Hotel 1Borneo - See room rates & availability
• Kinabalu Daya Hotel - See room rates & availability
• Horizon Hotel Kota Kinabalu - See room rates & availability
• Mercure Kota Kinabalu - See room rates & availability
• Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Kota Kinabalu - See room rates & availability
• The Jesselton Hotel - See room rates & availability
• Mandarin Hotel - See room rates & availability
• Hotel 7 Suria - See room rates & availability
• Promenade Hotel - See room rates & availability
• Hotel Dreamtel - See room rates & availability
• The Pacific Sutera Hotel - See room rates & availability

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41 comments :.

good day. can i ask if the immigration here in Philippines still super strict to tourist? do they ask a lot of questions or still looking for some bank statements,show money or whatsoever. thank you.

No. They just asked me 2 questions. 1. When is my last trip. 2. When is my return flight. Then the IO put a stamp on my passport.

Hi. Ano po mga kay langan pag po punta malaysia firtimer.

How about firstimer po iba po ba mga, tanong nila.. And need po bah my invite from relative in malysia??

No need na po. Visa-free naman tayo sa Malaysia. Just answer their questions. Be honest lang po always sa mga sagot natin.

Hello, is it possible to fly from manila to malaysia then travel to singapore then go back to manila?

Yes, I don't see any problem with that at all.

In Malaysian immigration do they require a hotel booking upon arrival? Thanks

No. They did not ask for it.

Hi po. Do we still need to present negative antigen or rtpcr test?

Pwede po ba magtravel sa malaysia kahit wala pang booster ? First and second dose palang po vaccine ko .. Thanks in advance po sa sagot

Yes, pwede po. Walang requirements papasok ng Malaysia.

Hi po, hindi po ba nagrequire ng travel insurance going to malaysia?

Hindi naman po. we arrived here last Dec 16.

Do Philippines Immigration impose strict guidelines for ladies when traveling alone as a tourist to Malaysia?

Just be honest in answering the questions of the IO. They will let you travel if you you're traveling for tourism.

did you quarantine in malaysia when you got there? or no need anymore?

No quarantine needed. They didn't even ask for vaccination certificate.

Hi, required po ba dapat may hotel booking na sa malaysia bago ang flight?

Not required, but recommended. It's better to have a hotel booking so that when the IO asks where you will be staying, you have a hotel booking to show.

Will there be a problem if you would tell them that you will be staying at you relative's house? Thanks po

hello sir , ano po hinhnap na mga requirements po sa inyo when you travel to malaysia po ?

I was in Malaysia last November 9-13 for Convention..if I want to go back there? How many months before I can visit Malaysia? Thank you

Need po ba agad ng return ticket when visiting malaysia?

yes. for tourists, need ng return or onward tickets.

If wala po kau return ticket? But tourist kalang po? Ok lang po ba

Hi po..need po ba ng show money to enter Malaysia.

hindi po kailangan.

Bakit ako 2 times naoofload.. first october 2022,had 25k in bnk acc, return tcket, hotel booking,travel insurance bt still offloaded, 2nd december2022,my cousin was the sponsor in evrything kya lng wala maipakitang proof doc n mgpinsan kmi ayun oflod uli

Hello po. Planning to go there for two weeks po, andun po yung kamag anak ko. Dun po ako plano mag stay. Kailangan ko pa rin ba mag book ng hotel para in case tatanungin ako ng IO? Salamat po.

Hello po! Need pa ba ng BOQ Yellow Card or parang yung yellow passport when entering Malaysia? And may requirements po ba for kids?

How about sa immigration di na ba sila naghahanap ng bank statement?

hello po,,baka po pwidi nyo akong tulungan about for travel in Malaysia,,first timer ko po kc,,iniwasan ko mahold ako sa immigration,ano po ba ang dapat gawin?by April 13 po sana balak ko puntA don for vacation ng 10 days

I'm afraid baka po mahold ako sa immigration,, first time ko sana mag bakasyon don,, binigyan kc ako ng kapatid ko ng pera pra mka bakasyon sa Malaysia,,,baka po kc ma questions ako kung bakit kaya Kong mg bakasyon eh wala nman akong work dito sa pinas,,pa help po

You need to have proof na magkapatid kayo, like both of your birth certificates na naka indicate na parehas ang tatay at nanay nyo both, you also need to ask your kapatid to provide you an affidavit of support stating na siya ang gagasto sayo sa Malaysia.. you also need to explain bakit wala kapang trabaho if ever. Also, ask for a copy of your sibling's bank statement and COE nya, as well as her complete address kung san sya nakatira.

Greetings! I am travelling alone with complete hotel bookings etc. Is it okay to declare to IO that I am meeting with my gf. Hindi po ba questionable na I am visiting her? Do you have suggestions po? thank you in advance

same question waiting sa sagot

Hello. Mey training kasi ako sa SG. Medyo mahal mga hotels nila including AirBnB. Pwede ba sa malaysia ako magstay then travel to SG na lang? wala bang hassle like mga border pass and etc na need e present?

hello po ask ko lng po if pwedi ba pumunta ng malaysia na one way ticket lng po o need talaga round trip? hinahanap ba sa interview or sa imigration ang ound trip ticket? pakisagot nmn pls

We will be bound for Malaysia this coming month. Any recommended resort, beach or tourist spot so we could book a hotel nearby. Thanks.

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All you need to know before you go: Malaysia entry requirements

• 1. Do I need a COVID-19 test to enter Malaysia?

2. What are the requirements for going to Malaysia? Do I need a COVID-19 test to enter Malaysia?

Top 5 best instagram-worthy hotels in penang, top 7 best hotels for local experiences in penang.

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Famous for a wide variety of things, from delicious delicacies and modern marvels, to its natural treasures and vibrant sacred sites, Malaysia is ready to welcome travelers from home and abroad.

From 1 August 2022 , all travellers can enter Malaysia regardless of their COVID-19 vaccination status and do not require a pre-departure or on-arrival COVID-19 test. There are no quarantine orders related to COVID-19 enforced by the Malaysian Government upon arrival.

Visitors can download and activate the MySejahtera application before or after arrival to Malaysia to indicate their COVID-19 risk status while staying in Malaysia. The COVID-19 risk status in MySejahtera may be checked upon entering premises.

Visitors who develop COVID-19 symptoms while in Malaysia should get COVID-19 tested and if they are found to be positive, they are subject to the current protocol for positive COVID-19 cases as below.

Individuals who test positive for COVID-19 must undergo isolation via a Home Surveillance Order (HSO) for seven (7) days. Individuals can be released from isolation on the 4th, 5th or 6th day when they are asymptomatic and the result of an RTK Ag test supervised by a registered medical practitioner is negative. Discharge on the 7th day does not require any COVID-19 detection test.

Visitors are required to practice COVID-19 preventive measures while in Malaysia.

Malaysia entry requirements: Frequently asked questions

1 . do i need a covid-19 test to enter malaysia.

From 1st August 2022 , all travellers are allowed to enter Malaysia regardless of their COVID-19 vaccination status and do not require a pre-departure or on-arrival COVID-19 test.

In summary, as of November 4, 2022, all travellers are allowed to enter Malaysia regardless of their COVID-19 vaccination status. Based on our recent travel experience, no travel requirements are needed to enter Malaysia .

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• Section 2 - Interactions Between Travel Vaccines & Drugs
• Section 2 - Travelers’ Diarrhea

Yellow Fever Vaccine & Malaria Prevention Information, by Country

Cdc yellow book 2024.

Author(s): Mark Gershman, Rhett Stoney (Yellow Fever) Holly Biggs, Kathrine Tan (Malaria)

The following pages present country-specific information on yellow fever (YF) vaccine requirements and recommendations, and malaria transmission information and prevention recommendations. Country-specific maps are included to aid in interpreting the information. The information in this chapter was accurate at the time of publication; however, it is subject to change at any time due to changes in disease transmission or, in the case of YF, changing entry requirements for travelers. Updated information reflecting changes since publication can be found in the online version of this book and on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Travelers’ Health website. Recommendations for prevention of other travel-associated illnesses can also be found on the CDC Travelers’ Health website .

Yellow Fever Vaccine

Entry requirements.

Entry requirements for proof of YF vaccination under the International Health Regulations (IHR) differ from CDC’s YF vaccination recommendations. Under the IHR, countries are permitted to establish YF vaccine entry requirements to prevent the importation and transmission of YF virus within their boundaries. Certain countries require proof of vaccination from travelers arriving from all countries ( Table 5-25 ); some countries require proof of vaccination only for travelers above a certain age coming from countries with risk for YF virus transmission. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines areas with risk for YF virus transmission as countries or areas where YF virus activity has been reported currently or in the past, and where vectors and animal reservoirs exist.

Unless issued a medical waiver by a yellow fever vaccine provider, travelers must comply with entry requirements for proof of vaccination against YF.

WHO publishes a list of YF vaccine country entry requirements and recommendations for international travelers approximately annually. But because entry requirements are subject to change at any time, health care professionals and travelers should refer to the online version of this book and the CDC Travelers’ Health website for any updates before departure.

CDC Recommendations

CDC’s YF vaccine recommendations are guidance intended to protect travelers from acquiring YF virus infections during international travel. These recommendations are based on a classification system for destination-specific risk for YF virus transmission: endemic, transitional, low potential for exposure, and no risk ( Table 2-08 ). CDC recommends YF vaccination for travel to areas classified as having endemic or transitional risk (Maps 5-10 and 5-11 ). Because of changes in YF virus circulation, however, recommendations can change; therefore, before departure, travelers and clinicians should check CDC’s destination pages for up-to-date YF vaccine information.

Duration of Protection

In 2015, the US Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices published a recommendation that 1 dose of YF vaccine provides long-lasting protection and is adequate for most travelers. The recommendation also identifies specific groups of travelers who should receive additional doses, and others for whom additional doses should be considered (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 26, Yellow Fever ). In July 2016, WHO officially amended the IHR to stipulate that a completed International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis is valid for the lifetime of the vaccinee, and YF vaccine booster doses are not necessary. Moreover, countries cannot require proof of revaccination (booster) against YF as a condition of entry, even if the traveler’s last vaccination was >10 years ago.

Ultimately, when deciding whether to vaccinate travelers, clinicians should take into account destination-specific risks for YF virus infection, and individual risk factors (e.g., age, immune status) for serious YF vaccine–associated adverse events, in the context of the entry requirements. See Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 26, Yellow Fever , for a full discussion of YF disease and vaccination guidance.

Table 2-08 Yellow fever (YF) vaccine recommendation categories 1

Malaria prevention.

The following recommendations to protect travelers from malaria were developed using the best available data from multiple sources. Countries are not required to submit malaria surveillance data to CDC. On an ongoing basis, CDC actively solicits data from multiple sources, including WHO (main and regional offices); national malaria control programs; international organizations; CDC overseas offices; US military; academic, research, and aid organizations; and the published scientific literature. The reliability and accuracy of those data are also assessed.

If the information is available, trends in malaria incidence and other data are considered in the context of malaria control activities within a given country or other mitigating factors (e.g., natural disasters, wars, the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic) that can affect the ability to control malaria or accurately count and report it. Factors such as the volume of travel to that country and the number of acquired cases reported in the US surveillance system are also examined. In developing its recommendations, CDC considers areas within countries where malaria transmission occurs, substantial occurrences of antimalarial drug resistance, the proportions of species present, and the available malaria prophylaxis options.

Clinicians should use these recommendations in conjunction with an individual risk assessment and consider not only the destination but also the detailed itinerary, including specific cities, types of accommodations, season, and style of travel, as well as special health conditions (e.g., pregnancy). Several medications are available for malaria prophylaxis. When deciding which drug to use, consider the itinerary and length of trip, travelers’ previous adverse reactions to antimalarials, drug allergies, medical history, and drug costs. For a thorough discussion of malaria and guidance for prophylaxis, see Sec. 5, Part 3, Ch. 16, Malaria .

Afghanistan

Entry requirements : None

CDC recommendations : Not recommended

• All areas <2,500 m (≈8,200 ft) elevation (April–December)
• Chloroquine
• P. vivax  (primarily)
• P. falciparum (less commonly)
• Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine, tafenoquine 3

Other Vaccines to Consider

See Health Information for Travelers to Afghanistan

Entry requirements : Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission 1

No malaria transmission

See Health Information for Travelers to Albania

Entry requirements : Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

See Health Information for Travelers to Algeria

American Samoa (US)

See Health Information for Travelers to American Samoa

See Health Information for Travelers to Andorra

Entry requirements : Required for arriving travelers  ≥9 months old

CDC recommendations : Recommended for all travelers ≥9 months old

• P. falciparum (primarily)
• P. malariae , P. ovale , and P. vivax (less commonly)

See Health Information for Travelers to Angola

Anguilla (U.K.)

See Health Information for Travelers to Anguilla (U.K.)

See Health Information for Travelers to Antarctica

Antigua and Barbuda

Entry requirements : Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

See Health Information for Travelers to Antigua and Barbuda

CDC recommendations : Recommended for travelers ≥9 months old going to Corrientes and Misiones Provinces. Generally not recommended for travel to Formosa Province or to designated areas of Chaco, Jujuy, and Salta Provinces. Not recommended for travel limited to provinces and areas not listed above.

Related Maps

Map 2-01 Yellow fever vaccine recommendations for Argentina & neighboring countries

See Health Information for Travelers to Argentina

See Health Information for Travelers to Armenia

Entry requirements : Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1 Entry will be denied if a valid vaccination certificate cannot be provided.

See Health Information for Travelers to Aruba

Entry requirements : Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1 Travelers arriving from the Galápagos Islands of Ecuador are exempt from this requirement.

See Health Information for Travelers to Australia

See Health Information for Travelers to Austria

See Health Information for Travelers to Azerbaijan

Azores (Portugal)

See Health Information for Travelers to Azores

Bahamas, The

Entry requirements : Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

See Health Information for Travelers to The Bahamas

See Health Information for Travelers to Bahrain

Entry requirements : Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

• Districts of Chittagong Hill Tract (Bandarban, Khagrachari, and Rangamati); and the following districts: Chattogram (Chittagong) and Cox’s Bazar (in Chattogram [Chittagong] Division); Mymensingh, Netrakona, and Sherpur (in Mymensingh Division); Kurigram (in Rangpur Division); Habiganj, Moulvibazar, Sunamganj, and Sylhet (in Sylhet Division)
• No malaria transmission in Dhaka (the capital)
• P. falciparum (90%)
• P. vivax (10%)
• P. malariae  (rare)

See Health Information for Travelers to Bangladesh

Entry requirements : Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1 Travelers arriving from Guyana or Trinidad & Tobago are exempt from this requirement, unless an outbreak is occurring.

See Health Information for Travelers to Barbados

See Health Information for Travelers to Belarus

See Health Information for Travelers to Belgium

• Rare transmission
• No malaria transmission in Belize City or on islands frequented by tourists (e.g., Ambergris Caye)
• P. vivax (primarily)
• None (insect bite precautions / mosquito avoidance only) 4

See Health Information for Travelers to Belize

Entry requirements : Required for all arriving travelers ≥9 months old

• P. falciparum  (primarily)
• P. malariae ,  P. ovale,  and  P. vivax  (less commonly)

See Health Information for Travelers to Benin

Bermuda (U.K.)

See Health Information for Travelers to Bermuda (U.K.)

• Rare cases in rural areas <1,700 m (≈5,500 ft) elevation in districts along the southern border shared with India
• P. falciparum  (less commonly)
• None (insect bite precautions and mosquito avoidance only) 4

See Health Information for Travelers to Bhutan

Entry requirements : Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

CDC recommendations : Recommended for travelers ≥9 months old going to areas <2,300 m (≈7,550 ft) elevation, east of the Andes Mountains: the entire departments of Beni, Pando, Santa Cruz, and designated areas in the departments of Chuquisaca, Cochabamba, La Paz, and Tarija. Not recommended for travel limited to areas >2,300 m (≈7,550 ft) elevation and any areas not listed above, including the cities of La Paz (administrative capital) and Sucre (constitutional [legislative and judicial] capital).

• All areas <2,500 m (≈8,200 ft) elevation
• No malaria transmission in La Paz (administrative capital)
• P. vivax  (99%)
• P. falciparum  (1%)
• Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine, primaquine 5 , tafenoquine 3

Map 2-02. Yellow fever vaccine recommendations for Bolivia & neighboring countries

See Health Information for Travelers to Bolivia

See Health Information for Travelers to Bonaire

Bosnia and Herzegovina

See Health Information for Travelers to Bosnia and Herzegovina

Entry requirements : Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes transits through countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

• Districts/ subdistricts of Bobirwa, Boteti, Chobe (including Chobe National Park), Ghanzi, Mahalapye, Ngamiland (Ngami), North East (including its capital, Francistown), Okavango, Serowe/ Palapye, and Tutume
• Rare cases or sporadic foci of transmission in districts/ subdistricts of Kgalagadi North, Kgatleng, Kweneng, and Southern
• No malaria transmission in Gaborone (the capital)
• P. malariae ,  P. ovale , and  P. vivax  (less commonly)
• Districts/subdistricts of Bobirwa, Boteti, Chobe (including Chobe National Park), Ghanzi, Mahalapye, Ngamiland (Ngami), North-East (including its capital, Francistown), Okavango, Serowe/Palapye, and Tutume: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine, tafenoquine 3
• Areas with rare cases or sporadic foci of transmission: no chemoprophylaxis recommended (insect bite precautions and mosquito avoidance only) 4

See Health Information for Travelers to Botswana

CDC recommendations : Recommended for travelers ≥9 months old going to the states of Acre, Amapá, Amazonas, Distrito Federal (including the capital city, Brasília), Espírito Santo,* Goiás, Maranhão, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais, Pará, Paraná,* Piauí, Rio de Janeiro (including the city of Rio de Janeiro and all coastal islands),* Rio Grande do Sul,* Rondônia, Roraima, Santa Catarina,* São Paulo (including the city of São Paulo and all coastal islands),* Tocantins, and designated areas of Bahia*. Vaccination is also recommended for travelers going to Iguaçu Falls. Not recommended for travel limited to any areas not listed above, including the cities of Fortaleza and Recife *In 2017, in response to a large YF outbreak in multiple eastern states, CDC expanded its vaccination recommendations for travelers going to Brazil. The expanded YF vaccination recommendations for these states are preliminary. For updates, refer to the CDC Travelers’ Health website.

• All areas in the states of Acre, Amapá, Amazonas, Rondônia, and Roraima
• Present in the states of Maranhão, Mato Grosso, and Pará, but rare cases in their capital cities (São Luis [capital of Maranhão], Cuiabá [capital of Mato Grosso], Belém [capital of Pará])
• Rural and forested areas in the states of Espírito Santo, Goiás, Minas Gerais, Mato Grosso do Sul, Piauí, Rio de Janeiro, São Paolo, and Tocantins
• No malaria transmission in the cities of Brasília (the capital), Rio de Janeiro, or São Paolo
• No malaria transmission at Iguaçu Falls
• P. vivax  (90%)
• P. falciparum  (10%)
• Areas with rare cases: No chemoprophylaxis recommended (insect bite precautions and mosquito avoidance only) 4
• Map 2-03 Yellow fever vaccine recommendations for Brazil & neighboring countries
• Map 2-04 Malaria prevention in Brazil

See Health Information for Travelers to Brazil

British Indian Ocean Territory; includes Diego Garcia (U.K.)

See Health Information for Travelers to British Indian Ocean Territory (U.K.)

• No human malaria
• Rare transmission of P. knowlesi 6 in primarily forested or forest-fringe areas
• P. knowlesi 6 (100%)
• None (insect bite precautions and mosquito avoidance only) 4

See Health Information for Travelers to Brunei

See Health Information for Travelers to Bulgaria

Burkina Faso

Entry requirements : Required for all arriving travelers ≥9 months old

CDC recommendations : Recommended for all travelers ≥9 months old.

• P. malariae ,  P. ovale , and  P. vivax (less commonly)

See Health Information for Travelers to Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

• All areas <1,000 m (≈3,300 ft) elevation, including Bagan
• Rare transmission in areas >1,000 m (≈3,300 ft) elevation
• Chloroquine and mefloquine
• P. vivax (60%)
• P. falciparum (40%)
• P. knowlesi 6 , P. malariae , and P. ovale (rare)
• Areas <1,000 m (≈3,300 ft) elevation in the regions of Bago and Tanintharyi, and in the states of Kachin, Kayah, Kayin, and Shan: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, tafenoquine 3
• Areas <1,000 m (≈3,300 ft) elevation in all other areas: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine, tafenoquine  3
• Areas >1,000 m (≈3,300 ft) elevation: No chemoprophylaxis recommended (insect bite precautions and mosquito avoidance only)  4

See Health Information for Travelers to Burma (Myanmar)

Entry requirements : Required for all arriving travelers ≥9 months old.

CDC recommendations : Recommended for all travelers ≥9 months old.

See Health Information for Travelers to Burundi

• Present throughout the country
• No (or negligible) malaria transmission in the cities of Phnom Penh (the capital) and Siem Reap
• No (or negligible) malaria transmission at the main temple complex at Angkor Wat
• P. vivax (80%)
• P. falciparum (20%)
• P. knowlesi 6 (rare)
• Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, tafenoquine 3

See Health Information for Travelers to Cambodia

Entry requirements : Required for all arriving travelers ≥1 year old.

See Health Information for Travelers to Cameroon

See Health Information for Travelers to Canada

Canary Islands ( Spain )

See Health Information for Travelers to Canary Islands (Spain)

• No indigenous cases reported since 2018
• Previously, rare cases on Santiago (São Tiago) Island and Boa Vista Island
• Previously, chloroquine
• Previously, P. falciparum (primarily)

See Health Information for Travelers to Cape Verde

Cayman Islands (U.K.)

See Health Information for Travelers to Cayman Islands (U.K.)

Central African Republic

Entry requirements : Required for all arriving travelers ≥9 months old .

See Health Information for Travelers to Central African Republic

Entry requirements : Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

CDC recommendations : Recommended for travelers ≥9 months old going to areas south of the Sahara Desert. Not recommended for travel limited to areas in the Sahara Desert.

See Health Information for Travelers to Chad

See Health Information for Travelers to Chile

Entry requirements : Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1 Travelers with itineraries limited to Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) or Macao SAR are exempt from this requirement.

See Health Information for Travelers to China

Christmas Island (Australia)

See Health Information for Travelers to Christmas Island (Australia)

Cocos (Keeling) Islands (Australia)

See Health Information for Travelers to Cocos (Keeling) Islands (Australia)

Entry requirements : Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from Angola, Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, or Uganda; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in any of these countries.

CDC recommendations : Recommended for all travelers ≥9 months old except as follows. Generally not recommended for travel limited to the cities of Barranquilla, Cali, Cartagena, or Medellín. Not recommended for travel limited to areas >2,300 m (≈7,550 ft) elevation, the archipelago department of San Andrés and Providencia, or the city of Bogotá (the capital).

• All areas <1,700 m (≈5,600 ft) elevation
• No malaria transmission in the cities of Bogotá (the capital), Cartagena, or Medellín
• P. falciparum  (50%)
• P. vivax  (50%)

Map 2-05 Yellow fever vaccine recommendations for Colombia & neighboring countries

See Health Information for Travelers to Colombia

• P. malariae and P. vivax (rare)

See Health Information for Travelers to Comoros

Congo, Republic of the (Congo-Brazzaville)

Entry requirements : Required for all arriving travelers ≥9 months old.

See Health Information for Travelers to Congo, Republic of the

Cook Islands (New Zealand)

See Health Information for Travelers to Cook Islands (New Zealand)

Entry requirements : Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1 Included in this requirement are travelers arriving from Tanzania and Zambia, and designated areas of: Colombia (the entire country, except the cities of Barranquilla, Bogotá, Cali, Cartagena, and Medellín, and the archipelago department, San Andrés and Providencia); Ecuador (the provinces of Morona-Santiago, Napo, Orellana, Pastaza, Sucumbíos, and Zamora-Chinchipe, and excluding the rest of the country); Paraguay (the entire country, except the city of Asunción); Peru (the entire country, except the cities of Cusco and Lima, the regions of Cajamarca, Lambayeque, Piura, and Tumbes, and the highland tourist areas of Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail); Trinidad & Tobago (the entire country, except the urban areas of Port of Spain; travelers with itineraries limited to the island of Tobago, and travelers with airport transits or layovers are also exempt from this requirement). Travelers arriving from Argentina and Panama are exempt from this requirement.

• Present in the provinces of Alajuela and Limón
• Rare to no transmission in other parts of the country
• P. falciparum (86%)
• P. vivax (14%)
• Alajuela and Limón Provinces: Atovaquone-proguanil, chloroquine, doxycycline, mefloquine, tafenoquine 3
• All other areas: None (insect bite precautions and mosquito avoidance only) 4

See Health Information for Travelers to Costa Rica

Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast)

See Health Information for Travelers to Côte d'Ivoire

See Health Information for Travelers to Croatia

See Health Information for Travelers to Cuba

Curaçao, Netherlands

See other recommended vaccines and medicines for travelers to Curaçao

See Health Information for Travelers to Cyprus

See Health Information for Travelers to Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo (Congo-Kinshasa)

CDC recommendations : Recommended for all travelers ≥9 months old

See Health Information for Travelers to Democratic Republic of the Congo

See Health Information for Travelers to Denmark

• P. falciparum (60–70%)
• P. vivax (30–40%)
• P. ovale (rare)

See Health Information for Travelers to Djibouti

See Health Information for Travelers to Dominica

Dominican Republic

Entry requirements : Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from the following states in Brazil: Espírito Santo, Mina Gerais, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in any of these states

• Primarily in the provinces near the border with Haiti, and the provinces (including resort areas) of La Altagracia, San Cristóbal, San Juan, and Santo Domingo
• In the Distrito Nacional, city of Santo Domingo (the capital), primarily in the La Ciénaga and Los Tres Brazos areas
• Rare transmission in other provinces
• P. falciparum  (100%)
• Provinces near the border with Haiti, and the provinces (including resort areas) of La Altagracia, San Cristóbal, San Juan, and Santo Domingo: Atovaquone-proguanil, chloroquine, doxycycline, mefloquine, tafenoquine 3
• All other areas: No chemoprophylaxis recommended (insect bite precautions and mosquito avoidance only) 4

See Health Information for Travelers to Dominican Republic

Easter Island (Chile)

Entry requirements : Easter Island has not stated its YF vaccination certificate requirements

See Health Information for Travelers to Easter Island (Chile) .

Ecuador, including the Galápagos Islands

Entry requirements : Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, or Uganda; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in any of these countries .

CDC recommendations : Recommended for travelers ≥9 months old going to areas <2,300 m (≈7,550 ft) elevation, east of the Andes Mountains, in the provinces of Morona-Santiago, Napo, Orellana, Pastaza, Sucumbíos, Tungurahua,* and Zamora-Chinchipe. Generally not recommended for travel limited to areas <2,300 m (≈7,550 ft) elevation, west of the Andes Mountains, in the provinces of Esmeraldas,* Guayas, Los Ríos, Manabí, Santa Elena, Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas, and designated areas in the provinces of Azuay, Bolívar, Cañar, Carchi, Chimborazo, Cotopaxi, El Oro, Imbabura, Loja, and Pichincha. Not recommended for travel limited to areas >2,300 m (≈7,550 ft) elevation, the cities of Guayaquil or Quito (the capital), or the Galápagos Islands *CDC recommendations differ from those published by WHO .

• Areas <1,500 m (≈5,000 ft) elevation in the provinces of Carchi, Cotopaxi, Esmeraldas, Morona-Santiago, Orellana, Pastaza, and Sucumbíos
• Rare cases <1,500 m (≈5,000 ft) in all other provinces
• No malaria transmission in the cities of Guayaquil or Quito (the capital)
• No malaria transmission on the Galápagos Islands
• P. vivax  (85%)
• P. falciparum  (15%)
• Transmission areas in the provinces of Carchi, Cotopaxi, Esmeraldas, Morona-Santiago, Orellana, Pastaza, and Sucumbíos: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine, tafenoquine 3
• All other areas with reported malaria transmission: No chemoprophylaxis recommended (insect bite precautions and mosquito avoidance only) 4

Map 2-06 Yellow fever vaccine recommendations for Ecuador & neighboring countries

See Health Information for Travelers to Ecuador .

See Health Information for Travelers to Egypt .

El Salvador

See Health Information for Travelers to El Salvador .

Equatorial Guinea

• P. malariae, P. ovale , and P. vivax  (less commonly)

See Health Information for Travelers to Equatorial Guinea .

CDC recommendations : Generally not recommended for travel to the regions of: Anseba, Debub (also known as South or Southern Region), Gash Barka, Ma’ekel (also known as Ma’akel or Central Region), or Semenawi K’eyih Bahri (also known as Northern Red Sea Region). Not recommended for travel to any areas not listed above, including the Dahlak Archipelago.

• All areas <2,200 m (≈7,200 ft) elevation
• No malaria transmission in Asmara (the capital)
• P. falciparum  (80–85%)
• P. vivax (15–20%)
• P. malariae and P. ovale (rare)

Map 5-10 Yellow fever vaccine recommendations for Africa

See Health Information for Travelers to Eritrea .

See Health Information for Travelers to Estonia .

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Entry requirements : Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

• Eastern areas bordering Mozambique and South Africa, including the entire region of Lubombo and the eastern half of Hhohho, Manzini, and Shiselweni Regions
• P. malariae , P. ovale , and  P. vivax  (less commonly)

See Health Information for Travelers to Swaziland .

CDC recommendations : Recommended for all travelers ≥9 months old except as follows. Generally not recommended for travel limited to the regions of Afar or Somali.

• All areas <2,500 m (≈8,200 ft) elevation, except none in Addis Ababa (the capital)
• P. falciparum  (80%)
• P. vivax  (20%)
• P. malariae and P. ovale  (rare)

Map 2-07 Yellow fever vaccine recommendations for Ethiopia & neighboring countries

See Health Information for Travelers to Ethiopia .

Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas), UK Overseas Territory (also claimed by Argentina)

See Health Information for Travelers to Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) .

Faroe Islands (Denmark)

See Health Information for Travelers to Faroe Islands (Denmark) .

See Health Information for Travelers to Fiji .

See Health Information for Travelers to Finland .

See Health Information for Travelers to France .

French Guiana

• Areas associated with gold mining, primarily the communes near the border with Brazil and Suriname, especially Régina and Saint-Georges-de-l’Oyapock; also, the communes of Kourou, Matoury, and Saint-Élie
• No malaria transmission in coastal areas west of Kourou
• No malaria transmission in Cayenne City (the capital)
• P. falciparum (15%)

See Health Information for Travelers to French Guiana (France) .

French Polynesia, including the Society Islands [Bora-Bora, Moorea & Tahiti]; Marquesas Islands [Hiva Oa & Ua Huka]; and Austral Islands (Tubuai & Rurutu), France

See Health Information for Travelers to French Polynesia (France) .

• P. malariae , P. ovale , and P. vivax  (less commonly)

See Health Information for Travelers to Gabon .

Gambia, The

See Health Information for Travelers to The Gambia .

See Health Information for Travelers to Georgia .

See Health Information for Travelers to Germany .

• P. malariae,   P. ovale, and   P. vivax (less commonly)

See Health Information for Travelers to Ghana .

Gibraltar (U.K.)

See Health Information for Travelers to Gibraltar (U.K.) .

• Rare, local transmission in agricultural areas, associated with imported malaria (May–November)
• No malaria transmission in tourist areas
• Not applicable
• P. vivax  (100%)

See Health Information for Travelers to Greece .

Greenland (Denmark)

See Health Information for Travelers to Greenland (Denmark) .

See Health Information for Travelers to Grenada .

Guadeloupe (including Marie-Galante, La Désirade & Îles des Saintes)

See Health Information for Travelers to Guadeloupe .

Guam (U.S.)

See Health Information for Travelers to Guam (U.S.) .

• Primarily in the departments of Alta Verapaz, Escuintla, Izabal, Petén, and Suchitapéquez
• Few cases reported in other departments
• No malaria transmission in the cities of Antigua or Guatemala City (the capital)
• No malaria transmission at Lake Atitlán
• P. vivax (99%)
• P. falciparum  (1%)
• Departments of Alta Verapaz, Escuintla, Izabal, Petén, and Suchitapéquez: Atovaquone-proguanil, chloroquine, doxycycline, mefloquine, primaquine 5 , tafenoquine 3
• Other areas with reported malaria transmission: No chemoprophylaxis recommended (insect bite precautions and mosquito avoidance only) 4

See Health Information for Travelers to Guatemala .

Entry requirements : Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1 Required for all arriving travelers from all countries if traveler is ≥9 months of age and arriving at Ahmed Sékou Touré International Airport in Conakry.

See Health Information for Travelers to Guinea .

Guinea-Bissau

See Health Information for Travelers to Guinea-Bissau .

Entry requirements : Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >4-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

• Rare cases in the cities of Georgetown (the capital) and New Amsterdam
• All areas (except the cities of Georgetown and New Amsterdam): Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine, tafenoquine 3
• Cities of Georgetown and Amsterdam: No chemoprophylaxis recommended (insect bite precautions and mosquito avoidance only) 4

See Health Information for Travelers to Guyana .

• All (including Labadee, also known as Port Labadee)
• P. falciparum (99%)
• P. malariae  (rare)
• Atovaquone-proguanil, chloroquine, doxycycline, mefloquine, tafenoquine 3

See Health Information for Travelers to Haiti .

Entry requirements : Required for travelers 1-60 years old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

• Throughout the country and on the island of Roat á n and other Bay Islands
• No malaria transmission in the cities of San Pedro Sula or Tegucigalpa (the capital)
• P. vivax (93%)
• P. falciparum  (7%)
• Atovaquone-proguanil, chloroquine, doxycycline, mefloquine, tafenoquine 3

See Health Information for Travelers to Honduras .

Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China

See Health Information for Travelers to Hong Kong SAR (China) .

See Health Information for Travelers to Hungary .

See Health Information for Travelers to Iceland .

• Arrive within 6 days of leaving an area with risk for YF virus transmission, or
• Have been in such an area in transit (exception: passengers and members of flight crews who, while in transit through an airport in an area with risk for YF virus transmission, remained in the airport during their entire stay and the health officer agrees to such an exemption), or
• Arrive on a ship that started from or touched at any port in an area with risk for YF virus transmission ≤30 days before its arrival in India, unless such a ship has been disinsected in accordance with the procedure recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), or
• Arrive on an aircraft that has been in an area with risk for YF virus transmission and has not been disinsected in accordance with the Indian Aircraft Public Health Rules, 1954, or as recommended by WHO.
• Africa: Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Sudan, Togo, Uganda
• Americas: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Trinidad & Tobago (Trinidad only), Venezuela
• Throughout the country, including the cities of Bombay (Mumbai) and New Delhi (the capital)
• No malaria transmission in areas >2,000 m (≈6,500 ft) elevation in Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, or Sikkim
• P. vivax (50%)
• P. falciparum (>40%)

See Health Information for Travelers to India .

• All areas of eastern Indonesia (the provinces of Maluku, North Maluku, East Nusa Tenggara, Papua, and West Papua), including the town of Labuan Bajo and the Komodo Islands in the Nusa Tenggara region
• Rural areas of Kalimantan (Borneo), West Nusa Tenggara (includes the island of Lombok), Sulawesi, and Sumatra
• Low transmission in rural areas of Java, including Pangandaran, Sukabumi, and Ujung Kulon
• No malaria transmission in the cities of Jakarta (the capital) or Ubud
• No malaria transmission in the resort areas of Bali or Java, the Gili Islands, or the Thousand Islands (Pulau Seribu)
• Chloroquine ( P. falciparum and P. vivax )
• P. falciparum (60%)
• P. vivax (40%)

See Health Information for Travelers to Indonesia .

• Previously, March-November in rural areas of Fars Province, Sistan-Baluchestan Province, and southern, tropical parts of Hormozgan and Kerman Provinces.
• Recent outbreaks in Sistan-Baluchestan Province near the border with Pakistan.
• Previously, P. vivax (93%)
• Previously, P. falciparum  (7%)
• Sistan-Baluchestan Province along the border with Pakistan: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine, tafenoquine 2
• All other areas with previous transmission: No chemoprophylaxis recommended (insect bite precautions and mosquito avoidance only) 4

See Health Information for Travelers to Iran .

See Health Information for Travelers to Iraq .

See Health Information for Travelers to Ireland .

See Health Information for Travelers to Israel, including the West Bank and Gaza .

Italy (including Holy See [Vatican City])

See Health Information for Travelers to Italy .

See Health Information for Travelers to Jamaica .

See Health Information for Travelers to Japan .

See Health Information for Travelers to Jordan .

Entry requirements : Required for travelers arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

See Health Information for Travelers to Kazakhstan .

CDC recommendations : Recommended for all travelers ≥9 months old except as follows. Generally not recommended for travel limited to: the city of Nairobi (the capital); the counties of the former North Eastern Province (Mandera, Wajir, and Garissa); or the counties (except Taita-Taveta) of the former Coast Province (Kilifi, including the city of Malindi; Kwale; Lamu; Mombasa, including the city of Mombasa; Tana River) .

• All areas (including game parks) <2,500 m (≈8,200 ft) elevation, including the city of Nairobi (the capital)
• Map 2-08 Yellow fever vaccine recommendations for Kenya & neighboring countries
• Map 2-09 Malaria prevention in Kenya

See Health Information for Travelers to Kenya .

Kiribati (formerly Gilbert Islands), includes Tarawa, Tabuaeran (Fanning Island), and Banaba (Ocean Island)

See Health Information for Travelers to Kiribati .

See Health Information for Travelers to Kosovo .

See Health Information for Travelers to Kuwait .

See Health Information for Travelers to Kyrgyzstan .

• All, except in Vientiane (the capital) where there is no transmission
• P. vivax (55%)
• P. falciparum (45%)
• P. knowlesi 6 , P. malariae, and P. ovale (rare)
• Areas bordering Burma (the provinces of Bokeo and Luang Namtha), Cambodia; Thailand (the provinces of Champasak and Salavan); and Vietnam: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, tafenoquine 3
• All other areas with malaria transmission: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine, tafenoquine 3

See Health Information for Travelers to Laos .

See Health Information for Travelers to Latvia .

See Health Information for Travelers to Lebanon .

See Health Information for Travelers to Lesotho .

See Health Information for Travelers to Liberia .

See Health Information for Travelers to Libya .

Liechtenstein

See Health Information for Travelers to Liechtenstein .

See Health Information for Travelers to Lithuania .

See Health Information for Travelers to Luxembourg .

Macau Special Administrative Region, China

See Health Information for Travelers to Macau SAR (China) .

• All; except in Antananarivo (the capital) where malaria transmission is rare
• P. ovale and P. vivax (less commonly)
• All areas (except the city of Antananarivo): Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine, tafenoquine 3
• Antananarivo: No chemoprophylaxis recommended (insect bite precautions and mosquito avoidance only) 4

See Health Information for Travelers to Madagascar .

Madeira Islands (Portugal)

See Health Information for Travelers to Madeira Islands (Portugal) .

See Health Information for Travelers to Malawi .

• No indigenous cases of human malaria since 2017
• Zoonotic transmission of simian malaria occurs in rural, forested areas
• No malaria transmission in other areas, including Kuala Lumpur (the capital), in Penang State, on Penang Island, or in George Town (capital of Penang State)
• P. knowlesi 6 (primarily)
• Previously, P. falciparum , P. malariae , P. ovale , and P. vivax
• In rural, forested areas: atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine, tafenoquine 3

See Health Information for Travelers to Malaysia .

See Health Information for Travelers to Maldives .

See Health Information for Travelers to Mali .

See Health Information for Travelers to Malta .

Marshall Islands

See Health Information for Travelers to Marshall Islands .

See Health Information for Travelers to Martinique (France) .

• All; except in the regions of Dakhlet Nouadhibou and Tiris Zemmour where there is no transmission

See Health Information for Travelers to Mauritania .

See Health Information for Travelers to Mauritius .

Mayotte (France)

See Health Information for Travelers to Mayotte (France) .

• Chiapas and southern part of Chihuahua state
• Rare in the states of Campeche, Durango, Nayarit, Quintana Roo, Sinaloa, Sonora, and Tabasco
• No malaria transmission along the U.S.–Mexico border
• Chiapas and southern part of Chihuahua state: Atovaquone-proguanil, chloroquine, doxycycline, mefloquine, primaquine 5 , tafenoquine 3
• All other areas with malaria transmission: No chemoprophylaxis recommended (insect bite precautions and mosquito avoidance only) 4

Map 2-10 Malaria prevention in Mexico

See Health Information for Travelers to Mexico .

Micronesia, Federated States of (including Chuuk, Kosrae, Pohnpei & Yap)

See Health Information for Travelers to Micronesia, Federated States of .

See Health Information for Travelers to Moldova .

See Health Information for Travelers to Monaco .

See Health Information for Travelers to Mongolia .

See Health Information for Travelers to Montenegro .

Montserrat, United Kingdom

See Health Information for Travelers to Montserrat (U.K.) .

See Health Information for Travelers to Morocco .

See Health Information for Travelers to Mozambique .

• In the regions of Kavango (East and West), Kunene, Ohangwena, Omaheke, Omusati, Oshana, Oshikoto, Otjozondjupa, and Zambezi
• Rare in other parts of the country
• No malaria transmission in Windhoek (the capital)
• Kavango (East and West), Kunene, Ohangwena, Omaheke, Omusati, Oshana, Oshikoto, Otjozondjupa, and Zambezi: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine, tafenoquine 3

See Health Information for Travelers to Namibia .

See Health Information for Travelers to Nauru .

• Throughout the country in areas <2,000 m (≈6,500 ft) elevation
• No malaria transmission in Kathmandu (the capital) or on typical Himalayan treks
• P. falciparum (<10%)

See Health Information for Travelers to Nepal .

Netherlands

See Health Information for Travelers to The Netherlands .

Netherlands Antilles (Bonaire, Curaçao, Saba, St. Eustasius, and St. Maarten)

Entry requirements : See Bonaire, Curaçao, Saba, St. Eustasius, and St. Maarten for yellow fever information.

• See Bonaire, Curaçao, Saba, St. Eustasius, and St. Maarten for malaria information.

New Caledonia (France)

Entry requirements : Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1 In the event of an epidemic threat to the territory, a specific vaccination certificate may be required.

See Health Information for Travelers to New Caledonia (France) .

New Zealand

See Health Information for Travelers to New Zealand .

• Región Autónoma Atlántico Norte (RAAN) and Región Autónoma Atlántico Sur (RAAS)
• Rare cases in the departments of Boaco, Chinandega, Estelí, Jinotega, León, Matagalpa, and Nueva Segovia
• No malaria transmission in Managua (the capital)
• P. falciparum  (20%)
• Región Autónoma Atlántico Norte (RAAN) and Región Autónoma Atlántico Sur (RAAS): Atovaquone-proguanil, chloroquine, doxycycline, mefloquine, tafenoquine 3

See Health Information for Travelers to Nicaragua .

See Health Information for Travelers to Niger .

CDC recommendations : Recommended for all travelers ≥9 months old.  

See Health Information for Travelers to Nigeria .

Niue (New Zealand)

See Health Information for Travelers to Niue (New Zealand) .

Norfolk Island (Australia)

See Health Information for Travelers to Norfolk Island (Australia) .

North Korea

• Southern provinces
• P. vivax (100%)
• Atovaquone-proguanil, chloroquine, doxycycline, mefloquine, primaquine 5 , tafenoquine 3

See Health Information for Travelers to North Korea .

North Macedonia

See Health Information for Travelers to North Macedonia .

Northern Mariana Islands (U.S.), includes Saipan, Tinian, and Rota Island

See Health Information for Travelers to Northern Mariana Islands (U.S.) .

See Health Information for Travelers to Norway .

Entry requirements : Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission, with the addition of Rwanda and Tanzania; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

• Rare sporadic transmission after importation only
• Previously, P. falciparum and P. vivax

See Health Information for Travelers to Oman .

• All areas (including all cities) <2,500 m (≈8,200 ft) elevation

See Health Information for Travelers to Pakistan .

See Health Information for Travelers to Palau .

CDC recommendations : Recommended for travelers ≥9 months old going to all mainland areas east of the Canal Zone including Darién Province, the indigenous provinces (comarcas indígena) of Emberá and Kuna Yala (also spelled Guna Yala), and areas of the provinces of Colón and Panamá, east of the Canal Zone. Not recommended for travel limited to the Canal Zone; areas west of the Canal Zone; Panama City (the capital); Balboa district (Pearl Islands) of Panamá Province; or the San Blas Islands of Kuna Yala Province.

• The provinces of Bocas del Toro, Chiriquí, Colón, Darién, Panamá, and Veraguas
• The indigenous provinces (comarcas indígena) of Emberá, Kuna Yala (also spelled Guna Yala) and Ngäbe-Buglé
• No malaria transmission in the province of Panamá Oeste, in the Canal Zone, or in Panama City (the capital)
• Chloroquine (east of the Panama Canal)
• P. vivax (97%)
• P. falciparum  (3%)
• Darién, Emberá, Kuna Yala, and eastern Panamá Provinces : Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine, primaquine 5 , tafenoquine 3
• Bocas del Toro, Chiriquí, Colón, Veraguas, and Ngäbe-Buglé Provinces : Atovaquone-proguanil, chloroquine, doxycycline, mefloquine, primaquine 5 , tafenoquine 3
• Map 2-11 Yellow fever vaccine recommendations for Panama & neighboring countries
• Map 2-12 Malaria prevention in Panama

See Health Information for Travelers to Panama .

Papua New Guinea

• Chloroquine (both P. falciparum and P. vivax )
• P. falciparum (75%)
• P. vivax (25%)

See Health Information for Travelers to Papua New Guinea .

Entry requirements : Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from Bolivia, Brazil, Peru, or Venezuela; this includes this includes >24-hour transits or layovers in those countries 1

CDC recommendations : Recommended for all travelers ≥9 months old except as follows. Generally not recommended for travel limited to the city of Asunción (the capital).

See Health Information for Travelers to Paraguay .

CDC recommendations : Recommended for travelers ≥9 months old going to areas <2,300 m (≈7,550 ft) elevation in the regions of Amazonas, Cusco, Huánuco, Junín, Loreto, Madre de Dios, Pasco, Puno, San Martín, and Ucayali, and designated areas of Ancash (far northeast), Apurímac (far north), Ayacucho (north and northeast), Cajamarca (north and east), Huancavelica (far north), La Libertad (east), and Piura (east). Generally not recommended for travel limited to the following areas west of the Andes: the regions of Lambayeque and Tumbes, and designated areas of Cajamarca (west-central), and Piura (west). Not recommended for travel limited to areas >2,300 m (≈7,550 ft) elevation, areas west of the Andes not listed above, the city of Lima (the capital), and the highland tourist areas (the city of Cusco, the Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu).

• All areas of the country <2,500 m (≈8,200 ft) elevation, including the cities of Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado, and only the remote eastern areas in the regions of La Libertad and Lambayeque
• No malaria transmission in the following areas: Lima Province; the cities of Arequipa, Ica, Moquegua, Nazca, Puno, or Tacna; the highland tourist areas (the city of Cusco, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca); along the Pacific Coast
• Map 2-13 Yellow fever vaccine recommendations for Peru & neighboring countries
• Map 2-14 Malaria prevention in Peru

See Health Information for Travelers to Peru .

Philippines

• Palawan and Mindanao Islands
• No malaria transmission in metropolitan Manila (the capital) or other urban areas
• P. falciparum (85%)
• P. vivax (15%)

See Health Information for Travelers to Philippines .

Pitcairn Islands (U.K.)

See Health Information for Travelers to Pitcairn Islands (U.K.) .

See Health Information for Travelers to Poland .

See Health Information for Travelers to Portugal .

Puerto Rico (U.S.)

See Health Information for Travelers to Puerto Rico (U.S.) .

See Health Information for Travelers to Qatar .

Réunion (France)

See Health Information for Travelers to Réunion (France) .

See Health Information for Travelers to Romania .

See Health Information for Travelers to Russia .

CDC recommendations : Generally not recommended for travel to Rwanda.

See Health Information for Travelers to Rwanda .

Saba, Netherlands

See Health Information for Travelers to Saba .

Saint Barthelemy, France

Saint helena, united kingdom.

Entry requirements : Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1 *For YF vaccine entry requirements and recommendations and malaria prevention information for Ascension Island and Tristan da Cunha archipelago, see: UNITED KINGDOM (including CHANNEL ISLANDS, ISLE OF MAN, ASCENSION ISLAND & TRISTAN DA CUNHA ARCHIPELAGO)

See Health Information for Travelers to Saint Helena (U.K.) .

Saint Kitts (Saint Christopher) & Nevis

See Health Information for Travelers to Saint Kitts and Nevis .

Saint Lucia

See Health Information for Travelers to Saint Lucia .

Saint Martin, France

Saint pierre and miquelon (france).

See Health Information for Travelers to Saint Pierre and Miquelon (France) .

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

See Health Information for Travelers to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines .

Samoa (formerly Western Somoa)

See Health Information for Travelers to Samoa (formerly Western Samoa) .

See Health Information for Travelers to San Marino .

São Tomé and Príncipe

CDC recommendations : Generally not recommended for travel to São Tomé and Príncipe.

See Health Information for Travelers to São Tomé and Príncipe.

Saudi Arabia

• Asir and Jazan (also spelled Jizan) Regions near the Yemen border only
• No malaria transmission in the cities of Jeddah, Mecca, Medina, Riyadh (the capital), or Ta’if
• P. vivax (rare)

See Health Information for Travelers to Saudi Arabia .

See Health Information for Travelers to Senegal .

See Health Information for Travelers to Serbia .

See Health Information for Travelers to Seychelles .

Sierra Leone

Entry requirements : Required for all arriving travelers.

See Health Information for Travelers to Sierra Leone .

See Health Information for Travelers to Singapore .

Sint Eustatius, Netherlands

Entry requirements : Required for travelers ≥6 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

See Health Information for Travelers to Sint Eustatius .

Sint Maarten, Netherlands

See Health Information for Travelers to Sint Maarten .

See Health Information for Travelers to Slovakia .

See Health Information for Travelers to Slovenia .

Solomon Islands

• P. vivax (70%)
• P. falciparum (30%)
• P. ovale (<1%)

See Health Information for Travelers to Solomon Islands .

CDC recommendations : Generally not recommended for travel to the regions of Bakool, Banaadir, Bay, Galguduud, Gedo, Hiiraan (also spelled Hiran), Lower Juba (also known as Jubbada Hoose), Middle Juba (also known as Jubbada Dhexe), Lower Shabelle (also known as Shabeellaha Hoose), or Middle Shabelle (also known as Shabeellaha Dhexe). Not recommended for travel to areas not listed above.

• P. vivax (5–10%)

See Health Information for Travelers to Somalia .

South Africa

• Along the border with Mozambique and Zimbabwe
• KwaZulu-Natal Province: uMkhanyakude District; the districts of King Cetshwayo and Zululand (few cases) Limpopo Province: the districts of Mopani and Vhembe; the districts of Capricorn, Greater Sekhukhune, and Waterberg (few cases)
• Mpumalanga Province: Ehlanzeni District
• Kruger National Park
• KwaZulu-Natal Province (uMkhanyakude District); Limpopo Province (the districts of Mopani and Vhembe); Mpumalanga Province (Ehlanzeni District); and Kruger National Park: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine, tafenoquine 3
• All other areas with malaria transmission (including the districts of King Cetshwayo and Zululand in KwaZulu-Natal Province, and the districts of Capricorn, Greater Sekhukhune, and Waterberg in Limpopo Province): No chemoprophylaxis recommended (insect bite precautions and mosquito avoidance only) 4

Map 2-15 Malaria prevention in South Africa

See Health Information for Travelers to South Africa .

South Georgia & the South Sandwich Islands, UK Overseas Territory (also claimed by Argentina)

Entry requirements : South Georgia & the South Sandwich Islands has not stated its YF vaccination certificate requirements.

See Health Information for Travelers to South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands (U.K.) .

South Korea

Entry requirements : Required if traveling from a country with risk of YF virus transmission and ≥1 year of age. 1

• Limited to the months of March– December in rural areas in the northern parts of the provinces of Inch’ŏn (also spelled Incheon), Kangwŏn (also spelled Gangwon), and Kyŏnggi (also spelled Gyeonggi), including the demilitarized zone (DMZ)
• Atovaquone-proguanil, chloroquine, doxycycline, mefloquine, primaquine 5 , or tafenoquine 3

See Health Information for Travelers to South Korea .

South Sudan

See Health Information for Travelers to South Sudan .

See Health Information for Travelers to Spain .

See Health Information for Travelers to Sri Lanka .

CDC recommendations : Recommended for travelers ≥9 months old going to areas south of the Sahara Desert. Not recommended for travel limited to areas in the Sahara Desert or the city of Khartoum (the capital).

See Health Information for Travelers to Sudan .

• Primarily in Sipaliwini District, near the border with French Guiana
• Limited transmission in Brokopondo, Marowijne, and Para (near the border with French Guiana)
• No malaria transmission in the districts along the Atlantic Coast or in Paramaribo (the capital)
• Sipaliwini District near the border with French Guiana: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine, tafenoquine 3
• All other areas with malaria transmission: No chemoprophylaxis recommended (insect bite precautions / mosquito avoidance only) 4

See Health Information for Travelers to Suriname .

See Health Information for Travelers to Sweden .

Switzerland

See Health Information for Travelers to Switzerland .

See Health Information for Travelers to Syria .

See Health Information for Travelers to Taiwan .

• No indigenous cases reported since 2014
• Previously, P. vivax (90%)
• Previously, P. falciparum  (10%)

See Health Information for Travelers to Tajikistan .

CDC recommendations : Generally not recommended for travel to Tanzania.

• All areas below 1,800 m (≈5,900 ft) elevation
• P. malariae and P. ovale (less commonly)

See Health Information for Travelers to Tanzania .

• Primarily the provinces that border Burma, Cambodia (few cases in Buri Ram Province), and Malaysia (few cases in Satun Province) Also, the provinces of Phitsanulok and Ubon Ratchathani (bordering Laos), and Surat Thani (especially in the rural forest and forest-fringe areas of these provinces)
• Rare to few cases in other parts of Thailand, including the cities of Bangkok (the capital), Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai, or on the islands of Koh Pha Ngan, Koh Samui, or Phuket
• No malaria transmission on the islands of Krabi Province (Ko Lanta, Koh Phi, Koh Yao Noi, Koh Yao Yai) or in Pattaya City
• P. falciparum (<20%)
• Provinces that border Burma, Cambodia (except Buri Ram Province), and Malaysia (except Satun Province); the provinces of Phitsanulok, Ubon Ratchathani, and Surat Thani: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, tafenoquine 3
• All other areas with malaria transmission (including the provinces of Buri Ram and Satun): No chemoprophylaxis recommended (insect bite precautions and mosquito avoidance only) 4

Map 2-16 Malaria prevention in Thailand

See Health Information for Travelers to Thailand .

Timor-Leste

• Rare cases; outbreak in Indonesia border area in mid-2020
• Previously, P. falciparum (50%)
• Previously, P. vivax (50%)
• Previously, P. malariae  and  P. ovale  (each <1%)

See Health Information for Travelers to Timor-Leste (East Timor) .

See Health Information for Travelers to Togo .

Tokelau (New Zealand)

See Health Information for Travelers to Tokelau (New Zealand) .

See Health Information for Travelers to Tonga .

Trinidad and Tobago

CDC recommendations : Recommended for travelers ≥9 months old going to densely forested areas on Trinidad. Not recommended for cruise ship passengers, airplane passengers in transit, or travel limited to Tobago.

See Health Information for Travelers to Trinidad and Tobago .

See Health Information for Travelers to Tunisia .

See Health Information for Travelers to Turkey .

Turkmenistan

See Health Information for Travelers to Turkmenistan .

Turks and Caicos Islands (U.K.)

See Health Information for Travelers to Turks and Caicos Islands (U.K.) .

See Health Information for Travelers to Tuvalu .

See Health Information for Travelers to Uganda .

See Health Information for Travelers to Ukraine .

United Arab Emirates

See Health Information for Travelers to United Arab Emirates .

United Kingdom (including Channel Islands, Isle of Man, Ascension Island & Tristan Da Cunha Archipelago)

See Health Information for Travelers to United Kingdom .

United States of America

See Health Information for Travelers to United States .

See Health Information for Travelers to Uruguay .

See Health Information for Travelers to Uzbekistan .

• P. vivax (75%–90%)
• P. falciparum (10-25%)

See Health Information for Travelers to Vanuatu .

Entry requirements : Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from Brazil; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in Brazil

CDC recommendations : Recommended for all travelers ≥9 months old except as follows. Generally not recommended for travel limited to the Distrito Capital or the states of Aragua, Carabobo, Miranda, Vargas, or Yaracuy. Not recommended for travel limited to areas >2,300m (≈7,550 ft) elevation in the states of Mérida, Táchira, or Trujillo; the states of Falcón or Lara; Margarita Island; or the cities of Caracas (the capital) or Valencia .

• All areas <1,700 m (≈5,600 ft) elevation and Angel Falls
• P. vivax (75%)
• P. falciparum  (25%)

Map 2-17 Yellow fever vaccine recommendations for Venezuela & neighboring countries

See Health Information for Travelers to Venezuela .

• Rural areas only. Rare cases in the Mekong and Red River Deltas
• None in the cities of Da Nang, Hai Phong, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Nha Trang, and Quy Nhon.
• P. falciparum (65%)
• P. vivax (35%)
• Provinces of Bình Dương, Bình Phước, Đắk Lắk, Đắk Nông, Gia Lai, Khánh Hòa, Kon Tum, Lâm Đồng, Ninh Thuận, Tây Ninh: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, tafenoquine 3
• All other areas with malaria transmission (except Mekong and Red River Deltas): Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine, tafenoquine 3
• Mekong and Red River Deltas: No chemoprophylaxis recommended (insect bite precautions / mosquito avoidance only) 4

See Health Information for Travelers to Vietnam .

Virgin Islands, British

See Health Information for Travelers to Virgin Islands, British .

Virgin Islands, U.S.

See Health Information for Travelers to Virgin Islands, U.S. .

Wake Island, U.S.

See Health Information for Travelers to Wake Island .

• All areas <2,000 m (≈6,500 ft) elevation
• No malaria transmission in Sana’a (the capital)

See Health Information for Travelers to Yemen .

Entry requirements : Required for travelers ≥1 year of age arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

CDC recommendations : Generally not recommended for travel to North-Western Province or Western Province. Not recommended for travel to any areas not listed above.

See Health Information for Travelers to Zambia .

See Health Information for Travelers to Zimbabwe .

1 Current as of November 2022. This is an update of the 2010 map created by the Informal WHO Working Group on the Geographic Risk of Yellow Fever.

2 Refers to Plasmodium falciparum malaria, unless otherwise noted.

3 Tafenoquine can cause potentially life-threatening hemolysis in people with glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. Rule out G6PD deficiency with a quantitative laboratory test before prescribing tafenoquine to patients.

4 Mosquito avoidance includes applying topical mosquito repellant, sleeping under an insecticide-treated mosquito net, and wearing protective clothing (e.g., long pants and socks, long-sleeve shirt). For additional details on insect bite precautions, see Sec. 4, Ch. 6, Mosquitoes, Ticks & Other Arthropods.

5 Primaquine can cause potentially life-threatening hemolysis in people with G6PD deficiency. Rule out G6PD deficiency with a quantitative laboratory test before prescribing primaquine to patients.

6 P. knowlesi is a malaria species with a simian (macaque) host. Human cases have been reported from most countries in Southwest Asia and are associated with activities in forest or forest-fringe areas. P. knowlesi has no known resistance to antimalarials.

Yellow Fever Maps

2 In 2017, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) expanded its YF vaccination recommendations for travelers going to Brazil because of a large YF outbreak in multiple states in that country. Please refer to the CDC  Travelers’ Health website for more information and updated recommendations.

3 YF vaccination is generally not recommended for travel to areas where the potential for YF virus exposure is low. Vaccination might be considered, however, for a small subset of travelers going to these areas who are at increased risk for exposure to YF virus due to prolonged travel, heavy exposure to mosquitoes, or inability to avoid mosquito bites. Factors to consider when deciding whether to vaccinate a traveler include destination-specific and travel-associated risks for YF virus infection; individual, underlying risk factors for having a serious YF vaccine–associated adverse event; and destination entry requirements.

The following authors contributed to the previous version of this chapter: Mark D. Gershman, Emily S. Jentes, Rhett J. Stoney (Yellow Fever) Kathrine R. Tan, Paul M. Arguin (Malaria)

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