What Changed in Malaysia's Visa Application Process for Nepali Citizens in 2026

In 2026, Malaysia implemented several key changes to its visa application process, significantly affecting Nepali citizens seeking to travel to Malaysia. These changes were introduced to make the visa process more rigorous and reduce fraudulent applications, but they have also made it more challenging for Nepali travelers to obtain a visa. Here’s an overview of what changed in the Malaysia visa application process for Nepali citizens in 2026.

1. Introduction of Active PNR Flight Ticket Requirement

One of the most significant changes in the Malaysia visa process for Nepali applicants in 2026 is the requirement for an active PNR (Passenger Name Record) flight ticket. Previously, Nepali travelers often used dummy tickets (provisional flight bookings) to support their visa applications. These tickets were not confirmed but were enough to show the intent of travel. Now, the Malaysian embassy requires confirmed flight tickets with an active PNR, which verifies that the traveler has a legitimate flight booked. This ensures that travelers have real travel plans and prevents the use of fake tickets. This change has made it more difficult for many Nepali travelers who previously relied on provisional bookings, as it increases the upfront cost of securing a visa.

2. Hotel Booking with Invoices Now Mandatory

In 2026, Malaysia introduced a new requirement that applicants must submit not only hotel reservations but also official hotel invoices as part of the visa application. Previously, simple hotel reservations or online booking confirmations were often enough to support a visa application. Now, applicants must provide confirmed hotel bookings accompanied by an official invoice issued by the hotel. This change ensures that travelers have secured proper accommodation for their stay and discourages the use of provisional reservations or fake bookings. For Nepali travelers who may not have been aware of this change, this new rule has caused confusion and led to many applications being rejected.

3. Stricter Financial Requirements: Minimum Bank Balance of NPR 3 Lac

Malaysia’s visa policies in 2026 introduced a new financial requirement that requires applicants to submit a 3-month bank statement showing an ending balance of at least NPR 3 lac. This financial threshold ensures that applicants have the means to support themselves during their stay in Malaysia. For many Nepali applicants, maintaining the required balance for three consecutive months has proven to be a significant challenge. Applicants who do not have the necessary funds in their bank accounts or cannot maintain the required balance are likely to face visa rejections. This new rule has particularly affected low-income travelers, students, and others who do not regularly maintain high balances in their accounts. The increase in the financial requirement has been a key factor in the surge of rejections, as many Nepali applicants are unable to demonstrate the necessary financial stability for their trip.

4. Longer Processing Times and Stricter Scrutiny

Along with the introduction of stricter documentation and financial requirements, Malaysia has also increased the scrutiny of visa applications. The Malaysian embassy is now spending more time reviewing documents and verifying the authenticity of all submitted paperwork. This thorough verification process means that applications are now being scrutinized more carefully, and the chances of a rejection due to incomplete or incorrect paperwork have risen. Moreover, the processing time for a visa has increased, with the embassy now requiring up to 7 working days to process applications. While this extended processing time allows the embassy to check documents more thoroughly, it also means that any errors or incomplete information are more likely to be detected, leading to rejections. Even small mistakes, such as incorrect passport photos, missing documents, or discrepancies in financial statements, can result in an application being rejected.

5. Prevention of Fraudulent Applications

Malaysia’s new visa policies have a strong focus on preventing fraudulent visa applications. In the past, some applicants were able to submit fake documents or use unverified information to secure a visa. However, with the new rules, the embassy is now more focused on ensuring that only genuine travelers are granted entry. This focus on preventing fraud has made it harder for Nepali applicants who may have previously used provisional bookings or fabricated bank statements to succeed in the visa application process. Now, the embassy is closely examining all aspects of each application to ensure authenticity, leading to more rejections for those who try to bypass the system with inaccurate or falsified documents.

6. Increased Financial and Travel History Requirements

In 2026, Malaysia also introduced more rigorous checks on financial and travel history. Applicants who have insufficient or inconsistent travel history may be viewed as higher risk by the embassy, particularly if they have a history of overstaying in other countries or failing to adhere to visa regulations. Additionally, applicants with limited financial stability or no proof of consistent income may also face higher scrutiny and rejection. The embassy now looks for evidence of financial capability to ensure that applicants will not overstay due to financial constraints. This has been a barrier for many Nepali travelers who do not have a strong travel record or who struggle to meet the financial requirements.

7. How These Changes Are Affecting Nepali Travelers

These changes in Malaysia’s visa application process have created several challenges for Nepali citizens. Many Nepali applicants are struggling to meet the updated documentation, financial, and travel history requirements, leading to an increase in rejection rates. The need for confirmed flight tickets, official hotel invoices, and a higher bank balance has made the visa process more expensive and complex for Nepali travelers. With longer processing times and stricter scrutiny, the overall application process has become more difficult. Many Nepali citizens are also unaware of the new rules, which has resulted in confusion and mistakes in their applications, ultimately leading to more rejections.

8. How to Avoid Rejection and Increase Your Chances of Approval

To successfully navigate the updated Malaysia visa process in 2026, Nepali citizens should consider the following steps:

• Ensure all documents are genuine and complete. Submit real, confirmed flight tickets with active PNR and official hotel bookings with invoices.

• Maintain the required bank balance of at least NPR 3 lac in the 3 months leading up to your visa application.

• Double-check your documents to ensure they meet the updated requirements and specifications.

• Apply early to allow time for any unforeseen delays or issues.

• Seek professional help from a visa assistance service like Yatra For Fun to ensure your application is accurate and complete.

9. How Yatra For Fun Can Help

At Yatra For Fun, we understand the complexities of Malaysia’s updated visa policies in 2026. Our team offers expert visa assistance services to help Nepali travelers meet the new requirements and avoid common mistakes. Yatra For Fun provides services including document verification, visa submission assistance, financial guidance, and expert advice on ensuring all documentation is in perfect order. For more information or assistance with your Malaysia visa, contact Yatra For Fun today:

• Phone: +977 9709066517, +977 9709066745, +977 9802348957, +977 9708072951, +977 9802363869

• Email: [email protected]

• Website: YatraForFun.com

Let Yatra For Fun help you navigate the new Malaysia visa process and improve your chances of approval!