Last update: 10 May 2025

UK ETA for Malaysian Citizens

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What is a UK ETA for Malaysian Citizens?

The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (UK ETA) is a digital entry permission required for visa-exempt visitors from eligible countries, including Malaysia. From 8 January 2025, Malaysian passport holders must obtain an approved ETA before travelling to the UK for short stays.

Introduced to strengthen border security and speed up arrivals, the ETA system replaces some traditional short-stay visa checks with a pre-travel online screening. The UK began rolling out the ETA in phases, with applications for a group of countries opening on 27 November 2024.

An approved UK ETA typically permits stays of up to six months per visit for the following purposes:

  • Tourism and holiday travel.
  • Visiting family or friends.
  • Short-term business activities (meetings, conferences, supplier visits).
  • Short courses and study programs that last less than six months.
  • Creative Worker Visa Concession — short creative engagements (up to 3 months) where eligible.
  • Permitted paid engagements that do not require a separate work visa.
  • Transit through the UK, including some travellers who do not pass through border control.

Following the January 2025 phase, the UK also announced further ETA requirements for additional countries — for example, a phased requirement for citizens of certain European countries beginning 5 March 2025.

Malaysian Visitor Statistics to the United Kingdom

Malaysian travellers are a valuable market for UK tourism. In 2023 there were approximately 156,000 visits from Malaysia, with total visitor spending estimated at £179 million (around £1,151 per visit on average).

Benefits of the UK ETA for Malaysian Citizens

The UK ETA simplifies short-term travel to the UK while improving pre-travel checks. Key advantages for Malaysian applicants include:

Fast online application

Apply online in minutes — no paper forms or in-person appointments for most applicants, speeding up the pre-travel process.

Lower cost than many visas

The ETA is designed to be an affordable option for short visits, making travel for tourism, business or family easier to budget for.

Multiple entries during validity

Once granted, an ETA generally allows multiple trips to the UK during its validity period without needing to reapply for each short visit.

Enhanced border security

Pre-departure screening helps the UK manage risks at the border while giving travellers confidence that their entry is pre-authorised.

Smoother arrival experience

With an ETA approved in advance, arrivals at border control can be quicker and more predictable.

UK ETA Eligibility Criteria for Malaysian Citizens

Applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements. Below are the common criteria Malaysian travellers should check before applying.

1

Citizenship

Only citizens holding a Malaysian passport from an eligible passport list can apply. If you hold multiple passports, apply with the Malaysian passport you intend to travel on.

2

Short stays only

The ETA is for short visits of up to six months. For work, long study programs, or settlement, you will usually need a different UK visa.

3

Valid passport

Your Malaysian passport must be valid for the duration required by the ETA rules — generally with sufficient validity beyond your planned entry date.

4

Good character

Applicants are expected to disclose relevant criminal history and may be ineligible if they pose a security risk under UK rules.

UK ETA Validity and Duration of Stay

Most UK ETAs issued to Malaysian citizens are valid for two years or until the passport used to apply expires, whichever comes first. During the ETA validity you can make multiple short visits; each visit is usually limited to a maximum of six months, depending on the purpose of travel.

Always ensure your travel dates, passport expiry and purpose of visit meet ETA requirements before you travel.

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UK ETA requirements

To apply for a UK ETA, all eligible travelers are required to meet certain basic criteria. Below are the mandatory requirements that every applicant must provide:

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1

Passport

Applicants must have a valid passport from an eligible country, preferably with two years of validity.

Personal Photo

Applicants must submit a recent upper-body photo that meets official specifications.

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Payment Method

Applicants must have a valid card or access to Apple Pay or Google Pay to pay the ETA UK fee.

Email address

Applicants must provide a valid email address to receive their UK ETA upon approval.

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Applying for a UK ETA for Malaysian Citizens

The UK ETA application process is completely digital and designed to be simple and convenient. Follow the step-by-step guide below to complete your application smoothly:

  • Step 01
    Fill Out the Application Form

    Start by accessing the official UK ETA online form. Provide your personal information and Malaysian passport details accurately. Any incorrect information may delay processing or result in your application being refused.

  • Step 02
    Upload Required Documents

    Attach a digital copy of your Malaysian passport and a recent photograph. Ensure that both documents meet the size, quality, and format specifications stated in the online instructions.

  • Step 03
    Pay the ETA Application Fee

    Once the form and documents are completed, proceed to payment. The ETA fee can be paid using a credit or debit card, or digital payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay.

  • Step 04
    Submit Your Application

    Review all the information entered to ensure it is accurate and complete. Errors may lead to delays or rejection. After confirming the details, submit your ETA application for processing.

  • Step 05
    Receive Your Approved ETA

    Once approved, your UK ETA will be sent to the email address you provided. If your application is denied, you will receive an email explaining the next steps or reasons for refusal. Keep the approval email and reference number handy for your travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

The UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is a digital entry permit for eligible travelers. It is not a visa. Malaysian citizens can use the ETA to visit the UK for tourism, business, study courses, or visiting family for up to 6 months. It is electronically linked to your passport and valid for multiple entries within its 2-year validity.

Yes. From January 8th, 2025, Malaysian citizens must obtain an ETA before traveling to the UK. If your travel date is before this rollout date, you do not need an ETA.

No, Malaysians do not need a visa for short visits of up to 6 months. However, from January 8th, 2025, they must apply for a UK ETA. For stays longer than 6 months or for work/study requiring special permission, a standard UK visa will be required.

If your ETA application is rejected, you will receive an email explaining the reason. You may correct the issue and reapply. If rejection is due to security or serious grounds, you may need to apply for the appropriate UK visa instead.

No. An ETA allows a maximum stay of up to 6 months per visit and cannot be extended. To stay longer in the UK, you must apply for a suitable visa that supports extended stays.

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