The long-anticipated mutual visa exemption between China and Malaysia officially took effect on Thursday, marking a new chapter in bilateral relations and cross-border mobility. The agreement allows ordinary passport holders from both nations to enjoy visa-free stays of up to 30 days per visit, with a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period.
Tourism Surge During Trial Phase
Since the trial implementation began in December 2023, Malaysia welcomed 3.8 million Chinese visitors in 2024 alone – making China its largest non-ASEAN tourism source. The streamlined process has already demonstrated its potential to strengthen cultural exchanges and economic cooperation between the two nations.
Broader Implications for Asia
This development aligns with China's expanding network of 158 visa-exemption partnerships worldwide. Recent data from China's National Immigration Administration reveals 13.64 million visa-free foreign entries in the first half of 2025, accounting for 71.2% of all foreign arrivals – a 53.9% year-on-year increase.
Analysts suggest the agreement could serve as a model for enhanced regional connectivity, benefiting sectors from business travel to education exchanges while supporting Southeast Asia's post-pandemic recovery efforts.
