UK ETA Malaysia: Application steps & everything you need to know

The UK ETA Malaysia requirement is essential for Malaysian travelers heading to the UK. This UK ETA guide explains who needs it, when to apply, and what it allows you to do while in the UK.

Do Malaysian citizens need a visa for the UK?

Malaysian citizens do not need a visa for short visits to the UK, but they must apply for a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before traveling.

UK ETA for Malaysian citizens explained

The UK ETA is a mandatory digital travel permit for Malaysian citizens visiting the UK for tourism, business, or short-term study (up to 6 months). It is valid for 2 years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.

While Malaysians do not need a traditional visa for short stays, the ETA is required for all travelers from visa-exempt countries, including Malaysia.

Who needs UK ETA?

What you can and cannot do with UK ETA

A UK ETA allows short visits for tourism, business meetings, short-term study, and certain work engagements, but it does not permit long-term stays, employment, or settlement.

For those seeking extended stays or specific permissions, other visa options include the UK Visit Visa for longer tourist or business visits, the UK E-Visa for digital processing, the UK Settlement Visa for residency, the UK Sponsorship License for employers hiring foreign workers, and the UK Student Visa for education. Additionally, individuals may apply for a Self-Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa to work independently or a Spouse Visa to join a UK-based partner.

How to apply for UK ETA Malaysia

For Malaysians applying for a UK ETA, Global Law offers:

• Accurate application support to avoid delays or rejections

• Expert legal guidance for travelers with past visa refusals or criminal records

• Fast-tracked solutions for urgent travel needs

• Personalized assistance for business travelers, professionals, and families to ensure a smooth entry into the UK

Requirements for a UK ETA application:

• A valid Malaysian passport

• A payment method (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, etc.)

• A recent photo (uploaded or taken via the app)

• An email address to receive your ETA approval

You can check all the United Kingdom ETA requirements here.

Processing time & validity

• Processing time: Most applications are approved within 3 working days

• Validity: 2 years or until the passport expires

What happens after you apply?

Once approved, the ETA is linked electronically to your passport—no need to print it. At the UK Border, Malaysian Citizens Can:

• Use an ePassport gate (if eligible)

• See a Border Force officer for entry clearance

Having an ETA does not guarantee entry—border officers may still ask questions before allowing you into the UK.

Eligible UK ETA countries

Do I need ETA for the UK? Check with out tool or use the list of nationalities eligible to apply for an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) when traveling to the UK. The UK ETA countries list includes countries and territories whose citizens can apply now, as well as those who will require an ETA for travel on or after April 2, 2025.

1. Andorra

2. Antigua and Barbuda

3. Argentina

4. Australia

5. Austria

6. Bahamas (The)

7. Bahrain

8. Barbados

9. Belarus

10. Belgium

11. Belize

12. Botswana

13. Brazil

14. Brunei

15. Bulgaria

16. Canada

17. Chile

18. Costa Rica

19. Croatia

20. Cyprus

21. Czechia

22. Denmark

23. Estonia

24. Finland

25. France

26. Federated States of Micronesia

27. Germany

28. Greece

29. Grenada

30. Guatemala

31. Guyana

32. Hungary

33. Iceland

34. Israel

35. Italy

36. Japan

37. Kiribati

38. Kuwait

39. Latvia

40. Liechtenstein

41. Lithuania

42. Luxembourg

43. Macao Special Administrative Region

44. Malaysia

45. Maldives

46. Malta

47. Marshall Islands

48. Mexico

49. Monaco

50. Netherlands

51. New Zealand

52. Nicaragua

53. Norway

54. Oman

55. Palau

56. Panama

57. Papua New Guinea

58. Paraguay

59. Peru

60. Poland

61. Portugal

62. Qatar

63. Romania

64. San Marino

65. Seychelles

66. Singapore

67. Slovakia

68. Slovenia

69. Solomon Islands

70. South Korea

71. Spain

72. St Kitts and Nevis

73. St Lucia

74. St Vincent and the Grenadines

75. Sweden

76. Switzerland

77. Taiwan (if you have a passport issued by Taiwan that includes in it the number of the identification card issued by the competent authority in Taiwan)

78. Tonga

79. Tuvalu

80. United Arab Emirates

81. United States

82. Uruguay

83. Vatican City