How Malaysia's Stricter Visa Policies in 2026 Are Causing Higher Rejection Rates

In 2026, Malaysia implemented stricter visa policies that have led to a significant increase in rejection rates for visa applications, particularly among Nepali citizens. While these new rules are designed to enhance security and ensure that only genuine travelers are granted visas, they have also created more hurdles for applicants, resulting in an uptick in rejections. Let's explore the key reasons behind these higher rejection rates and the impact these policies have on Nepali travelers.

1. Stricter Documentation Requirements

One of the major factors behind the higher rejection rates is the more stringent documentation requirementsintroduced in 2026. The Malaysian embassy now requires more detailed and verified documents, which means that applicants must submit genuine, confirmed documentation rather than relying on provisional or fake documents.

• Active PNR Flight Tickets: Travelers must now submit confirmed flight tickets with an active Passenger Name Record (PNR). Previously, applicants could submit dummy flight tickets or provisional bookings, but the embassy now requires proof of a genuine flight reservation, which has increased the cost and complexity for many Nepali applicants.

• Hotel Booking with Invoices: In addition to flight tickets, the embassy has made it mandatory to provide confirmed hotel bookings with an official invoice. This is a significant change from earlier requirements, where hotel reservations alone were often sufficient. Many applicants who relied on simple reservation confirmations are now facing rejection due to this new requirement.

These changes have made it more difficult for Nepali applicants who may not have the financial means to secure these bookings in advance. As a result, many applicants are finding themselves unable to meet these new standards, leading to higher rejection rates.

2. Increased Financial Requirements

In 2026, Malaysia introduced a new financial requirement for all visa applicants. Nepali nationals must now provide 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, thus reducing the risk of overstays.

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.

3. 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, which has resulted in a higher rejection rate.

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 submitting incorrect passport photos, missing documents, or discrepancies in financial statements, can result in an application being rejected.

4. Prevention of Fraudulent Applications

Malaysia’s new visa policies have a strong focus on preventing fraudulent 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.

5. 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.

6. Lack of Awareness of the New Visa Process

One of the contributing factors to the rise in visa rejections is the lack of awareness among Nepali travelers regarding the new visa rules. Many applicants are still operating under the assumption that the process has not changed, and as a result, they are submitting outdated or incomplete documents.

Many Nepali citizens may not be fully aware of the new requirements for active flight bookings, hotel invoices, and financial documentation. This lack of awareness has led to numerous applications being rejected due to applicants not understanding the updated rules. In addition, travelers may not be aware of the specific format or content required in documents, leading to errors that result in rejection.

7. How to Avoid Rejection and Increase Approval Chances

To avoid rejection and increase your chances of a successful visa application under Malaysia’s stricter rules in 2026, Nepali citizens should take the following steps:

1. Ensure all documents are genuine and complete: Submit real, confirmed flight tickets with active PNR and official hotel invoices. Avoid using provisional or dummy documents.

2. Maintain the required bank balance: Ensure your bank statement shows a balance of at least NPR 3 lac for the past three months. Plan ahead if needed to meet this financial requirement.

3. Double-check all documents: Carefully review your documents for accuracy. Ensure all required documents are included and meet embassy specifications.

4. Submit early: Given the longer processing times, it’s essential to submit your application well in advance of your planned travel date to account for potential delays or issues.

5. Seek professional assistance: Consider using a visa assistance service like Yatra For Fun, which can guide you through the new requirements and ensure your application is in perfect order.

8. How Yatra For Fun Can Assist You

At Yatra For Fun, we understand the complexities of Malaysia’s updated visa policies, and we are here to help Nepali citizens navigate this process successfully. Our expert team provides full visa assistance, ensuring that your application is complete, accurate, and meets all the latest requirements set by the Malaysian embassy.

Yatra For Fun offers services including:

• Document Verification: Ensuring that your flight tickets, hotel bookings, and financial documents meet all the embassy’s criteria.

• Guidance on Financial Documentation: Helping you prepare your bank statements to meet the required financial thresholds.

• Visa Application Submission: Handling the submission process to ensure that everything is in order.

For assistance with your Malaysia visit visa application, 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 guide you through the updated visa process and help increase your chances of approval!