New UK Immigration Requirements for Malaysians: A Simple Guide

Starting 25 February 2026, all Malaysians travelling to the UK will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before flying. This replaces the previous system where Malaysians could enter visa-free for short trips. At the same time, the UK is tightening some long-term immigration rules, including reducing the post-study work period for graduates from two years to 18 months.

This guide explains what the ETA is, how to apply, and what Malaysians travelling, studying, or working in the UK should know.

1. The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

When it starts and who needs it

Malaysia is one of the first countries included in the UK’s new ETA system.

You must apply for an ETA if you are travelling to the UK for:

Holidays (up to six months)

Business trips and conferences

Short academic visits

Visiting family or friends

Important:

An ETA is not a visa. If you plan to stay longer than six months — for work, study, or family reasons — you must still apply for the usual UK visa.

Cost and validity

An ETA costs £10 (about RM57). Once approved, it is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. You can enter the UK multiple times during this period, but each visit can only last up to six months.

How to apply

The fastest way is through the UK ETA mobile app, where many applicants receive approval within 12 hours, and most within 3 working days. You can also apply to the GOV.UK website.

You’ll need:

A valid Malaysian passport (preferably with a chip)

A digital passport photo

A credit or debit card

An email address

Note: The British High Commission in Kuala Lumpur does not process ETA applications. Everything is handled directly by UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI).

2. Why the UK is introducing these changes

A more digital and secure border

The ETA is part of the UK’s plan to modernise its border systems and improve security. By April 2026, all countries that currently do not need a visa to enter the UK will be required to have an ETA.

The new system aims to:

Check security risks before travellers fly

Reduce airport queues with more automated gates

Track overstayers more effectively

Stricter Long-Term Immigration Rules

Alongside the ETA, the UK government is adjusting other immigration policies. They are keeping the popular Graduate Route for international students, but shortening its length from two years to 18 months. The UK says it wants to remain open to genuine visitors and students while being stricter with long-term migration.

3. What has not changed: visa requirements

Student Visas

If you’re planning to study in the UK, you still need a Student Visa. Requirements include:

A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a UK university

Proof of English proficiency

Proof of financial support (at least £1,023 per month for living expenses in London)

Payment of the Immigration Health Surcharge (£776 per year)

Processing usually takes three weeks, but during peak periods it may take up to five weeks. The application fee remains £490.

Work and Family Visas

Skilled Worker Visa applicants must still have:

A job offer from a licensed UK employer

A minimum salary of £26,200

English proficiency (B1 level)

Family visas require a minimum income of £29,000, which will rise to £38,700 in 2025.

4. What Malaysians should do next

Tourists and Business Travellers

The ETA is generally good news for short-term travellers. To prepare:

Apply for your ETA at least 2–3 weeks before your trip

Check your passport expiry date (your ETA becomes invalid if your passport expires)

Include the £10 fee in your travel planning

Frequent travellers will especially benefit from the two-year multi-entry validity.

Malaysian students planning to study in the uk

Because the post-study work period is now shorter:

Consider courses with strong employment prospects, especially in STEM fields

Network actively during your studies to find employers who can sponsor your work visa

Compare opportunities with other countries like Canada or Australia, which still offer two-year work rights

Malaysians already living in the uk

If you’re among the 80,000+ Malaysians residing in the UK, you should:

Move your immigration status to the UK’s new eVisa system before your current BRP cards expire in 2025

Ensure your passport details are up to date

Check the new English-language rules for dependants joining you