Malaysia hopes to launch visa-free entry to Russia by the end of 2026
Quick Look
Malaysian Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Tiong King Sing expressed hope for the launch of visa-free entry into Russia for Malaysians by the end of 2026, noting that the agreement is almost ready, and Russians can already visit Malaysia without a visa.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
Russia and Malaysia are discussing the possibility of introducing a visa-free regime for citizens of both countries. Currently, Russians can visit Malaysia without a visa, but Malaysians require a visa to enter Russia.
Malaysian Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Tiong King Sing told RIA Novosti that he hopes to launch visa-free entry into Russia for Malaysians by the end of 2026.
In a conversation on the sidelines of a Malaysian tourism presentation in Moscow, he noted that Russians can already enter Malaysia without a visa. However, Malaysian guests still need a visa to visit Russia.
“I hope so,” the minister said when asked whether Malaysia expects to launch visa-free travel for Malaysians before the end of the year.
He is confident that the flow of tourists from Malaysia to Russia would increase after visa requirements for Malaysians were lifted.
What to Watch
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
The agreement on visa-free entry between Russia and Malaysia will be launched before the end of 2026
Likely · Within months
Open Questions
- When exactly will the visa-free agreement be signed?
- What terms will be included in the final agreement?
- How will a visa-free regime affect the flow of tourists between countries?
