Europe remains high on Malaysian travel wishlists and while visa-free entry remains, two new EU systems, EES and ETIAS, will soon change how you enter and move around. (Image by Howei Wang.)
Europe remains a top travel dream for many Malaysians, and the good news is, your visa-free access is still valid. But starting in late 2025, two new EU-wide border control systems—EES and ETIAS—are being rolled out to tighten border security. Here’s what it means for Asian travellers, especially Malaysians, and how to stay ahead of the curve.
Visa-free travel
Let’s clear the air first. Despite social media rumours and viral TikTok “warnings,” Malaysians can still travel visa-free to Europe for up to 90 days within any 180 days. No change there. Both the French and Italian embassies in Malaysia have publicly shot down claims about new limits or bans. Your Malaysian passport continues to open doors to 29 Schengen countries—plus Cyprus, which is moving toward joining the zone.
To enter, you’ll still need:
- A Malaysian passport valid for at least 90 days past your planned departure
- Proof of sufficient funds
- A return flight ticket
Entry/Exit System (EES)
The EES goes live in October 2025 and will change how your arrival and departure in Europe is tracked. Instead of getting a stamp, your passport will be scanned electronically. The system will store your:
- Name and travel document info
- Entry and exit dates
- Fingerprints
- Facial image
This helps enforce the 90/180-day stay rule more precisely and reduces human error. You won’t need to apply for anything or prepare documents ahead—just expect a slightly longer process at the border when EES launches.
European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)
The ETIAS is Europe’s version of the U.S. ESTA or Canada’s eTA. It’s not a visa, but it will be required for all travellers from visa-exempt countries, including Malaysia. You’ll need ETIAS clearance before boarding a flight to any Schengen country. Once approved, you can travel multiple times during the three years, as long as each trip adheres to the 90-day limit.
Expected to roll out in late 2026, ETIAS will require:
- An online application
- A valid passport
- A €7 fee (approximately RM34.19) (valid for three years)
- A brief wait—most approvals are instant, but in rare cases, processing can take up to 30 days
If you’re flying from Malaysia or elsewhere in Asia, the key is to stay informed about the EES and apply for ETIAS early at their official website.
