Starting June 1, 2024, travelers from 36 low-risk countries, including European Union member states, Bahrain, UAE, Kuwait, and more, can use the autogate system at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) for faster immigration clearance.
This significant development is aimed at improving efficiency and reducing wait times at one of Malaysia's busiest airports.
Expanded Autogate Access at KLIA
Eligible countries:
Australia
Austria
Bahrain
Belgium
Brunei
Bulgaria
Canada
China
Croatia
Czech Republic
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Hong Kong
Hungary
Ireland
Italy
Japan
Jordan
Korea
Kuwait
Latvia
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malta
Netherlands
New Zealand
Oman
Poland
Portugal
Qatar
Republic of Cyprus
Romania
Saudi Arabia
Singapore
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Sweden
Taiwan
United Arab Emirates
United Kingdom
United States
Travellers from the countries above can now use the autogate system at KLIA terminals 1 and 2. This expansion increases the total number of countries eligible for autogate access to 46.
This initiative addresses the congestion and long wait times often experienced during immigration clearance at KLIA. With 40 million travelers entering Malaysia between January 1, 2023, and April 2024, the enhanced autogate system aims to streamline the process significantly.
Enhanced Facilities for Seamless Entry
In collaboration with Transport Minister Anthony Loke and Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd, the government will install 40 additional autogate machines, increasing the total to 98. Enhanced signage and the presence of ushers will further facilitate a smoother flow of passengers through immigration.
The autogate system, initially restricted to Malaysians, was previously extended to travelers from 10 low-risk and G7 countries. The recent inclusion of an additional 36 countries marks a significant step towards improving Malaysia's airport efficiency.
Benefits for International Travelers
Travelers from countries such as Germany, France, Spain, UAE, and China will benefit from reduced wait times and a more efficient entry process. The initiative is also extended to diplomatic staff and their families working in Malaysia, ensuring smoother arrivals for international officials.
The government's decision comes in anticipation of Malaysia chairing ASEAN next year, which will see an influx of ministerial meetings and international visitors. The improvements to the autogate system reflect Malaysia's commitment to providing a seamless travel experience without compromising security.
Final Thoughts
The expansion of the autogate system to include travelers from 36 low-risk countries is a strategic move to enhance Malaysia's reputation as a traveler-friendly destination.
Sorry to say, but it's well known that we have one of the slowest immigration processes in the ASEAN region. If I had a penny for every time an international friend complains about the KLIA and KLIA2 immigration process when arriving in Malaysia, I could probably fund KLIA's expansion myself.
Exaggerations aside, by reducing wait times and improving the immigration process, Malaysia is set to offer a more welcoming and efficient experience for international visitors. As the country prepares for increased international engagement, these enhancements position Malaysia as a leading destination in global travel efficiency.
For travelers wondering, "Can [country] passport use the autogates in Malaysia?" the answer is now increasingly likely to be yes. This expansion of the autogate system ensures that visitors from a wide range of countries can enjoy quicker and more convenient entry into Malaysia.
