Kuala Lumpur airport (KLIA) guide: arrivals, immigration, SIM cards and getting to your hotel
Some links here are affiliate links: we may earn a small fee if you buy, at no extra cost to you.
In this guide
Landing after a long flight is easier with a plan. Here is the typical order at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).
- Your passport (valid six months or more)
- A screenshot of your arrival card confirmation
- Your hotel name and address
- Your onward ticket, if asked
1Follow the signs to immigration
Follow the arrivals signs to immigration. Queues can be long when several long-haul flights land together, so be patient.
2Immigration and your arrival card
Show your passport and the confirmation from the arrival card. See how to fill in the arrival card and the entry rules.
3Baggage and customs
Check the screens for your belt number. After collecting bags you walk through customs; declare cash of US$10,000 or more and anything restricted.
Have your passport, arrival card and hotel address in one place and the airport takes care of itself.
4Phone and money
- SIM counters in arrivals sell tourist SIMs; take your passport. See the SIM and eSIM guide.
- ATMs in the airport give you ringgit; check fees. See money in Malaysia.
5Get to your hotel
The main choices are the KLIA Ekspres train, a Grab car, a taxi or a bus. See how to get from the airport to the city, and book your first night before you land.
Details change. Confirm with the airline, hotel or official source before you book or travel.
This guide is part of our complete Malaysia travel guide for UK visitors. See all flights & airports guides.
Frequently asked questions
How long does immigration take at KLIA?
It varies with how many flights have landed. Allow an hour or more at busy times.
Can I buy a SIM card at KLIA?
Yes, tourist SIM counters are in the arrivals area; take your passport.
Which terminal does Malaysia Airlines use at KLIA?
Check your booking, as terminals can change. Malaysia Airlines normally uses the main terminal.
