1. What is a Malaysia work visa?
A Malaysia work visa is a document issued by the Malaysian government that allows foreign individuals to legally work in the country for a specific period of time. This includes employment passes, professional visit passes, and temporary employment passes, depending on the type of work and duration of stay.2. Who needs a Malaysia work visa?
Most foreign nationals who wish to work in Malaysia will need a valid work visa. This includes both skilled and unskilled workers, as well as professionals and expatriates. There are some exceptions for certain industries and job positions.
3. How do I apply for a Malaysia work visa?
Individuals can apply for a Malaysia work visa through their employer or through an authorized agency. The employer must first obtain approval from the Malaysian Immigration Department before applying for the actual Work Visa or Pass.
4. What are the types of Malaysia work visas?
The main types of Malaysia work visas include:
– Employment Pass: For highly skilled professionals with a monthly salary of RM5,000 or more.
– Professional Visit Pass: For contracted professionals working for a short term in Malaysia.
– Temporary Employment Pass: For unskilled or semi-skilled foreign workers.
– Seasonal Employment Pass: For seasonal workers in designated industries.
– Dependent Pass: For spouses and children of foreign workers.
5. How long does it take to get a Malaysia work visa?
The processing time for a Malaysia work visa depends on various factors such as the type of visa being applied for, completeness of documents submitted, and current workload at the Immigration Department. It may range from several days to several weeks.
6. What are the requirements for a Malaysia work visa?
The specific requirements vary depending on the type of work visa being applied for, but generally applicants must have a job offer from an employer in Malaysia, provide proof of qualifications and relevant experience, pass medical examinations, and have valid travel documents.
7. Can I change job positions while on a Malaysia work visa?
Yes, you can change job positions while on a Malaysia work visa as long as the new job is in the same industry and you obtain approval from the Immigration Department. If it is a different industry, you will need to apply for a new work visa.
8. Can I bring my family with me on my Malaysia work visa?
If you have been granted a Dependent Pass, then your spouse and children can join you in Malaysia. However, if your work visa is not eligible for this type of pass, then your family members will have to apply for separate visas.
9. Do I need to renew my Malaysia work visa?
Yes, all types of work visas in Malaysia are valid for a limited period of time and must be renewed before expiration if you wish to continue working in the country.
10. Can I apply for permanent residency in Malaysia through a work visa?
Holding a valid Malaysian work visa does not automatically qualify an individual for permanent residency. However, certain types of employment passes may make an individual eligible to apply for permanent residence after meeting certain criteria.
2. How can I apply for a Malaysia work visa?
To apply for a Malaysia work visa, follow these steps:
1. Determine the type of work visa you need: The type of work visa you need will depend on your profession and the duration of your employment in Malaysia. Common types of work visas include Employment Pass (EP), Professional Visit Pass (PVP), and Residence Pass-Talent (RP-T).
2. Find a job in Malaysia: To apply for a work visa, you must have a job offer from a Malaysian company. You can search for job opportunities online or through recruitment agencies.
3. Get approval from the relevant government agency: Before applying for a work visa, your employer must obtain approval from the relevant government agency such as the Immigration Department or Expatriate Services Division (ESD).
4. Prepare all necessary documents: You will need to gather documents such as your passport, resume, academic certificates, employment contract, and medical report.
5. Submit your application online: Most work visa applications are done online through the ESD website or Malaysia Immigration website.
6. Pay the required fees: Depending on the type of work visa, you may be required to pay processing fees and security bond.
7. Wait for processing and approval: The processing time for a work visa can vary depending on the type of visa and volume of applications received. You can track your application status online.
8. Attend biometric data appointment: If required, you will need to attend an appointment to provide biometric data such as fingerprint scans at a designated center.
9. Receive your work visa sticker: Once approved, you will receive an Approval Letter which you then need to bring to the nearest Malaysian embassy/consulate in your country to obtain your work visa sticker on your passport.
10. Enter Malaysia with valid travel documents: Once you have obtained your work visa sticker, you can enter Malaysia with valid travel documents within 6 months from the date of issue.
11. Complete any additional requirements: Depending on your visa type, you may need to complete additional requirements such as medical checks or registration with relevant authorities upon arrival in Malaysia.
Note: The process and requirements for a work visa may vary depending on the country of origin. It is recommended to check with the Malaysian embassy/consulate in your country for more specific information.
3. Do I need a job offer to obtain a Malaysia work visa?
Yes, a job offer from an employer in Malaysia is required to apply for a work visa. The employer must also sponsor the application and provide necessary documents such as a letter of invitation, employment contract, and proof of company registration.
4. What is the duration of a Malaysia work visa?
The duration of a Malaysia work visa varies depending on the type of work visa. Generally, a Work Permit or Employment Pass can be valid for 1-2 years and can be renewed. Executives, Managerial, Technical and Professional Category (EP I) employment pass is valid for up to 60 months (5 years) and can be renewed. Skill Level 1 & 2 expatriate employees can get up to 12 or 24 months employment passes depending on their qualifications and experience.
5. Can I extend my Malaysia work visa?
It depends on the type of work visa you hold. Some work visas, such as Employment Passes, can be extended for up to 10 years, while other types may have specific duration limits. You should check with the Malaysian Immigration Department or your employer for more information about extending your specific work visa.
6. Who is eligible for a Malaysia work visa?
Foreign citizens seeking to work in Malaysia must meet the following eligibility requirements for a work visa:
1. Must have a valid job offer from an employer in Malaysia.
2. Must possess the necessary qualifications and experience required for the job.
3. Must be at least 18 years old.
4. Must be in good health and not suffering from any infectious or communicable diseases.
5. Must have a clean criminal record.
6. Must have a valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months.
7. Must obtain approval from the Malaysian Immigration Department before entering Malaysia for employment purposes.
In addition, there may be specific requirements based on the type of work visa being applied for, such as academic qualifications for highly skilled workers or proof of financial stability for entrepreneurs. It is recommended to check with the Malaysian Immigration Department or a qualified agency for specific eligibility criteria for each type of work visa.
7. How long does it take to process a Malaysia work visa application?
The processing times for a Malaysia work visa application can vary depending on the type of visa and individual circumstances. On average, it can take anywhere from 2-8 weeks to process a work visa application in Malaysia. However, it can take longer if additional documents or information is required, or if there are delays in the application process. It is important to submit the application well in advance to ensure timely processing.
8. Is there an age limit for obtaining a Malaysia work visa?
There is no specific age limit stated for obtaining a work visa in Malaysia. However, the Malaysian government requires foreign workers to be at least 18 years old and below 60 years old to be eligible for employment. Additionally, age may also be a factor considered by the employer during the hiring process.
9. Can I bring my family with me on a Malaysia work visa?
Yes, it is possible for your spouse and children to accompany you on your Malaysia work visa. They will need to apply for a dependent pass or long term social visit pass once you have obtained your work visa. Please note that there may be additional requirements and fees associated with bringing family members to Malaysia.
10. What documents do I need to apply for a Malaysia work visa?
To apply for a Malaysia work visa, you will need the following documents:
1. A valid passport with at least 6 months validity
2. Completed and signed visa application form
3. Two recent passport-sized photos
4. Employment contract or letter of offer from your employer in Malaysia
5. Educational certificates and qualifications
6. Resume or CV outlining your professional experience and skills
7. Police clearance certificate from your home country (if applicable)
8. Medical examination report from an approved hospital or clinic
9. Proof of financial stability, such as bank statements or employment letters showing sufficient funds to support yourself in Malaysia
10.Valid flight tickets
11.Travel itinerary
12.Proof of accommodation in Malaysia
13.Letter of introduction from your employer in Malaysia explaining the purpose of your trip and confirming your employment details
14.Other supporting documents as required by the Malaysian immigration authorities
11. Do I need to have certain qualifications or skills to be eligible for a Malaysia work visa?
Yes, you will need to meet certain qualifications and have certain skills in order to be eligible for a Malaysia work visa. These requirements may vary depending on the type of work visa you are applying for. Generally, you will need to have a job offer from a Malaysian company, possess relevant education and work experience related to the job, and meet any other specific criteria set by the Malaysian authorities. It is best to consult with a qualified immigration lawyer or the Malaysian Immigration Department for more detailed information on eligibility requirements for different types of work visas.
12. Can I change jobs while on a Malaysia work visa?
Yes, you can change jobs while on a Malaysia work visa. However, you will need to obtain a new employment pass from the Malaysian government for your new job. Your current employer may also need to cancel your existing work permit before you can start working for your new employer. It is advisable to consult with the Malaysian Immigration Department for specific guidelines and requirements for changing jobs while on a work visa.
13. What is the difference between a professional pass and an employment pass in Malaysia?
A professional pass and an employment pass in Malaysia are two different types of work permits that allow foreign nationals to work in Malaysia legally. The main differences between the two are as follows:1. Eligibility criteria: A professional pass is typically granted to individuals who possess specialized skills or expertise in a particular field, such as IT, finance, or engineering. On the other hand, an employment pass is granted to individuals who hold executive or managerial positions in a company.
2. Validity: A professional pass is valid for up to 2 years, while an employment pass is valid for 1-5 years, depending on the contract offered by the employer.
3. Income requirements: Individuals holding a professional pass must earn a minimum salary of RM15,000 per month, while those with an employment pass must earn at least RM10,000 per month.
4. Sponsorship: A professional pass can be sponsored by either a local or foreign company, while an employment pass can only be sponsored by a locally incorporated company.
5. Immigration fees: The immigration processing fee for a professional pass is RM3000 per year, while for an employment pass it is RM5000 (for companies with paid-up capital of less than RM100,000) or RM6000 (for companies with paid-up capital of more than RM100,000).
6. Dependent passes: Holders of both types of passes can bring their family members to Malaysia on dependent passes. However, individuals holding an employment pass are allowed to sponsor their parents as dependents too.
In summary,
a professional pass is suitable for highly skilled professionals in specialized fields earning higher salaries and can be sponsored by any company whereas
an employment pass is for those holding managerial or executive positions earning lower salaries and must be sponsored by a locally incorporated company.
14. How can I obtain a professional pass in Malaysia?
To obtain a professional pass in Malaysia, you will need to follow these steps:1. Determine which type of professional pass you need: The Malaysian government offers different types of professional passes for different professions. Some examples include the Employment Pass for foreign professionals, the Entrepreneur Pass for entrepreneurs starting businesses in Malaysia, and the Professional Visit Pass for short-term employment or business activities.
2. Obtain a job offer: If you are applying for an Employment Pass, you will need to have a valid job offer from a Malaysian company. They will serve as your sponsor throughout the application process.
3. Ensure you meet the minimum requirements: Each professional pass has its own set of requirements, but generally you will need to have a relevant degree or qualification, relevant work experience, and a salary that meets the minimum threshold.
4. Prepare your documents: You will need to gather several documents to support your application, including your passport, education certificates, employment contract, and other relevant documents.
5. Submit your application: Depending on the type of professional pass you are applying for, you may be able to apply online through the Expatriate Services Division (ESD) portal or through an authorized third party agent if required.
6. Await approval: The processing time for professional passes can vary depending on the type and complexity of your application. You can check the status of your application online through the ESD portal.
7. Complete any additional requirements: Upon approval of your application, you may be required to undergo medical screening and biometric registration before your pass can be issued.
8. Obtain your pass: Once all requirements have been completed and approved by relevant authorities, you will receive notification to collect your professional pass at an Immigration Department office in Malaysia.
Note: It is important to ensure that you meet all eligibility criteria and submit accurate information in order to avoid delays or potential rejection of your application.
15. Is there an income requirement for the professional pass in Malaysia?
Yes, there is an income requirement for the professional pass in Malaysia. Applicants must have a minimum monthly salary of RM5,000 in order to qualify for the professional pass. This requirement may vary depending on the specific profession and employer. Additionally, applicants may also be required to provide proof of their academic qualifications and work experience in their respective fields.
16. Can I apply for permanent residency in Malaysia while on a professional pass?
You cannot apply for permanent residency in Malaysia while on a professional pass. Permanent residency in Malaysia is typically only granted to those who have been living and working in the country for an extended period of time, usually as a spouse or adult dependent of a Malaysian citizen. However, as a holder of a professional pass, you may be eligible to apply for other types of long-term visas such as the Employment Pass or the Talent Work Visa, which may eventually lead to eligibility for permanent residency.17. Are there any restrictions or limitations on working while on a professional pass in Malaysia?
Yes, there are limitations on working while on a professional pass in Malaysia. Professional pass holders are only allowed to work for the employer stated in their pass and in the specific position approved by the relevant authorities. They are not allowed to engage in any other form of employment or business without obtaining an additional permission or visa. Working outside of the designated employer or position can result in penalties and possible deportation. Additionally, the professional pass does not allow for self-employment or starting a business in Malaysia.
18. Can I apply for permanent residency in Malaysia while working on an employment pass?
Yes, you can apply for permanent residency in Malaysia while working on an employment pass. However, the requirements and process for obtaining permanent residency may vary depending on your nationality, current visa status, and other factors. It is recommended to consult with a reputable immigration agency or the Malaysian government’s Immigration Department for specific information and guidance on the application process.
19.Can I bring my family with me on the employment pass?
Yes, you can bring your family with you on an employment pass, as long as they meet the relevant eligibility criteria. This usually includes children under the age of 21 and a spouse who can obtain a dependent’s pass. You may also need to provide proof of your relationship, such as marriage certificates or birth certificates. Your employer may also be required to provide certain documents and/or pay additional fees for each family member included in your application. It is best to consult with the Ministry of Manpower for specific guidelines and requirements.
20.What are the consequences of working without proper documentation in Malaysia?
Working without proper documentation in Malaysia can have various consequences, including:
1. Legal issues: It is against the law to work in Malaysia without proper documentation. This means that anyone found working without a valid work permit or visa could face legal consequences such as fines, deportation, and even imprisonment.
2. Limited job opportunities: Without proper documentation, individuals are limited to only certain types of jobs or industries that do not require legal employment status. This could result in lower-paying jobs or being forced to work in the informal economy, which may not provide adequate protection or benefits.
3. No access to social benefits: Employees who are working without proper documentation are not entitled to any social benefits provided by the government or their employers, such as health insurance, paid leave, or retirement benefits.
4. Exploitation and abuse: Unauthorized workers may be at a higher risk of exploitation and abuse from their employers, as they often have no legal protections and can be easily exploited due to their vulnerable status.
5. Difficulty in opening bank accounts and obtaining loans: Without proper documentation, it can be challenging to open a bank account or obtain a loan for personal or business purposes. This can greatly impact an individual’s financial stability and prevent them from achieving their financial goals.
6. Difficulty in renting accommodation: Landlords may require proof of legal employment status before renting out property to tenants. Without proper documentation, individuals may struggle to find suitable accommodation.
7. Risk of deportation: Working without proper documentation puts individuals at risk of being caught by immigration authorities and deported back to their home country.
It is essential for individuals planning to work in Malaysia to ensure they have all the necessary documents and permits before starting any job.