Asia – Malaysia Visa – Work – Temporary Employment Pass

1. What is the process for obtaining a work visa in Malaysia?

The process for obtaining a work visa in Malaysia is as follows:

1. Determine your eligibility: Before applying for a work visa, you must make sure that you meet the eligibility criteria set by the Malaysian government. This includes having a valid job offer from a Malaysian employer that meets the salary and skill-level requirements.

2. Apply for an Employment Pass (EP): The first step in obtaining a work visa is to apply for an EP through the Expatriate Services Division (ESD) of the Immigration Department of Malaysia. To do this, your employer will need to submit an application on your behalf and provide all necessary supporting documents.

3. Submit biometrics: Once the EP application has been approved, you will need to make an appointment to provide your biometric data at a designated Immigration Department office. This includes fingerprinting and photos.

4. Obtain approval letter: After providing your biometrics, you will receive an approval letter from the ESD within 5 working days.

5. Medical examination: You will then need to undergo a medical examination at any government-approved clinic or hospital in Malaysia and obtain a Health Certificate confirming that you are fit to work.

6. Purchase health insurance: As part of the work visa requirements, you must purchase sufficient health insurance coverage for yourself and any accompanying family members.

7. Receive Visa with Reference (VDR): Once all of the above steps have been completed and approved, the Immigration Department will issue you a Visa with Reference (VDR).

8. Enter Malaysia: With your VDR in hand, you can then enter Malaysia and proceed with finalizing your employment contract with your employer.

9. Convert VDR into Employment Pass (EP): Within 30 days of entering Malaysia, you must convert your VDR into an EP at any Immigration Department office. You will need to bring along all necessary documents including your passport and VDR.

10.Obtain Entry Permit: An Entry Permit will be issued to you upon the conversion of your VDR into an EP. This permit will serve as your work visa and allow you to legally work in Malaysia.

Note: The exact process may vary depending on your country of origin and individual circumstances. It is recommended to check with the Immigration Department of Malaysia for the most up-to-date information and requirements.

2. What are the requirements for a Malaysian work visa?


The requirements for a Malaysian work visa are as follows:

1. Job offer from a Malaysian employer: You must have a job offer from a company registered in Malaysia stating your position, salary, and duration of employment.

2. Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival in Malaysia.

3. Completed application form: You must fill out and submit the appropriate visa application form.

4. Passport-sized photos: You will need to submit two recent passport-sized photos with white background.

5. Educational and professional qualifications: You may be required to provide copies of your academic and professional certificates to prove your qualifications for the job.

6. Medical certificate: As part of the application process, you will need to undergo a medical examination and obtain a medical certificate from an approved clinic or hospital in your home country.

7. Work experience letter: If you have previous work experience, you may be required to provide a letter from your previous employers stating your job title, responsibilities, and duration of employment.

8. Police clearance certificate: Some applicants may be required to provide a police clearance certificate or equivalent document from their home country or countries where they have resided for more than 6 months in the past 5 years.

9. Proof of financial stability: You may be asked to provide proof that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Malaysia.

Note: The specific requirements may vary depending on the type of work visa you are applying for and your country of origin. It is recommended to check with the Malaysian Embassy or Consulate in your home country for updated and accurate information before submitting your application.

3. How long does it take to process a Malaysian work visa?


The processing time for a Malaysian work visa can vary depending on the type of work visa you are applying for and your country of origin. On average, it may take anywhere from 1-3 months for your work visa to be processed and approved. It is important to note that during peak seasons, such as the end or beginning of a year, the processing time may be longer due to high volume of applications.

4. Can I apply for a Malaysian work visa while in the country on a tourist visa?


No, you cannot apply for a Malaysian work visa while in the country on a tourist visa. You need to exit Malaysia and apply for a work visa from your home country or country of residence. The tourist visa is only for short term visit purposes and does not allow for employment.

5. Is there an age limit for obtaining a Malaysian work visa?


Yes, the Malaysian government sets an age limit for obtaining a work visa. The minimum age for general employment is 18 years old, while foreigners above the age of 50 are not eligible to apply for the work visa. However, there may be exceptions made for specialized industries or job positions.

6. What is the maximum duration of stay allowed with a Malaysian work visa?

The maximum duration of stay allowed with a Malaysian work visa depends on the type of work visa that is granted. Generally, work visas are valid for 2-5 years and can be renewed upon expiration. However, some work visas may have specific restrictions on the duration of stay. It is important to check with the relevant authorities for the specific duration of stay allowed with your particular work visa.

7. Can I extend my Malaysian work visa once it expires?


Yes, you can apply for an extension of your Malaysian work visa once it expires. You will need to submit a request to the Immigration Department of Malaysia, along with the required documents and fees. The decision to grant an extension will be at the discretion of the immigration authorities. It is important to apply for an extension before your current visa expires to avoid any penalties or risk of being overstayed.

8. Are there any restrictions on the types of jobs I can do with a Malaysian work visa?

Yes, there are restrictions on the type of jobs that can be done with a Malaysian work visa. The work visa is issued for a specific job role and employer, and therefore you are only allowed to work for the employer and in the position stated on your visa. Changing employers and job roles would require obtaining a new work visa. Additionally, certain jobs may require additional permits or qualifications from relevant authorities in Malaysia.

9. Do I need an employer sponsor to obtain a Malaysian work visa?


Yes, you need an employer sponsor to obtain a Malaysian work visa. The employer must apply for the work visa on your behalf and provide necessary documents such as your employment contract, educational qualifications, and proof of their company’s registration. They will also be responsible for paying the required fees for the visa application process.

10. How much does it cost to apply for a Malaysian work visa?

The cost of applying for a Malaysian work visa depends on the type of work visa you are applying for, as well as your nationality and the specific requirements of your employer. Generally, the cost can range from around RM 125 to RM 200. It is recommended to check with your employer or contact the nearest Malaysian embassy or consulate for more accurate and up-to-date information.

11. Is there an income threshold for obtaining a Malaysian work visa?

Yes, certain work visa categories in Malaysia may have an income threshold requirement. For example, the Expatriate Employment Pass requires a minimum salary of RM 10,000 per month for foreigners working in the professional or managerial category. However, there is no specific income threshold for other work visa categories such as the Professional Visit Pass or Temporary Employment Pass.

12. What documents do I need to submit when applying for a Malaysian work visa?


To apply for a Malaysian work visa, you will need to submit the following documents:

1. Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of application and have at least 4 blank visa pages.

2. Application form: You will need to fill out an application form provided by the Malaysian immigration department or embassy/consulate in your home country.

3. Employment contract: You will need to provide a copy of your employment contract with your Malaysian employer.

4. Offer letter: Some types of work visas may require an offer letter from your employer stating your job position, salary, and other details.

5. Passport-sized photos: You will need to submit two recent passport-sized photos with white background (35mm x 50mm).

6. Certified copies of educational certificates: You may be required to provide certified copies of your educational certificates or diplomas as proof of qualification for the job.

7. Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed resume outlining your educational background, work experience, and skills is also required.

8. Proof of financial means: You may need to show proof that you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay in Malaysia.

9. Medical report: Some types of work visas require a medical report to ensure that you are in good health and free from any contagious diseases.

10. Police clearance certificate: Depending on the type of work visa you are applying for, you may need to provide a police clearance certificate from your home country or any other country where you have resided for more than six months.

11. Letter of approval: Your employer in Malaysia must obtain a letter of approval from relevant authorities before applying on your behalf for a work visa.

12. Other supporting documents: Additional documents may be required depending on the type of visa you are applying for and your specific circumstances. It is best to check with the Embassy or Consulate beforehand to ensure you have all the required documents.

13. Is it possible to convert my Malaysian tourist visa into a work visa without leaving the country?

It is not possible to convert a tourist visa into a work visa without leaving the country. In order to obtain a work visa, you will need to apply for it at the Malaysian embassy or consulate in your home country before traveling to Malaysia. You may also be required to complete additional steps and provide documents such as a job offer letter and proof of qualifications.

14. Are there any special requirements for obtaining a Malaysian work permit in certain industries?


Yes, the Malaysian government may set additional requirements for obtaining a work permit in certain industries, such as:

1. Banking and finance: In order to obtain a work permit in this industry, foreign nationals must have relevant education and experience in banking or finance.

2. Professional services: Foreign nationals looking to work in professional services industries such as accounting, law, or engineering may need special licenses or certifications from their home country.

3. Education: Teachers and other educational professionals must meet specific qualifications and possess a valid teaching license to work in Malaysia.

4. Healthcare: Medical practitioners must be registered with the Malaysian Medical Council and meet the requirements set by the Ministry of Health.

5. Oil and Gas industry: Foreign workers employed in this industry need to have specific skills and experience related to oil and gas operations. They may also need to pass a medical examination and obtain an Offshore Petroleum Work Permit.

6. Entertainment industry: Workers in the entertainment industry, such as performers or artists, may need to provide proof of their artistic abilities and obtain clearance from the National Film Development Corporation (FINAS).

It is important to check with your potential employer or the relevant government agencies for any additional requirements that may apply to your specific industry before applying for a work permit in Malaysia.

15. Can my family members accompany me on my Malaysian work visa?


Yes, your immediate family members (spouse and children) can accompany you to Malaysia on your work visa. However, they will need to apply for their own respective visas in order to enter the country. They may also be subject to certain eligibility criteria and documentation requirements.

16.Can I travel outside of Malaysia while on my temporary employment pass (work permit)?


No, you are not allowed to travel outside of Malaysia while on a temporary employment pass (work permit) unless you have obtained prior permission from the Malaysian Immigration Department. Leaving the country without proper authorization may result in your work permit being revoked and difficulties in re-entering Malaysia for work purposes. It is important to consult with your employer and the relevant government authorities before making any travel plans.

17.What happens if I lose my job while working in Malaysia on a temporary employment pass?


If you lose your job while working in Malaysia on a temporary employment pass, you must inform the Immigration Department of Malaysia and cancel your pass within 14 days. You will also need to find new employment within 6 months or leave the country. If you are unable to find new employment or leave the country within this time frame, you may face legal consequences including fines, deportation, and a ban from returning to Malaysia. It is important to follow the proper procedures and keep all relevant documents updated during this time.

18.Is it possible to apply for permanent residency in Malaysia through my temporary employment pass (work permit)?

No, temporary employment pass (work permit) holders are not eligible to apply for permanent residency in Malaysia. The government offers the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program for foreign nationals who wish to retire or live in the country long-term, and this program does not require a work permit. Additionally, there are other criteria and requirements that must be met in order to be eligible for Malaysian permanent residency.

19.What are the consequences of overstaying or working without appropriate visas in Malaysia?


The consequences of overstaying or working without appropriate visas in Malaysia can include the following:

1. Deportation: Non-Malaysian nationals who overstay or work without proper visas in Malaysia are subject to deportation. This means being forced to leave the country and being barred from re-entering for a certain period of time.

2. Fines: If caught, individuals may be fined for overstaying or working without the requisite visa. The amount of the fine varies depending on the duration of their overstay or their work violation.

3. Blacklisting: Overstaying or working without proper visas can result in individuals being blacklisted by Malaysian authorities. This means that they will not be allowed to enter Malaysia again for a specified period of time, which could range anywhere from 1 year to 10 years.

4. Legal action: Working in Malaysia without a valid work permit is considered a criminal offense and may result in legal action, including imprisonment.

5. Limitations on future travel: Having an immigration record for overstaying or working without proper visas can create difficulties when applying for visas to other countries in the future.

6. Difficulty obtaining legal status: Overstaying or working illegally may hinder any attempts to obtain legal status in Malaysia through employment or other means.

7. Loss of employment opportunities: Foreigners who have worked illegally in Malaysia may face difficulty finding future employment as local employers are required by law to check immigration status before hiring any foreign worker.

It is important for individuals to ensure that they have the appropriate visas and permissions before entering and working in Malaysia to avoid these potential consequences.

20.How can I renew my temporary employment pass and how long can it be renewed for?

To renew a temporary employment pass, the employer needs to submit an application to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) at least 2 months before the pass expires. The application can be submitted online through the EP Online portal.

The duration of the renewal will depend on MOM’s assessment of the employment and business needs, as well as the worker’s performance. In general, temporary employment passes can be renewed for up to a maximum of 2 years.

Employers are required to submit supporting documents such as a valid employment contract and proof of sufficient salary and benefits for the employee. They may also need to provide updates on any changes in their business or workforce requirements.

It is important to note that renewal is not guaranteed and approval will be subject to MOM’s discretion and assessment. As such, employers are advised to apply for a renewal in a timely manner and ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and guidelines.