Visas & Permits
As a foreigner entering Malaysia, you will need to have the following documents:
- Valid passport or travel document with at least six months validity from date of entry
- Visa (if applicable)
- Visit pass
VISA
A visa may be required for citizens of some countries. If you require a visa to enter Malaysia, you must obtain it in advance at any Malaysian Representative Office abroad before entering the country.
VISIT PASS
A visit pass is an endorsement in the passport constituting permission to stay for an approved duration. Other than applications to enter the country for social or business purposes, all applications for other types of passes must be made before arrival in the country. There are seven types of passes that may be applied:
i. Visit Pass (Social) Short Term
This pass is issued to foreigners for the purpose of a social and/or business visit only and cannot be used for employment or for supervising the installation of new machinery or the construction of a factory.
ii. Visit Pass (Social) Long Term
This pass may be issued to foreigners for temporary stay in Malaysia for a period of not less than six months. Extensions may be given based on eligibility.
iii. Visit Pass (Temporary Employment)
This is issued to foreigners who enter the country to take up employment for less than 24 months.
iv. Employment Pass
For foreigners taking up employment for a minimum period of two years, this pass is issued after the applicant has obtained the approval for expatriate post from the relevant authorised agencies.
v. Visit Pass (Professional)
This is issued to foreigners for the purpose of engaging on short-term contract with any agency.
vi. Dependant Pass
This is issued for the families of expatriates. It may be applied together with the application for an employment pass or after the employment pass is issued.
vii. Student Pass
This is issued to foreigners who wish to study in Malaysia.
BRINGING IN FAMILY
If you already have an Employment Pass or are submitting an application for an Employment Pass, you can apply for a Dependant Pass for your spouse and children under the age of 21. This pass allows your spouse to work without having to change to an Employment Pass, provided he/she has acquired working approval from the Immigration Department.
FURTHER READING
MIDA – Immigration Procedures
Malaysia’s Visa Requirements
Malaysia Visa Requirements by Expat Go Malaysia