Foreign individuals intending to work in Malaysia, especially for jobs within professional or high-skilled capacity must obtain a work permit. To get such permit, there is a need to first secure employment with a Malaysian employer. The Employment Pass is among the various types of work permits issued by the Malaysian government. Prior to obtaining an Employment Pass, the employer must obtain approval from the Director General to hire the foreign individual, pursuant to Section 60K of the Malaysian Employment Act 1955.
Explore our comprehensive guides on eligibility criteria, application documents, and processing timelines to understand the EP application process inside out. We also provide insights into the latest updates and changes in immigration policies, ensuring that you stay well-informed on the evolving landscape of work visas in Malaysia.
What are the types of work Visas in Malaysia?
Choose from the 4 types of work visas in Malaysia based on your skills and duration of work.
The Malaysia Employment Pass (EP)
There are three distinct categories of the EP in Malaysia to cater to different professional roles and skill levels within a company. Here is an overview of each category and its specific requirements:
Work Visa Holders & Dependent Pass
Work visa holders can bring their family members into Malaysia via a Dependent Pass. Eligible family members include:
- Spouse
- Parents
- Children under 21 years old
- Legally Adopted Children
We understand the importance of matching the right work permit to your professional role and aspirations. Feel free to explore our website for more detailed information on each category, including application procedures, required documents, and additional guidelines. Our team is here to provide expert guidance and support throughout your EP application process, ensuring a smooth and successful journey toward securing your desired employment in Malaysia.
Steps to Apply for Employment Pass in Malaysia
To apply for an EP in Malaysia, these are the general steps:
1) Eligibility Determination
The Applicant must ensure he fulfills the eligibility criteria for the EP category that the Applicant intends to apply for. This includes having a job offer from a Malaysian company, possessing the required qualifications and experience, and meeting the salary threshold.
2) Obtain a job offer
Secure a job offer from a Malaysian employer who will act as the Applicant’s sponsor throughout the EP application process. Similarly, the Applicant can also become his own sponsor of EP should he incorporate his own company in Malaysia.
3) Pre-application documentation
Prepare the necessary documents, which typically include your passport, educational certificates, resume/CV, employment contract, and any other supporting documents requested by the authorities.
4) Employer’s application
Your Employer (sponsor) will submit the EP application on your behalf to the relevant government-approved agency based on the sector. This can be done electronically through the appropriate online portal. Before that, your employer will need to ensure the following requirements by the Ministry of Home Affairs – Immigration Department of Malaysia are satisfied:
The company then needs to apply for an “expatriate post” at one of the following government agencies:
Prior approval is needed as the Malaysian government currently has strict regulations imposed on the number of foreign workers that a Malaysian-based company can employ.
If you intend to hire foreigners under a Malaysian company, they are required to prove to the authority why the chosen foreigners are important to the position and how can they contribute.
The companies will also need to state reasons why a local is unable to fill the position. Before proceeding with the Malaysia employment pass application, companies must request a quota from the Immigration Department.
5) Supporting documents
Ensure that all required supporting documents, such as company registration documents, business profiles, and financial statements, are submitted along with the application. To apply for your employment pass in Malaysia, the following documents are required:
6) Application processing
Await the processing of your EP application by the respective agency. If you are a new Applicant, you will need to stay outside of Malaysia, until your application is approved. The processing time can vary, but it typically takes 4 to 8 weeks to receive a decision, upon submission of full documents.
7) Entry visa
If you are outside of Malaysia, you will need to apply for an entry visa/ Visa with Reference at the Malaysian Embassy or Consulate in your home country before traveling to Malaysia.
8) EP endorsement
Upon arrival in Malaysia, the Applicant’s Employer will assist the Applicant in obtaining the EP endorsement on his passport from the Immigration Department. This step formalises the Applicant’s legal status as an EP holder. These are a few of the steps needed to be taken:
NOTE: You will still have to submit your passport to the officer at MYXpats – this means that the person whom you grant the rights to assist with this process should be someone you trust. The appointment date should be more than 5 working days after you have made payment.
From 1 March 2023 onwards, all foreign professionals holding the Employment Pass (Categories I, II, III) can now complete their endorsement at ESD Satellite Centre (ESC), Kuala Lumpur International Airport 1 (KLIA1). Applicants need to provide the Confirmation Letter for endorsement.
If unsuccessful, endorsement will be done over the counter at the service centres outside of KLIA1.
The employment pass endorsement will be completed once you have received the sticker on your passport. After all these steps, you can enter and exit Malaysia anytime until your visa expires.
Advantages of Having a Malaysia Employment Pass
Expert Guides on Malaysia Employment Pass
Access in-depth guides on all-things work visas to make your move to Malaysia a seamless and stress-free one with our articles, written from our years of experience.
Our Malaysia Employment Pass Services
Our dedicated team of professionals is here to make the process smooth and hassle-free for both employers and employees. Whether you are an employer seeking to sponsor foreign talent or an individual looking to secure an EP, we provide personalized guidance and support tailored to your needs. We understand the complexities involved and our goal is to simplify it for you, offering clarity and peace of mind.
Trusted by many of our clients globally, these qualities are assured by us: