Foreign individuals intending to work in Malaysia, especially for professional or high-skilled capacity jobs must obtain a Malaysian Employment Pass (EP). To get such a permit, there is a need to first secure employment with a Malaysian employer.
The Malaysian government issues the Employment Pass among various types of work permits. Prior to obtaining an Employment Pass, the employer must obtain approval from the Director General to hire the foreign individual. As a matter of fact persuat 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. So as to ensure that you stay well-informed on the evolving landscape of work visas in Malaysia.
What criterias make you eligible for a Malaysia EP?
In order to be eligible and have a Malaysian EP, you must meet the following criteria.
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:
Malaysia EP Category 1
Category 1 of the Malaysia Employment Pass (EP) targets key leadership positions. This includes executives, CEOs, technical or managing directors, project managers, and similar roles.
To qualify, you need a minimum monthly salary of RM10,000 and a five-year work contract.
You have the option to renew the EP, and you can also choose to hire a Foreign Domestic Helper.
Category 2 encompasses managerial and professional roles within an organization, including marketing or investment managers, lecturers, directors, architects, and others.
For this category, you must earn between RM5,000 to RM9,999 monthly, and hold a two-year work contract.
You have the option to renew the EP, and you can also choose to hire a Foreign Domestic Helper.
Malaysia EP Category 2
Malaysia EP Category 3
This category is for non-executive positions that need significant work experience and specific technical or practical skills. Such as designers (fashion, manufacturing, furniture), craftsmen, food technologists, and more.
To qualify, you’ll need a monthly salary between RM3,000 and RM4,999, and a work contract up to two years.
Be aware however, that the EP has a renewal limit of two times, and hiring a Foreign Domestic Helper is not allowed under this category.
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, meeting the qualifications, experience, and salary requirements.
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, and employment contract. Along with 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.
You can do this electronically through the appropriate online portal. But first, your employer has to ensure the requirements by the Ministry of Home Affairs – Immigration Department of Malaysia.
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 wish to hire foreigners under a Malaysian company, you must prove why they’re important to the position to the authorities. As well as how the chosen foreigners can contribute to the position.
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. Where you will need the following documents to apply for your employment pass in Malaysia.
6) Application processing
You must await the processing of your EP application by the respective agency. New applicants must stay outside of Malaysia until approval. The processing time varies, but it’ll typically take 4 to 8 weeks to receive a decision upon submitting all documents.
7) Entry visa
If you’re outside Malaysia, you will need to apply for an entry visa/Visa with Reference first. You can do this at the Malaysian Embassy or Consulate in your home country before your travel 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.
Starting 1 March 2023, all EP holders of any category can now complete their endorsement at ESD Satellite Centre (ESC). Which is located at Kuala Lumpur International Airport 1 (KLIA1). Applicants need to provide the Confirmation Letter for endorsement.
If unsuccessful, you can complete your endorsement in person at service centers outside KLIA1.
And once you’ve received the sticker on your passport, the employment pass endorsement will be completed. After all these steps, you can enter and exit Malaysia anytime until your visa expires.
Advantages of Having a Malaysia Employment Pass
Work Visa Holders & Dependent Pass
Good news! Most Employment Pass holders (Category 1 & 2) can relocate with family.
Parents, spouses and children under 21 (including those legally adopted) can join you. With either a Dependent Pass or a Long-Term Social Visit Pass (valid for up to 5 years). However, those with a Category 3 Malaysian EP are ineligible for Dependent Passes or Long-Term Social Visit Passes.
What are the other types of work Visas in Malaysia?
There are 4 other types of work visas in Malaysia. You can choose your work visa in Malaysia based on your skills and duration of work.
Your Questions, Answered
Moving to Malaysia can be daunting if you’re not familiar with the visa processes – here are the top questions regarding work visa and Employmeny Pass applications that will clear your doubts!
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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. We offer personalized guidance and support tailored to your needs for Malaysia EP application. No matter if you’re an employer seeking to sponsor foreign talent, or an individual looking to secure work in Malaysia. We understand the complexities involved and our goal is to simplify it for you, offering clarity and peace of mind.