Company Visa Registrations
- ESD Company Registration – Companies have to be registered under ESD and meet their criteria before they are eligible to submit any visa applications.
- MDEC ICT Company Registration – Similar to ESD registration and only applies to companies designated under ICT sector.
- IRDA Company Registration – Companies located within the Iskandar Malaysia region, which includes areas such as Johor Bahru and Iskandar Puteri.
- Other Licenses – Specifically for businesses that fall under these categories, specialized licenses have to be applied before they are eligible to apply for any type of visa.
- Wholesale Retail and Trade Business License Registration – For WRT businesses only.
- Construction Industry Development Board License Registration – For construction industry only.
Type of Visa
| Visa Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Employment Pass (EP) | For employees who have a specific skill set (usually technical or managerial) EP Malaysia is available in Category I, II and III. Certain categories are also eligible to apply for Dependant Pass and Long Term Social Visit Pass. |
| Temporary Employment Pass | A Temporary Employment Pass for Malaysia is issued to semi-skilled or unskilled workers in certain approved sectors. (Construction, Plantation, Agriculture, etc…) |
| Professional Visit Pass (PVP) | A Professional Visit Pass (PVP) is required for all foreign talent and skilled workforce visiting Malaysia to provide consultancy, overseeing technical work, installing machinery and various other types of work whereby they will not be salaried in Malaysia. A Professional Visit Pass (PVP) is a short term working pass valid up to a maximum of 12 months. |
Type of Employment Pass
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a work visa in Malaysia, applicants must meet specific requirements, including:
- Skills and Qualifications: Relevant skills and qualifications for the job.
- Job Offer: A valid job offer from a Malaysian employer.
- Educational Background: A degree or relevant experience in the field.
- Health and Character Checks: Must pass health examinations and police checks.
Application Process
The application process for a work visa involves several steps:
- Employer Sponsorship: The Malaysian employer must sponsor the visa application.
- Visa Application: The employer submits a visa application through the Expatriate Services Division (ESD) online portal.
- Documentation: Provide supporting documents, such as proof of qualifications, work experience, and health clearances.
- Visa Issuance: Upon approval, the visa is issued, allowing the applicant to enter Malaysia.
Processing Times
The processing time for work visas varies depending on the type of visa and the complexity of the application. On average, it takes between 1 to 3 months. Applicants should ensure all documentation is complete to avoid delays.
Compliance and Legal Requirements
Employers and employees must comply with all visa conditions to avoid penalties and ensure legal employment in Malaysia. Key compliance requirements include:
- Maintaining Valid Visa: Ensure the visa remains valid for the duration of employment.
- Reporting Changes: Employers must report any changes in employment conditions to the Expatriate Services Division.
- Adhering to Visa Conditions: Employees must adhere to the terms of their visa, such as not engaging in unauthorized work.
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Securing a work visa in Malaysia requires understanding the different visa options, eligibility requirements, and application process. By following the guidelines and ensuring compliance, foreign workers and their employers can successfully navigate the visa process and build a successful career in Malaysia.
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Please note that all the information listed below are to be used as a general guideline. For more detailed accounts of Malaysia employment laws and regulations, please visit the official governmental websites.
Updated on: April 2025
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