Malaysia Work Permit
Malaysia offers various work permit pathways to foreign nationals seeking employment in the country. These work permits are generally tied to specific job offers and depend on the type of employment, skill level, and employer sponsorship. The most common work permits are the *Employment Pass (EP), **Temporary Employment Pass, and **Professional Visit Pass*. Here’s a breakdown of each pathway along with eligibility, requirements, and process.
1. Employment Pass (EP) – For Skilled Workers and Professionals
The Employment Pass (EP) is the primary work permit for foreign nationals intending to work in Malaysia in skilled positions. The EP is usually for positions that require higher education qualifications or specialized skills.
Eligibility Criteria
– The applicant must have a job offer from a Malaysian employer.
– The job must require a minimum qualification, such as a degree or professional certification.
– The salary must meet the minimum threshold set by the government (usually around MYR 5,000 per month or more, depending on the job and industry).
– The applicant must possess relevant work experience and qualifications for the role.
Requirements
– Valid job offer from a Malaysian employer.
– A degree, diploma, or relevant educational certificate.
– Relevant work experience (if applicable).
– Passport with a minimum of six months of validity.
– Medical examination (if required).
– Health insurance coverage.
End-to-End Process
1. Job Offer: Secure a job offer from a Malaysian employer.
2. Employer’s Responsibility: The employer will apply for an Employment Pass (EP) through the Expatriate Services Division (ESD), which is a government platform that processes foreign worker applications.
3. Approval by Immigration Department: The application will be assessed, and if approved, the Employment Pass is issued.
4. Visa Stamping: The applicant will be issued an entry visa to enter Malaysia, which will be stamped upon arrival at the immigration office.
5. Registration & Biometrics: After entering Malaysia, the applicant will need to undergo biometric registration to get their Malaysia Identification Card (MyKad) and other relevant identification for foreign workers.
Processing Time
– Total Processing Time: 1-2 months (depending on the sector, complexity, and approval time by ESD and the Immigration Department).
COST BREAKDOWN
| Fee Type | Cost Estimate (MYR) |
|---|---|
| Employment Pass Application Fee | MYR 100 – MYR 300 |
| Visa Fee | MYR 200 – MYR 300 |
| Medical Examination Fee | MYR 150 – MYR 250 |
| Employer’s Processing Fee | MYR 500 – MYR 1,500 |
| Total Estimated Cost | MYR 1,000 – MYR 2,500 |
2. Temporary Employment Pass – For Low-Skilled Workers
The Temporary Employment Pass is intended for foreign workers in lower-skilled jobs, typically in industries such as construction, agriculture, and domestic work.
Eligibility Criteria
– The applicant must have a job offer in a low-skilled sector (construction, services, etc.).
– The applicant must meet specific health standards and work experience requirements, if applicable.
– The job offer should be from an employer that is authorized to hire foreign workers.
Requirements
– Job offer from an authorized employer.
– Passport with a minimum of six months validity.
– Relevant work experience (if required).
– Health screening and medical certificate.
End-to-End Process
1. Job Offer: The foreign worker must first receive a job offer from a Malaysian employer.
2. Employer’s Application: The employer submits the application for the Temporary Employment Pass to the Immigration Department of Malaysia.
3. Approval: Once approved by the Immigration Department, the applicant receives the work permit.
4. Entry Visa: The employee can enter Malaysia on the approved work visa.
5. Registration: After entering Malaysia, the employee must undergo a medical check-up and complete any other registration requirements.
COST BREAKDOWN
| Fee Type | Cost Estimate (MYR) |
|---|---|
| Temporary Employment Pass Fee | MYR 100 – MYR 200 |
| Visa Application Fee | MYR 150 – MYR 300 |
| Medical Checkup Fee | MYR 150 – MYR 250 |
| Employer’s Processing Fee | MYR 500 – MYR 1,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | MYR 1,000 – MYR 1,750 |
Processing Time
– Total Processing Time: 2-4 weeks.
3. Professional Visit Pass – For Short-Term Employment
The Professional Visit Pass is for foreign nationals who are visiting Malaysia for a short period to carry out specific professional services or assignments (usually under 12 months).
Eligibility Criteria
– The applicant must have a valid contract or professional assignment with a Malaysian employer.
– The duration of stay must be limited to less than 12 months.
– The applicant should be hired for professional work, such as consulting, technical training, or other expertise-related roles.
Requirements
– A formal contract or letter of engagement from the Malaysian employer.
– Proof of qualifications and professional expertise.
– Passport with at least six months of validity.
– Medical examination (if necessary).
End-to-End Process
1. Job Offer/Contract: The applicant must have a formal contract or assignment with a Malaysian employer.
2. Application Submission: The employer submits the application for the Professional Visit Pass through the Immigration Department.
3. Approval: Once the application is approved, the applicant will be issued a visa to enter Malaysia.
4. Short-Term Work: The applicant can then work in Malaysia under the conditions set by the Professional Visit Pass.
COST BREAKDOWN
| Fee Type | Cost Estimate (MYR) |
|---|---|
| Professional Visit Pass Application Fee | MYR 100 – MYR 300 |
| Visa Fee | MYR 150 – MYR 200 |
| Medical Test (if applicable) | MYR 150 – MYR 250 |
| Employer’s Processing Fee | MYR 500 – MYR 1,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | MYR 1,000 – MYR 1,750 |
Processing Time
– Total Processing Time: 2-4 weeks (if all documents are in order).
4. Cost of Living and Miscellaneous Expenses
In addition to the work permit costs, employees must also account for the cost of living, which is relatively affordable in Malaysia compared to other Southeast Asian countries. Here are some key expenses that foreign workers might encounter:
– Accommodation: MYR 1,000 – MYR 3,000/month (depending on location and type).
– Food and Transportation: MYR 500 – MYR 1,000/month.
– Health Insurance: MYR 500 – MYR 1,000 (required for foreigners).
Conclusion
The process for obtaining a work permit in Malaysia varies depending on the type of employment (skilled or low-skilled) and the visa category chosen. The Employment Pass (EP) is for skilled workers, the Temporary Employment Pass is for low-skilled workers, and the Professional Visit Pass is for short-term work engagements. The total costs typically range from MYR 1,000 to MYR 2,500, depending on the type of visa and additional employer or medical processing fees.
The overall processing time typically takes between 2 to 4 weeks for temporary work permits, while the Employment Pass can take 1 to 2 months. Always check with your employer or the official immigration department for the latest requirements and updates, as immigration policies may change over time.