Malaysia Work Visa Categories Explained: Which One Do You Need

Malaysia is a thriving business hub in Southeast Asia, attracting expatriates and companies looking to expand their operations. However, before working in Malaysia, foreign professionals must obtain the right work visa to comply with the country’s immigration laws. Understanding Malaysia’s work visa categories is essential for both employers and employees to ensure a smooth and legal employment process.

In this guide, we will break down the different types of Malaysia work visas, their eligibility requirements, and how Amaze Advisory’s immigration visa and global mobility services can simplify the application process for businesses and expatriates.

Types of Work Visas in Malaysia

Malaysia offers different types of work visas based on the nature and duration of employment. The three primary work visa categories are:
  1. Employment Pass (EP) – For highly skilled professionals.
  2. Professional Visit Pass (PVP) – For short-term foreign assignments.
  3. Temporary Employment Pass (TEP) – For lower-skilled foreign workers.
Each visa type has different requirements and approval processes. Choosing the right one is crucial for compliance with Malaysian immigration laws.

1. Employment Pass (EP) – For Highly Skilled Professionals

The Employment Pass (EP) is designed for highly skilled foreign professionals working in managerial, technical, or highly specialized roles.

  • Senior executives, managers, engineers, IT specialists, and other skilled professionals.
  • Foreigners working in Malaysian companies, multinational corporations (MNCs), or startups.
  • Must have a valid job offer from a registered Malaysian company.
  • Minimum monthly salary: RM5,000 (varies by industry and job category).
  • Relevant qualifications and work experience.
  • Category I: Salary of RM10,000 and above
  • Category II: Salary between RM5,000 – RM9,999
  • Category III: Salary between RM3,000 – RM4,999

Amaze Advisory assists businesses in securing Employment Pass approvals efficiently, handling documentation, submission, and compliance management.

2. Professional Visit Pass (PVP) – For Short-Term Assignments

The Professional Visit Pass (PVP) is for foreign professionals on short-term assignments in Malaysia.

  • Foreign specialists, consultants, trainers, technical experts, or service providers.
  • Professionals engaged in short-term projects or collaborations with Malaysian companies.
  • Valid for up to 12 months (non-renewable).
  • Must remain employed by a foreign company (not a Malaysian entity).
  • Requires a sponsoring Malaysian company to submit the application.

Amaze Advisory helps businesses arrange Professional Visit Pass applications, ensuring quick approvals for short-term expatriate engagements.

3. Temporary Employment Pass (TEP) – For Lower-Skilled Workers

The Temporary Employment Pass (TEP) is for foreign workers in low-skilled jobs, primarily in industries like construction, manufacturing, plantation, agriculture, and domestic work.

  • Foreign workers in approved sectors requiring manpower from specific source countries.
  • Only open to workers from approved countries (e.g., Indonesia, Bangladesh, Nepal).
  • Valid for up to 2 years, subject to renewal.
  • Employers must obtain approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs and other relevant agencies.

Amaze Advisory assists businesses in securing TEP approvals, ensuring full compliance with Malaysia’s labor and immigration laws.

How to Choose the Right Malaysia Work Visa

Choosing the right work visa depends on:

  • Nature of the job – Permanent, contract-based, or short-term assignment?
  • Salary level and experience – Do you meet the minimum salary threshold?
  • Employment structure – Are you hired directly by a Malaysian company or seconded by a foreign employer?

If you’re unsure about which visa you need, Amaze Advisory’s immigration consultants can provide expert guidance and handle the application process for you.

Why Choose Amaze Advisory for Work Visa & Immigration Services?

At Amaze Advisory, we specialize in end-to-end work visa processing for businesses and expatriates.

  • Hassle-Free Visa Application:
    We manage documentation, submission, and approvals.
  • Compliance with Immigration Laws:
    We stay updated with Malaysia’s immigration policies.
  • Faster Approvals:
    We ensure proper documentation to avoid unnecessary delays or rejections.
  • Dedicated Support:
    Our global mobility experts assist businesses and expatriates at every step.

Whether you are an employer hiring foreign talent or an expatriate planning to work in Malaysia, Amaze Advisory makes the visa application process seamless and stress-free.

Get Expert Assistance for Your Work Visa in Malaysia!

Applying for a Malaysia work visa doesn’t have to be complicated. Let Amaze Advisory handle the entire process so you can focus on your business and career.

Contact us today to learn more about our immigration visa and global mobility solutions!

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the most current regulations or legal developments. We recommend consulting with a professional or official government resources for the latest updates. Amaze Advisory is not liable for any inaccuracies or actions taken based on this article.
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