Malaysia is a prime destination for foreign professionals, offering a vibrant business environment, a strategic location in Southeast Asia, and numerous opportunities across various industries. However, navigating the work visa application process can be complex, with strict compliance requirements and evolving immigration policies.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of applying for a work visa in Malaysia and show you how Amaze Advisory’s immigration visa and global mobility services can streamline the process for businesses and expatriates.
Types of Work Visas in Malaysia
Before applying for a work visa, it’s essential to determine the right type of visa based on your job role and eligibility. The three main types of work visas in Malaysia are:
- Employment Pass (EP):
For highly skilled professionals earning a minimum monthly salary of RM5,000 and holding key positions in a company. - Professional Visit Pass (PVP):
For foreign professionals on short-term assignments (up to 12 months) with a Malaysian company. - Dependent Pass (DP) & Long-Term Social Visit Pass (LTSVP):
For spouses and children of Employment Pass holders.
Each visa type has different eligibility criteria, processing times, and required documentation. Amaze Advisory can assist businesses in selecting the right visa for their foreign employees, ensuring full compliance with Malaysia’s immigration laws.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Work Visa in Malaysia
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
To qualify for a Malaysian Employment Pass (EP), the applicant must:
- Have a confirmed job offer from a Malaysian-registered company.
- Earn a minimum monthly salary of RM5,000 (varies by industry and job role).
- Possess the necessary qualifications and experience for the role.
- Work in an industry approved for foreign hires by Malaysia’s immigration authorities.
Step 2: Company Registration and Approval
Before hiring foreign employees, the Malaysian employer must be registered with the Expatriate Services Division (ESD) or the relevant regulatory body.
- Companies must obtain approval to hire expatriates in specific job categories.
- Businesses in regulated industries (e.g., finance, education) may require additional approvals.
Step 3: Submit Work Visa Application
Once the company is approved to hire foreign talent, the employer submits a work visa application to the ESD or relevant authority.
Required documents include:
- Copy of the applicant’s passport
- Employment contract and job offer letter
- Academic qualifications and relevant work experience
- Company’s business profile and financial records
How Amaze Advisory Helps: Our immigration team ensures that all required documents are prepared accurately, minimizing delays and avoiding rejections due to missing information.
Step 4: Work Visa Processing and Approval
The processing time for a work visa can take from 1 month to 3 months, depending on the visa type and approval complexity.
- The Immigration Department conducts background checks and verifies documents.
- Once approved, the Employment Pass (EP) is issued, and the expatriate can legally work in Malaysia.
- The visa must be endorsed in the passport before the applicant enters Malaysia.
Amaze Advisory’s global mobility team tracks the entire visa process, keeping businesses updated and ensuring a hassle-free approval.
Step 5: Entry into Malaysia and Final Endorsement
After receiving visa approval, the expatriate must enter Malaysia and complete the final endorsement at the immigration office.
- Medical check-ups may be required, depending on the applicant’s nationality.
- The visa sticker is affixed to the passport, officially allowing the individual to start work.
- Employers must ensure ongoing compliance with Malaysian immigration laws.
Amaze Advisory handles the entire visa endorsement process, from arrival arrangements to compliance reporting, making the transition smooth for both employers and employees.
Why Choose Amaze Advisory for Work Visa & Immigration Services?
At Amaze Advisory, we specialize in helping businesses seamlessly hire foreign talent while ensuring full compliance with Malaysia’s immigration laws.
- End-to-End Visa Processing:
We manage the entire application process, reducing administrative burdens. - Regulatory Compliance:
Our experts stay updated with Malaysia’s latest immigration policies, ensuring your applications meet all requirements. - Faster Approvals:
We streamline document preparation and submission to avoid unnecessary delays. - Dedicated Support:
Our global mobility consultants provide personalized assistance for businesses and expatriates.
Whether you are a company looking to hire foreign talent or an expatriate seeking hassle-free work visa approval, Amaze Advisory is your trusted partner for immigration and visa services in Malaysia.
Start Your Work Visa Application Today!
Applying for a work visa in Malaysia doesn’t have to be complicated. Let Amaze Advisory take care of the process so you can focus on growing your business.
Contact us today to learn more about our immigration visa and global mobility solutions!
