Malaysia Visa Fees Increase: What You Need to Know About Employment Pass and More

Impending Changes to Malaysia's Visa Fees

Malaysia is set to increase visa fees for foreign workers and expatriates starting September 1, 2024. The rise comes as part of new regulations announced by the MYXpats Centre, which operates under the Immigration Department's Expatriate Services Division.

Details of the Fee Hike

• Employment Pass (EP): New fee is MYR 2,000 (up from MYR 800).
• Dependent Pass: New fee is MYR 500 (up from MYR 450).
• Long Term Social Visit Pass: New fee is MYR 500 (up from MYR 450).
• Professional Visit Pass: New fee is MYR 1,200 (up from MYR 800).

Overview of Visa Types

The Employment Pass allows expatriates to work in Malaysia and can last up to 60 months based on the employment contract. Holders may apply for a Dependent Pass for their family members. Meanwhile, the Professional Visit Pass allows qualified foreign professionals to undertake training and provide services in Malaysia for a year. Also, the Long Term Social Visit Pass is available for temporary stays of at least six months, allowing spouses of Malaysian citizens to work without changing to an Employment Pass.

Processing Time Reduction

In a move to streamline procedures, the Immigration Department has also reduced the application processing time from five working days to three for Tier 1, Tier 2, and Critical Sector companies, ensuring faster turnaround for expatriate applications.