Planning to work in Malaysia in 2025? Malaysia is one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing economies and attracts professionals from around the world. From modern cities like Kuala Lumpur to thriving industries in technology construction and healthcare Malaysia offers excellent job opportunities for foreigners. However to legally work in the country you must understand the Malaysia work visa process in 2025.
This guide explains the types of Malaysian work visas eligibility criteria required documents and a step-by-step application process to help you get started smoothly
Types of Malaysia Work Visas in 2025
Malaysia offers several types of work visas depending on your profession contract duration and salary. The most common types are
Employment Pass (EP)
This is for skilled professionals with a job offer from a Malaysian company. The position must meet salary and qualification requirements
Categories of Employment Pass
- Category I Monthly salary of RM 10000 or more
- Category II Monthly salary between RM 5000 and RM 9999
- Category III Salary between RM 3000 and RM 4999 (maximum validity of 12 months renewable twice)
Temporary Employment Pass
Issued for unskilled or semi-skilled workers in sectors like manufacturing agriculture construction and domestic work
Professional Visit Pass
For foreigners working in Malaysia on short-term contracts (up to 12 months) including consultants researchers and technicians
Who Needs a Work Visa for Malaysia?
If you are not a Malaysian citizen or permanent resident and you want to work in Malaysia legally you must apply for a work visa. Your Malaysian employer will usually apply on your behalf before you enter the country
Malaysia Work Visa Eligibility Criteria 2025
To be eligible for a Malaysia work visa in 2025 you must
- Have a valid job offer from a registered Malaysian company
- Have relevant qualifications and work experience
- Meet the minimum salary requirement
- Your position must fall under the approved job categories
- Pass medical and background checks
- The employer must get approval from Malaysia’s Expatriate Committee (EC) or relevant authority
Documents Required for Malaysia Work Visa
Your employer and you will need to prepare several documents
From the Employer
- Job offer letter or employment contract
- Application form for Employment Pass
- Company registration documents
- Justification letter for hiring a foreigner
- Approval letter from the Expatriate Committee (if required)
From the Employee
- Copy of passport (valid for at least 18 months)
- Updated resume or CV
- Educational certificates
- Passport-size photos
- Medical report (approved by Malaysian Ministry of Health)
- Personal bond form
All documents should be in English or Malay. Some may need to be certified or notarized
Step-by-Step Malaysia Work Visa Process 2025
Here is a clear breakdown of how to apply for a Malaysia work visa in 2025
Step 1 Get a Job Offer
Secure a valid job offer from a company in Malaysia. The position must be eligible for foreign hiring and meet salary criteria
Step 2 Employer Applies for Approval
Your employer must apply to the Expatriate Committee (EC) or relevant agency (e.g. MDEC for tech jobs) for permission to hire you
Step 3 Apply for Employment Pass (EP)
Once approved the employer applies for your Employment Pass through the Malaysia Expatriate Services Division (ESD) online portal
Step 4 Receive Visa Approval Letter (VAL)
Once your EP application is accepted you’ll receive a Visa Approval Letter (VAL). You must present this to the Malaysian embassy in your country
Step 5 Apply for Entry Visa
Visit the Malaysian embassy or consulate in your country with your VAL to get an entry visa to travel to Malaysia
Step 6 Enter Malaysia and Receive EP Sticker
After arriving in Malaysia visit the Immigration Department with your employer. You will be issued an Employment Pass sticker in your passport
Malaysia Work Visa Processing Time
The full process may take 4 to 8 weeks depending on the job type government approvals and documentation quality
- Expatriate Committee Approval 1 to 2 weeks
- Employment Pass Processing 1 to 3 weeks
- Entry Visa from Embassy 5 to 10 working days
Malaysia Work Visa Fees 2025
Visa fees vary depending on the visa type and job category. Common charges include
- Employment Pass Fee RM 200 to RM 500 per year
- Processing Fee RM 125 to RM 300
- Visa with Reference (VDR) RM 15 to RM 90 (depends on nationality)
- Medical check-up (in some cases) RM 100 to RM 200
Can You Bring Your Family?
Yes. If you have an Employment Pass (Category I or II) you can apply for Dependent Passes for your spouse and children under 18
They can stay in Malaysia with you for the same duration as your work visa. However your spouse cannot work unless they apply for a separate work visa
Rights of Work Visa Holders in Malaysia
With a valid work visa you can
- Live and work legally in Malaysia
- Open a bank account
- Use public and private healthcare
- Send your children to school
- Apply for a local driving license
- Travel in and out of Malaysia freely
Reasons for Work Visa Rejection
Common reasons why work visa applications get rejected
- Incomplete documents
- Fake educational certificates
- Employer not registered with ESD
- Job doesn’t meet salary or eligibility requirements
- Medical check failed
- Criminal record
Tips for a Successful Application
- Ensure your job offer meets the minimum salary and position level
- Submit clear and certified documents
- Apply early at least 2 months before your planned move
- Choose an employer familiar with the work visa process
- Double-check passport validity (should be valid for 18 months or more)
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