Malaysia has introduced changes to the Employment Pass application process. This is a major update that will impact the lives of many expats. Find out why the Employment Pass is so popular in Malaysia and how to get one

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Foreign nationals who want to work in Malaysia need a Malaysian work visa.

Employment Pass is one of the types of work permits issued by the Malaysian government. Given that the Malaysian Immigration Department has recently introduced new rules for foreign workers holding an Employment Pass (EP Malaysia), now is the best time to find out what the rules are for obtaining an Employment Pass in Malaysia and what has changed for expats in 2025. Let’s talk further.

What is an Employment Pass in Malaysia?

An Employment Pass (EP) is a work permit that is the basis for foreigners to work in Malaysia. One of the main conditions for obtaining this permit is to have an employment contract of up to 60 months.

However, before you can obtain an employment pass in Malaysia, your employer must obtain permission from the government to employ you.

Types of Employment Pass work permits in Malaysia

Depending on the position and salary, there are three types of Employment Pass in Malaysia:

Employment Pass Category 1

A permit that is obtained by key specialists in Malaysia: managers, general directors, technical or managing directors, project managers, etc.

The main requirements for an expat are the presence of an employment contract for a period of up to five years and a monthly salary of at least 10,000 ringgit (about 2,000 US dollars).

Employment Pass Category 2

This type of visa is obtained by middle-level managers - marketing or investment managers, teachers, directors, architects, etc.

The salary level under the contract should be in the range from 5,000 to 9,999 ringgit (approximately 1,000 - 2,000 US dollars). The duration of the employment contract is up to two years.

Employment Pass Category 3

This visa is granted to foreigners who have been employed in Malaysia in positions that require significant work experience and special technical or practical skills. For example, designers (fashion, manufacturing, furniture), artisans, food technology workers, etc.

The salary level under the contract should be from 3,000 to 4,999 ringgit (670 - 1,000 US dollars). The duration of the employment contract is up to two years. However, this type of EP cannot be extended more than 2 times.

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Employment Pass in Malaysia Requirements

Foreigners who meet the following requirements can apply for this work permit in Malaysia:

1. Have the appropriate academic qualifications required for the job.

2. Provide proof of at least three years of relevant work experience. If your academic qualifications are lower, you may need more years of relevant work experience.

3. Be employed in a position that requires a certain set of skills.

4. Meet the required salary requirements.

5. Not be employed in a sector that is considered restricted.

How to apply for an Employment Pass in Malaysia?

An application for an Employment Pass in Malaysia is usually submitted by your employer. The process of obtaining a Malaysian work visa is divided into two parts:

Stage 1 – Your employer must obtain approval to employ you through the Expatriation Committee (EC) or another authorized agency.

Step 2 – The employer must apply for an Employment Pass Malaysia with the Malaysian Immigration Department.

Employment Pass Application Package in Malaysia

When the employer applies for an Employment Pass, they must submit the following documents on your behalf:

- Employment Pass Application Form.

- Your passport photo as required by Malaysia.

- A copy of your passport, valid for at least six months from the date you intend to enter.

- Expatriate Post letter or endorsement from the relevant authority.

- Company permission to apply.

- Your employment contract or offer and acceptance letter.

- Your CV and copies of degrees and certificates.

- A copy of your employer’s company profile from the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM).

- Proof of health insurance.

The processing time for a Malaysia Employment Pass is three days.

Can I move to Malaysia with my family?

Employment Pass holders can move to Malaysia with their family:

- Spouse, husband.

- Children under the age of 21.

Key changes to the Employment Pass procedure in Malaysia in 2025

In January 2025, the Malaysian government approved the following changes to the Employment Pass:

1. Cancellation of current pass

When applying for a change of category of Employment Pass, employers must cancel the current pass.

2. Mandatory submission of a letter of change of category

From January 1, 2025, employers will also be required to submit a “letter of change of category” at the stage of approval of the application.

Alternative work visa options for foreign workers in Malaysia

In addition to the Employment Pass, foreign nationals wishing to work in Malaysia can obtain one of the following visas:

1. Professional Visit Pass (PVP) – ideal for short-term or temporary work. The visa is valid for up to 12 months.

2. Temporary Employment Pass (TEP) – Suitable for unskilled or semi-skilled positions. Typically issued for work in manufacturing, agriculture or the service sector.

3. Resident Pass-Talent (RP-T) – Designed for highly skilled professionals. Offers a 10-year renewable visa and allows flexibility to work with any employer.

For those considering employment opportunities in Malaysia, understanding the Employment Pass and its alternatives can help determine the best option for your employment in the country and career development.

Reminder! Malaysia has introduced a new travel requirement for foreign visitors – the Malaysian Digital Arrival Card (MDAC). You must complete the online form within three days of crossing the border. We have already told you who needs to obtain an MDAC in Malaysia and what information you need to provide for a smooth entry into the country.

Igor Usyk - Head of Migration department at VisitWorld

To ensure a safe move to a new country, I advise you to consult a specialist. My colleagues, qualified specialists with a legal education, will help you avoid unpleasant situations during migration.