If you’re a foreigner living in Malaysia and your current pass has expired – whether it’s a Student Pass, Employment Pass, or Visit Pass – then you might be able to obtain a Malaysia Special Pass, which allows you to stay temporarily in the country while you arrange your departure. It is not a simple solution that anyone can get, especially after the 2016 immigration reforms.
Learn everything you need to know about the Malaysia Special Pass, who can apply, how to apply, and what to avoid.
- “Click Here” if you want to know about “Malaysia Passport Renewal“.
What is Malaysia Special Pass?
It is a short-term immigration document issued by the Immigration Department of Malaysia. The certificate is usually valid for only 30 days, and it is intended for specific, urgent circumstances.
Due to updated immigration policies implemented in 2016, the Special Pass can no longer be used to extend or convert an existing visa. “Making Arrangements to Leave the Country” is now its sole purpose.
Who Needs Special Pass in Malaysia?
Malaysia Special Passes are available to foreign nationals if they meet the following criteria:
- Due to the expiration of their current pass, they cannot leave Malaysia in time.
- The student or employee is in the country with an expired Student Pass or Employment Pass, but they have valid reasons for the delay.
- It will take them up to 30 days to finalize their departure from Malaysia.
Important: Special Passes cannot be used for:
- Pass renewal application received late
- While in Malaysia, you can convert your Student Pass into an Employment Pass
- Waiting for approval of a new pass while remaining in Malaysia
You must leave Malaysia before the Special Pass expires. It is possible to face legal consequences for remaining in the country beyond this period.
Eligibility Criteria & Application Conditions
Only certain conditions apply to Special Pass applications, and the Immigration Department must accept your reason. The following are some examples:
- The current Student Pass has expired, and you are awaiting a new pass or extension approval
- There is a change in course at your institution (e.g. Bachelor to Master, Master to PhD).
- Holding a Dependent Pass and switching to a Student Pass – with institutional endorsement
- The Immigration Department is working with you to resolve the situation if you have overstayed
Special Rules for Students and Dependents
There are administrative guidelines at Malaysian universities such as UTM (Universiti Teknologi Malaysia):
- It is only possible to apply through the institution for students
- Immigration fee of RM100 + UTM processing fee of RM30
- The Special Pass can only be used twice:
- First Pass: “Student Pass pending decision”
- Second Pass: “Planning to leave the country”
Students must leave Malaysia after receiving the second Special Pass. It will not be possible to apply for or convert a visa from within the country in the future.
Required Documents for Special Pass Application
You will need the following documents to apply for a Malaysia Special Pass:
- Original passport
- Please provide a photocopy of all passport pages, a copy of your current visa, and any supporting documents that will support your application, including a letter of approval from the relevant authority or a letter from your employer.
- Current immigration pass copy
- Previous passports (if available)
- Reserved flight ticket within 30 days
- Please type a letter explaining your request for a Special Pass
In addition, you will need the following if you are applying as a dependent:
- A copy of the primary pass holder’s passport and visa
- Marriage certificate (for spouses)
- Birth certificate (for children or parents)
- In Malaysia, all personal documents must be in English or officially translated and certified true copies (CTCs) by your embassy.
How to Apply for the Malaysia Special Pass
Below is a step-by-step overview of the application process:
- Make sure you apply at least seven days before your current pass expires
- It is not possible for students or foreign workers to apply directly to your employer or institution.
- Please submit the necessary documents to the Malaysian Immigration Department
- Fees need to be paid
- Depending on the processing time, you will have to wait for approval.
Please note that if you have overstayed, you may be required to appear before the Immigration Enforcement Unit twice for verification and may face a fine or detention. Overstayed cases may take four to eight weeks to process.
Legal Risks of Overstaying in Malaysia
Staying in Malaysia after your pass expires without approval or a Special Pass is a punishable offense. The following may happen to you:
- Detention by immigration authorities
- Heavy fines
- Ban from re-entering Malaysia in the future
Benefits Of Malaysia Special Pass
| Category | Benefit | Details |
| For Foreign Investors | Extended Stay | Stay up to 12 months (initial 6 months + 6-month extension) to manage investments/business. |
| Multiple-Entry Visa (MEV) | Enables flexible travel in and out of Malaysia without needing a new visa each time. | |
| Simplified Application Process | Application can be done online via the Xpats Gateway platform. | |
| For Other Foreign Nationals | Bridging the Gap | Useful for those unable to renew their Employment or Student Pass in time. |
| Special Circumstances | Helps individuals affected by illness, accidents, or conflicts in their home countries. | |
| “Making Arrangements to Leave the Country” | Allows temporary legal stay to arrange departure after visa/pass expiration. |
Contact Detail Of Malaysia Special Pass
- Hotline: 03-8888 2010 or 03-8000 8000.
- Official Website: [email protected]
FAQs About Malaysia Special Pass
Conclusion
The Malaysia Special Pass offers a legal, short-term stay for foreigners unable to depart on time due to valid reasons. It is not for visa renewal or conversion and must be used responsibly to avoid legal consequences or future entry bans.
