Malaysia Work Visa – Helpful Guide for Foreign Professionals in 2025
For foreign professionals and skilled workers, Malaysia is one of the most attractive destinations in Southeast Asia. Malaysia offers great opportunities for expatriates looking to build a career abroad thanks to its growing economy, competitive salaries, and strategic location. You need to understand the different types of work permits, their requirements, and how to apply for them correctly if you plan to work in Malaysia in 2025.
Malaysian Work Visa Types
Depending on the nature of the job and the applicant’s qualifications, Malaysia offers several types of work visas:
Employment Pass (EP): Professionals, executives, and technical roles earning a minimum of RM3,000 per month are eligible. Expires after five years.
Temporary Employment Pass (TEP): Employed in sectors such as manufacturing, construction, and services that require lower skill levels. Renewal is usually possible for up to 12 months.
Professional Visit Pass (PVP): Short-term assignments such as training, consulting, or project work for foreign professionals. The offer is valid for 12 months and cannot be extended.
Foreign Knowledge Worker (FKW): For professionals in the digital economy, finance, or strategic sectors, issued under special government programs like MDEC or TalentCorp.
“Click Here” and read more about the types of Malaysia visa.
How to Apply for Malaysian Work Visa
To apply for a Malaysian work visa, follow these steps:
Step 1: Employer Registration: You must register with the “Expatriate Services Division” (ESD) or another relevant authority such as MDEC or TalentCorp.
Step 2: Application Submission: Your employer submits your application, uploads your documents, and applies for approval through the official government website.
Step 3: Visa Approval Letter (VAL): A Visa Approval Letter (VAL) is issued if the application is approved. If you are outside Malaysia, you may require a Single Entry Visa (SEV).
Step 4: Entry and Work Permit Endorsement
Obtain a medical screening (if necessary)
Data submission for biometrics
The official i-Kad (work permit card) will be sent to you
Who Can Apply for Work Visa in Malaysia
Applicants for Malaysian work visas in 2025 must meet the following requirements:
A valid job offer from a Malaysian company.
At least 27 years of age (minimum 23 for IT roles).
Validate your passport for at least 18 months.
Experience or academic qualifications relevant to the field.
Depending on the visa category, you must meet the minimum salary threshold.
Required Documents For Malaysia Work Visa
Make sure you have the following documents ready before applying:
Passport with a validity of at least 18 months
Passport-sized photos taken recently
Letter of employment offer or employment contract
Certificates and transcripts of academic performance
History of employment or resume
Report on health screening (FOMEMA, if required)
Support letter from Malaysian authorities (if necessary)
Malaysia Work Visa Prices
An Employment Pass costs MYR 2,000 in Malaysia. The fee was recently increased from MYR 800 to MYR 900. In addition, there is a fee of MYR 500 for a Dependant Pass. A visa application and processing fee is required. Read more about Visa of Malaysia.
Would You be Able to Bring Your Family?
Dependents may accompany you if you are issued an Employment Pass Category I or II:
It is possible to apply for a Dependent Pass for your spouse and children
Long-Term Social Visit Passes (LTSVPs) are available for parents and children over 18 years old.
Common Mistakes to Avoid on Malaysia Work Visa
Incorrectly applying for a visa
Documents that are incomplete or incorrectly submitted
Employer registration or approval is not required if you are working without it
Under the assumption that short-term visa holders (tourists, SEVs) can legally work
Why Choose Malaysia for Work?
Low living costs and competitive salaries
Medical benefits and attractive leave policies
The environment is multi-cultural and English-friendly
There are no inheritance, estate, or gift taxes
Digital, finance, healthcare, and education are strategic industries
Malaysia FQAs About Malaysia Work VisaRenewal In-Person
Ans: Obtaining a work visa in Malaysia requires a job offer from a registered Malaysian company, which will then apply for an Employment Pass (EP) or a Visitor’s Pass (Temporary Employment) on their behalf. In order to apply for a work permit, the employer must obtain approval from the relevant authorities, such as the Expatriate Committee.
Ans: Indians can apply for a Malaysia work visa at a Visa Application Centre (VAC). Make sure you are eligible to apply for the particular work permit category and have a job offer letter from the employer before starting the application process.
Ans: In this country, foreign workers can work for up to ten years. Those registered under the 6P Program can only work for 3 years.
Conclusion
Malaysia continues to be a top destination for foreign professionals and skilled workers in 2025, offering competitive job opportunities, a strategic location in Asia, and a high quality of life.
Whether you’re applying for an Employment Pass, a Temporary Employment Pass, or a Professional Visit Pass, understanding the correct visa type, application process, and official fees is key to a successful move. With proper preparation and the right support from your employer, securing a Malaysian work visa can be a smooth and rewarding experience.
