Malaysia to Raise Cost of Visas for Foreign Workers and Dependents from September 2024

Beginning in September 2024, Malaysia will increase the cost of visas for foreign nationals and their dependents. Increased costs for Dependent, Professional Visit and Employment passes are among the major modifications. Additionally, the Immigration Department guarantees quicker processing times for vital industries.

Starting on September 1, 2024, Malaysia will increase the cost of obtaining a visa for foreign workers, dependents, and expats. The new cost structure, which aims to streamline immigration procedures, was announced by the MYXpats Center on behalf of the Expatriate Services Division of the Immigration Department.

Key Visa Fee Increases

An Immigration Department official stated that the fee hike is required to offset the growing expenses associated with granting visas. Additionally, the administration anticipates that by charging more, it will discourage illicit immigration and guarantee that only legitimate applicants receive visas. The updated costs are as follows, except for the 8% Sales and Services Tax (SST):

1. Employment Pass (EP)

The Employment Pass, which enables foreigners to work in Malaysia, will now cost MYR 2,000 instead of MYR 800. Professionals operating in the nation depend on this pass, and the government’s emphasis on controlling the flow of foreign labor is reflected in the new charge.

2. Dependent Pass (DP)

The cost of the Dependent Pass has increased from MYR 450 to MYR 500. This pass covers spouses, children under the age of 18, and children with disabilities (with no age restriction). Families of expats need this card to ensure their legal residency in Malaysia.

3. Long-Term Social Visit Pass (LTSVP)

The Long-Term Social Visit Pass will now cost MYR 500 instead of MYR 450 for common-law spouses, children (18–25 years old, and parents/parents-in-law). Extended family members can stay in Malaysia for an extended amount of time with this pass.

4. Professional Visit Pass (PVP)

The cost of the Professional Visit Pass, which is intended for international professionals who are temporarily visiting Malaysia, such as professors and lecturers, has increased from MYR 800 to MYR 1,200. With this permit, skilled workers can work in Malaysia for a maximum of one year, frequently contributing their invaluable experience to regional businesses.

The following table lists the current and historical costs for several Malaysian visa passes, which go into effect on September 1, 2024.

• Pass Type New Fee (MYR) Previous Fee (MYR)
• Employment Pass (EP) 2,000 800
• Dependent Pass (DP) 500 450
• Long-Term Social Visit Pass (LTSVP) 500 450
• Professional Visit Pass (PVP) 1,200 800

Other Services

• Transfer of Endorsement (TOE): The MYR 150 fee will continue to be charged for this service. When foreigners change their passports while they are in Malaysia, this service is required.
• Cancellation of Passes and Special Passes: The free provision of these services guarantees that expats and their families can depart the nation or modify their visa status without incurring further costs.

Optimized Time for Processing Applications

Additionally, the Malaysian Immigration Department has slashed the time it takes to process visa applications for businesses classified as Tier 1, Tier 2, and Critical Sector.

Decisions on applications from expatriates will be made more quickly thanks to the processing time reduction from five working days to three. This reform is anticipated to expedite the process of bringing in talented personnel, which will assist enterprises that depend on foreign expertise.

Final Thoughts

The aforementioned fee modifications and expedited processing timeframes are indicative of Malaysia’s continuous endeavors to effectively oversee its immigration framework while preserving its appeal as a location for expatriates and foreign experts.

For individuals who intend to work or reside in Malaysia, the new fee structure will take effect on September 1, 2024. As such, expatriates and their employers need to be informed of these changes.