immigration malaysia social visit pass

Malaysia: Updates to the Social Visit Pass

This article was originally published on October 6, 2022, and was updated on November 1, 2022, to reflect new information.

November 2, 2022, Update: The government of Malaysia introduced additional information regarding the Social Visit Pass scheme. The government clarified that:

• Once issued, the approval letter for the Social Visit Pass will remain valid for a 30-day period and can only be used for a single-entry visit to Malaysia.
• Applicants can apply for a second Social Visit Pass after the first approval letter expires, as long as the holder has exited the country before submitting a new application.

Original Post From October 6, 2022:

• The government of Malaysia expanded eligibility for applicants under the Social Visit Pass scheme

The government of Malaysia introduced new permissions for those applying under the Professional Visit Pass (PVP) Social Visit Pass scheme on October 3, 2022. Foreign nationals intending to perform short-term assignments in Malaysia for a period of 30 days or less in the following sectors will be permitted to apply:

• Education, technology and communication, commodity, security and defense, finance and banking, agriculture and farming, tourism, factory and manufacturing, services, wholesale and retail sales, and petroleum and energy

Applications must be submitted while the applicant is located outside of Malaysia. Generally, the Social Visit Pass processing time will take approximately three working days. However, timelines can vary based on several factors, including the purpose of the application, the applicant’s nationality, and the country of application submission.

Visa-required nationals will also need to apply for an Entry Visa before arrival. For additional insight into qualification requirements, check here .

What are the Changes?

The government of Malaysia expanded the sectors eligible for the Social Visit Pass Scheme. In addition, the government introduced new information on processing times and application process requirements.

Looking Ahead

Continue to check the government of Malaysia’s website for the latest updates and information.

Written by: Jessie Butchley, Global Immigration Writer, Envoy Global Source: Immigration Department of Malaysia

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The Expatriate’s Guide To Long Term Social Visit Passes In Malaysia

In Malaysia, expatriates holding Category 1 and 2  Employment Passes are permitted to bring their immediate family members with them, known as dependents. For family members who fall outside the definition of a dependent, the solution is often a Long-Term Visit Pass (LTSVP) . 

This article provides a complete overview of the function of a Long-Term Visit Pass and how to obtain one from the Malaysian Immigration Department, specifically their Expatriates Services Division (ESD).

Here’s how we’ll break it down:

• We’ll start with an explanation of what a LTSVP is used for
• We’ll compare it to a Dependent Pass so you understand which is right for your case
• We’ll cover the process of applying for a LTSVP
• We’ll try to persuade you to get our help!

Note: Spouses of Malaysian residents can also apply for a Long-Term Social Visit Pass which carries different requirements and permissions, but this article is specifically written for expatriates and Malaysian companies employing them .

If that applies to you, let’s begin!

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• An LTSVP allows certain family members of a Employment Pass holder (known as a principal) to accompany them in Malaysia for six months to five years.
• A LTVSP is usually used as an alternative for family members not eligible for a Dependent Pass.
• For children 18 years old an above, you’ll need an LTSVP.
• The duration of a LTSVP corresponds to the duration of the principal’s Employment Pass.
• Each LTSVP application costs RM450 and can take up to 14 working days to process, not including the time taken to prepare required documents for submission.
• There is no need for LTSVP holders to leave the country for a minimum period before their pass can be renewed.
• Save yourself the trouble and engage MISHU to help apply for your LTSVP today !

What is a Long-Term Social Visit Pass?

A LTSVP is a long-term pass that allows certain family members of a Employment Pass holder (known as a principal) to accompany them and reside in Malaysia for six months to five years . 

How long will your LTSVP be valid for?

The validity period of a LTSVP corresponds to the validity period of the principal Employment Pass holder.

However, if the pasport validity of the LTSVP applicant is less than that of the principal Employment Pass, then the validity of their LTSVP will follow their passport instead. While the LTVSP can always be renewed, it would be a good idea to ensure the applicant’s passport is up to date.

Long Term Social Visit Pass vs Dependent Pass

The main difference between these two passes is the individuals that fall under them, which can be found in the table below:

As of September 2023, an application for a LTSVP and Dependent Pass both cost RM450 , not including other immigration and processing fees.

Furthermore, in both cases, holders of both passes are not allowed to work in Malaysia without first applying for an Employment Pass of their own. There is no preferential treatment given on the basis of a relationship with an existing Employment Pass holder – their application will be judged on its own merits.

If you believe a Dependent Pass is more suited for you, our FAQ on Dependent Passes might come in handy.

Otherwise, time to get to work and go over the application process.

Long Term Social Visit Pass Application Process

Before beginning the application process, be sure that the required documents below are prepared.

Required documents

•  Recent passport photo
• Copy of passport (full booklet with cover)
• Copy of Birth Certificate (for children above 18 years old) translated* into English (if applicable) and Certified True Copy (CTC)
• Copy of Birth Certificate of Employment Pass holder / Employment Pass holder’s spouse (for Parents and Parents-in-law) translated* into English (if applicable) and Certified True Copy (CTC)
• Affidavit / Acknowledgement letter from the Employment Pass holder’s Embassy / Consulate General on the relationship status (for common law spouse)
• Original letter from Commissioner of Oaths and confirmation letter from respective Embassy in Malaysia with regard to latest status (single, unemployed and under custodian of EP holder) is required for every renewal.
• Personal Bond form (duly stamped by Inland Revenue Board);
• Other documents specified upon request

Regarding the final point, as required documents vary significantly depending on industry, contact our Employment Pass team for advice tailored to your needs.

* Note:  Translations must be done either by your Respective Embassy / High Commission / Consulate General or the Malaysian Institute of Translation & Books (ITBM).

Submitting the application online

The company / sponsor must submit the application on behalf of the applicant. To do this, visit the ESD portal , log in to the company’s ESD account (or register for one) and submit the application along with the supporting documents.

If all goes as well, the application should be processed with 14 – 21 working days .

As mentioned above, each LTSVP application costs RM450 , not including various other immigration and licensing fees.

Whether you are an employer or expatriate, we wish you a smooth application and hope you enjoy your stay in Malaysia.

Of course, for a truly smooth application, consider engaging our services!

Let MISHU handle your LTSVP application

MISHU’s team is experienced in helping companies negotiate with the relevant authorities to obtain Long-Term Social Visit Passes and swift approval of any necessary permissions. We would be happy to sit down with you and understand your needs –  check out our Employment Pass services  and let us know if you’d like help!

18 thoughts on “ The Expatriate’s Guide To Long Term Social Visit Passes In Malaysia ”

Hi. If I am in Malaysia through LTSVP (marriage), what are my options for bringing my mother here? If I get endorsement to work while I am on a Long Term Social Visit Pass, and I earn more than the 5,000 Ringgit Threshold, can i bring my mother to Malaysia?

If not, can I bring my mother through my Malaysian wife (she is a citizen). Thank you

Thanks for getting in touch. We forwarded your question to our Employment Pass expert and this is their reply:

1. Your current Long Term Visit Pass (LTSV) / spouse visa should also allow you to apply for a Long-Term Visit Pass for your parent.

2. It’s worth noting that compared to a normal Employment Pass, the spouse visa is not tied to a specific employer, which provides flexibility in employment options.

Hope that answers your question, and let us know if you need any help with the application!

Sincerely, The MISHU Editorial Team

I married a Malaysian and currently holds a long term social visit pass.

Can I work in malaysia?

Can I open a bank account in malaysia?

Hi Chee Wee,

Thank you for the question.

We forwarded it to our Employment Pass expert and here’s their reply:

1. Yes, a spouse visa allows you to work.

2. HOWEVER , you first need to apply for an Endorsement of Work Permit in Putrajaya or your nearest state immigration office.

3. The permit is free, though your spouse will need to be present at the application.

4. You should have no issues opening a bank account in Malaysia.

5. If you already have an account with an international bank, you can even try asking them if they can assist with connecting you with a Malaysian branch to start the process online.

Our representative will be getting in touch with you to check if you need further assistance.

Hope this helps, and all the best from us at the MISHU Editorial team 🙂

I have a query – I am employed and want bring mother-in-law to Malaysia on LTSVP. Can i apply on my own? what all documents will be needed? where can i find the forms? The url links provided are not working anymore.

Do i need to ask my company to initiate the process?

Thanks for getting in touch.

We reached out to our employment pass expert regarding your inquiry, and here’s their response:

1. Best to ask a company to handle it as LTSVP applications must be done through their Expatriate Services Division (ESD) account . 2. The required documents are as listed out in our guide. 3. The forms will be filled in online when submitting the application via the ESD portal.

Hope this helps!

By the way, we checked the links on this page and they’re all working fine, could you specify which links you found were broken? We’d greatly appreciate it.

Best regards, The MISHU Editorial Team

Hi, If I get a Long term visa pass, am I allowed to open a bank account and can I bring a shipment of my personal things? Thanks

1. A bank account opening is usually normally by company recommendation. 2. Your shipment of personal items will be subject to rules by the Malaysian Customs Department, so as long as there’s nothing on their list of prohibited items, you should be good. 3. However, if you’re asking whether a shipment of your items in included as a package with a LTVSP application, then we’re afraid not!

Hi, I’m a UK citizen with a Malaysia PR intending to return to Malaysia with my family. Would my wife be eligible for a LTSVP? Guidance online suggests this is available for spouses of a Malaysian citizen only. I would not need an employment pass to work in Malaysian given my PR status. Please advise. Thanks.

We apologise for the delayed response as our Employment Pass team was occupied – but they’ve seen your message and here’s their response:

1. As they’ve not encountered a similar situation to yours, they feel it would not be right to offer a professional opinion on the matter. 2. They suggest you contact the Immigration Department for a definitive answer.

Let us know if there’s any other questions you have, but I’m afraid that’s all we can offer on this matter.

I had worked in Malaysia for 7 years as an Account Payable Executive with MNC. Now I married with Malaysian husband, is it possible to apply for PR after LTSVP? How long do I need to hold for the LTSVP to apply for PR?

Dear Pricilla,

You’ll be eligible for PR application once you’ve been in Malaysia for at least five years .

So we hope to see you in five years!

My daughter recently married a foreigner in October 2023. My son in law has applied for a LTSV in October 2023 as well. Until today March 2024 his application is still pending. Wonder how long will it take to approve in immigration Sarawak?

Hello, I am currently holding a student visa now which will expire on May 9, 2024. My family is living here in malaysia with my step-dad being a malaysian citizen. I am planning to stay here for as long as possible. Am I applicable for a LTSVP to stay for 6 months or more? I am a Philippine citizen, can I apply this visa in philippines? Thank you.

My stepfather is a Singaporean, already 65year old . I and my wife as Malaysia citizen. We want take my stepfather to Malaysia for take care since his is single and no family in SG. We are not blood relation. Can we help him to apply LTSVP? how the process / document needed?

We appreciate the time-sensitive nature of your issue and our Employment Pass teammates will be contacting you as soon as possible.

Take care and all the best.

My LTSVP is got expired while I was in abroad n soon I got back to malaysia I went for a renewal, they said not able to renew the visa the immigration said not able to travel abroad

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Malaysia: Updates For The Social Visit Pass

• The government of Malaysia expanded eligibility for applicants under the Social Visit Pass scheme

The government of Malaysia introduced new permissions for those applying under the Professional Visit Pass (PVP) Social Visit Pass scheme on 3 October 2022. Foreign nationals intending to perform short-term assignments in Malaysia for a period of 30 days or less in the following sectors will be permitted to apply:

Applications must be submitted while the applicant is located outside of Malaysia. Generally, the processing time of the Social Visit Pass will take approximately three working days. However, timelines can vary based on several factors, including the purpose of the application, the applicant's nationality and the country of application submission.

Visa-required nationals will also need to apply for an Entry Visa prior to arrival. For additional insight into qualification requirements, check here .

What are the Changes?

The government of Malaysia expanded the sectors eligible for the Social Visit Pass Scheme. In addition, the government introduced new information on processing times and application process requirements.

Looking Ahead

Continue to check the government of Malaysia's website and Envoy's website for the latest updates and information.

Originally published October 6, 2022

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

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Everything You Need to Know About Applying for Malaysia LTSVP for Spouse

If you’re married to a Malaysian citizen and wish to stay in Malaysia for an extended period, the Long Term Social Visit Pass (LTSVP) might be your ideal choice. This pass offers foreign spouses of Malaysians the opportunity to reside in the country for up to five years, all while allowing for engagement in various forms of employment or business activities without converting the pass. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know when applying for an LTSVP, including eligibility criteria, conditions, and the essential documentation required.

What is a LTSVP?

The Long Term Social Visit Pass (LTSVP) serves as a visa for foreigners seeking a stay in Malaysia for at least six months. It is suitable for foreign husbands or wives of Malaysian citizens, parents of Malaysian citizens, children of Malaysian citizens, and permanent residents of Malaysia who wish to join their family members in Malaysia and stay for an extended period. Here’s what you should know when applying for an LTSVP as a spouse:

What are the Eligibility Criteria?

To qualify for an LTSVP as a foreign spouse to a Malaysian citizen, certain conditions must be met:

• Your marriage must be registered in Malaysia or another country recognized by Malaysia.
• You must have a valid marriage certificate.
• You must possess a valid passport and visa.
• You must have a financial guarantee from your Malaysian spouse to support you financially while you are in Malaysia.
• You must have no criminal record.

How long can I stay in Malaysia with LTSVP?

Once the application is approved, the foreign spouse can stay in Malaysia for a maximum of five years. This extended period allows for quality time with the Malaysian spouse, as well as exploration of employment and business opportunities. The LTSVP is a multiple-entry pass renewable as long as the marriage remains valid.

Documentation Checklist for LTSVP Application:

Ensure you have the following documents when applying for an LTSVP for your spouse:

• Form Imm.12 / Imm.55
• Form Imm.38
• Copy of the marriage certificate
• Copy of the child’s birth certificate (if applicable)
• Latest Affidavit confirming the validity of the marriage
• ‘Security Bond’ form (stamped RM10.00)
• Identity card of the sponsor/spouse
• Proof of sponsor/spouse’s income
• Copy of sponsor/spouse’s passport
• Wedding photographs

Can Spouse Work or Start a Business with an LTSVP in Malaysia?

Spouses of Malaysian citizens can work in Malaysia with their Long Term Social Visit Pass through a simple endorsement process by the Immigration Department. To apply, they must submit an application letter, proof of employment or business registration, marriage certificate, and their valid pass to the relevant Immigration office..

Checklist of required documents:

• Copy of husband / wife’s Identity Card
• Copy of the Applicant’s latest Passport and pass
• Affidavit of Oath  with photograph (stamped by the Commissioner of Oaths from the Government Court)
• Copy of Marriage Register / Marriage Certificate
• Job Offer Letter from the employer (using    Company Letterhead )
• Working period
• Monthly income
• Signatures of both parties (employer and employee)
• Applicant, Citizen Spouse and Employer Information Form
• Company Registration Form (printed directly from My Data – SSM system) latest

While the LTSVP provides an extended stay and work opportunities, it’s crucial to note that it does not confer permanent residency. For permanent residency, a separate application must be made. For any further inquiries or guidance, feel free to reach out to the Malaysian Immigration Department.

Remember, every case is unique, and consulting immigration authorities or professionals can ensure a smoother LTSVP application process. Best of luck with your application!

If you require assistance or have questions, our law firm, TYH&Co, is here to guide you through the process.

Your Malaysian adventure awaits! 🌏

Contact us today by filling up the below consultation form for a free consultation and quotation.

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How to apply for a Malaysia Social Visit Pass (Short Term)

Table of Contents

Malaysia is a beautiful country with many tourist attractions and a spot where several events like sports, business conferences, and religious activities are held. Therefore, if you are planning to visit the country for a short stay, you will need a Malaysia Social Visit Pass (short-term).

However, Malaysian Immigration doesn’t extend the validity of a visit pass except in emergency cases like accidents, health care, or official reasons.

Meanwhile, you have nothing to worry about because this guide will sail you through Malaysia Social Visit Pass (short-term) application and other vital information you need to know.

Facts about Malaysia 

Malaysia is a Southeast Asian country on a strategic sea lane that exposes it to global trade and foreign culture.

The country is a land of many mouth-watering dishes and scenic places. It also has an interesting fusion of the modern world and traditional cultures.

The capital city of Malaysia is Kuala Lumpur. The population of Malaysia is approximately 31 million. The official language of Malaysia is Bahasa Melayu, but English is also widely spoken.

Malaysia’s economy is based on the export of natural resources, such as oil and gas, palm oil, timber, and rubber. However, the country is also a significant manufacturing center, with electronics and automobiles being two of the most important industries.

The Malaysian government has been investing in infrastructure and education to attract foreign investment and create jobs.

What is a Malaysia Social Visit Pass?

It is a legal document issued by the Malaysian immigration authority to foreign nationals at the point of entry to the country.

The social visit pass issued to foreigners is of two types. They are Malaysia Social Visit Pass for short-term and long-term Malaysia Social Visit Pass. You need a long-term Malaysia social visit pass if you plan to stay longer than six months in the country. But our focus will be on Malaysia Social Visit Pass(short-term), which is meant for a short stay in the country.

Reasons to apply for Malaysia Social Visit Pass (short-term)

Suppose you are to visit Malaysia for any of the activities listed below. You must get a short-term visit pass from the Malaysian immigration officer at the point of entry to the country.

• If your visit is on social events like marriage ceremony, burial, birthday, or family reunion
• If you are a journalist or a reporter
• If you’re scheduled for a business meeting or conference in Malaysia
• You want to write an exam in a Malaysian academic institution
• To embark on a feasibility study trip for your intending investment in the country
• You are part of the sporting crew to attend a sporting festival
• To visit a medical facility for a medical checkup

Documents required for a Malaysia Social Visit Pass (short-term)

You should hold the documents listed below because the immigration officer will demand them before you are issued a social pass.

• A traveling passport that will not expire six months after you depart Malaysia.
• A relevant Malaysia visa if you are from the visa-required country.
• Attach your return flight ticket
• A completed arrival /departure card that is issued to you at the point of entry Into the country
• Evidence of financial solvency throughout your stay
• Receipt of hotel booking or a rented apartment you will stay in Malaysia. You can also provide the address of your family member in the country as your proof of accommodation
• Attach all documents that are relevant to your visit to Malaysia. Examples of such documents are an invitation letter from a Malaysian organization, an FDI registration certificate, and others.

How to obtain a Malaysia Social Visit Pass (short-term)

The Malaysian immigration authority is the agency to issue you the social pass at the entry point to the country.

Malaysia Social Visit Pass (short-term) must be obtained regardless means of transportation you board to the country. The immigration officers are available at all border points of the country.

Here is the simple procedure to obtain the social pass:

Firstly, the immigration officer will welcome you on arrival at the border point

Secondly, the officer will request all the documents listed above to check if you are eligible to get a short-term Social Visit Pass

Lastly, you will be issued a pass by the immigration officers to access the country.

Validity of a Malaysia Social Visit Pass (short-term)

The Malaysian immigration authority determines the days your social pass will last in the country. Nevertheless, the decision is not based on personal sentiments; rather, the authority considers your nationality and the type of Malaysia visa you hold.

So here is the validity of the social pass with conditions attached:

• Visa-exempt nations can have a validity of up to ninety days.
• If you hold a Malaysia tourist visa, your pass will be valid for up to thirty days.
• If you are a citizen of a country that enjoys thirty days visa-free to Malaysia, the validity of your pass will be thirty days too.
• Chinese and Indian nationals with an entry visa have up to fifteen days of validity Social pass in Malaysia.
• The validity of your social pass will be fourteen days if your country enjoys fourteen days visa-free in Malaysia.
• On arrival, citizens of China and India with Malaysia visas will have a social pass visit valid for seven days.

Tips on a Malaysia Social Visit Pass (short-term)

Note that you can get a Malaysia Social Visit Pass (short-term) with a duration less than the maximum number of days you are eligible to stay in the country. It is because the immigration officers consider the purpose of your visit to the country.

Do not overstay your social visit pass in the country because the immigration authority doesn’t allow such. You will be fined and jailed if caught in such an act.

As earlier said q, the immigration authority in Malaysia rarely extends the validity of a social visit pass, but if you wish to try your luck, follow the steps below:

You should download the extension application form for the social visit pass, Form IMM.,55, and fill it out appropriately.

Attach documents that serve as evidence of why the immigration authority should grant you an extension to your social visit pass.

Then visit the nearest  immigration office  to your location in Malaysia, pay the application fee, and submit the application form. Finally, you wait for days for the authority to consider your application and decide.

Visa Requirements for a Malaysia social visit pass (short term)

A Malaysia visa is a significant requirement the immigration officer uses to uteruses your eligibility for a social visit pass. Nevertheless, some countries enjoy visa-free entry to Malaysia for a specific duration. Therefore, we would share with you countries that must hold a Malaysia visa before the citizens are issued a Malaysia social visit pass (visit term). So if you are from any country listed below, you must apply for a Malaysia visa in your home country before you visit the country.

• Afghanistan
• Burkina Faso
• The Central African Republic
• Côte D’Ivoire.
• Equatorial Guinea
• Guinea-Bissau
• United Nations (Laissez Passer)
• Western Sahara

Also Read : Malaysia Visa – Application, Requirements, Fees and Types

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can i work with a malaysia social visit pass.

You can’t work in but within apply for  Malaysia employment pass  or work visa to be able to work and get paid in the country.

How long does it take to process a Malaysia Tourist visa?

The time to process a Malaysia tourist visa depends on the embassy or the consulate and the number of applicants available. Some embassies process tourist visas within a week after submitting the application.

What is Malaysia eNTRI visa ?

It means Electronic Travel Registration and Information. It is issued to only citizens from China and India to visit and stay in Malaysia for up to fifteen.

Can I be denied a social visit pass in Malaysia?

If your documents are incomplete or not genuine, the immigration officer has the right to deny you a social visit pass. So it is better not to take risks but rather ensure you have all the documents requested at the entry point.

Is Malaysia fun to visit?

The country is peaceful and friendly to foreigners. It is a hot spot for tourism activities; you can imagine the beautiful landscapes, warm beaches, and fascinating architecture designed in such a scenic environment. You won’t have a dull moment every day when you visit Malaysia for tourism, educational research, and other essential purposes.

What is Malaysia’s official currency?

Malaysian Ringgit is the official currency; its shortcode is MYR. One MYR is equivalent to twenty-two dollars. The highest banknote is RM 600 though the most common ones are RM 100 down to RM1

We have provided you with a comprehensive guide on how to apply for a Malaysia social visit pass. We hope you find it fulfilling and worth sharing with your loved ones.​

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Malaysia immigration processes: Long term social visit pass application as well as passport renewals

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Under the social visit pass application service, the application, payment, and review will be done online. Applicants will only have to be present for the confirmation. 

As clarified by the Immigration Department of Malaysia (JIM), online pass extension applications  for those intending to enter Malaysia are allowed for the following categories:

• Pass for Malaysia citizens' spouse
• Long-term social visit pass
• Pas lawatan ikthisas (Professional Visit Pass, also known as PLIK)

Under this service, the application, payment, and review will be done online. Applicants will only have to be present for the confirmation. 

The application process for the abovementioned pass groups is as follows: 

• Register or log in using user ID on the website,
• Select the relevant application category, fill in the form and upload the required documents,
• Applications will be reviewed by an immigration officer,
• Application result will be emailed to the applicant within three working days. Applicants may also check the application status on the portal,
• Upon approval, applicants must make the payment online,
• Applicants are then required to visit the Malaysian immigration office with the original documents for the sticker acceptance process.

In similar news, JIM has also clarified the online application process extension for the Temporary Work Visit Pass (PLKS) .

The process flow is as follows:

• Register/log in,
• Fill in the advanced application,
• Upload documents,
• Send the application,
• Online payment,
• Accept the pass.

Malaysian passport renewal online applications

Lastly, JIM has also provided clarification on the online Malaysian passport renewal application process.

The following groups of Malaysians are eligible for online applications for passport renewals:

• Application for renewal of Malaysian passport while overseas
• Malaysian citizens aged 13 and above
• The validity period of the current passport must be less than 12 months

However, if the application falls under any of the following categories, the applicant will still need to apply physically at the counter:

• First time applications,
• Children below the age of 13,
• Lost/damaged passport,
• Students under 21 years of age who intend to continue their degree studies abroad,
• People with disabilities.

At the same time, walk-ins are allowed for the following categories: 

• First time applications
• Extension applications for children 13 years and under
• Lost / damaged passports
• Seniors (60 years old and above)
• People with disabilities
• Students under 21 years of age who intend to continue their degree studies abroad
• Haj pilgrims

Photo /  Immigration Department of Malaysia Facebook post

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Malaysia Launches New Social Visit Pass

Malaysia has recently launched a new social visit pass named PLS@XPATS, which allows social visit pass holders to work in the country for up to 30 days. The nature of the work must be considered critical or urgent and is only allowed in selected sectors, such as education, construction, and manufacturing, among others.

On October 3, 2022, Malaysia launched a new social visit pass named PLS@XPATS, which will allow holders of social visit passes to work in Malaysia for up to 30 days. The type of work allowed must be in a specific sector and considered urgent or critical.

The government hopes the program can transform Malaysia into a hub for digital nomads in the region while boosting digital adoption across the country.

To apply, the hiring company must submit an online application here .

What are the permitted sectors that PLS@XPATS holders can work under?

Applicants of the PLS@XPATS pass can only work under these selected sectors:

• Government sector;
• Government link companies (companies in which the Malaysian government has a controlling stake); or
• The private sector but under the following categories:
• Manufacturing;
• Security and defense;
• Oil, gas, and energy;
• Healthcare;
• Finance and banking;
• Construction;
• Information, technology, and infrastructure;
• Wholesale and retail;
• Electrical and electronics;
• Business services;
• Education; and
• Business services.

Critical work criteria

An essential condition for obtaining the PLS@XPATS pass is the definition of the work that is to be conducted. Foreign companies must prove that the foreign nationals they hire under this pass are conducting critical work, which is defined as emergency work, repair work, maintenance, installations, or recovery/reinstallation.

This must be accompanied by a job description and a work schedule.

Processing time

The Immigration Department will process new applications within three business days of submission. This is much faster than the process to obtain a Professional Visit Pass, which can take up to 75-135 business days.

The applicant will receive an approval letter that they must present to Malaysian immigration upon arrival, at the point of entry. Foreigners who require a visit before entering Malaysia must obtain a Visa Without Reference (VWR) at the Malaysian Embassy/High Commission/Consulate.

• An Alternative Path to Market Entry in Asia – PEO in China, Vietnam, Singapore, Indonesia, and India
• Malaysia Issues Digital Nomad Visa: What are the Requirements?
• Tapping into ASEAN’s Vibrant Talent Pool: Hiring in Singapore, Vietnam, and Indonesia

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Over 200 migrants including 132 Bangladeshis arrested in Malaysia

A total of 206 foreign individuals, including 132 Bangladeshis, were arrested by the Immigration Department in Malaysia for allegedly violating the terms of their pass.

Johor Immigration director Baharuddin Tahir said the arrest was made during a raid dubbed 'Ops Mahir' at a construction site in Pasir Gudang at 10:20am on Friday.

For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel.

"The operation was conducted based on public tip-off, and a total of 530 foreigners and locals were inspected during the raid.

"Of this number, 206 foreigners were arrested for violating their pass to enter the country," he said in a statement in Johor Baru on Saturday.

Baharuddin added that the arrests consisted of 132 men from Bangladesh, 51 men from China, 10 men from Myanmar, six men from Pakistan, three men from Indonesia, two men from Vietnam, and two women from China.

"Those arrested are aged between 18 and 61. We have also arrested a local man to help with the investigation," he said, adding that the raid was conducted by 90 enforcement officers from the Immigration Department.

They will be probed under Section 6(1)(c) and Section 15(1)(c) of the Immigration Act of 1959/63 for entering the country without valid travel documents and overstaying.

It is also investigated under Rule 17(b) and Rule 11(7)(a) of the Immigration Regulations 1963 for violating the requirement of their visit pass and violating the social visit pass (PLS).

The local man is being investigated under Section 56(1)(d) of the Immigration Act 1959/63 for harbouring illegal immigrants.

Meanwhile, Baharuddin said that a total of 43 illegal immigrants were arrested for not having a pass to enter the country during an operation in Senai, Kulai.

"The operation dubbed Ops Sapu and Ops Selera was conducted at midnight, and we raided 15 premises in the shoplot areas.

"There were individuals hiding in the building's balcony to avoid arrest, and one individual also tried to fool our enforcement team by pretending to be a customer at one of the premises.

"A total of 123 individuals were inspected, and 43 of them were arrested under Section 6(1)(c) and Section 15(1)(c) of the Immigration Act of 1959/63.

"The arrests consist of 32 men and a woman from Bangladesh, two men and two women from Indonesia, three men and a woman from Myanmar, and a man and a woman from Nepal," he said.

In another case, Baharuddin informed that 16 illegal immigrants were arrested during joint operations conducted with the Iskandar Puteri City Council.

"There had been reports of illegal immigrant activities in the area, and during the operation, we managed to arrest six men from Bangladesh, six men from Indonesia, a man and a woman from Sri Lanka, a man from India, and a man from Pakistan.

"All of them are arrested under Section 6(1)(c) and Section 15(1)(c) of the Immigration Act of 1959/63," he said.

Copyright: The Star/ Asia News Network

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Immigration Dept detains Indonesians over illegal online cosmetics sales

Sunday, 28 Apr 2024

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Indonesian mastermind behind illegal cosmetics held

Bm fluency not grounds for rejecting applications, says immigration dept dg, immigration dg: bm fluency not a condition for passport renewals.

PUTRAJAYA: The Immigration Department has detained a 50-year-old Indonesian woman over the online sale of cosmetic and beauty products without approval from the Health Ministry (MOH).

Director-General Datuk Ruslin Jusoh revealed that during a raid in Setapak, Kuala Lumpur, and Ampang, Selangor, last Thursday, a man and a woman, both Indonesians aged 25 and 35, were apprehended for their suspected roles as online promoters for the products.

He stated that they also seized various brands of cosmetic and beauty products, two Indonesian passports, RM3,263 in cash, and Indonesian Rupiah 3.3mil.

"One of the detained women possessed a valid social visit pass, while the other woman had no valid travel documents or passport to be in Malaysia, and the man had overstayed," he said in a statement on Sunday (April 28).

Ruslin said that all the foreigners detained had committed offences under the Immigration Act 1959/63, Passport Act 1966, and Immigration Regulations 1963 and are currently held at the Semenyih Immigration Depot, Selangor, for investigation under the Control of Drugs and Cosmetics Regulations 1984.

He added that the operation was based on complaints and three weeks of surveillance, involving a team of officers and personnel from the Putrajaya Immigration Headquarters’ Intelligence and Special Operations Division, and pharmacy enforcement officers from the Kuala Lumpur Health Department. - Bernama

Tags / Keywords: Ruslin Jusoh , Immigration Department , Indonesian woman , cosmetics , online , without approval , Health Ministry

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Immigration Dept detains Indonesian mastermind of illegal online cosmetics sales

Datuk Ruslin Jusoh – Bernama photo

PUTRAJAYA (April 28): The Immigration Department has detained a 50-year-old Indonesian woman suspected of masterminding the online sale of cosmetic and beauty products without approval from the Ministry of Health (MOH).

Director-General Datuk Ruslin Jusoh revealed that during a raid in Setapak, Kuala Lumpur, and Ampang, Selangor, last Thursday, a man and a woman, both Indonesians aged 25 and 35, were apprehended for their suspected roles as online promoters for the products.

He stated that they also seized various brands of cosmetic and beauty products, two Indonesian passports, RM3,263 in cash, and Indonesian Rupiah 3.3 million.

“One of the detained women possessed a valid Social Visit Pass, while the other woman had no valid travel documents or passport to be in Malaysia, and the man had overstayed,” he said in a statement today.

Ruslin said that all the foreigners detained had committed offenses under the Immigration Act 1959/63, Passport Act 1966, and Immigration Regulations 1963 and are currently held at the Semenyih Immigration Depot, Selangor, for investigation under the Control of Drugs and Cosmetics Regulations 1984.

He added that the operation was based on complaints and three weeks of surveillance, involving a team of officers and personnel from the Putrajaya Immigration Headquarters’ Intelligence and Special Operations Division, and pharmacy enforcement officers from the Kuala Lumpur Health Department. – Bernama

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