April 23, 2020
It’s no surprise that organisations are keen to expand their business operations to Malaysia. As one of Asia’s top business hubs, It is a developed economy with rapidly improving skills, technology and advancing infrastructure.
Home to the 14th biggest natural gas reserve and 23rd largest oil reserves in the world, Malaysia’s energy industry is highly competitive.
But in order to work in Malaysia, expat workers need a work permit, better known as an Employment Pass.
We’ve put together a helpful guide to explain what the pass is, how to apply for one and everything your company must provide for a successful application.
An Employment Pass (EP) is a work permit, or visa, that enables expatriates to work in Malaysia. It is primarily available for senior or technically skilled professionals with specialist work experience and who are typically on higher salaries.
The EP provides workers with an employment contract that lasts for up to 60 months and allows them to live and work legally in the country.
An employment pass holder can be employed in West Malaysia, provided the hiring company has successfully registered with the immigration department. Employment passes can be considered for renewal, depending on the necessary requirements.
There are two main types of EP permit in Malaysia:
To be eligible for these types of EP, applicants must earn a basic minimum monthly salary of RM 10,000 (USD2,500) and have an employment contract that is valid for a minimum of 12 months.
Applicants must meet the minimum salary requirements of RM 5,000 and up to RM 9,999 per month and have an employment contract that is valid for 12 to 24 months.
The Expatriate Committee (EC) or relevant authorities in Malaysia, must give approval for foreign professionals to fill a position before the issuance of an Employment Pass can be made by the immigration department
In order for the hiring company to make an application, foreign nationals will need to provide the following:
Once all the documents have been received, the Hiring Company will lodge the application form and the review process will begin.
It is the responsibility of the employing organisation to submit the application before you travel to Malaysia. Firstly, they must request approval to hire for an Expatriate Post. Once this is approved, apply via the Immigration Department of Malaysia
Yes, for expats seeking a short-term working visa (less than 12 months), they can apply for a Professional Visit Pass. Pass holders can temporarily provide services or undergo practical training with a Malaysian company on behalf of an international firm.
Yes, EP holder will also be able to bring their spouse and children with them using a Dependent Pass.
Their parents, parents-in-law and unmarried children over the age of 18 will also be permitted, using a Social Visit Pass (Long Term).
EP permits are typically processed within 5 working days, once all the relevant documents have been received.
Once approved, the EP will be issued to the Hiring Company and you are now eligible to travel to Malaysia and commence employment.
Once you are in Malaysia your new employer has seven days to submit your passport to the Immigration Department of Malaysia for them to stamp your passport with the EP details. Once stamped, you can remain and work up until the EP expiry date, unless its terminated earlier.
Working alongside a global employment specialist like Airswift, simplifies the process of applying for employment passes or visas in Malaysia - or any of our locations.
Find out more about Airswift's experience and business services in Malaysia
This post was written by: Nic Taylor, Malaysia Country Manager
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