Malaysia Work Visa Guide
Malaysia has become a popular destination for Indian professionals seeking employment opportunities. With its stunning landscapes, rich culinary culture, and affordable living costs, Malaysia offers an attractive package for expatriates. The Malaysia work visa plays a crucial role in facilitating this migration.
What is Malaysia Work Visa?
The Malaysia work visa is an authorization that allows individuals to enter the country for long-term employment purposes. Only a few nationalities enjoy visa-free entry for employment in Malaysia, making it imperative for Indian passport holders to obtain a Malaysia work visa. Notably, this falls under the ‘Visa with Reference’ (VDR) category, requiring applicants to obtain a letter of approval from the Malaysian Immigration Department, typically facilitated by their sponsor or employer. There are three main categories for this visa:
Employment Pass: Granted for highly skilled positions such as technical or managerial roles, with durations of up to 5 years depending on the nature of the work.
Social Visit Pass (Temporary Employment): Issued for individuals working in specific sectors like manufacturing, construction, domestic help, agriculture, etc., valid for up to 2 years.
Professional Visit: For temporary work assignments of less than 12 months when the employer is not a Malaysian company.
How to Apply for Malaysia Work Visa?
Indian citizens applying for Malaysia work visas must follow these steps:
- Visit the Malaysian Visa Application Centre (VAC) website.
- Download the application form and complete it.
- Schedule an appointment at the VAC for submitting your application.
- Attend the appointment with the completed application form, necessary documents, and fees.
- Submit your application at the VAC.
Ensure that all information and documents provided are accurate, as providing false information or fake documents can lead to visa rejection. If you encounter difficulties during the application process or have concerns about the requirements, consider seeking assistance from a reputable travel agency.
Eligibility for Malaysia Work Visa
To be eligible for a Malaysia work visa from India, applicants must meet these criteria:
- Reside in India or possess a valid residence permit in another country when applying.
- Hold a passport valid for at least 6 months from the intended entry date into Malaysia.
- Possess an approval letter from the Malaysian Immigration Department, typically arranged by the employer.
- Employment Pass: Meet specific monthly salary requirements, with a minimum of RM3,000, or higher in certain cases.
- Social Visit Pass: Be aged between 18 and 45 and hail from one of the approved countries.
- Professional Visit: Be employed by a non-Malaysian organization, with the sponsor in Malaysia responsible for applying for approval.
Documents Required for Malaysia Work Visa
Applicants must provide the following documents, as per Malaysia work visa requirements from India:
- A fully filled and signed application form.
- Two recent passport-sized photos adhering to specifications.
- Educational documents such as degree copies, transcripts, etc.
- An employment contract.
- If applying at a VAC outside your jurisdiction, additional documents like Aadhar cards, rent agreements, marriage certificates, etc.
- The approval letter from the Malaysian Immigration Department.
- Confirmed flight tickets.
Photo Specification for Malaysia Work Visa
Ensure that the photos submitted meet these specifications:
- Dimensions: 35mm X 50mm.
- Color: Colored.
- The head should occupy the central position.
- Photos must be taken within the last 3 months.
- Background: Solid, plain white, or grey.
- Face coverage should be 80%.
- Maintain a neutral expression.
- Thin-framed and prescription glasses are allowed.
- Headgear is permitted for religious reasons.
- Facial hair is permitted.
Processing Time for Malaysia Work Visa
The processing time for a Malaysia work visa can vary based on factors such as embassy workload, the number of entries, your travel history, VAC staff availability, and more. Typically, it can take up to 7 days to process the application, with additional time needed for the approval letter from Malaysia. Therefore, it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
Malaysia Work Visa Fees
The fees for a work permit depend on foreign exchange rates and the applicant’s country of application. Additionally, they may include service charges imposed by the VAC and delivery charges if you opt for that service. It’s essential to verify the exact fee amount before initiating the application.
After Submission
After submitting your work visa application at the respective VAC, it is forwarded to the High Commission of Malaysia in New Delhi or the Consulate General of Malaysia in Mumbai or Chennai, depending on jurisdiction. It’s important to note that the VAC and embassy have no influence over visa decisions. These visas are approved by the Malaysian Immigration Department, with the embassy/consulate facilitating entry visas.
Once your application is approved, you can collect your passport from the VAC or request delivery for an additional fee.
How to Check Visa Status?
You can check the status of your application by entering your passport number and date of birth on the relevant portal. Alternatively, you can contact the travel agency through which you applied for updates.
When You Have This Visa
Upon successfully obtaining your work pass, keep these points in mind for a hassle-free journey:
Before You Travel:
- Note the validity and stay duration mentioned on your visa. Adhere strictly to these details.
- Ensure you have all your travel documents before departing for Malaysia.
At the Border:
- Present your passport with the visa to the immigration officer for entry stamping.
- Be prepared to show copies of other documents submitted with your application.
- Answer questions about the nature of your work and your visit honestly and confidently.
When You Enter Malaysia:
- After arriving in Malaysia, take your passport to the Immigration Department or your respective employer to obtain the work permit sticker.
- Carry a copy of your passport and visa while traveling within the country.
- Respect Malaysian culture, customs, and immigration laws during your stay.
- Adhere to all local laws, and be aware that drug trafficking and use in Malaysia are punishable by death.
- Be prepared to pay taxes in Malaysia if applicable.
- Explore the possibility of bringing your family on dependent visas, if eligible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Extensions are possible, depending on your employment contract and the status of your sponsor. You can apply for an extension by visiting the Immigration Department in Malaysia. However, if an extension is not granted, you must leave the country immediately.
There is no grace period for staying beyond the visa’s expiry date. Overstaying is considered an offense and may result in fines or deportation.
Generally, no medical test is required for Indian citizens. However, some other nationalities may need to submit a yellow fever vaccination certificate. It’s advisable to undergo a medical check-up before traveling to a foreign country.
Generally, bank statements are not required for this category, as your salary is expected to cover your expenses. However, you must meet the minimum salary criteria as per your specific category.
While the processing time for a Malaysian work permit is typically around 7 working days, it’s advisable to start the application process about a month in advance due to the time required to obtain the approval letter from Malaysia.
