Is It Hard to Get a Malaysian Work Visa Now?

Getting a Malaysian work visa is not overly difficult if you meet the eligibility requirements and follow the correct procedure, but it does involve several steps and depends heavily on employer sponsorship and job type.

1. Employer sponsorship is required

You cannot apply for a Malaysian work visa on your own. A company in Malaysia must first offer you a job and then apply to the Malaysian Immigration Department and relevant government agencies on your behalf.

2. Approval from authorities

The employer must obtain approval from the Expatriate Committee or other relevant bodies (such as the Malaysian Investment Development Authority or TalentCorp) depending on the sector and type of work. This can sometimes delay the process if documentation is incomplete or the job role is not clearly justified.

3. Types of work permits

Malaysia offers several types of work permits, including Employment Pass (for professional jobs with salaries above a specific threshold), Temporary Employment Pass (for lower-skilled positions), and Professional Visit Pass (for short-term assignments). The difficulty varies depending on which permit you apply for.

4. Salary and qualifications matter

For higher-level passes like the Employment Pass, the applicant must meet minimum salary requirements and possess relevant academic or professional qualifications. Failure to meet these criteria can result in rejection.

5. Processing time and documentation

The application process includes submission of detailed documents such as your passport, employment contract, academic qualifications, and company registration documents. Processing typically takes two to six weeks but can be longer if issues arise.

6. Regulatory changes and job market competition

Malaysia occasionally updates its immigration policies based on labor market needs. Certain sectors may be closed to foreign workers, and priority is often given to Malaysian citizens, which can affect visa approval chances.

Conclusion:

Getting a Malaysian work visa is achievable if you have a valid job offer, meet the qualifications, and your employer is compliant with immigration regulations. While not overly difficult, the process requires proper documentation, patience, and employer support.