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- Q&A on Malaysia Employment Pass
2026-02-05Q&A on Malaysia Employment Pass
| Q： | What is a Malaysia Employment Pass (EP)? | ||||||||||||||||
| A： |
The Employment Pass (EP) is a work visa issued by the Immigration Department of Malaysia to allow skilled foreign professionals to live and work legally in Malaysia. It is granted to individuals who have secured employment with a Malaysian-registered company in a managerial, executive, or technical-level position. The pass is typically valid for up to one to five years, depending on the applicant’s job type, salary, and category of the Employment Pass. |
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| Q： | What are the categories of the Employment Pass (EP)? | ||||||||||||||||
| A： |
Below are the three categories of Employment Pass (EP) in Malaysia:
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| Q： | Can EP holders bring dependents or foreign maids? | ||||||||||||||||
| A： |
Yes, holders of Category I and II Employment Pass (EP) can bring dependents (legal spouse, children under 18 or parents) under a Dependent Pass or hire a foreign domestic helper with a social visit pass. Category III Employment Pass (EP) holders are not allowed to bring dependents or hire a foreign maid. |
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| Q： | Can the Employment Pass (EP) be renewed? | ||||||||||||||||
| A： |
Yes, the Employment Pass (EP) can be renewed, but the renewal process and eligibility depend on the EP category and compliance with immigration regulations. EPs under Category I and II are renewable provided the renewal application is filed at least three months before expiration. Category III EPs may apply for up to two extensions, with each extension valid for up to 12 months. |
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| Q： | Can Employment Pass (EP) holders apply for permanent residency (PR)? | ||||||||||||||||
| A： |
Yes, after a continuous stay of 5 years, Employment Pass (EP) holders can apply for Malaysian permanent residency through the Immigration Department. Approval, however, is discretionary and hinges on the applicant’s professional qualifications, contributions to Malaysia, and personal character. |
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Q： |
Can expatriates apply for an Employment Pass (EP) application before obtaining a job in Malaysia? | ||||||||||||||||
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A： |
No, expatriates cannot apply for an Employment Pass (EP) on their own before obtaining a job in Malaysia. Only a Malaysian employer registered with the Expatriate Services Division (ESD) may lodge the application. |
Disclaimer
All information in this article is only for the purpose of information sharing, instead of professional suggestion. Kaizen will not assume any responsibility for loss or damage.
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All information in this article is only for the purpose of information sharing, instead of professional suggestion. Kaizen will not assume any responsibility for loss or damage.
WhatsApp/Line/Wechat: +852 5616 4140
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