The pass is issued under the authority of Malaysia’s Expatriate Services Division (ESD) or specialized agencies such as the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) for digital/tech industries.
Employment Pass Categories
- For top-level managers, specialists, and professionals.
- Eligible to bring dependants and domestic helpers.
- May change employers with prior approval from authorities.
- For experienced expatriates with moderate salary range.
- Renewable, and dependants are allowed.
- Employer change requires new application.
- For technical or junior positions with shorter contracts.
- Renewable up to two times only (total 3 years).
- Not eligible for dependant or long-term passes.
- Must leave Malaysia if not renewed or transferred to another category.
| Category | Minimum Monthly Salary | Contract Duration | Renewal | Eligible for Dependant Pass / Long-Term Social Visit Pass (LTSVP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP I | RM 10,000 and above | Up to 5 years | Renewable | Yes |
| EP II | RM 5,000 – RM 9,999 | Up to 2 years | Renewable | Yes |
| EP III | RM 3,000 – RM 4,999 | Up to 12 months | Renewable (max 2 times) | No |
Issuing Authorities
Expatriate Services Division (ESD)
The Expatriate Services Division (ESD) under the Immigration Department of Malaysia handles Employment Pass applications for most sectors including:
- Finance, manufacturing, trading, education, healthcare, oil & gas, etc.
- Employers must first register their company with ESD before applying for expatriate posts.
- Once registered, the company may apply online via the ESD Portal.
Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC)
The MDEC manages Employment Pass applications for companies under the Malaysia Digital (formerly MSC Malaysia) status, primarily covering:
- Information & Communications Technology (ICT)
- Digital content, software development, data centers, e-commerce, and related industries.
- Companies registered with MDEC must submit EP applications through the MDEC eXpats portal, not through ESD.
Requirements and Documents
Requirement
Age between 24 – 50
60 Working days to proceed
No specific saving require
No specific asset requirements
Monthly salary/payment of annual income tax
No criminal proof require
Application Process
Company Registration
- Register with ESD or MDEC
- SSM, profile, financials
Expatriate Post Approval
- Determining Education Qualifications
- Pass Interview
- Understanding Past Work Experience
Employment Pass Application
- Passport, quals, contract
- ~7–14 working days
Approval & Endorsement
- Expat receives Approval Letter
- Pass endorsed on arrival
Collection & Reporting
- Card issued after biometric verification
- Report changes in job, address, termination
Renewal & Compliance
- Renew Employment Pass before expiry
- Ensure ongoing compliance with immigration rules
- Applicant’s passport validity must exceed 18 months.
- The employment contract must match the salary category of the pass.
- The job position must be approved and justified as requiring foreign expertise.
- Tax registration (LHDN) and SOCSO/EPF compliance may be required for certain roles.
- Holders of EP I & EP II can apply for Dependent Passes (for spouse/children) and Maid Visa.
- Renewal must be submitted at least 3 months before expiry.
- Transfers between companies require new EP application (not renewal).
- EP III holders can upgrade to EP II or EP I if salary increases and criteria are met.
Malaysia’s Employment Pass framework is designed to attract qualified international professionals who contribute to the country’s economic and technological development. Understanding the differences between EP I, EP II, and EP III, as well as choosing the correct processing agency (ESD, MDEC, etc.), is crucial for a smooth application process.
For accurate, up-to-date requirements, always refer to the official Immigration Department of Malaysia or MDEC eXpats portal before submission.
Application Malaysia MD Status For Company
The Malaysia MD License (Multimedia Development Corporation Sdn Bhd, abbreviated as MDEC) is a specialized license introduced by the government to promote the development of the technology industry.
It aims to attract technology companies to establish operations in Malaysia and enjoy benefits such as tax incentives, visa facilitation, and premium services. Below is a comprehensive guide to the application process, requirements, and fees.
Advantages of The MD License
Tax Exemptions
MD companies enjoy a 10-year corporate income tax exemption.
Foreign Employee Visa Quota
Quick approval and allocation of visas for a large number of foreign employees.
Efficient Services
MDEC provides one-stop services, covering visa applications, legal consultation, and project facilitation.
