Latest update on Malaysia’s stricter obligation for employment pass applications

From 1 September 2016, in Malaysia, foreign nationals who are submitting new and renewal Employment Pass (EP Stage 2) applications will need to hold at least twelve months of validity in their and any accompanying dependants passports.
A requirement introducing approval letters has been introduced for foreign nationals and their dependants from 1 September 2016. A Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation Stage 1 approval letter must be obtained prior to entering Malaysia. This requirement is applicable to all categories of the EP, Dependant’s pass and the Long Term Social Visit Pass.

Cooling off period

The Malaysian government has implemented a cooling off period which will affect foreign nationals and their dependants who hold permission under the Category III and are seeking to apply for a fourth year. Affected individuals will be subject to serving a three month period outside of Malaysia before a further application may be submitted.

More information

If you have any questions, feel free to contact our Immigration team at immigration@sterling.com or call +44(0)20 8836 3359.