Which band your salary sits in
Basic monthly pay, not allowances ( Source MOHA / Immigration Department FAQ 'Revised Expatriate Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026' (updated 12 Feb 2026) Q9 — the salary requirement is based on basic salary only; allowances and other payments are not included in the calculation Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog. Source ESD (Immigration Department of Malaysia) announcement 'Revised Employment Pass Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026', 15 Jan 2026, citing MOHA press release 14 Jan 2026 and Cabinet approval 17 Oct 2025 — Category I revised minimum basic monthly salary RM20,000 and above (previously RM10,000); Employment Pass duration up to 10 years Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog. Source ESD (Immigration Department of Malaysia) announcement 'Revised Employment Pass Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026', 15 Jan 2026, citing MOHA press release 14 Jan 2026 and Cabinet approval 17 Oct 2025 — Category II revised minimum basic monthly salary RM10,000 – RM19,999 (previously RM5,000 – RM9,999) Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog. Source ESD (Immigration Department of Malaysia) announcement 'Revised Employment Pass Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026', 15 Jan 2026, citing MOHA press release 14 Jan 2026 and Cabinet approval 17 Oct 2025 — Category II revised band ends at RM19,999; at RM20,000 and above the application sits in Category I Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog. Source ESD Online Guidebook V6 employment-contract checklist — dual function position is NOT ALLOWED; the position in the contract, ESD Online, job description and Support/Approval Letter must be the same Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog. Source ESD (Immigration Department of Malaysia) announcement 'Revised Employment Pass Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026', 15 Jan 2026, citing MOHA press release 14 Jan 2026 and Cabinet approval 17 Oct 2025 — the revised thresholds apply to all new and renewal Employment Pass applications submitted on or after 1 June 2026; complete applications submitted before that date are assessed under the previous policy Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.yes
20000 MYR
10000 MYR
19999 MYR
yes
2026-06-01
Experience floors
The Guidebook sets minimums by qualification: a degree with Source ESD Online Guidebook V6 — minimum for an expatriate post: Degree and above with at least 3 years of experience in the relevant field Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog. Source ESD Online Guidebook V6 — Diploma with at least 5 years of experience in the relevant field Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog. Source ESD Online Guidebook V6 — Technical Certificate or equivalent with at least 7 years of experience in the relevant field Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.3 years
5 years
7 years
ICT trapAn ICT company on ESD Online is limited to the Professional Visit Pass-Expert channel ( Source ESD Online Guidebook V6 note (3) — the Information, Technology & Communications (ICT) sector is only allowed to apply for Professional Visit Pass-Expert (PVP) via ESD Online Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.yes
Stay is not work
A stay stamp alone is not work authority ( Source ESD Online Guidebook V6 — Employment Pass applications require approval before entering for employment; Dependant Pass / long-term social visit paths are listed as separate instruments from EP Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog. Source ESD Online Guidebook V6 Employment Pass / PVP conditions — all applications must obtain an Approval Letter before entering Malaysia for the purpose of employment Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.yes
yes
Evidence and sources53 dated facts for Earn in Malaysia — Employment Pass, Professional Visit Pass and Residence Pass-Talent
The readable briefing above uses these cells. Open a source only when you need to verify a number, date, or legal gate.
- Revised Expatriate Salary Policy applies to applications fromESD (Immigration Department of Malaysia) announcement 'Revised Employment Pass Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026', 15 Jan 2026, citing MOHA press release 14 Jan 2026 and Cabinet approval 17 Oct 2025 — the revised thresholds apply to all new and renewal Employment Pass applications submitted on or after 1 June 2026; complete applications submitted before that date are assessed under the previous policychecked Aug 2026
2026-06-01
Source ESD (Immigration Department of Malaysia) announcement 'Revised Employment Pass Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026', 15 Jan 2026, citing MOHA press release 14 Jan 2026 and Cabinet approval 17 Oct 2025 — the revised thresholds apply to all new and renewal Employment Pass applications submitted on or after 1 June 2026; complete applications submitted before that date are assessed under the previous policy
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Employment Pass categoriesESD (Immigration Department of Malaysia) announcement 'Revised Employment Pass Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026', 15 Jan 2026, citing MOHA press release 14 Jan 2026 and Cabinet approval 17 Oct 2025 — Employment Pass Category I, Category II and Category III each carry their own basic-salary floor and maximum employment durationchecked Aug 2026
I / II / III
Source ESD (Immigration Department of Malaysia) announcement 'Revised Employment Pass Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026', 15 Jan 2026, citing MOHA press release 14 Jan 2026 and Cabinet approval 17 Oct 2025 — Employment Pass Category I, Category II and Category III each carry their own basic-salary floor and maximum employment duration
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Minimum basic monthly salary, Employment Pass Category I (from 1 Jun 2026)ESD (Immigration Department of Malaysia) announcement 'Revised Employment Pass Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026', 15 Jan 2026, citing MOHA press release 14 Jan 2026 and Cabinet approval 17 Oct 2025 — Category I revised minimum basic monthly salary RM20,000 and above (previously RM10,000); Employment Pass duration up to 10 yearschecked Aug 2026
20000 MYR
Source ESD (Immigration Department of Malaysia) announcement 'Revised Employment Pass Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026', 15 Jan 2026, citing MOHA press release 14 Jan 2026 and Cabinet approval 17 Oct 2025 — Category I revised minimum basic monthly salary RM20,000 and above (previously RM10,000); Employment Pass duration up to 10 years
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Lower bound of Employment Pass Category II basic monthly salary band (from 1 Jun 2026)ESD (Immigration Department of Malaysia) announcement 'Revised Employment Pass Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026', 15 Jan 2026, citing MOHA press release 14 Jan 2026 and Cabinet approval 17 Oct 2025 — Category II revised minimum basic monthly salary RM10,000 – RM19,999 (previously RM5,000 – RM9,999)checked Aug 2026
10000 MYR
Source ESD (Immigration Department of Malaysia) announcement 'Revised Employment Pass Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026', 15 Jan 2026, citing MOHA press release 14 Jan 2026 and Cabinet approval 17 Oct 2025 — Category II revised minimum basic monthly salary RM10,000 – RM19,999 (previously RM5,000 – RM9,999)
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Upper bound of Employment Pass Category II basic monthly salary band (from 1 Jun 2026)ESD (Immigration Department of Malaysia) announcement 'Revised Employment Pass Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026', 15 Jan 2026, citing MOHA press release 14 Jan 2026 and Cabinet approval 17 Oct 2025 — Category II revised band ends at RM19,999; at RM20,000 and above the application sits in Category Ichecked Aug 2026
19999 MYR
Source ESD (Immigration Department of Malaysia) announcement 'Revised Employment Pass Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026', 15 Jan 2026, citing MOHA press release 14 Jan 2026 and Cabinet approval 17 Oct 2025 — Category II revised band ends at RM19,999; at RM20,000 and above the application sits in Category I
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Lower bound of Employment Pass Category III basic monthly salary band (from 1 Jun 2026)ESD (Immigration Department of Malaysia) announcement 'Revised Employment Pass Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026', 15 Jan 2026, citing MOHA press release 14 Jan 2026 and Cabinet approval 17 Oct 2025 — Category III revised minimum basic monthly salary RM5,000 – RM9,999 (previously RM3,000 – RM4,999)checked Aug 2026
5000 MYR
Source ESD (Immigration Department of Malaysia) announcement 'Revised Employment Pass Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026', 15 Jan 2026, citing MOHA press release 14 Jan 2026 and Cabinet approval 17 Oct 2025 — Category III revised minimum basic monthly salary RM5,000 – RM9,999 (previously RM3,000 – RM4,999)
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Upper bound of Employment Pass Category III basic monthly salary band (from 1 Jun 2026)ESD (Immigration Department of Malaysia) announcement 'Revised Employment Pass Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026', 15 Jan 2026, citing MOHA press release 14 Jan 2026 and Cabinet approval 17 Oct 2025 — Category III revised band ends at RM9,999; at RM10,000 the application sits in Category IIchecked Aug 2026
9999 MYR
Source ESD (Immigration Department of Malaysia) announcement 'Revised Employment Pass Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026', 15 Jan 2026, citing MOHA press release 14 Jan 2026 and Cabinet approval 17 Oct 2025 — Category III revised band ends at RM9,999; at RM10,000 the application sits in Category II
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Employment Pass Category III floor for manufacturing / MRS employers (from 1 Jun 2026)MOHA / Immigration Department FAQ 'Revised Expatriate Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026' (updated 12 Feb 2026) Q10 — for companies in the Manufacturing Sector and Manufacturing-Related Services (MRS) under MITI / MIDA purview, the Employment Pass Category III band is RM7,000 – RM9,999; manufacturing sub-sectors must hold a Manufacturing Licence or a Manufacturing Exemption Confirmation Letterchecked Aug 2026
7000 MYR
Source MOHA / Immigration Department FAQ 'Revised Expatriate Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026' (updated 12 Feb 2026) Q10 — for companies in the Manufacturing Sector and Manufacturing-Related Services (MRS) under MITI / MIDA purview, the Employment Pass Category III band is RM7,000 – RM9,999; manufacturing sub-sectors must hold a Manufacturing Licence or a Manufacturing Exemption Confirmation Letter
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Employment Pass salary floors are measured on basic salary onlyMOHA / Immigration Department FAQ 'Revised Expatriate Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026' (updated 12 Feb 2026) Q9 — the salary requirement is based on basic salary only; allowances and other payments are not included in the calculationchecked Aug 2026
yes
Source MOHA / Immigration Department FAQ 'Revised Expatriate Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026' (updated 12 Feb 2026) Q9 — the salary requirement is based on basic salary only; allowances and other payments are not included in the calculation
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Maximum Employment Pass duration, Category IESD (Immigration Department of Malaysia) announcement 'Revised Employment Pass Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026', 15 Jan 2026, citing MOHA press release 14 Jan 2026 and Cabinet approval 17 Oct 2025 — Category I Employment Pass duration up to 10 yearschecked Aug 2026
10 years
Source ESD (Immigration Department of Malaysia) announcement 'Revised Employment Pass Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026', 15 Jan 2026, citing MOHA press release 14 Jan 2026 and Cabinet approval 17 Oct 2025 — Category I Employment Pass duration up to 10 years
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Maximum Employment Pass duration, Category II (succession plan required)ESD (Immigration Department of Malaysia) announcement 'Revised Employment Pass Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026', 15 Jan 2026, citing MOHA press release 14 Jan 2026 and Cabinet approval 17 Oct 2025 — Category II Employment Pass duration up to 10 years with a succession planchecked Aug 2026
10 years
Source ESD (Immigration Department of Malaysia) announcement 'Revised Employment Pass Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026', 15 Jan 2026, citing MOHA press release 14 Jan 2026 and Cabinet approval 17 Oct 2025 — Category II Employment Pass duration up to 10 years with a succession plan
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Maximum Employment Pass duration, Category III (succession plan required)ESD (Immigration Department of Malaysia) announcement 'Revised Employment Pass Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026', 15 Jan 2026, citing MOHA press release 14 Jan 2026 and Cabinet approval 17 Oct 2025 — Category III Employment Pass duration up to 5 years with a succession planchecked Aug 2026
5 years
Source ESD (Immigration Department of Malaysia) announcement 'Revised Employment Pass Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026', 15 Jan 2026, citing MOHA press release 14 Jan 2026 and Cabinet approval 17 Oct 2025 — Category III Employment Pass duration up to 5 years with a succession plan
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Succession plan is defined in the primary FAQ, not left to the employerMOHA / Immigration Department FAQ 'Revised Expatriate Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026' (updated 12 Feb 2026) Q4 — a succession plan is a structured employer plan to prepare local employees to replace expatriate roles within the stipulated employment period: identifying the roles to be taken over, training and mentoring including knowledge transfer, a timeline for readiness, and continuity planning so the transition does not affect productivitychecked Aug 2026
yes
Source MOHA / Immigration Department FAQ 'Revised Expatriate Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026' (updated 12 Feb 2026) Q4 — a succession plan is a structured employer plan to prepare local employees to replace expatriate roles within the stipulated employment period: identifying the roles to be taken over, training and mentoring including knowledge transfer, a timeline for readiness, and continuity planning so the transition does not affect productivity
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Employment duration clock is tied to the employer, not the personMOHA / Immigration Department FAQ 'Revised Expatriate Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026' (updated 12 Feb 2026) Q11–Q12 — the expatriate employment period is calculated against the employing company from 1 June 2026; on a change of company the clock starts from the date of employment with the new company, and on a change of pass category from the issuance date of the new passchecked Aug 2026
yes
Source MOHA / Immigration Department FAQ 'Revised Expatriate Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026' (updated 12 Feb 2026) Q11–Q12 — the expatriate employment period is calculated against the employing company from 1 June 2026; on a change of company the clock starts from the date of employment with the new company, and on a change of pass category from the issuance date of the new pass
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- The Category III minimum-salary exemption route is closed from 1 Jun 2026MOHA / Immigration Department FAQ 'Revised Expatriate Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026' (updated 12 Feb 2026) Q18 — minimum salary exemption applications for Employment Pass Category III will no longer apply starting 1 June 2026checked Aug 2026
yes
Source MOHA / Immigration Department FAQ 'Revised Expatriate Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026' (updated 12 Feb 2026) Q18 — minimum salary exemption applications for Employment Pass Category III will no longer apply starting 1 June 2026
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- The Category III cooling-off period is removed under the revised policyMOHA / Immigration Department FAQ 'Revised Expatriate Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026' (updated 12 Feb 2026) Q21 — the cooling-off period will no longer apply to Employment Pass Category III following implementation of the revised policychecked Aug 2026
yes
Source MOHA / Immigration Department FAQ 'Revised Expatriate Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026' (updated 12 Feb 2026) Q21 — the cooling-off period will no longer apply to Employment Pass Category III following implementation of the revised policy
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Whether a Category III holder may bring dependants turns on the pass issue dateMOHA / Immigration Department FAQ 'Revised Expatriate Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026' (updated 12 Feb 2026) Q20 — Category III passes issued before 1 June 2026 remain under the existing policy, which does not allow dependants; Category III applications submitted from 1 June 2026 are subject to the revised policychecked Aug 2026
yes
Source MOHA / Immigration Department FAQ 'Revised Expatriate Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026' (updated 12 Feb 2026) Q20 — Category III passes issued before 1 June 2026 remain under the existing policy, which does not allow dependants; Category III applications submitted from 1 June 2026 are subject to the revised policy
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Earliest Employment Pass renewal filing before expiryMOHA / Immigration Department FAQ 'Revised Expatriate Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026' (updated 12 Feb 2026) Q16 — valid pass holders need not resubmit, but renewal applications may be submitted as early as three months before pass expiry and fall under the revised policy if made after 1 June 2026checked Aug 2026
3 months
Source MOHA / Immigration Department FAQ 'Revised Expatriate Salary Policy Effective 1 June 2026' (updated 12 Feb 2026) Q16 — valid pass holders need not resubmit, but renewal applications may be submitted as early as three months before pass expiry and fall under the revised policy if made after 1 June 2026
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- A stay stamp alone is not Malaysian Employment Pass work authorityESD Online Guidebook V6 — Employment Pass applications require approval before entering for employment; Dependant Pass / long-term social visit paths are listed as separate instruments from EPchecked Aug 2026
yes
Source ESD Online Guidebook V6 — Employment Pass applications require approval before entering for employment; Dependant Pass / long-term social visit paths are listed as separate instruments from EP
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- A Malaysian employer must register on ESD Online before filing expatriate passesESD Online Guidebook V6 (14 Apr 2025) FAQ — all companies will need to register via ESD Online as a first step; ESD-approved companies can then apply for Employment Pass, Professional Visit Pass-Expert, Dependant Pass and Social Visit Pass (Long Term)checked Aug 2026
yes
Source ESD Online Guidebook V6 (14 Apr 2025) FAQ — all companies will need to register via ESD Online as a first step; ESD-approved companies can then apply for Employment Pass, Professional Visit Pass-Expert, Dependant Pass and Social Visit Pass (Long Term)
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- ESD company-registration charterESD Online Guidebook V6 FAQ — company registration process takes five (5) working days to status notification, subject to complete documentationchecked Aug 2026
5 working days
Source ESD Online Guidebook V6 FAQ — company registration process takes five (5) working days to status notification, subject to complete documentation
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- ESD paid-up capital floor — 100% local-owned companyESD Online Guidebook V6 — paid-up capital for 100% locally owned companies: RM250,000 (not applicable to public limited companies, companies limited by guarantee, associations and organisations under specific acts)checked Aug 2026
250000 MYR
Source ESD Online Guidebook V6 — paid-up capital for 100% locally owned companies: RM250,000 (not applicable to public limited companies, companies limited by guarantee, associations and organisations under specific acts)
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- ESD paid-up capital floor — joint ventureESD Online Guidebook V6 — paid-up capital for joint-venture companies: RM350,000; joint ventures also need minimum 30% foreign shareholdingchecked Aug 2026
350000 MYR
Source ESD Online Guidebook V6 — paid-up capital for joint-venture companies: RM350,000; joint ventures also need minimum 30% foreign shareholding
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- ESD paid-up capital floor — 100% foreign-owned companyESD Online Guidebook V6 — paid-up capital for 100% foreign-owned companies: RM500,000checked Aug 2026
500000 MYR
Source ESD Online Guidebook V6 — paid-up capital for 100% foreign-owned companies: RM500,000
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- ESD paid-up capital floor — foreign-owned WRT companyESD Online Guidebook V6 — foreign-owned companies (foreign equity 51%+) in Wholesale, Retail and Trade (WRT) sectors: RM1,000,000 paid-up, with mandatory valid WRT approval letter where applicablechecked Aug 2026
1000000 MYR
Source ESD Online Guidebook V6 — foreign-owned companies (foreign equity 51%+) in Wholesale, Retail and Trade (WRT) sectors: RM1,000,000 paid-up, with mandatory valid WRT approval letter where applicable
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Restricted distributive-trade sectors cannot file long-term Employment PassesESD Online Guidebook V6 note (2) — under KPDN Guidelines on Foreign Participation in the Distributive Trade Services Malaysia, applications for any long-term pass (more than 3 months) including Employment Pass for companies in those restricted sectors are NOT ALLOWEDchecked Aug 2026
yes
Source ESD Online Guidebook V6 note (2) — under KPDN Guidelines on Foreign Participation in the Distributive Trade Services Malaysia, applications for any long-term pass (more than 3 months) including Employment Pass for companies in those restricted sectors are NOT ALLOWED
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- ICT companies on ESD Online are limited to Professional Visit Pass-ExpertESD Online Guidebook V6 note (3) — the Information, Technology & Communications (ICT) sector is only allowed to apply for Professional Visit Pass-Expert (PVP) via ESD Onlinechecked Aug 2026
yes
Source ESD Online Guidebook V6 note (3) — the Information, Technology & Communications (ICT) sector is only allowed to apply for Professional Visit Pass-Expert (PVP) via ESD Online
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Approval Letter is required before entering Malaysia to take up the jobESD Online Guidebook V6 Employment Pass / PVP conditions — all applications must obtain an Approval Letter before entering Malaysia for the purpose of employmentchecked Aug 2026
yes
Source ESD Online Guidebook V6 Employment Pass / PVP conditions — all applications must obtain an Approval Letter before entering Malaysia for the purpose of employment
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Employment Pass basic salary must be paid by the Malaysian employer in MYRESD Online Guidebook V6 employment-contract checklist — basic salary (excluding gross salary / allowances / incentives / bonuses) must be paid by the Malaysian company and stated in Ringgit Malaysiachecked Aug 2026
yes
Source ESD Online Guidebook V6 employment-contract checklist — basic salary (excluding gross salary / allowances / incentives / bonuses) must be paid by the Malaysian company and stated in Ringgit Malaysia
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- A dual-function job title is not allowed on an Employment PassESD Online Guidebook V6 employment-contract checklist — dual function position is NOT ALLOWED; the position in the contract, ESD Online, job description and Support/Approval Letter must be the samechecked Aug 2026
yes
Source ESD Online Guidebook V6 employment-contract checklist — dual function position is NOT ALLOWED; the position in the contract, ESD Online, job description and Support/Approval Letter must be the same
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Minimum relevant experience with a degree for an Employment Pass postESD Online Guidebook V6 — minimum for an expatriate post: Degree and above with at least 3 years of experience in the relevant fieldchecked Aug 2026
3 years
Source ESD Online Guidebook V6 — minimum for an expatriate post: Degree and above with at least 3 years of experience in the relevant field
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Minimum relevant experience with a diploma for an Employment Pass postESD Online Guidebook V6 — Diploma with at least 5 years of experience in the relevant fieldchecked Aug 2026
5 years
Source ESD Online Guidebook V6 — Diploma with at least 5 years of experience in the relevant field
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Minimum relevant experience with a technical certificate for an Employment Pass postESD Online Guidebook V6 — Technical Certificate or equivalent with at least 7 years of experience in the relevant fieldchecked Aug 2026
7 years
Source ESD Online Guidebook V6 — Technical Certificate or equivalent with at least 7 years of experience in the relevant field
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- A Dependant Pass does not authorise employmentESD Online Guidebook V6 Dependant Pass features — Employment not allowed and requires conversion to Employment Passchecked Aug 2026
no
Source ESD Online Guidebook V6 Dependant Pass features — Employment not allowed and requires conversion to Employment Pass
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- A Social Visit Pass (Long Term) does not authorise employmentESD Online Guidebook V6 Social Visit Pass (Long Term) features — Employment is not allowed and requires conversion to Employment Pass; study is not allowed and requires conversion to Student Passchecked Aug 2026
no
Source ESD Online Guidebook V6 Social Visit Pass (Long Term) features — Employment is not allowed and requires conversion to Employment Pass; study is not allowed and requires conversion to Student Pass
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Professional Visit Pass is the short earn door for people paid by an overseas employerMIDA Procedures and Guidelines on Application for Professional Visit Pass (1 June 2026) §A/B — PVP allows foreign nationals to enter Malaysia temporarily to provide professional services, technical expertise or training without being employed by a Malaysian company; PVP holders are employed by overseas companieschecked Aug 2026
yes
Source MIDA Procedures and Guidelines on Application for Professional Visit Pass (1 June 2026) §A/B — PVP allows foreign nationals to enter Malaysia temporarily to provide professional services, technical expertise or training without being employed by a Malaysian company; PVP holders are employed by overseas companies
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Professional Visit Pass maximum durationESD Online Guidebook V6 PVP — the maximum duration for an expatriate to hold PVP is 12 months; no extensions are allowed beyond 12 months. MIDA PVP Guidelines (1 June 2026) §A — valid for a maximum duration of 12 months and is not extendablechecked Aug 2026
12 months
Source ESD Online Guidebook V6 PVP — the maximum duration for an expatriate to hold PVP is 12 months; no extensions are allowed beyond 12 months. MIDA PVP Guidelines (1 June 2026) §A — valid for a maximum duration of 12 months and is not extendable
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Professional Visit Pass is not extendable past 12 monthsESD Online Guidebook V6 PVP + MIDA PVP Guidelines (1 June 2026) — no extensions beyond the 12-month maximumchecked Aug 2026
yes
Source ESD Online Guidebook V6 PVP + MIDA PVP Guidelines (1 June 2026) — no extensions beyond the 12-month maximum
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Professional Visit Pass holders cannot bring dependants on a Dependant PassMIDA PVP Guidelines (1 June 2026) §C.11 — PVP holders are not entitled to apply for a Dependant Passchecked Aug 2026
yes
Source MIDA PVP Guidelines (1 June 2026) §C.11 — PVP holders are not entitled to apply for a Dependant Pass
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Professional Visit Pass is tied to one Malaysian sponsorMIDA PVP Guidelines (1 June 2026) §C.10 — the pass is specific to the Malaysian sponsoring company; PVP holders are NOT allowed to work for other companies in Malaysia. ESD Guidebook — change of employer requires cancel + exit before a new PVPchecked Aug 2026
yes
Source MIDA PVP Guidelines (1 June 2026) §C.10 — the pass is specific to the Malaysian sponsoring company; PVP holders are NOT allowed to work for other companies in Malaysia. ESD Guidebook — change of employer requires cancel + exit before a new PVP
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- MIDA processing fee per Professional Visit Pass applicationMIDA PVP Guidelines (1 June 2026) §F.7 — processing fees (exclude 8% SST): MIDA RM1,200.00 for each PVP application; Immigration RM180/RM360 pass issuance + visa fee RM6–RM50checked Aug 2026
1200 MYR
Source MIDA PVP Guidelines (1 June 2026) §F.7 — processing fees (exclude 8% SST): MIDA RM1,200.00 for each PVP application; Immigration RM180/RM360 pass issuance + visa fee RM6–RM50
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- MIDA Professional Visit Pass processing charterMIDA PVP Guidelines (1 June 2026) §F.3 — client charter processed within 15 working days (including Immigration work process), subject to completenesschecked Aug 2026
15 working days
Source MIDA PVP Guidelines (1 June 2026) §F.3 — client charter processed within 15 working days (including Immigration work process), subject to completeness
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- MIDA assesses Professional Visit Pass for manufacturing and listed MIDA services sectorsMIDA PVP Guidelines (1 June 2026) §C.1 — sector: manufacturing and selected services sectors under MIDA’s purview; the Malaysian sponsoring company must be within sectors regulated by MIDAchecked Aug 2026
yes
Source MIDA PVP Guidelines (1 June 2026) §C.1 — sector: manufacturing and selected services sectors under MIDA’s purview; the Malaysian sponsoring company must be within sectors regulated by MIDA
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Professional Visit Pass filing channel splits by sponsor sectorESD Online Guidebook V6 lists Professional Visit Pass-Expert among MYXpats Centre services for ESD-registered companies; MIDA PVP Guidelines (1 June 2026) route manufacturing and selected MIDA services through MIDA Expatriate System via Xpats Gateway. Which channel applies depends on the sponsor’s sectorchecked Aug 2026
ESD Online / MIDA Expatriate System
Source ESD Online Guidebook V6 lists Professional Visit Pass-Expert among MYXpats Centre services for ESD-registered companies; MIDA PVP Guidelines (1 June 2026) route manufacturing and selected MIDA services through MIDA Expatriate System via Xpats Gateway. Which channel applies depends on the sponsor’s sector
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Professional Visit Pass-Expert is not the same door as DE RantauContrast grounded in primary: MIDA/ESD PVP-Expert is a host-sponsored short assignment while the holder stays on an overseas payroll; MDEC DE Rantau is a separate Professional Visit Pass track for remote digital nomads. Do not treat the two as the same doorchecked Aug 2026
yes
Source Contrast grounded in primary: MIDA/ESD PVP-Expert is a host-sponsored short assignment while the holder stays on an overseas payroll; MDEC DE Rantau is a separate Professional Visit Pass track for remote digital nomads. Do not treat the two as the same door
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Residence Pass-Talent lengthTalentCorp Residence Pass-Talent page — RP-T is a 10-year renewable visa for highly skilled expatriate talent, introduced with MOHA and the Immigration Departmentchecked Aug 2026
10 years
Source TalentCorp Residence Pass-Talent page — RP-T is a 10-year renewable visa for highly skilled expatriate talent, introduced with MOHA and the Immigration Department
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Residence Pass-Talent minimum basic monthly salaryTalentCorp RP-T eligibility — earns a basic monthly salary of RM15,000 which excludes any allowances and/or bonuses; yearly basic salary declared should align (at least RM180,000 per annum)checked Aug 2026
15000 MYR
Source TalentCorp RP-T eligibility — earns a basic monthly salary of RM15,000 which excludes any allowances and/or bonuses; yearly basic salary declared should align (at least RM180,000 per annum)
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Minimum consecutive Employment Pass years before Residence Pass-TalentTalentCorp RP-T eligibility — has worked in Malaysia under the Employment Pass for a minimum of three (3) consecutive years at the time of application; holds a valid Employment Pass with more than 3 months validity at submissionchecked Aug 2026
3 years
Source TalentCorp RP-T eligibility — has worked in Malaysia under the Employment Pass for a minimum of three (3) consecutive years at the time of application; holds a valid Employment Pass with more than 3 months validity at submission
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Minimum total work experience for Residence Pass-TalentTalentCorp RP-T eligibility — possesses at least 5 years of total work experiencechecked Aug 2026
5 years
Source TalentCorp RP-T eligibility — possesses at least 5 years of total work experience
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Minimum recent Malaysian tax years paid for Residence Pass-TalentTalentCorp RP-T eligibility — has a Malaysian income tax file number and has paid income tax for the most recent 2 years (minimum) at the time of applicationchecked Aug 2026
2 years
Source TalentCorp RP-T eligibility — has a Malaysian income tax file number and has paid income tax for the most recent 2 years (minimum) at the time of application
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Residence Pass-Talent is not tied to one Employment Pass employerTalentCorp Residence Pass-Talent highlights — have the flexibility to change employers without converting the passchecked Aug 2026
yes
Source TalentCorp Residence Pass-Talent highlights — have the flexibility to change employers without converting the pass
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- An RP-T spouse can seek employment without a separate Employment PassTalentCorp Residence Pass-Talent highlights — spouse (legally married) is eligible for the RP-T and as such can seek employment in Malaysia without the need to apply for an Employment Passchecked Aug 2026
yes
Source TalentCorp Residence Pass-Talent highlights — spouse (legally married) is eligible for the RP-T and as such can seek employment in Malaysia without the need to apply for an Employment Pass
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
- Malaysia has not published an Indo/Thai-style numbered closed-occupation list for expatriatesAs of check date, ESD / MOHA primary publish salary floors, succession plans and sector gates (distributive-trade long-pass block; ICT→PVP-only on ESD) rather than a numbered closed-occupation schedule of the Thailand reserved-list / Indonesia personalia-list type. Do not invent a closed-job countchecked Aug 2026
yes
Source As of check date, ESD / MOHA primary publish salary floors, succession plans and sector gates (distributive-trade long-pass block; ICT→PVP-only on ESD) rather than a numbered closed-occupation schedule of the Thailand reserved-list / Indonesia personalia-list type. Do not invent a closed-job count
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
Common questions
Which Employment Pass category does a tech role fall into?
Read the basic salary, not the job title. Category I is RM20,000 basic monthly and above; Category II is RM10,000–19,999; Category III is RM5,000–9,999. Allowances do not count — only basic salary places the band, under the Revised Expatriate Salary Policy in force from 1 June 2026.
Is a work visa enough to start coding for a Malaysian company?
No. A stay stamp alone is not work authority. The employer must be registered with ESD and hold an Approval Letter before you enter. The pass, not the visa, makes the job lawful.
My employer is an ICT company — why can't it file an Employment Pass?
ESD materials note that an ICT company on ESD Online is limited to the Professional Visit Pass-Expert channel. That is a filed trap, not a rumour: confirm your sponsor's sector before you sign, because it changes which pass you can even apply for.
How much experience do I need?
Guidebook minimums by qualification: a degree with 3 years of relevant experience, a diploma with 5 years, or a technical certificate with 7 years. Approval still sits with the Expatriate Committee.
← Earn in Malaysia · Own a business · Remote / overseas payroll · Residence Pass-Talent
