Malaysia immigration and settlement routes

Applied for by a registered Malaysian company through ESD for an approved position and tied to the employer stated on the pass. From 1 June 2026, new and renewed applications are grouped by monthly salary: EP I at RM20,000 or more, EP II at RM10,000–19,999 and EP III at RM5,000–9,999, with category-specific maximum terms and succession requirements. A pass for Peninsular Malaysia does not automatically cover Sabah or Sarawak.

For highly skilled foreign talent who has worked continuously in Malaysia for at least three years. The pass may run for up to 10 years and be renewed, with greater employer mobility. Current criteria include a valid Employment Pass, at least two years of recent tax history, basic monthly pay of RM15,000, a recognised qualification or professional certificate and at least five years of experience. Residence Pass is not the permanent-residence Entry Permit.

After completing a bachelor or higher qualification at an approved institution, graduates who meet the nationality list, Student Pass, passport, insurance and Malaysian-sponsor requirements may apply for a 12-month Graduate Pass. It permits part-time work in approved sectors without employer sponsorship. It cannot be renewed and does not automatically lead to permanent residence; longer-term employment normally requires a separate Employment Pass before expiry.

A foreign husband or wife of a Malaysian citizen may apply on the basis of a genuine lawful marriage, joint attendance, sponsorship, income and accommodation evidence. An individual grant may run for up to five years; after an employment endorsement, the holder may work or operate a business without changing to an Employment Pass. It remains a long-term temporary pass, not MyPR or an Entry Permit.

A renewable multiple-entry social visit pass. Silver, Gold and Platinum require fixed deposits of USD150,000, USD500,000 and USD1 million and correspond to 5, 15 and 20 years; SEZ/SFZ requires USD65,000 for ages 21–49 or USD32,000 for age 50+ and runs for 10 years. Applications generally use a licensed operator and involve a home-purchase requirement; under-50 applicants generally need 90 cumulative days per year. Silver and Gold do not permit employment, while Platinum permits specified professional or business activity. MM2H is not permanent residence.

A multiple-entry long-term pass of up to 20 years for investors, entrepreneurs and foreign talent, allowing lawful work, business, study and property purchase. Current financial criteria include monthly income of RM40,000 or RM480,000 annually, or a rule-recognised high-net-worth alternative, and at least RM1 million in fixed deposit. PVIP has no minimum stay requirement but is not the permanent-residence Entry Permit.