Residence in Malaysia: permits and requirements
Living legally in Malaysia is possible through 5 permit types: work, other, family, investment. Each program has its own requirements; below are the duration, renewal, costs and documentation according to the country's official sources.
Employment visa (Employment Pass, EP)
Residence type #1 of 5
Employment Pass for professionals with a contract with a Malaysian company; EP Categories I to III based on salary and duration (Immigration Department, JIM).
Requirements
- Job offer with a company registered in Malaysia (EP I: minimum salary 10,000 MYR/month; EP II: 5,000–9,999; EP III: 3,000–4,999)
- Contract of at least 2 years (EP I) or conditions by category
- Approval from the relevant passport company or agency (ESD for EP I/II)
Documentation
- Contract and employer letter
- Valid passport (at least 6 months)
- Form and JIM fees
Frequently asked questions about residence in Malaysia
How many types of residence permits are there in Malaysia?
Malaysia offers 5 residence permit types, grouped into the categories work, other, family, investment. Each permit has its own requirements, duration and documentation, detailed in this fact sheet according to the country's official sources.
How long do residence permits in Malaysia last?
Durations vary by permit type: Up to 60 months depending on contract (Category I up to 10 years from June 2026; official ESD); 5 years (Silver), 15 years (Gold), 20 years (Platinum); Same as the principal pass; 20 years (renewable). The exact details of each type appear in the corresponding fact sheet.
Can residence permits in Malaysia be renewed?
Yes. All residence permit types of Malaysia (5 in total) are renewable before their expiration, according to the rules of each program.
What documentation is usually required to reside in Malaysia?
Although each permit requires its own file, the most recurrent documents are: Formulario de solicitud; Contrato de trabajo. The complete list by residence type appears in each fact sheet, together with the corresponding official link.
Does residence in Malaysia lead to nationality?
Yes, through the Naturalization by residence pathway, which requires ≥10 years of aggregate residence within the last 12 years, including the 12 months immediately before applying (art. 19, Second Schedule). The complete requirements are in the nationality fact sheet of Malaysia.
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Anything to correct or add about Malaysia?
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