Dreaming about a life full of tropical environment, delectable street cuisine, and cultural diversity? Malaysia immigration is the way to go! Malaysia, located in Southeast Asia, provides a unique blend of modernism and heritage set against a backdrop of beautiful scenery and bustling cities.
The country's immigration policies are designed to attract skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and investors while providing a pathway for family reunification and retirement.
As with any overseas relocation, the transition to immigrant life in Malaysia is not without its difficulties. But don't worry; we'll explore the ins and outs of Malaysia's immigration process and what you need to know to make your move.
Benefits of Immigrating to Malaysia
There are many reasons to make Malaysia your new home, whether you are relocating for a job abroad or for personal reasons. Here are our top 5 advantages for moving to the center of Asia.
1. Affordability
Malaysia's low cost of living is a major lure for people looking to live comfortably on a lower income. The cost of living is pretty comparable to Thailand, which may surprise you. It's good news if you want to purchase real estate in Asia because real estate costs are among the lowest. However, the cost of rent is also extremely inexpensive for individuals unwilling to make such a permanent investment. You may purchase fresh, high-quality produce at the stores for a much lower price than in most other nations in the world thanks to its outstanding agriculture.
2. Safety
Safety is a top concern when deciding where to go. Fortunately, Malaysia is a safe and stable nation. The nation appears to be steadily improving in politics, economy, and society, which is no small accomplishment. Malaysia is a secure country for expatriates even though there is a crime. This is due to low police corruption and community sentiment.
3. Flourishing Economy
Malaysia's economy ranks 37th globally and is the fifth largest in Southeast Asia. This figure is growing yearly, very steadily yet consistently. The nation's labor productivity rate is noticeably higher than that of Malaysia's neighbors, and its citizens enjoy a luxurious and prosperous lifestyle because housing, food, fuel, transportation, and other necessities are reasonably priced. Migrant workers benefit greatly from this economy.
4. Friendly Locals
As soon as you set foot in their stunning nation, Malaysian citizens immediately greet you with love and kindness. It’s one of the reasons why the country is among the best destinations to relocate to. Who wouldn't want to live and work among cheerful, kind people every day? They are hospitable and friendly by nature and prepared to go above and beyond to help others, especially foreign citizens.
Malaysia Entry Requirements
You will need to apply for a Malaysian visa before you may enter the country if you're not a citizen of a visa-exempt country. Numerous countries can stay in Malaysia for particular periods without requiring a visa. You will, however, need to apply for a visa if your stay exceeds the permitted time of visa-free travel.
For instance, if you want to visit Malaysia for no more than ninety days and you are a citizen of the United States or a member state of the European Union, you do not require a visa. Nonetheless, you must apply for a Malaysian visa or the relevant pass for your trip purpose (such as a job, study, or family reunion pass) if you plan to remain longer than ninety days.
Types of Malaysia Visa
Here are the common types of Malaysian visas granted to foreign nationals:
Transit Visa
This is provided to foreigners who require a visa to enter Malaysia while in transit to another country. A transit visa is not needed for foreign nationals who are in transit as long as they stay inside the airport grounds and take the same flight to their next destination.
Single Entry Visa
This visa, commonly known as a Malaysian tourist visa, is valid for three months from the date of issue and allows for a single entrance for tourism and other short-term purposes. Most people use this visa for visits, tourism and medical treatments.
Multiple Entry Visa
This is given to foreign citizens who need a visa to enter Malaysia, primarily for official business. Usually, it is valid for three to twelve months from the date of issuance. The Multiple Entry Visa is available to citizens of the People's Republic of China and India who want to visit Malaysia for social visits. It is valid for one year. Each entry is only permitted for 30 days, and stays beyond that time are not allowed.
Student Visa
If you plan to study in Malaysia as an international student, you must first apply for a student pass or visa. This visa is great for when planning your Malaysia immigration. Any foreign person wishing to visit Malaysia must obtain a pass according to their planned schedule. Therefore, a Malaysia Student Pass is the kind of pass you require to study at a Malaysian educational institution.
Work Visa
Those from other countries who want to work in Malaysia must obtain a work visa. You must first locate a Malaysian company that is ready to recruit you as a foreign national before you can work in Malaysia. Your employer will then need to apply for a Malaysian work permit on your behalf.
Dependent Pass
You must apply for a dependent pass if you are working or studying in Malaysia and wish to bring your family with you. Family members that you are allowed to bring with you on this type of visa include:
- Dependent children
- Spouse
- Children under the age of 21
Retirement Visa
Anyone wishing to retire in Malaysia can apply for a retirement visa. If you meet the requirements and have enough financial resources, you can apply for the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program.
Malaysian visas are further classified into Malaysia Visa With Reference and Malaysia Visa Without Reference. The reason for travel establishes the difference between both types. The High Commission of Malaysia grants the Malaysia Visa Without Reference without needing previous authorization from any Malaysian government agency.
This visa is typically provided for a single entry and is obtained for tourism or social visits. The Malaysia Visa With Reference requires prior authorization from Malaysia's Immigration Department before it may be issued. This is the type of visa you will acquire if you wish to travel to Malaysia to further your education, visit a family member, or work.
Malaysia Visa Requirements
The following are the necessary documentation for a Malaysian visa:
- Completed Malaysia Visa Application Form.
- Proof of accommodation.
- Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate (if applicable).
- Pictures.
- Flight itinerary.
- Valid passport.
- Invitation letter from sponsor
- No Objection Letter from your employer.
- Proof of paid Malaysian visa fee.
- Proof of sufficient funds.
Additional Travel Documents
Depending on the type of visa you're applying for, especially for Malaysia immigration, you'll need additional documents in addition to the general requirements, especially for work or schooling purposes.
- Letter of acceptance from Malaysia school
- Medical certificate
- Transcripts and previous academic certificates
- Proof of English language proficiency
- A personal bond that all international students must sign to guarantee they won't break any Malaysian immigration regulations.
- No-Objection certificate
- Proof of student health insurance
- Employment contract
- Proof of health insurance coverage
- Employment pass application form
How to Apply For A Malaysia Visa
After obtaining the documentation above, candidates can apply for a visa to Malaysia at the Malaysian embassy or the representation office closest to them. Alternatively, if qualified, they can apply for an eVisa for Malaysia.
Applying at the Embassy
Follow these easy steps to apply in person at a Malaysian embassy or consulate.
Find a Malaysian embassy or representative office: You must determine which Malaysian Representative Office or visa application center is closest to you or check whether any exists in your nation.
Download the application form: The Malaysian Immigration Department's website has a visa application form, which you must download and electronically fill out before submitting. You must complete the application, print two copies, and sign each.
Submit the application: In the Malaysian Representative Office or visa application office, you must show copies of your passport and the necessary documents alongside your original passport. Depending on your country, you might be able to mail or turn in the application in person. You must also pay the application fee for a Malaysian visa there. The Malaysian authorities will let you know if you need to do anything else.
Wait for processing: Depending on your nation and the place where you are applying, you might be able to follow the progress of your application online. If your application for a visa to Malaysia is accepted, you must obtain your passport with the visa attached. After that, you can begin your Malaysia immigration.
Remember that even though you might be granted a visa to visit Malaysia, the immigration officials or Malaysian immigration authorities at the port of entry will ultimately determine whether or not to grant you entry. They will provide you with an appropriate Pass that specifies how many days you are permitted to stay in Malaysia based on the reason for your trip.
Online Visa Application
The Malaysia eVisa allows certain foreign nationals to apply for visas online. If your application for a Malaysian e-Visa is accepted, you will be able to print the approval online; it will not be attached to your passport as a sticker. Only citizens of the following nations are eligible to apply online for a visa to Malaysia:
- Bangladesh
- Montenegro
- Bhutan
- India
- China
- Pakistan
- Myanmar
- Serbia
- Nepal
- Sri Lanka
Here are the steps to follow to apply for your Malaysia visa online:
Go to the visa online facility: The Malaysian eVisa application must be submitted online here at least two weeks before the planned travel date. You must select the “I'm New” symbol when visiting the website to be taken to the Registration page.
Submit and confirm your information: On the Registration page, provide the necessary details, including your name, gender, email address, and nationality. After registering, you will receive an email; click the link to validate your registration.
Submit documents: After that, you may use the Returning User option to enter back into your account, finish your e-Visa application, and submit the necessary paperwork.
Wait for processing: After submitting your application, you may expect your Malaysia eVisa to be processed in 48 hours. Furthermore, the Malaysia eVisa processing period may be extended in the event of any issues with the online application system, like crashes or maintenance.
Malaysia Visa Processing Time
Depending on the Malaysian embassy or representative office where you apply, the typical processing period for sticker visas to Malaysia could range from five to seven working days. Typically, it takes two business days to complete and issue a Malaysian eVisa.It is crucial to remember that unforeseen events may cause processing timeframes to be extended. Therefore, applying well before the dates you want to go is usually preferable.
Malaysia Visa Fees
A Malaysian visa costs RM 20 (Malaysian Ringgit) for citizens of all other countries, whether obtaining a multiple entry, single entry, or transit visa. The cost of a Malaysian work pass varies according to how long it's valid.
International students must pay a Student Pass fee of RM 60 annually for each year (or portion of a year) of study. If you are an Indian or Chinese national, you are qualified for a Malaysian visa on arrival, which requires a $100 processing fee.
Conclusion
Malaysia immigration provides a pathway to a diverse and thriving nation. The country welcomes individuals and families seeking new opportunities with various visa options and a relatively smooth process. Explore the Malaysia immigration process and discover the benefits of making Malaysia your new home.
