KUALA LUMPUR – The Expatriate Services Division of Malaysia has released an updated list of requirements for foreign workers planning to enter the country with a Professional Visit Pass (PVP). The announcement supersedes information first circulated on 12 August.

The PVP is awarded to expatriates working for non-Malaysian companies who wish to stay in Malaysia for up to 12 months. The pass allows visitors to perform professional duties for, or train with, a Malaysian company during their stay.

The ESD said the updated rules, which took effect on 16 August, aim to streamline expatriate management services while adhering to Malaysia’s national security measures.

Fewer requirements, tougher rules?

The new list reduces the number of requirements from 13 to six documents, including a copy of the applicant’s passport (all pages with at least six empty pages); an application letter; personal bond or security bond for all nationalities; and, if applicable, a letter of award/contract and memorandum of understanding between the non-Malaysian employer and the Malaysian company hosting the visitor.

The ESD will no longer require a bank guarantee; offer and acceptance letters; job descriptions; work schedules; academic certificates; and CVs from applicants.

Authorities, however, may request additional information regarding the professional visit, according to Patricia Clarino, a senior manager at immigration specialist Newland Chase Advisory.

“Although the number of documents has been reduced, authorities may place increased emphasis on the content of the application letter, which should comprehensively detail the assignment’s purpose, work schedule, and duration,” Clarino said.

Meanwhile, the application fee for PVP has been revised to 1,200 Malaysian ringgit (excluding SST). The change is effective 1 September 2024.

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Faster processing times for expats

Malaysia’s talent management agency TalentCorp, which operates under the Ministry of Human Resources, has also launched an online platform for requesting services and managing expatriate-related concerns, such as the processing of PVP applications. The all-in-one portal is designed to expedite processing times within five working days.

“We remain committed to delivering efficient services that enhance the ease of doing business in the country,” the ESD said. “Through the continuous improvement of our services, we aim to support Malaysia’s economic growth and foster an attractive business environment for international talent and investments.”

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PVP vs Digital Nomad Visa

Apart from welcoming foreign workers who will render services or undergo training with a local company, Malaysia was also the first country in the ASEAN to offer the digital nomad visa. The category, also called the De Rantau Nomad Pass, enables workers in digital marketing, content production and IT services to stay in Malaysia for up to 12 months.

The move could help the country “boost its economy and remain relevant as a country of choice for global business,” analysts from KPMG noted.

“For foreign professionals who are in the digital field, the De Rantau Nomad Pass provides more flexibility in terms of the application for a work pass in Malaysia as compared to the current applications for the Employment Pass or Professional Visit Pass.”