Malaysia has a fast-growing economy. Key places like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Iskandar Puteri offer many jobs. There are chances for high-skilled workers and basic migrant workers. But you must understand the two different systems for immigration. One is for professionals. The other is for low-skilled foreign workers. If you want IT jobs in Malaysia or work in construction, this guide helps you. It explains the full process to get a Malaysia work permit. You will know what papers you need from the Immigration Department of Malaysia (JIM). You will also learn your rights under the Malaysian Employment Act 1955. This law protects all workers in the country.
Malaysia needs foreign manpower to grow. Many companies hire from other countries. But rules are strict to keep things fair. Skilled people get better passes. Low-skilled workers follow a different path. Knowing this helps you avoid mistakes. Always check official sites for the latest rules.
Differentiating the Primary Work Permits by Skill Level
The government of Malaysia uses different agencies and passes. It depends on the job type and salary. You must pick the right pass first. This is the start of the Malaysia work permit jobs process.
Skilled Professionals Malaysia (Expatriate Talent)
These jobs need professional skills, management, or technical knowledge. The Expatriate Services Division (ESD) handles them.
- Employment Pass (EP): This is the main pass for skilled workers. You need good education and a monthly salary above a limit. The limit is usually RM5,000 to RM10,000. It changes by EP category and how long it lasts.
- Professional Visit Pass (PVP): This is for short work in Malaysia. Examples are training or consultancy. It lasts up to 12 months.
Skilled workers get faster processing. They have more rights too. Companies like to hire them for high-pay roles.
Foreign Workers (Low-Skilled) (Migrant Workers)
These jobs are in manufacturing, construction, plantations, and services. The Ministry of Human Resources (MOHR) manages through One Stop Centre (OSC). Final approval comes from JIM.
- Foreign Worker Permit (PLKS) / Temporary Employment Pass (TEP): This is the stamp in your passport. To enter Malaysia, you need VDR first. VDR means Visa with Reference. It lets you come and get the PLKS.
Low-skilled workers come from many countries. They fill important basic jobs. But quotas limit how many can come.
The Complete 5-Step Work Permit Process
The employer or sponsor does most of the work. This is true for any pass type. The worker just follows instructions.
Employer Approval & Quota (Pre-Application)
The employer must register first. They go to JIM or ESD for EP. For low-skilled, it is JIM too.
Then, the employer asks for quota. This means permission to hire foreign workers. It is very important for low-skilled jobs. Quotas depend on the sector. For example, construction may have more spots than others.
Without quota, no hire can happen. Employers plan ahead. They submit company details and job needs. Approval takes time, sometimes weeks.
VDR Application (Entry Permission)
After quota approval, the employer applies for VDR. They do this at JIM for the worker.
VDR is the paper that lets you enter Malaysia. It is part of visa fees. The worker gets VDR from Malaysian embassy in their home country.
Travel only after VDR is ready. Bring all papers like job offer and passport.
Mandatory Medical Examination (Post-Arrival)
You arrive in Malaysia with VDR. Now, go for medical check fast. It is called FOMEMA. This is Foreign Workers’ Medical Examination Monitoring Agency.
The check looks for diseases. You must pass it. Do it within days after arrival. Employer arranges the clinic.
If you fail, you may have to leave. Passing is key for next steps.
Final Pass Endorsement and i-Kad Issuance
After FOMEMA pass, employer takes your passport, VDR, and medical report to JIM. They stamp the pass. For skilled, it is EP. For others, PLKS. Then, you get i-Kad. This is a biometric card. It is your ID in Malaysia. Carry it always. The whole step finishes the permit. Now you can work legally.
Compliance and Work Permit Renewal Malaysia
Employer must follow rules after. They pay Foreign Worker Levy every year. They keep Security Bond active. For renewal, apply before expiry. Employer does it. Submit new papers if needed. Do not let permit expire. It causes big problems like fines or deportation.
Follow these steps carefully. Many workers succeed this way. Employers help if they are good.
Labor Law and Financial Protections
All foreign workers in Malaysia have protection by law.
Worker Rights and Financial Terms
- Malaysian Employment Act 1955: This law sets rules for work hours, leave, and ending job. It applies to everyone, including foreign low-skilled workers.
- Minimum Wage Malaysia: Employers must pay the current minimum wage. No difference by country or permit.
- End-of-Service Gratuity: You may get money when contract ends. Check your labour contract. The Act guides this.
- Foreign Worker Levy: Employer pays this. It changes by sector. Construction levy is higher than manufacturing.
Workers should know these rights. It stops bad treatment. Report issues to MOHR if needed.
Avoiding Illegal Recruitment and Scams
Only use licensed employment agencies in Malaysia. Check if employer is real. Do not pay big fees to agents. This is a warning sign. Illegal recruitment is common scam. Employer pays most costs. Like levy and bond. Worker pays little, like medical sometimes.
Stay safe. Verify everything on official sites.
Key Authorities for Expatriate Talent vs. Migrant Workers
The process depends on your job group.
| Pass Type | Target Worker | Key Managing Authority |
|---|---|---|
| Employment Pass (EP) | Skilled Professionals | Expatriate Services Division (ESD), under JIM |
| Foreign Worker Permit (PLKS) | Migrant Workers | One Stop Centre (OSC) and JIM |
ESD is for high skills. OSC helps with low-skilled quotas.
Call to Action (CTA)
Ready for Malaysia work permit jobs? Visit the official JIM website. Check your employer. Share this guide to help others with VDR and FOMEMA.
Disclaimer:
This information is for learning only. It comes from public policies of JIM and MOHR as of late 2025. Always check official Malaysian government websites or licensed agencies for latest details, fees, and processes before you apply or pay money.