Working in Malaysia Guide 2026

Malaysia offers excellent opportunities for foreign professionals, with a growing economy, competitive salaries, and a high quality of life. The country actively recruits skilled foreign workers in key sectors while maintaining regulations to protect local employment.

Why Work in Malaysia?

Employment Statistics

• 2+ million foreign workers in Malaysia
• 100,000+ expatriates on Employment Passes
• Growing demand in tech, finance, healthcare
• Competitive salaries for skilled professionals
• Strong expat community and support

Types of Work Authorization

Key Sectors Hiring Foreigners

1. Information Technology - Software, cybersecurity, data science
2. Finance & Banking - Investment, fintech, Islamic finance
3. Oil & Gas - Engineering, operations, management
4. Manufacturing - Engineering, quality, management
5. Healthcare - Doctors, specialists, researchers
6. Education - International schools, universities
7. Hospitality - Hotels, tourism management
8. Professional Services - Consulting, legal, accounting

Employment Pass (EP) Overview

The Employment Pass is the primary work authorization for skilled foreign professionals in Malaysia. It's issued by the Immigration Department through the Expatriate Services Division (ESD).

Category I - Senior Professionals

Benefits:

• Longest validity period
• Bring family members
• Domestic helper allowance
• More flexibility in employment
• Path to Residence Pass

Category II - Mid-Level Professionals

Benefits:

• Reasonable salary threshold
• Family can accompany
• Good for mid-career professionals
• Renewable

Category III - Entry-Level/Technical

Limitations:

• Shortest duration
• No dependents
• Limited to specific sectors
• Harder to obtain

Salary Requirements by Sector

Note: Actual salaries often exceed minimums, especially for experienced professionals.

Comparison with Other Passes

Employment Pass Application Steps

Step 1: Job Offer

• Receive formal job offer from Malaysian company
• Company must be registered with ESD
• Position must justify foreign hire

Step 2: Company Application

• Employer submits application through ESD Online
• Company provides supporting documents
• Justification for hiring foreigner required

Step 3: Document Submission

Required Documents:

From Employee:

• Passport copy (valid 18+ months)
• Passport-sized photos (white background)
• Updated CV/resume
• Academic certificates (certified)
• Professional certifications
• Previous employment letters
• Reference letters

From Employer:

• Company registration documents (SSM)
• Latest audited accounts
• Organizational chart
• Job description
• Justification letter
• Proof of advertising locally (some cases)

Step 4: Processing

• ESD reviews application
• May request additional documents
• Processing time: 5-14 working days
• Approval notification sent

Step 5: Visa Issuance

• Receive approval letter
• Apply for entry visa (if outside Malaysia)
• Enter Malaysia with approval letter
• Complete medical examination
• Collect Employment Pass

Processing Timeline

Application Fees

Common Rejection Reasons

1. Insufficient Salary - Below minimum threshold
2. Unqualified Candidate - Lack of relevant qualifications
3. No Justification - Position can be filled locally
4. Company Issues - Financial problems, compliance issues
5. Document Problems - Missing or incorrect documents
6. Quota Exceeded - Company's foreigner quota full
7. Blacklisted - Previous immigration violations

Tips for Successful Application

• Ensure all documents are complete and certified
• Salary should match qualifications and experience
• Strong justification for foreign hire
• Company should have good standing
• Apply well in advance
• Use experienced immigration consultant if needed

Minimum Salary Requirements

By Employment Pass Category

Typical Salaries by Industry

Typical Benefits Package

Standard Benefits:

• Annual leave: 14-21 days
• Medical leave: 14-22 days
• Medical insurance
• EPF contribution (employer portion)
• SOCSO coverage

Common Additional Benefits:

• Housing allowance: RM2,000-8,000/month
• Car allowance: RM1,000-3,000/month
• Education allowance (for children)
• Annual flight home
• Relocation assistance
• Performance bonus: 1-6 months

Expat Package vs Local Package

Tax Considerations

Income Tax Rates (Resident)

Tax Residency:

• Resident: 182+ days in Malaysia per year
• Non-resident: Flat 30% tax rate
• Plan arrival date to optimize tax status

Statutory Contributions

Note: EPF contributions for foreigners are optional but recommended.

Negotiating Your Package

Research:

• Market rates for your role
• Cost of living in Malaysia
• Tax implications
• Benefits value

Key Points to Negotiate:

• Base salary
• Housing allowance
• Car/transport allowance
• Annual bonus
• Leave entitlement
• Medical coverage
• Relocation costs
• Contract duration

Current Job Market Trends

High-Demand Sectors

1. Technology & Digital

• Software development
• Data science & analytics
• Cybersecurity
• Cloud computing
• AI & machine learning
• Digital marketing

2. Finance & Fintech

• Islamic finance
• Investment banking
• Fintech development
• Risk management
• Compliance
• Wealth management

3. Healthcare

• Medical specialists
• Healthcare management
• Pharmaceutical
• Medical devices
• Telemedicine

4. Manufacturing

• Industry 4.0
• Automation
• Quality management
• Supply chain
• Semiconductor

5. Professional Services

• Management consulting
• Legal services
• Accounting
• HR consulting

Job Search Strategies

Online Job Portals

Recruitment Agencies

For Expats:

• Michael Page Malaysia
• Robert Walters
• Hays Malaysia
• Kelly Services
• Adecco Malaysia
• Monroe Consulting

Networking

• LinkedIn connections
• Industry events
• Professional associations
• Expat groups
• Alumni networks
• Chamber of commerce events

Direct Applications

• Company career pages
• Industry-specific job boards
• Professional association listings
• University career services

Resume Tips for Malaysia

Format:

• 2-3 pages maximum
• Professional photo (common in Asia)
• Clear, concise layout
• Reverse chronological order

Content:

• Contact information
• Professional summary
• Work experience with achievements
• Education and certifications
• Skills (technical and soft)
• Languages

Localization:

• Highlight Asia/ASEAN experience
• Mention language skills
• Include relevant certifications
• Adapt to local expectations

Interview Process

Typical Stages:

1. Phone/video screening
2. HR interview
3. Technical/skills assessment
4. Hiring manager interview
5. Senior management interview
6. Reference checks
7. Offer negotiation

Interview Tips:

• Research the company thoroughly
• Understand Malaysian business culture
• Dress professionally (formal)
• Be punctual
• Prepare questions to ask
• Follow up with thank you note

Salary Negotiation

Research:

• Market rates (JobStreet salary guide)
• Company reputation
• Total compensation value
• Cost of living

Negotiation Points:

• Base salary
• Signing bonus
• Performance bonus
• Benefits package
• Start date
• Contract terms

Top Industries for Expats

1. Information Technology

Roles in Demand:

• Software engineers
• Data scientists
• DevOps engineers
• Cybersecurity specialists
• Product managers
• UX/UI designers

Major Employers:

• Tech giants (Google, Microsoft, Amazon)
• Regional tech companies (Grab, Lazada)
• Local tech firms (CIMB, Maybank digital)
• Startups and scale-ups

Salary Range: RM8,000-50,000/month

2. Oil & Gas

Roles in Demand:

• Petroleum engineers
• Geologists
• Project managers
• HSE specialists
• Operations managers
• Technical specialists

Major Employers:

• PETRONAS
• Shell
• ExxonMobil
• Schlumberger
• Halliburton
• Baker Hughes

Salary Range: RM12,000-80,000/month

3. Finance & Banking

Roles in Demand:

• Investment bankers
• Risk managers
• Compliance officers
• Financial analysts
• Islamic finance specialists
• Fintech developers

Major Employers:

• Maybank
• CIMB
• Public Bank
• HSBC
• Standard Chartered
• International banks

Salary Range: RM8,000-60,000/month

4. Manufacturing

Roles in Demand:

• Plant managers
• Quality engineers
• Production managers
• Supply chain managers
• Automation engineers
• R&D specialists

Major Employers:

• Intel
• Western Digital
• Bosch
• Samsung
• Various MNCs

Salary Range: RM8,000-40,000/month

5. Healthcare

Roles in Demand:

• Medical specialists
• Hospital administrators
• Pharmaceutical managers
• Clinical researchers
• Healthcare consultants

Major Employers:

• IHH Healthcare
• KPJ Healthcare
• Sunway Medical
• Gleneagles
• Pharmaceutical companies

Salary Range: RM10,000-70,000/month

6. Education

Roles in Demand:

• International school teachers
• University lecturers
• Curriculum developers
• Education administrators
• Training specialists

Major Employers:

• International schools
• Private universities
• Training companies
• EdTech firms

Salary Range: RM6,000-25,000/month

7. Hospitality & Tourism

Roles in Demand:

• Hotel general managers
• F&B directors
• Revenue managers
• Marketing managers
• Operations managers

Major Employers:

• International hotel chains
• Resorts World
• Genting
• Tourism companies

Salary Range: RM8,000-35,000/month

Regional Headquarters

Many MNCs have regional HQs in Malaysia:

• Lower costs than Singapore/Hong Kong
• Strategic ASEAN location
• Talent availability
• Government incentives

Companies with Regional HQs:

• Shell
• HSBC
• BMW
• Dyson
• Various tech companies

Employment Rights for Foreign Workers

Basic Rights

Foreign workers with valid work passes have similar rights to local employees:

Employment Act 1955

Key provisions applicable to foreign workers:

Working Hours:

• Maximum 8 hours/day
• Maximum 45 hours/week
• Overtime must be compensated
• Rest periods required

Leave Entitlements:

Termination & Notice:

Restrictions on Foreign Workers

Cannot:

• Work for employer other than sponsor
• Engage in business without approval
• Change jobs without proper process
• Work beyond pass validity
• Engage in political activities

Must:

• Carry valid pass at all times
• Report address changes
• Comply with pass conditions
• Leave Malaysia when pass expires
• Maintain valid passport

Changing Employers

Process:

1. Resign from current employer
2. Current employer cancels pass
3. New employer applies for new pass
4. May need to leave Malaysia temporarily
5. Re-enter with new approval

Considerations:

• Notice period obligations
• Pass cancellation timing
• Gap between employments
• New pass processing time

Dispute Resolution

Labour Department:

• Handles employment disputes
• Free mediation services
• Can order compensation

Industrial Court:

• For unfair dismissal cases
• Formal legal process
• Binding decisions

Common Issues:

• Unpaid wages
• Wrongful termination
• Contract violations
• Discrimination
• Harassment

Compliance Requirements

For Employees:

• Valid work pass
• Tax registration
• EPF/SOCSO (if applicable)
• Report income accurately

For Employers:

• Valid company registration
• Proper pass sponsorship
• Statutory contributions
• Compliance with labor laws

Penalties for Violations

Employment Pass Renewal

When to Renew

• Apply 3 months before expiry
• Minimum 2 months before expiry recommended
• Cannot renew after expiry (must apply fresh)

Renewal Eligibility

Renewal Process

Step 1: Employer Initiates

• Company submits renewal through ESD
• Updated documents required
• Justification for continued employment

Step 2: Document Submission

Required Documents:

• Current passport (valid 18+ months)
• Current Employment Pass
• Updated employment contract
• Latest salary slips
• Company's latest accounts
• Renewal justification letter

Step 3: Processing

• ESD reviews application
• May request additional documents
• Processing: 5-14 working days

Step 4: Approval & Collection

• Receive approval notification
• Submit passport for endorsement
• Collect renewed pass

Renewal Fees

Renewal Timeline

Common Renewal Issues

Salary Changes:

• If salary decreased, may affect category
• Salary increase generally positive
• Must meet minimum requirements

Company Changes:

• Company financial issues may affect renewal
• Ownership changes require documentation
• Compliance issues can delay renewal

Personal Issues:

• Passport validity
• Previous violations
• Incomplete documents

What If Renewal is Denied?

Options:

1. Appeal the decision
2. Address issues and reapply
3. Find new employer (new pass)
4. Leave Malaysia before pass expires

Appeal Process:

• Submit appeal letter
• Provide additional justification
• Address rejection reasons
• Wait for review (2-4 weeks)

Upgrading Your Pass

Category III to II:

• Salary increase to RM5,000+
• Same employer or new
• Fresh application required

Category II to I:

• Salary increase to RM10,000+
• Enhanced benefits
• Fresh application required

To Residence Pass-Talent:

• 3+ years on Employment Pass
• Salary RM15,000+
• Exceptional skills/contribution
• Separate application process

Residence Pass-Talent (RP-T)

Benefits:

• 10-year validity
• Not tied to employer
• Can change jobs freely
• Spouse can work
• Path to permanent residence

Requirements:

• 3+ years working in Malaysia
• Minimum salary RM15,000
• Exceptional skills/expertise
• Employer recommendation
• Clean record

Professional Visit Pass (PVP)

For short-term professional activities without local employment.

Allowed Activities:

• Installing/commissioning equipment
• Training local staff
• Technical support
• Auditing/inspection
• Research collaboration
• Consulting projects

Not Allowed:

• Regular employment
• Receiving Malaysian salary
• Indefinite assignments
• Managing local operations

Application Process:

1. Malaysian company sponsors
2. Submit through ESD
3. Provide project details
4. Processing: 5-10 days

Temporary Employment Pass (TEP)

For semi-skilled workers in specific sectors.

Sectors Allowed:

• Manufacturing
• Construction
• Plantation/Agriculture
• Services (limited)

DE Rantau (Digital Nomad Visa)

For remote workers employed by foreign companies.

Requirements:

• Proof of remote employment/freelance
• Minimum income threshold
• Health insurance
• Clean criminal record

Benefits:

• Work legally in Malaysia
• Bring family
• Multiple entry
• Renewable

Application:

• Through MDEC
• Processing: 2-4 weeks
• Fee: RM1,000

Residence Pass-Talent (RP-T)

Premium pass for highly skilled professionals.

Eligibility:

• 3+ years on Employment Pass
• Salary RM15,000+
• Exceptional expertise
• Employer endorsement

Benefits:

• Job flexibility
• Long-term security
• Family benefits
• Path to PR

Dependent Pass

For family members of Employment Pass holders.

Spouse Work Permission:

• Apply through ESD
• Employer must sponsor
• Processing: 2-4 weeks
• Valid for specific employer

Comparison Table

Work Culture

Business Etiquette

Greetings:

• Handshakes common in business
• Some Muslims may not shake hands with opposite gender
• Use titles (Mr., Ms., Dr., Dato', Tan Sri)
• Exchange business cards with both hands

Communication:

• Indirect communication style
• Avoid direct confrontation
• "Face" is important
• Patience valued

Meetings:

• May start late ("Malaysian time")
• Build relationships first
• Decisions may take time
• Follow up in writing

Dress Code:

• Business formal common
• Smart casual in tech/startups
• Modest dress appreciated
• Fridays may be casual

Office Hours

Work-Life Balance

Pros:

• Reasonable working hours (generally)
• Public holidays (11+ days)
• Annual leave entitlement
• Affordable lifestyle

Cons:

• Some industries have long hours
• Traffic can extend commute
• Work culture varies by company

Cost of Living

Monthly Expenses (Single Professional)

Monthly Expenses (Family of 4)

Best Cities for Expats

Kuala Lumpur

• Most job opportunities
• Best infrastructure
• Largest expat community
• Higher cost of living

Penang

• Tech hub (especially Bayan Lepas)
• Lower cost than KL
• Beach lifestyle
• Strong expat community

Johor Bahru

• Near Singapore
• Growing opportunities
• Lower costs
• Manufacturing hub

Cyberjaya

• Tech/IT focus
• Modern planned city
• Lower costs
• Quieter lifestyle

Healthcare

For Employees:

• Company medical insurance
• Access to private hospitals
• Affordable quality care
• Specialist availability

Recommended:

• Comprehensive health insurance
• Dental coverage
• Outpatient coverage
• Emergency evacuation (optional)

Banking

Opening Account:

• Employment Pass required
• Passport and pass copy
• Employer letter
• Initial deposit

Recommended Banks:

• Maybank (largest network)
• CIMB (good digital banking)
• Public Bank
• HSBC (international)

Transportation

Options:

• Own car (common for expats)
• Grab (ride-hailing)
• Public transport (KL has good coverage)
• Company car (some packages)

Driving:

• Can use foreign license (1 year)
• Convert to Malaysian license after
• Traffic can be challenging
• Parking generally available

Before Arriving

Research:

• Job market in your field
• Salary expectations
• Cost of living
• Company culture
• Visa requirements

Preparation:

• Update resume for Asian market
• Get documents certified
• Research potential employers
• Connect with expats online
• Learn about Malaysian culture

Documents to Bring:

• Original certificates
• Reference letters
• Professional certifications
• Medical records
• Marriage/birth certificates (if applicable)

Job Search Tips

Networking:

• LinkedIn is essential
• Attend industry events
• Join professional associations
• Connect with recruiters
• Leverage alumni networks

Applications:

• Customize for each role
• Highlight relevant experience
• Include professional photo
• Follow up appropriately
• Be patient (process takes time)

Interviews:

• Research company thoroughly
• Understand Malaysian context
• Dress professionally
• Be punctual
• Prepare questions

Negotiation:

• Know market rates
• Consider total package
• Negotiate respectfully
• Get offer in writing
• Understand all terms

First 90 Days

Week 1:

• Complete onboarding
• Meet team members
• Understand company culture
• Set up workstation
• Learn systems and processes

Month 1:

• Build relationships
• Understand expectations
• Start contributing
• Ask questions
• Observe and learn

Month 2-3:

• Take on more responsibility
• Demonstrate value
• Seek feedback
• Expand network
• Identify opportunities

Cultural Adaptation

Do:

• Respect local customs
• Learn some Malay phrases
• Try local food
• Be patient and flexible
• Build relationships

Don't:

• Criticize publicly
• Be confrontational
• Ignore hierarchy
• Rush decisions
• Isolate yourself

Career Development

Growth Opportunities:

• Internal promotions
• Skill development
• Regional roles
• Industry networking
• Professional certifications

Continuing Education:

• Professional courses
• Industry certifications
• Language learning
• Leadership development
• Technical training

Long-Term Planning

Career Path:

• Set clear goals
• Seek mentorship
• Build expertise
• Expand network
• Consider regional roles

Immigration:

• Understand PR pathway
• Maintain clean record
• Build tenure
• Consider RP-T
• Plan for future

Exit Strategy:

• Maintain international network
• Keep skills current
• Document achievements
• Understand notice periods
• Plan transitions carefully

Official Resources

Immigration Department

• Website: www.imi.gov.my
• ESD Portal: esd.imi.gov.my
• Hotline: 03-8000 8000

Ministry of Human Resources

• Website: www.mohr.gov.my
• Labour Department
• Industrial Relations

Expatriate Services Division (ESD)

• Online applications
• Pass tracking
• Employer registration

TalentCorp

• Website: www.talentcorp.com.my
• Returning Expert Programme
• Residence Pass-Talent

MDEC (Digital Economy)

• Website: www.mdec.my
• DE Rantau program
• Tech industry support

Job Search Resources

Job Portals:

• JobStreet.com.my
• LinkedIn Jobs
• Indeed Malaysia
• Glassdoor
• Monster Malaysia

Recruitment Agencies:

• Michael Page Malaysia
• Robert Walters
• Hays Malaysia
• Kelly Services
• Adecco Malaysia
• Monroe Consulting

Professional Networks:

• LinkedIn
• Industry associations
• Chambers of commerce
• Alumni groups

Expat Resources

Communities:

• InterNations Malaysia
• Expat.com Malaysia
• Facebook expat groups
• Meetup.com

Information:

• ExpatGo Malaysia
• Time Out KL
• The Expat magazine

Chambers of Commerce:

• American Malaysian Chamber (AMCHAM)
• British Malaysian Chamber (BMCC)
• European Chamber (EUROCHAM)
• Australian Chamber (AustCham)

Legal & Professional

Immigration Consultants:

• Registered with Immigration
• Can assist with applications
• Verify credentials

Employment Lawyers:

• For contract review
• Dispute resolution
• Rights protection

Tax Advisors:

• Tax planning
• Filing assistance
• Compliance

Emergency Contacts

Checklist Summary

Job Search:

• [ ] Update resume
• [ ] Research market
• [ ] Network actively
• [ ] Apply strategically
• [ ] Prepare for interviews

Before Arrival:

• [ ] Secure job offer
• [ ] Gather documents
• [ ] Understand visa process
• [ ] Research cost of living
• [ ] Plan accommodation

After Arrival:

• [ ] Complete pass formalities
• [ ] Open bank account
• [ ] Register for tax
• [ ] Find accommodation
• [ ] Build network

Ongoing:

• [ ] Maintain compliance
• [ ] Track pass expiry
• [ ] Develop career
• [ ] Build relationships
• [ ] Plan for future