Path to staying
- Study12 months, renewable
- Post-study workup to 24 months
- Permanent residencyafter 5 years
- Citizenshippossible
Overview
- Country
- Malaysia
- Visa name
- Student Pass
- Local name
- Pas Pelajar
- Status
- Active
- Duration
- 12 months
- Max duration
- 60 months
- Renewable
- Yes
The Student Pass is issued to international students enrolled in full-time programs at Malaysian educational institutions approved by the Ministry of Higher Education and registered with EMGS (Education Malaysia Global Services). Covers degree programs, foundation/pre-university, diploma, language courses, and professional certifications.
Tuition and costs
- Tuition policy
- Full fee
- Tuition range
- $3,000 – $12,000/year
- Proof of funds
- $3,300/year
- Funds type
- Bank statement
- Scholarships
- Available
Public universities: RM 12,000–RM 25,000/yr ($3,000–$5,500). Private universities: RM 25,000–RM 60,000/yr ($5,500–$13,000). Foundation/diploma programs: RM 12,000–RM 35,000/yr. Malaysia is one of the most affordable study destinations in Asia.
Work rights during study
- Work allowed
- Yes
- Term hours
- 20 hrs/week
- Vacation hours
- 20 hrs/week
- Permission
- Separate permit
Part-time work allowed ONLY during semester breaks or holidays longer than 7 days, limited to 20 hours/week. Restricted to specific sectors: restaurants, petrol stations, mini markets, and hotels. Must obtain approval from EMGS and Immigration. Cannot work during regular academic terms.
Post-study work options
| Program | Type | Duration | Min degree | Work | PR path |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graduate Pass | Job seeker | 12 mo | Bachelors | Unrestricted | No |
| Employment Pass | Work permit | 24 mo–60 mo | Bachelors | Unrestricted | Yes |
Language requirements
| Test | Purpose | Language | Min score | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS / TOEFL | Admission | English | — | Most Malaysian universities teach in English. IELTS 5.5–6.5 or TOEFL 80+ typically required. Some Malay-medium programs at public universities may require Bahasa Malaysia proficiency. |
Fees and costs
| Fee | Type | Amount | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| EMGS Processing Fee | Application | $230 | One time |
| Student Pass (i-Kad) Fee | Issuance | $13 | Per year |
| Medical Screening | Medical | $55 | One time |
| Health Insurance | Insurance | $110 | Per year |
Dependents and family
- Dependents
- Allowed
- Restriction
- Spouse and children under 18 on Dependant Pass.
- Spouse work
- Not allowed
- Conditions
- Dependant Pass holders cannot work. Must apply for a separate employment pass to work in Malaysia.
Long-term pathway
- Post-study visa
- Available
- Work permit
- Possible
- Permanent residency
- After 5 years
- Citizenship
- Possible
How to apply
- Method
- Online
- Via
- Educational institution applies through EMGS on behalf of student. Student receives Visa Approval Letter (VAL) for entry.
- Processing
- 14-56 days
- Interview
- Not required
- Official site
- visa.educationmalaysia.gov.my
- Health insurance
- Required (buy separately)
Notes and caveats
Passport must be valid for at least 18 months from entry. EMGS manages all student pass applications centrally. Total first-year costs (EMGS processing, medical, insurance, courier): RM 2,450–RM 4,200. Apply 3–4 months before program start. Malaysia Second Home (MM2H) is a separate program not related to student passes.
Also in Malaysia
Last verified May 3, 2026 Source