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MALAYSIA – Recent changes to immigration processes.
September 18, 2024
By: Patricia Clarino
Malaysia has introduced significant changes that could impact businesses and foreign workers. Starting from October 1, 2024, the MYXpats Centre will automatically cancel inactive applications that haven’t been resubmitted within 90 days. Additionally, the Immigration Department launched the Interim Endorsement Slip (IES), a temporary alternative to long-term pass stickers, which must be carried with the passport during travel. These changes aim to streamline immigration processes but require companies to remain vigilant to avoid unnecessary delays and fees. Further details on these changes are outlined in this article.
Cancellation of inactive applications
Starting from 1st October 2024, MYXpats Centre (ESD) will automatically cancel any inactive applications that are not resubmitted within 90 days. This policy also applies to applications listed under the “Returned” tab in the ESD portal. Companies will receive notification emails at several stages before the cancellation occurs, beginning three months in advance. The authorities will not process any refunds on the processing fees for cancelled applications.
Rollout of Interim Endorsement Slip (IES)
The Malaysian Immigration Department has rolled out the Interim Endorsement Slip (IES) as a temporary substitute for long-term pass stickers. The IES is issued in both English and Bahasa and is applicable to holders of various long-term passes. It is recognized for official use and must be carried alongside the passport at all times, including for interstate and international travel. When changing passports, both the old and new passports must be carried as the approval letter will only have the old passport information.
Newland Chase insights
With the upcoming introduction of automatic cancellation for inactive cases, companies are encouraged to actively manage their applications, particularly those marked as returned, to avoid incurring extra filing fees and delays in processing. Failure to do so will necessitate submitting new applications.
Additionally, the Malaysian authorities’ introduction of the IES is a positive development, especially given the recent issues with insufficient sticker supplies at airports since July. This change is expected to help alleviate delays associated with pass stickers.
As always, don’t hesitate to reach out to your Newland Chase dedicated contact or submit an inquiry here should you have any specific questions regarding this announcement.
This immigration update is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal or scenario-specific advice. Furthermore, it is important to note that immigration announcements are subject to sudden and unexpected changes. Readers are encouraged to reach out to Newland Chase for any case- or company-specific assessments.
