To avoid issues with overstaying in the country, certain foreign nationals can apply for the Malaysia Special Pass. This is a short-term document intended for student or employment pass holders that allows you to legally extend your stay until you can leave the country.
Read on to learn about how a Special Pass could help you if you overstay in Malaysia, who is eligible to apply for this document, and the requirements you need to meet to submit an application.
What Should I Do if I Overstay in Malaysia?
If you overstay your visa/pass in Malaysia, you may face serious consequences, including fines, blacklisting, or even detention.
If your visa has expired, or you realize you are going to overstay, it’s essential to act immediately. Here’s what you should do:
- Avoid delays: The longer you overstay, the higher the penalties.
- Contact immigration authorities: Visit the nearest Malaysian Immigration Office to explain your situation.
- Apply for the Special Pass for Malaysia if you’re eligible: This pass can help you regularize your status and prepare for departure.
When Do I have to Apply for the Malaysia Special Pass?
You should apply for the Malaysia Special Pass if your Visit/Student/Employment pass is expiring, and you need additional time to leave the country.
Previously, the Malaysia Special Pass was granted for 2 main purposes: to facilitate “Making Arrangements to Leave the Country” or to cover the period “Pending Approval of an Employment/Student Pass.”
However, since 2016, the Malaysian Immigration Department no longer permits expatriates to convert or extend their visa while remaining in Malaysia using a Special Pass.
Currently, the Special Pass is issued for a maximum of 30 days, after which the individual must leave the country.
This means that a Malaysia Special Pass is no longer available if you fail to renew your Pass on time or wish to switch from a Student Pass to an Employment Pass, for instance.
If your current Pass is nearing expiration, and you don’t have enough time to apply for a new one, you might need to leave Malaysia and submit your application from abroad.
Malaysia Special Pass Requirements
To apply for a Special Pass in Malaysia, you need the following:
- Your original passport
- Copy of the passport’s biographical page
- Copy of your current Pass for Malaysia
- Return/onward flight ticket for journey within 30 days
- A typed letter explaining the reason for requesting the Special Pass
You also need to supply the following documents if you’re applying with any dependents:
- Marriage certificate for a spouse
- Child’s birth certificate (for a dependent minor)
- Applicant’s birth certificate (dependent’s parent)
Birth and marriage certificates must be translated into English (if not already in English) and authenticated as a Certified True Copy (CTC) by your country's embassy in Malaysia.
Note that this list of documents may not be definitive. The Immigration Department of Malaysia has the authority to request any additional documentation they deem necessary. You can also check the information about the Malaysia Spouse Visa to better understand the necessary requirements.
Where Can I Apply for the Malaysia Special Pass?
To apply for the Malaysia Special Pass, you need to visit a Malaysia Immigration Office. These offices are located throughout the country, with major locations in Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, and Penan.
It’s a good idea to first contact the office before you visit in person, to check if you are eligible for the Special Pass.
On the application form, you’ll need to indicate:
- Passport number
- Phone number
- Visa expiry date
You’ll also need to supply all the supporting documents listed above.
For international students, your school can handle the Special Pass application process on your behalf, but you’re responsible for covering all related expenses. They may charge an additional administration fee.
Similarly, if you’re a foreign worker, consult your employer to determine who should apply for the Special Pass. In most cases, employers handle the application on behalf of their employees.
Special Pass Malaysia processing time and fees
The processing time for a Malaysia Special Pass may vary, but the request must be made at least 7 days before the expiration date of your current Pass.
The price for the Special Pass Malaysia in 2023 was RM100 (US $23). Be sure to check for updated fees in 2024 and beyond before applying.
