Foreigners in Malaysia

Can You Work?

To work in Malaysia, foreigners must obtain a work permit and be sponsored by a local business. Applications for work permit must be made by the employer while the foreigner is overseas.

It is difficult to get a work permit and the government places emphasis on certain industries and professions where the specific expertise of the foreigner is deemed to offer specific advantages to the employer specifically, and the country generally.

For those entering the country on a Social Visa including under the "Second Home" program, work is specifically excluded. The argument is quite clear and logical - if you come here for a holiday or to retire, then enjoy your holiday or retirement.

This is not the place nor are we adequately qualified to go into lengthy explanations of what is "work" or the exact definitions that effect these provisions.

Suffice it to say that if you have intentions to do anything other than just enjoy your time here, you need to get specialist advice from the Immigration Department or one of the many consultants.