Malaysia Announces Changes to Employment Pass Application Requirements

The Malaysian government recently announced changes to the advertising requirements and portal employers who wish to hire foreign nationals must use when applying for an Employment Pass. As of November 1, 2020, all companies applying must first advertise the open position for at least 30 days at the MYFutureJobs portal, instead of the JobsMalaysia portal as previously indicated. All employers who previously logged into JobsMalaysia will be automatically re-directed to MYFutureJobs as of the effective date.

The Social Security Organization (SOCSO), an agency under the Ministry of Human Resources, will also advertise the job vacancy within their own channels.

Following the initial 30-day posting period, an interview between a representative of the petitioning employer, the potential candidate and the SOCSO must be arranged at the employer’s premises or other suitable location.

As of right now, it is unclear as to whether the new advertising requirement applies to both new and renewal Employment Pass applications.

Who is affected?

All employers petitioning for an Employment Pass to hire a foreign national.

What you need to do

For further information on the new job portal and advertising requirements to petition for an Employment Pass in Malaysia, please contact the Sterling Lexicon immigration team.