You may have seen posts this week claiming Malaysia has "released new pathways to residency" for foreigners. The truth is less dramatic, but still really useful. The posts are about the Residence Pass, an existing long-term pass listed on the Immigration Department's website. It isn't new, and it isn't permanent residency, but if you're married to a Malaysian (or part of a Malaysian family), it's well worth knowing about.
What is the Residence Pass?
The Residence Pass is a long-term pass for foreigners with close family ties to Malaysia, issued under Regulation 16A of the Immigration Regulations 1963. According to the Immigration Department, it is valid for five years and costs RM500, plus a multiple-entry visa fee that depends on your nationality (Immigration Department of Malaysia).
The big benefit: Residence Pass holders can work, study and set up a business without switching to another pass, subject to the rules of any other relevant authorities.
Is it the same as permanent residency (PR)?
No. The Residence Pass is a five-year pass, not permanent residency. PR is a separate application with its own process. Think of the Residence Pass as a longer, more flexible way to stay with your family in Malaysia.
Who can apply?
The Immigration Department lists three groups:
1. Family of a Malaysian citizen
- Spouse of a Malaysian citizen
- Biological, step or legally adopted child of a citizen, aged 18 or below
- A divorced, widowed or separated parent who shares a biological child with a Malaysian citizen (you must have full or joint custody granted by a court)
- Biological parent of a Malaysian citizen
- Parent-in-law of a Malaysian citizen, if already holding a valid pass in Malaysia
2. Family of a Malaysian Permanent Resident
- Spouse of a PR
- Biological child of a PR, aged 18 or below
3. Former Malaysians
- People who gave up their Malaysian citizenship, or had it taken away
The key conditions
- Passport: valid for at least six months.
- Time in Malaysia first: you must already be living here on a valid long-term pass. Family of a citizen need at least 3 years; family of a PR need at least 5 years.
- Sponsor: a Malaysian aged 21 or over. In Sabah and Sarawak, the sponsor must be a citizen of Sabah or Sarawak origin.
- In person: both you and your sponsor must attend when the documents are submitted.
- Foreign documents: photocopies of documents issued abroad must be certified by that country's embassy or high commission in Malaysia.
Documents you'll need
Everyone needs:
- Form IMM.16A
- Copies of your old and current passports
- Two passport-sized photos
- Two copies of your sponsor's identity card
Spouses of Malaysian citizens also need their marriage certificate, their spouse's identity card and their children's birth certificates and identity cards (if any). Other groups need different supporting documents, such as birth certificates, court custody orders or PR documents, so check the full list on the Immigration Department's Residence Pass page.
How to apply
- Check you qualify, including the 3- or 5-year residence requirement.
- Gather your documents and get any foreign documents certified by your embassy.
- Go with your sponsor to your nearest Immigration office or the Immigration Headquarters in Putrajaya.
- Pay the fees if approved: RM500 for five years, plus your multiple-entry visa fee.
The Immigration Department doesn't publish processing times, so ask at your Immigration office or call the headquarters on 03-8000 8000.
Need help with your next step?
If you're relocating to Malaysia and want advice on anything, reach out. We can help answer your questions and add you to our community. You'll also find free guides at RelocatingToMalaysia.com.
WhatsApp: +60 14-845 9471 · Email: ExpatsClubKL@gmail.com
This article is for general information only and is not legal or immigration advice. Rules can change, so always check with the Immigration Department of Malaysia before applying.
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