Malaysia Employment Pass Tier System & Fees 2026: The Ultimate Guide for Expatriates

There Are you preparing beforehand for your career in the “Tiger Cub Economy” this year? Navigating the Malaysia State Pass (EP) 2026 landscape can feel like a maze, particularly with the significant fee retool and system upgrades enforced by the Deport Services Construct (ESD).

Whether you are a HR paid managing a global team or a specialist eyeing a role in Kuala Lumpur understanding the 2026 tiered physical process system and revised fee structure is non-negotiable. This guide occurrence down everything from pay thresholds to “Fast Track” Support to ensure your application is unlined.

Understanding the 3-Tier Occupation Pass Class

Malaysia utilizes a bed system for the Employment Pass to categorize expatriates based on their professional senior status, pay, and contract duration.

EP Category I (EP I): Top Management & Particular

Minimum Salary RM10,000 per month.

Contract Period of time Up to 60 months (5 years).

Renewability By and large oceanic.

Dependants: Eligible to bring partner children under 18 and parents (via LTSVP).

EP Category II (EP II): Managers & Professionals

Minimum Pay RM5,000 – RM9,999 per month.

Contract Duration: Up to 24 months (2 years).

Renewability: Generally unlimited.

Dependants: Eligible to bring spouse and children under 18.

EP Category III (EP III): Skilled Technical Workers

Marginal Salary RM3,000 – RM4,999 per month.

Contract Duration: Up to 12 months.

Renewability Limited (typically maximum 2 renewals).

The Limitation:Not worthy for Dependant Passes (DP) or hiring home helpers.

Expert Insight Effective 2026, the Xpats Entrance has become the mandatory unified portal for all EP applications, streamlining the “Support Letter” process from various restrictive agencies like MDEC and MIDA.

Updated Fee Artefact for 2026 (Revised Rates)

Costs have augmented following the major adjust by the MYXpats Centre. Below is a breakdown of what employers and expel should plan for.

The Fee Type 2026 Rate (Idea with 8% SST) ESD Request Fee (EP) RM2,000 + 8% SSTPVP Request Fee: RM1,200 + 8% SST Dependant Pass (DP) Fee: RM500 per application Immigration Indorsement Fee: RM200 per yearProcessing Fee (per EP)RM125Visa with Mention (VDR) Varies by Nationality

Note: All fees are subject to the current 8% Service Tax (SST).

Fast Track vs. Average Track: Company Necktie

Not all troupe are treated every bit in the eyes of the ESD. Your employer’s “Tier” determines how quickly your pass is prepared.

Also Read:China Work Visa Sponsorship Costs in 2026 Explained for Foreigners

Fast Track (3 Working Days)

Reserved for Tier 1 and Tier 2 companies. These are typically

International: Corporations (MNCs)
Government:-Linked Companies (GLCs)
Companies in Critical Sectors: (School Attention Manufacturing)
Normal Track: (10 Working Days)
Applies to Tier 3 to Tier 5 Institution: These are commonly smaller local firms or newly constituted startups that have yet to physique a longstanding track evidence with the ESD.

Key Need & Compliance Checklist

To avoid the dreaded “Rejected” status guarantee you meet these strict 2026 conformity standard.

Deport Projection: Institution must apply for their 2026 annual quota (projection) before submitting respective EP applications.
Paid-up Capital: Foreign-owned companies must have a stripped paid-up capital of RM500,000, while local-owned firms need RM250,000.
Passport Validity: Ensure your pass has at least 18 months of rigor odd.
Post-Arrival Medical: Mandatory FOMEMA medical check-ups must be completed at registered Malaysian clinics within 30 days of arrival for specific categories.
Pass Shortening: If you are leaving your job in 2026 you must undergo mandatory pass reduction and obtain issue interval before deviation.

Malaysia Employment Pass Tier System & Fees 2026 (FAQs):

Can I switch from a Social Visit Pass to an Business Pass inside Malaysia?

Generally none. You must leave the country and re-enter with a Visa with Reference (VDR) once your EP is approved.

Is the pay threshold of RM3,000 for Category III still legitimate in 2026?

it definite quantity specific “Expatriate Post” Blessing and is only available for certain sectors like industry and construction.

How does the “Cooling-off Period” work?

Category III holders moving to a different category or changing employers may be needed to observe a 3-month cooling-off time period outside Malaysia.

Step-by-Step: How to Use in 2026

Troupe Registration: Leader registers on the ESD Entry.

Projection Request Leader search the number of deport required for the year.

Xpats Gateway: Obtain a Act Letter (if required for your sector).
Submission: Upload documents (Degree CV Contract) to the ESD Online system.
Blessing & VDR: Acquire the Approval Text and apply for a VDR at the nearest Malaysian Embassy.
Endorsement: Arrive in Malaysia, complete medical (if needed), and get the EP sticker in your passport.

Ready to Start Your Malaysian Journey?

The 2026 regulations stress digital integration and higher financial thresholds. By human action ahead of these updates, you can ensure a smooth transfer or hiring process.

Would you like a personalized checklist for your specific EP category? Let me know in the comments below!

Disclaimer:

This article is for informational and acquisition purposes only. Readers are advised to verify details from trusted sources, such as the official ESD portal or a licensed immigration consultant, before making decisions