Malaysian Student Visa
Malaysia EMGS System Application and Student Visa Processing Guide
Visa Overview
Malaysian student visas are applied for through the Education Global Services (EMGS) system. International students first receive a Visa Approval Letter (VAL/eVAL), then exchange it for a formal Student Pass upon arrival. The entire process is handled by the institution, with students required to provide complete documentation as needed.
Process
Submit application materials
Submit all documents to the admitting institution for upload to the EMGS system.
EMGS Review
EMGS reviews materials and submits the application to immigration in approximately 2-4 weeks.
Earn VAL/eVAL
Receive visa approval letter (electronic or paper) upon approval
Arriving in Malaysia
Hold VAL/eVAL; entry must be completed before expiration.
Medical Examination and Replacement
Complete your medical examination within 7 working days after arrival to exchange for a formal student pass.
Application Document Checklist
- 11 white-background passport photos (35mm × 45mm)
- 2Passport data page, pages with visa information, and remarks page (valid for at least 18 months)
- 3Admission/Admission Letter
- 4Health Declaration Form
- 5Previous academic certificates and transcripts
- 6If arriving from a country with yellow fever risk, proof of vaccination is required.
- 7Personal Bond: A security deposit pledged by a representative of the Malaysian educational institution to the Immigration Department on behalf of the student.
- 8Proof of English Proficiency (MUET, IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)
- 9Health insurance is mandatory for international students.
Processing Time and Fees
Processing Time
Usually processed within 14 business days, depending on the completeness of your materials.
Visa Fees
Renewal Requirements
Must be processed through the institution/EMGS channel before the current pass expires. Mandatory requirements: minimum CGPA of 2.0 and attendance rate of at least 80%.
CGPA Requirement
2.0+
Minimum GPA
Attendance requirement
80%+
Minimum attendance rate
Top Reasons for Visa Rejections
- Missing documents or documents not uploaded as required by EMGS
- Passport validity insufficient (minimum 18 months required for new applications)
- English proficiency proof not submitted
- Medical examination not completed within 7 working days after arrival in Damac.
- CGPA below 2.0 or attendance below 80% during renewal
- Failure to properly arrange Personal Bond, Insurance, SEV, or Fees as required
FAQ
1Can international students work?
No work during the semester. During breaks (over 7 days), part-time jobs are allowed at restaurants, gas stations, hotels, etc., with a maximum of 20 hours per week.
2How long is the student pass valid?
Typically valid for 1 years and requires annual renewal. Renewal is subject to attendance rate and performance requirements.
3Can I transfer?
Yes, but a new student visa application is required. The original institution must issue a release letter, and the new institution must process a new VAL.
4Can I stay and work in Malaysia after graduation?
After graduation, you may apply for a Long-Term Social Visit Pass to seek employment. Once employed, you must convert it to an Employment Pass.
Need help with your visa application?
Professional advisory team provides one-on-one visa guidance services.