Malaysia – Introducing Investor Pass

In our spotlight on APAC series, we round up the latest developments across the region. In this post, we look at the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) introduction of a new Investor Pass for foreign investors and expatriate groups effective 1 Apr 2025. The new pass initiation is to improve the efficiency of entry processes and to facilitate longer stays in the country for investment and business activities.

Key Points:

• A special pass for eligible foreign investors will allow certain individuals to enter Malaysia for six months, with the option of extending their stay for an additional six months at the authority’s discretion.

• A multiple-entry visa will also be provided to holders of the special pass to facilitate easier cross-border travel

• Previously, foreign investors were issued only social visit passes valid for 14 to 90 days, the period of the visit passes varied according to country of origin.

• Application for the Investor Pass can only be made by applicants outside of Malaysia at the time of application.

• Applicants are not eligible to apply for a Dependent Pass or to bring a dependent.

• The Investor Pass application can be applied through Xpats Gateway, and it should be processed within five working days.

Foreign investors and expatriate who fall under either of the following classifications are eligible to apply for the Investor Pass:

• Foreign investors who have not had any investment record in Malaysia.

• Investor in Pipeline: Foreign investors whose projects are in discussions or awaiting project approvals from MIDA.

• Existing investors who are affiliated with Malaysian companies, excluding local employees.

For more information or any assistance you require for Malaysia immigration or other global matters, please do not hesitate to contact [email protected] or [email protected].

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