The Student Pass (Malaysia) is your legal permission to study in Malaysia. This guide explains how it differs from the eVAL (Electronic Visa Approval Letter) and SEV (Single Entry Visa), the exact documents to prepare, medical screening rules, fees, processing timelines, renewals and part-time work conditions.
Student Pass vs eVAL vs SEV
- Student Pass — the in-country study permit endorsed in your passport after arrival in Malaysia.
- eVAL — pre-travel approval. For new students it’s typically valid 6 months and includes travel authorisation.
- SEV — an entry visa required by certain nationalities before travel (obtained at a Malaysian mission) after your eVAL is approved.
- No conversion from tourist/visit pass to Student Pas inside Malaysia. Apply via EMGS and enter correctly.
Who needs the Student Pass?
All international students at Malaysian public or private institutions (degree, diploma, foundation, language, mobility/short-term) require a valid Student Pass for the duration of study.
Documents checklist (2025)
| Item | What to prepare |
|---|---|
| Passport | Bio-data + all visa pages; long validity (many universities recommend ≥18 months). |
| Offer/Acceptance letter | From a Malaysian institution (required to start eVAL). |
| Passport photo | Studio quality 35×45mm, white background, no glasses (for Immigration/i-Kad). |
| English proficiency | IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/MUET/Cambridge/OET/ELS (as accepted by your program). |
| Academic records | Certificates/transcripts matching entry requirements. |
| Health declaration | EMGS health form; yellow-fever vaccination if applicable. |
| Insurance | Malaysia-based medical insurance via EMGS-listed plans or your institution. |
| Personal bond | Refundable deposit (amount varies by nationality), handled via your institution. |
| Special cases | Some nationalities require additional docs (e.g., NOC/LOE). Sarawak campuses have extra steps. |
Step-by-step process
Pre-arrival
- Receive offer from your university/college.
- eVAL application via EMGS (institution usually submits). Upload required documents and track online.
- SEV (if required) — once eVAL is approved, obtain a Single Entry Visa from a Malaysian mission if your nationality is on the SEV list.
- Insurance — arrange an approved plan and book travel within your eVAL validity window.
- Pre-travel reminder: most foreign visitors must submit the free MDAC (Malaysia Digital Arrival Card) within 3 days before arrival.
Arrival & endorsement
- Enter Malaysia with eVAL (+ SEV if required).
- Medical screening within 7 working days at an EMGS panel clinic (mandatory for new students).
- Student Pass endorsement — your institution submits your passport to Immigration. You’ll later receive your i-Kad student card.
- Orientation & registration — complete any remaining bond/insurance steps.
Fees & timelines
- Immigration Student Pass fee: RM60 per year (visa sticker fees vary by nationality).
- Year-1 total (typical): ~RM2,450–RM4,200 for EMGS/Immigration charges (processing, medical, insurance, courier, etc.). Use the official EMGS fee calculator for an exact estimate.
Typical processing times
- eVAL: often 4–6 weeks for complete files (longer in peak seasons).
- eVAL validity: generally 6 months from issue (travel inside this window).
- Endorsement: allow several weeks after arrival for Immigration processing via your institution.
Renewals & compliance
- Renew annually before expiry; keep insurance active.
- Academic & attendance: many institutions require around CGPA ≥2.0 and ≥80% attendance for renewal.
- Finish/withdraw: cancel/shorten the pass before leaving Malaysia to avoid issues with future visas.
Part-time work with a Student Pass
International students with a valid Student Pass may work up to 20 hours/week during semester breaks or holidays longer than 7 days, and only in specific sectors (restaurants, petrol kiosks, mini markets, hotels). Prior Immigration approval is required.
Note: Requirements and fees change. Always cross-check the EMGS portal and your university’s latest instructions.