Malaysia is a popular destination for international students, offering quality education at affordable rates. If you’re planning to study in Malaysia, you’ll need a student visa. In this article, we’ll guide you through the visa application process step by step, covering everything you need to know.
Step 1: Get an Offer Letter from a Malaysian University
The first step in applying for a student visa is securing admission to a recognized university or college in Malaysia. Once you are accepted, the university will send you an offer letter. You will need this letter to proceed with your visa application.
Required Documents for Admission
- Passport Copy: A clear copy of your passport, valid for at least six months.
- Academic Transcripts: Certified copies of your high school or university transcripts.
- Passport-Sized Photos: Recent photos for identification.
- English Proficiency Proof: If required, an IELTS or TOEFL score.
Step 2: Submit Visa Application through EMGS
Hence, in Malaysia, student visa applications are processed through the Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS). After receiving your offer letter, the university will guide you in submitting your visa application to EMGS.
Required Documents for Visa Application
- Offer Letter: From the university or educational institution in Malaysia.
- Passport Copy: All pages, including blank pages.
- Health Declaration Form: Some medical reports may also be required.
- Visa Application Fee: Varies depending on your nationality.
- Passport-Sized Photos: Recent photos (white background).
Step 3: Pay the Visa Processing Fee
Also, after submitting your documents to EMGS, you will be required to pay the visa processing fee. The fee varies depending on the duration of your course and nationality. This fee includes visa approval, medical insurance, and processing costs.
Step 4: Undergo Medical Screening
As part of the visa application process, international students must undergo a medical screening either before arriving in Malaysia or after arrival. The medical test ensures that students are healthy and fit to study in the country.
Medical Screening Includes
- General Health Check-Up
- Blood Test
- Chest X-Ray
The results of the medical check-up will be sent to EMGS for verification.
Step 5: Receive Your Visa Approval Letter (VAL)
Once all your documents are verified and your medical screening is cleared, you will receive a Visa Approval Letter (VAL). This letter allows you to enter Malaysia and continue with the visa stamping process once you arrive.
Step 6: Enter Malaysia
Hence, after receiving the Visa Approval Letter, you can travel to Malaysia. However, at the airport, you will need to show your VAL to immigration authorities, who will issue you a special pass. This pass allows you to stay in Malaysia temporarily until your student visa is stamped.
Step 7: Submit Your Passport for Visa Stamping
However, once you are in Malaysia, you must submit your passport to EMGS or your university’s visa office for visa stamping. The student visa is typically stamped on your passport within a few weeks, and it will be valid for the duration of your study program.
Visa Extension
If your study program lasts longer than your visa, you can apply for a visa extension through EMGS.
Additional Information
- Part-Time Work: International students in Malaysia can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during semester breaks.
- Dependent Visa: Also, some students can apply for dependent visas for family members, depending on the university’s policies and visa regulations.
The visa application process for international students in Malaysia is straightforward if you follow these steps carefully. From receiving your offer letter to visa stamping, each stage ensures you can legally study and enjoy your stay in Malaysia. Submit all required documents and follow your university’s guidance for a smooth process.