Malaysia Student Visa Requirements: All You Need to Know

When you think about Malaysia student visa requirements, does it feel overwhelming?

Like trying to piece together a puzzle? 

You may wonder if you are capable of understanding it all.

Do not worry..

Let's break it down and make the process simple for you.

Why is a Student Visa Important?

A student visa is essential for any international student planning to study in Malaysia. 

Without it, you cannot legally enroll in any institution or remain in the country during your studies. 

The visa ensures your stay in Malaysia is legitimate and aligns with the country’s immigration laws.

Key Benefits of a Malaysia Student Visa

Malaysia student visa grants you benefits like:

1. Legal Entry and Stay

You can legally live in Malaysia for the duration of your studies.

2. Access to Malaysian Healthcare

International students are required to have health insurance, providing access to healthcare during their stay.

3. Allows Part-time Work

Students are allowed to work part-time for a maximum of 20 hours per week only during semester breaks or holidays if they are longer than 7 days.

4. Multiple Entry

After obtaining your student pass, you are allowed to travel in and out of Malaysia without needing to reapply for a visa.

General Requirements for Student Visa in Malaysia

Before starting the student visa application Malaysia, ensure you have all the required documents. 

Malaysia student visa requirements include:

1. Passport-Size Photograph

• Size: 35mm x 45mm( jpg), colored with a white background.
• No editing or selfies. Photos must be taken professionally, with proper lighting.
• No head covering (unless for religious reasons).
• Facing forward and neutral expression with no smile.
• Follow Passport Photo Guidelines strictly to avoid rejection.

Here examples of acceptable photos:

2. Valid Passport

• Your passport must be valid for at least 18 months and above.
• Photocopies any pages which contain visa information (passport data page and observation page)
• Ensure that the image is clear and all details are visible.
• Ensure you are using the same passport when traveling to Malaysia.
  

Note: Students from the countries listed below must provide a copy of all passport pages including the blank pages:

• Libya
• Iran
• Iraq
• Somalia
• Sudan
• Syria
• Yemen

3. Letter of Acceptance (Offer Letter)

• This must be issued by a recognized Malaysian educational institution.
• It should confirm your course details and admission status.
• Upload a scanned copy of the offer letter in PDF format only.
  

4. Health Declaration Form

• You must complete a health declaration form, confirming that you are free from communicable diseases. 
• Students from high-risk countries for yellow fever must provide proof of vaccination.

Note: The Medical Examiners Report or any supporting documents attached with the health declaration must be in English.

Visit EMGS website to download the Health Declaration Form.

5.  Academic Transcripts and Certificates

• Provide certified copies of your academic qualifications of studies previously undertaken. 
• Documents should be translated into English if they are in another language, and these translations must be certified.
• Some courses have additional entry requirements. Check the entry requirements provided by your educational institution.

6. English Language Proficiency

• Proof of English proficiency is needed, such as IELTS or TOEFL results. 
• Some institutions accept certificates proving English was the language of instruction in your previous education.

The English Language tests which are accepted for Student Pass Application are:

• MUET (Malaysian University English Test),
• IELTS/ IELTS Online.
• TOEFL iBT/ TOEFL Essentials (Online). 
• PTE Academic/ PTE Academic (Online)(Pearson Test of English),
• Cambridge English - B1 Preliminary,B2 First, C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency,
• Cambridge English - Linguaskill Online,
• Cambridge English - Occupational English Test (OET)(Conventional/Online),
• ELS - Certified Intensive English Programme Level (CIEP Level).

7. Visa Application Form          

• Fill out the Malaysia student visa application form available on the EMGS website. 
• Ensure that all information provided matches your other documents exactly.

8. Proof of Payment for Visa Fees

• Pay the visa processing fee through the EMGS portal and include the receipt with your application.

Note:

• There are two options of payment method: Credit Card – RM only (powered by iPay88) & Telegraphic Transfer (USD Only).
• Paying through Credit Card will be the most effective method as the transaction is immediate. 

9. Personal Bond 

• Signing a personal bond is required to ensure you follow Malaysia's immigration laws.
• The bond will be refunded if no violations occur.
• Personal bond amount changes depending on the nationality and ranges between RM300 and RM2,000.

Visit EMGS personal bond scheme to find out how much you will need to pay for the personal bond.

Note: This should be paid to the university after arrival to Malaysia.

Special Requirements by Nationality

Certain nationalities have additional Malaysia student visa requirements:

How to Avoid Visa Rejection

To avoid Malaysian student visa rejection, ensure that all the documents are complete and accurate. 

Some common reasons for rejection include:

• Incorrect or missing documents.
• Failure to meet financial requirements.
• Insufficient proof of academic qualifications.
• Health issues discovered during the medical examination. 
• Overstaying your previous visa.
• Financial Inadequacy.
• Criminal Background.
• Expired or Soon-to-Expire Passport.
  

For more in-depth information, see the article: [Malaysia Student Visa Rejection Reasons].

There is Always Room for Doing Better

Securing a student visa for Malaysia is an essential step in your study journey. 

By understanding Malaysia student visa requirements and following the correct procedures, you can ensure a smooth application process and avoid potential delays or rejections. 

If you need further guidance, feel free to reach out to YourUni—we are here to help.