Planning to work in Malaysia? EasyVisa.pk explains the Employment Pass categories, real fee structure, and the safe, employer-sponsored application process for Pakistani applicants.
A Malaysia work visa is legally tied to a specific employer and job offer. It is a different process, a different pass, and a different set of documents from a tourist or visit visa.
Quick answer: Most Malaysia work visas are issued as an Employment Pass, applied for by a registered Malaysian employer through the Expatriate Services Division (ESD), not by the worker directly. There is no way to legally convert a tourist visit visa into a work visa after you enter Malaysia.
The standard route for Pakistani professionals working legally in Malaysia
Categories and salary thresholds are set by Malaysia's Expatriate Services Division and are revised periodically.
For senior and highly skilled roles, typically the highest salary band. Usually issued for up to 5 years, renewable while the role continues.
For mid-level skilled and technical roles with a moderate salary threshold. Usually issued for 2 to 3 years.
For short-term, project-based technical work by an existing overseas employee sent by a foreign company, not a local hire.
Mainly used for lower-skilled sectors under bilateral labour arrangements; eligibility and open sectors vary by year.
For the spouse and children of an Employment Pass Category I or II holder, applied for after the main pass is approved.
Pass categories and thresholds change often. Confirm your exact category with your employer or EasyVisa.pk before applying.
Unlike a tourist visa, most work visa costs are the employer's responsibility, not the worker's. Be cautious of anyone asking you to pay large upfront "processing fees."
Important: Exact fee amounts, levy rates, and salary thresholds change and vary by sector and pass category. Message EasyVisa.pk with your job offer details for a current, accurate quote rather than relying on numbers you find elsewhere online.
Secure a genuine job offer from a Malaysian employer registered to hire foreign staff.
The employer submits your Employment Pass application through the ESD portal.
Provide your documents, certificates, and medical check as requested.
Once approved, receive your Visa Approval Letter (VAL) or reference number.
Travel to Malaysia and complete pass endorsement and stamping on arrival.
If you're travelling for tourism, family visits, or short business trips rather than employment, you need a visit visa instead see our full guide on fees, requirements, and how to apply.
We confirm the correct pass category and current requirements for your specific job offer.
We flag fake "guaranteed" work visa offers and unnecessary upfront fees before you lose money.
We review your certificates, contract, and forms before submission to avoid delays.
Let EasyVisa.pk confirm your pass category, review your documents, and guide the application through to approval.
