Last Updated on February 23, 2023
Key Points
- All foreign nationals holding expired SVPs are required to exit Malaysia by Wednesday, Apr. 21, 2021, at the latest.
- Expired SVP holders do not need to apply for any additional documentation before going to the airport and leaving the country.
- Those who do not leave before Apr. 21 could face penalties (not yet detailed).
- Expired SVP holders will not be able to return to Malaysia after exiting until the current travel ban is lifted. They can only return if prior approval is obtained specifically for:
- Business, emergencies, or medical purposes.
- If they have obtained approval for a new Employment Pass, Professional Visit Pass, Dependent Pass, or any other long-term pass.
- Expired SVP holders who want to remain in Malaysia after Apr. 21 must apply for a Special Pass at their nearest Immigration Department office with the following:
- A support letter from the Embassy;
- Documented evidence of having a place to continue their stay in Malaysia;
- Sufficient funds to support their continued stay;
- Other standard required documents for the Special Pass.
Overview
On Apr. 12, 2021, the Immigration Department of Malaysia released a statement declaring that all holders of an expired Social Visit Pass (SVP) in the country must exit Malaysia by Apr. 21, 2021, at the latest.
Those who do not leave before this date could face penalties. SVP holders who want to remain in Malaysia must obtain a Special Pass at their nearest Immigration Department with a support letter from the Embassy, evidence of having a place to continue their stay in Malaysia and sufficient funds to support their extended stay amongst other standard required documents for a Special Pass application.
What are the Changes?
Until now, expired SVP holders have been allowed to remain in Malaysia because of certain travel restrictions and government office closures due the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. On Monday, Apr. 12, the Immigration Department of Malaysia announced that all holders of expired Social Visit Passes must exit the country no later than Apr. 21.
Looking Ahead
No update has been made for foreign nationals holding other types of expired passes and permits, but it is advised to check with the Immigration office in Malaysia to know the best procedure on when to leave or how to apply to remain in the country. If a foreign national is already in the process of renewing a Work Permit or Dependent Pass, they should contact their respective processing authority to check on the status of their application.
Content in this publication is not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult an Envoy-affiliated attorney or another qualified professional.
