Duratum

Guides · Malaysia

Work permit renewal in Malaysia

Written from published rules on 26 August 2026. Not monitored for changes since. A starting point, not official advice — confirm anything that matters with Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia (Immigration Department of Malaysia).

Renewing a work permit in Malaysia generally involves submitting an application with required documents to the relevant immigration authorities before the current permit expires. The process aims to ensure continued legal employment for foreign workers in the country.

Your timing

It is advisable for employers to initiate the work permit renewal process several months before the current permit's expiration date. This allows sufficient time for appointment scheduling, document preparation, submission, and processing by the Immigration Department, which can take several weeks.

Start 90 days ahead

This lead time accounts for potential waiting periods for appointments, processing times at the Immigration Department, and any time needed to gather required documents or undergo medical examinations.

The process

  1. 1Confirm eligibility criteria and required documents for renewal, as these can vary based on sector, employer, and nationality.
  2. 2Ensure the foreign worker undergoes a medical examination at an approved clinic and obtains a valid medical report if required.
  3. 3The employer prepares all necessary supporting documents, including business registration, employment details, and original passports.
  4. 4Submit the complete application package to the relevant Immigration Department office or through an online portal if available.
  5. 5Pay the prescribed fees upon application or approval, as instructed by the Immigration Department.
  6. 6Collect the renewed work permit (e-Pass or physical sticker) once the application is approved and processed.

What to bring

  • Foreign worker's original passport (with at least 6 months validity from the renewal date)
  • Current work permit (Employment Pass or Foreign Worker Permit)
  • Completed renewal application form (if physical submission)
  • Valid medical examination report from an approved medical center (FOMEMA, if applicable)
  • Employer's business registration documents (e.g., Form D, Form 9, Form 49 or SSM printout)
  • Confirmation of employment and salary details
  • Insurance coverage details (e.g., Foreign Worker Hospitalisation and Surgical Scheme - FWHS)
  • Any other supporting documents as required by the Immigration Department based on sector or nationality.

Who handles it

Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia (Immigration Department of Malaysia)

https://www.imi.gov.my/index.php/en/main-services/foreign-worker/renewal-of-employment-pass-and-foreign-worker-permit/

Renewal fees vary based on the type of pass, sector, and duration. These fees are set by the Immigration Department of Malaysia and should be confirmed on their official website or at the point of application.

What commonly goes wrong

  • Incomplete documentation is a common reason for application delays or rejections; ensure all forms are filled out correctly and all required supporting documents are current.
  • Ensure medical examinations are conducted at government-approved centers, as reports from unapproved clinics will not be accepted.
  • Be aware of differing requirements based on the foreign worker's nationality, the industry sector, and the specific type of employment pass being renewed.
  • Always apply before the current permit expires; overstaying without a valid permit can lead to penalties and legal issues.

Sources

Other documents in Malaysia

Work permit renewal in other countries

Often renewed together

Don't rely on remembering

Add this document to Duratum and we'll tell you when to start, and remind you before it matters.

Track my Work permit