Malaysia Special Pass
Temporary pass issued to foreign nationals who need additional time to arrange departure from Malaysia due to valid reasons accepted by Immigration. For temporary legal stay in Malaysia for specific circumstances including overstaying, pending applications, or special situations.
What is Malaysia Special Pass?
The Special Pass is issued to foreign nationals who have overstayed in Malaysia or whose current pass has expired and need more time to leave the country for reasons deemed acceptable by the Malaysian Immigration Department.
Previously, the Malaysia Special Pass was issued for two purposes: "Making Arrangement to Leave the Country" and "Pending Approval of an Employment/Student Pass". However, as of 2016, the Immigration Department stopped allowing pass conversions or extensions while in Malaysia.
Important Notice
The Special Pass is now issued only for a duration of 30 days, after which you must depart Malaysia. You can no longer use it to convert or extend your pass while in the country.
Key Information
Validity Period
30 days maximum
Purpose
Making arrangements to leave
Application Timing
At least 7 days before pass expires
Approval Authority
Immigration Department of Malaysia
Who Has to Apply for a Malaysia Special Pass?
Understanding when you can apply for a Special Pass is crucial to avoid overstaying penalties
Valid Reasons to Apply
You can apply for a Special Pass if you cannot depart Malaysia by your current pass expiry date for reasons beyond your control:
- Medical emergencies preventing travel
- Flight cancellations or delays
- Lost or stolen passport requiring replacement
- Legal proceedings requiring your presence
Invalid Reasons (As of 2016)
You CANNOT use a Special Pass for the following purposes:
- Converting from one pass type to another (e.g., Student Pass to Employment Pass)
- Extending your current pass while in Malaysia
- Renewing expired Employment or Student Pass
- Waiting for new pass approval while staying in Malaysia
Important Regulation Change (2016)
The Special Pass is now ONLY issued with the notation "Making Arrangement to Leave the Country". If you want to apply for a new pass but have insufficient time on your current pass, you may have to leave Malaysia and reapply from your home country.
Always contact the Immigration Department of Malaysia to inquire about your specific eligibility before applying.
Requirements for Malaysia Special Pass
Prepare these documents when applying for a Special Pass at the Immigration Department
Original Passport
Your original passport that you're currently using to stay in Malaysia
Requirements:
- • Must be valid
- • Original document required
- • Not photocopy
Passport Photocopies
Complete photocopies of all pages in your passport
Include:
- • All pages with stamps
- • Bio-data page
- • Previous passports if any
Current Pass Copy
Photocopy of your current Immigration Pass (Visit, Employment, Student, etc.)
Details:
- • Clear copy
- • Must show expiry date
- • Current pass only
Reserved Flight Ticket
Flight reservation showing departure within the next 30 days
Requirements:
- • Within 30-day period
- • Confirmed reservation
- • Departure from Malaysia
Explanation Letter
Typed letter explaining your reason for requesting a Special Pass
Must include:
- • Clear explanation
- • Valid reasons
- • Supporting evidence
For Dependents
Additional documents required if applying for dependent family members
Include:
- • Marriage certificate (spouse)
- • Birth certificate (children)
- • Main pass holder documents
Important Document Guidelines
Birth and marriage certificates must be translated into English if not already
All certificates must be endorsed as Certified True Copy (CTC) by your Embassy
This is not an exhaustive list - Immigration may request additional documents
All documents must be clear, complete, and properly certified
How to Apply for Malaysia Special Pass
The application process must be done in person at the Immigration Department of Malaysia
Application Process
1. Prepare Documents
Gather all required documents listed above
2. Apply 7 Days Before
Visit Immigration at least 7 days before your pass expires
3. Visit Immigration Office
Appear in person before your current pass expires
4. Wait for Decision
Immigration will review and decide on your application
Special Cases
For Students
Your school can arrange the Special Pass application on your behalf. However, all costs must be covered by you.
For Foreign Workers
Speak to your employer to inquire who must apply. In many cases, the employer obtains the Special Pass on behalf of the employee.
Processing Location
Apply at the Immigration Department office nearest to your location in Malaysia. Bring all original documents.
Critical Timing Notice
You MUST apply at least 7 days before your current pass expires. Applying too late may result in overstaying penalties. Plan ahead and start the application process early to avoid complications.
What Happens if You Overstay in Malaysia?
Overstaying is a serious offense with severe consequences under Malaysian immigration law
Serious Legal Consequences
If you stay in Malaysia past your pass expiry date, you will be considered to have overstayed. This is a punishable offense under Malaysian law.
Detention
You may be detained by immigration authorities and held in an immigration detention center
Fines
Significant financial penalties imposed by the Immigration Department
Deportation
Forced removal from Malaysia and ban from re-entering the country
Criminal Record
Immigration violations may result in a permanent record affecting future travel
Prevention is Key
Always monitor your pass expiry date and take action well in advance to avoid overstaying
Act Early
Apply for Special Pass or make departure arrangements at least 7 days before expiry
Seek Help
Contact Immigration Department immediately if you have concerns about your pass status
Need a Special Pass?
Contact the Immigration Department of Malaysia immediately if you need to apply for a Special Pass. Don't wait until it's too late.