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Malaysia Student Visa: A Complete Guide for International Students

Home / Study in Malaysia / Student Visa in Malaysia

Introduction

Malaysia, known for its high-quality education, affordable tuition, and multicultural environment, has become a popular destination for international students. If you are considering studying in Malaysia, obtaining the right student visa is a critical step.

This comprehensive guide by MSM Unify covers the types of student visas, eligibility requirements, costs, the application process, and other essential details to make your visa journey smooth.

Student visa types

Malaysia offers two primary types of student visas:

1. Student Pass

The Student Pass is the most commonly issued visa for students enrolled in long-term programs like degree courses, diploma programs, or other full-time academic courses. It’s issued for the duration of your study program, typically a year at a time, with renewals required for longer programs.

2. Professional Visit Pass

For students pursuing short-term courses, internships, or professional training that lasts under 12 months, the Professional Visit Pass is the suitable option. It is typically used by students involved in exchange programs or short-duration courses.

Eligibility criteria

To apply for a Malaysia student visa, international students need to meet the following eligibility requirements:

Age requirements

The typical age requirement for students enrolling in undergraduate programs is between 18 to 35 years. Certain programs and institutions may have different age limits.

Cost of Malaysia student visa

Here is an approximate breakdown of the costs involved in obtaining a student visa in Malaysia. The fees may vary depending on your nationality and the institution:

Fee type	Estimated cost (MYR)
Visa processing fee	MYR 1,000 – MYR 2,000 approximately
Visa fee	MYR 60 – MYR 100 (based on nationality) approximately
Medical check-up	MYR 500 – MYR 800 approximately
iKad (Student ID card)	MYR 50 – MYR 100 approximately
Insurance	MYR 500 – MYR 1,000 approximately
Miscellaneous (Renewal, Extension)	MYR 200 – MYR 500 approximately

Please note: The costs above are estimates and can vary based on your institution and nationality. Always verify with your institution or the visa authority for the most current fees.

Latest updates on Malaysia student visas

In 2024, several changes were introduced to the Malaysian student visa process to streamline applications for international students:

The Malaysian government has made it easier by introducing an online student visa application through the Education Malaysia website.

Visa processing times have been shortened, with most visas processed in 14 working days or less.

Students can now renew their visas online, reducing the need for in-person visits.

Year	Number of international students	Visa approval rate (%)
2021	100,000	89%
2022	120,000	91%
2023	130,000	94%
2024	140,000	96%

Documents required for Malaysia student visa

To facilitate a seamless visa application process, ensure you have the following documents prepared:

A completed visa application form (can be filled out online)
A valid passport (at least 12 months of validity)
Two passport-sized photographs (recent
Admission letter from a recognized Malaysian educational institution
Proof of tuition fee payment
Medical report from an approved clinic
Evidence of financial ability to cover living and tuition costs
Visa processing fee payment receipt
Insurance coverage proof

Please note: Additional documents may be requested depending on your specific program or nationality.

Steps to apply for a Malaysia student visa

Here is a step-by-step guide to applying for a Malaysia student visa:

1. Receive an offer letter

Before starting your visa application, ensure you have an official offer letter from a recognized Malaysian institution.

2. Submit the visa application online

Applications are submitted through the Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) platform. Fill out the form, upload the required documents, and pay the processing fees.

3. Undergo a medical examination

Once the visa application is submitted, you will be required to undergo a medical check-up, either in your home country or in Malaysia.

4. Await approval

The processing time for visa approval usually takes between 14-30 working days, depending on the volume of applications and your country of origin.

5. Visa endorsement

Once your student visa is approved, you will need to get a visa endorsement at the Malaysian Embassy or Consulate in your home country before traveling.

Visa processing time

The processing time for Malaysian student visas typically ranges between 14 to 30 working days, depending on your nationality and visa type.

Visa type	Processing time
Student Pass	14 – 30 working days
Professional Visit Pass	7 – 14 working days

Please note: Visa processing times can vary based on individual cases and the volume of applications at the time.

Statement of Purpose (SOP)

A Statement of Purpose (SOP) is a crucial part of the visa application process. This document outlines your academic goals, reasons for choosing Malaysia, and how the program aligns with your career aspirations.

Writing tips for SOP:

Be specific: Clearly state your academic and career objectives.
Explain your choice of Malaysia: Detail why you have chosen Malaysia as your study destination.
Mention the institution: Explain why you chose the particular Malaysian institution.
Be concise: Keep your SOP between 500-700 words.

Conclusion

The process of applying for a Malaysia student visa involves careful planning and preparation. By following the outlined steps and ensuring all required documents are in order, you can streamline the process.

MSM Unify is committed to helping students throughout their study-abroad journey, from selecting institutions to assisting with visa applications. With over 50,000 programs across 1,500 campuses and operations in 21 destinations, MSM Unify can make your overseas education dreams come true.

Malaysia Student Visa: A Complete Guide for International Students

Student Visa

Malaysia

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FAQs

Got questions?

Find answers here

Q. How long is the Malaysia student visa valid for?

The student visa is typically valid for the duration of your study program, with annual renewals required for longer courses.

Q. Can international students work in Malaysia while studying?

Yes, students are allowed to work part-time up to 20 hours per week during semester breaks.

Q. What are the visa fees for Malaysia?

Visa fees range from MYR 1,000 to MYR 2,000, depending on the institution and the applicant’s nationality.

Q. Can I bring family members with me on a student visa?

No, family members cannot accompany students on a student visa. They may apply for a dependent pass under certain conditions

Q. Do I need a medical examination for the visa?

Yes, all students must undergo a medical examination before submitting their visa application.

Q. How long does it take to get a student visa in Malaysia?

It generally takes 14-30 working days to process a Malaysia student visa.

Q. Can I extend my student visa?

Yes, students can apply for a visa renewal before the current visa expires. The process is usually simpler for renewals.

Q. Can I change my university after receiving a student visa?

Yes, but you must apply for a new visa that reflects the change in institution.

Q. What is MSM Unify’s role in the visa process?

MSM Unify offers expert guidance throughout the visa process, helping you choose the right program and ensuring all necessary documentation is in place.

Q. Is there an age limit for applying for a student visa in Malaysia?

Yes, typically students enrolling in undergraduate programs must be between 18 and 35 years old.

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Student Accommodation Berlin: The 2025 Guide for Indian and International Students

How to Get PR in Singapore: A 2025 Guide for Indians and International Students

Malaysia Student Visa: A Complete Guide for International Students

Introduction

Student visa types

1. Student Pass

2. Professional Visit Pass

Eligibility criteria

Age requirements

Cost of Malaysia student visa

Latest updates on Malaysia student visas

Documents required for Malaysia student visa

Steps to apply for a Malaysia student visa

1. Receive an offer letter

2. Submit the visa application online

3. Undergo a medical examination

4. Await approval

5. Visa endorsement

Visa processing time

Statement of Purpose (SOP)

Writing tips for SOP:

Conclusion

Student Visa

Malaysia

Interested in studying abroad?

FAQs

Got questions?

Find answers here

Q. How long is the Malaysia student visa valid for?

Q. Can international students work in Malaysia while studying?

Q. What are the visa fees for Malaysia?

Q. Can I bring family members with me on a student visa?

Q. Do I need a medical examination for the visa?

Q. How long does it take to get a student visa in Malaysia?

Q. Can I extend my student visa?

Q. Can I change my university after receiving a student visa?

Q. What is MSM Unify’s role in the visa process?

Q. Is there an age limit for applying for a student visa in Malaysia?

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