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Changes announced to Malaysia’s residence pass-talent applications

According to a report by global corporate immigration service provider Berry Appleman & Leiden (BAL), officials have announced changes to Malaysia’s residence pass-talent (RP-T), which provides qualifying foreign nationals with 10-year permits to work and reside in Malaysia.

From 1 February, all RP-T applications will be processed at the Malaysia Expatriate Talent Service Centre (MYXpats Centre) in Petaling Jaya. Additionally, minimum salary requirements and processing fees will also increase. The report stated that officials hope the change will streamline processing, though delays are possible during the changeover. Applicants are also advised to take note of the changes to make sure they follow proper procedures and meet minimum qualifying criteria.

The RP-T was introduced in 2011 and allows eligible foreign nationals to reside and work in Malaysia for 10 years. RP-T holders are allowed to switch employers at will. RP-T dependent passes are available for spouses and children under 18; children ages 18 and up may apply for and obtain long-term social passes.

Minimum salary requirements will increase to 15,000 Malaysian ringgits (about US$3,361) per month. The change, from the current monthly minimum of 12,000 ringgits, is an increase of 25%.

Fees will also increase as follows:

Application TypeApplication FeesProcessing FeesTotal
Main/Spouse300 MYR2088 MYR2388 MYR
Dependent300 MYR1850 MYR2150 MYR

Online applications must be submitted through this TalentCorp website once the changeover occurs. The current site will continue to be used through 31 January.

In the report, BAL analysed that the change should streamline processing of RP-T applications. While the higher salary threshold will make qualifying for the program more difficult, the program remains a good option for qualifying foreign nationals looking for long-term work and residence opportunities in Malaysia.

Photo / iStock

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