What is the Long Term Social Visit Pass?
The Long Term Social Visit Pass (LTSVP) is a Malaysian visa category designed to allow extended stays for family members of Malaysian citizens, Permanent Residents, and certain expatriates. Unlike the short-term visitor pass which is limited to 30-90 days, the LTSVP can be issued for periods of 6 months to 5 years, making it ideal for those who wish to live with their Malaysian family members.
This pass serves as an important bridge for family reunification, allowing foreign spouses, parents, and other family members to maintain their family bonds while residing in Malaysia. The LTSVP recognizes the importance of keeping families together while maintaining immigration control and ensuring that pass holders do not become public charges.
The Long Term Social Visit Pass is administered by the Immigration Department of Malaysia. Unlike work permits, this pass is sponsored by the Malaysian family member rather than an employer, making it suitable for those who do not intend to work but wish to stay for extended periods.
LTSVP Key Facts
Eligible Categories
The LTSVP is available to specific categories of family members with close ties to Malaysian citizens or residents.
Foreign Spouse of Malaysian Citizen
The most common category. Foreign nationals married to Malaysian citizens can apply for LTSVP to live with their spouse in Malaysia.
- • Initial pass for 1 year, renewable to 5 years
- • May apply for Permanent Residence after 5 years
- • Can apply for work permit separately
Parents of Malaysian Citizen
Foreign parents of adult Malaysian citizens may apply for LTSVP to be closer to their children and grandchildren.
- • Child must be above 21 years old and employed
- • Child must provide financial guarantee
- • Pass typically issued for 6-12 months
Children (18-21 years)
Unmarried children of Employment Pass holders who are between 18-21 years and still studying may qualify for LTSVP instead of Dependent Pass.
- • Must be enrolled in educational institution
- • Must be unmarried and financially dependent
- • Pass validity tied to study duration
Parents of EP Holders
Parents of Employment Pass Category I holders may apply for LTSVP to stay with their children in Malaysia.
- • EP holder must earn RM10,000+ monthly
- • Parents typically above 60 years old
- • EP holder must provide financial support
Requirements
General Requirements
- Valid passport with minimum 18 months validity
- Proof of relationship to Malaysian sponsor
- Sponsor's MyKad (IC) copy and income proof
- Clean immigration record
- Medical fitness (may be required for elderly applicants)
Required Documents
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Applicant's Passport | Original + copies of all pages |
| Passport Photos | 4 recent photos (35mm x 50mm) |
| Marriage Certificate | For spouse applications (original + copy) |
| Birth Certificate | For parent/child applications |
| Sponsor's MyKad | Copy of Malaysian sponsor's IC (both sides) |
| Sponsor's Income Proof | Pay slips, EA form, or business registration |
| Guarantee Letter | Letter from sponsor guaranteeing support |
| Application Form | IMM.12 form completed and signed |
Application Process
Document Preparation
Gather all required documents. Ensure marriage/birth certificates are translated and certified if not in English/Malay.
Sponsor Application
Malaysian sponsor submits application at State Immigration Office. Sponsor must be present with original documents.
Processing
Immigration reviews application. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks. May be called for interview.
Approval & Entry
Upon approval, applicant enters Malaysia. Visit Immigration for pass endorsement.
Endorsement
LTSVP stamped in passport. Biometric registration completed if required.
Fees & Duration
| Category | Duration | Fee (RM) |
|---|---|---|
| Spouse of Malaysian | 1-5 years | RM90 - RM450 |
| Parents of Malaysian | 6-12 months | RM90 - RM180 |
| Children (18-21) | As per study | RM90 per year |
| Processing Fee | - | RM20 - RM50 |
Work Rights
The Long Term Social Visit Pass does not automatically grant work rights. However, foreign spouses of Malaysian citizens may apply for permission to work through their potential employer.
The process involves the employer applying for a work permit on behalf of the LTSVP holder. Approval is typically easier to obtain than a full Employment Pass, as the applicant already has legal residence status through their Malaysian spouse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I convert LTSVP to Permanent Residence?
Yes, spouses of Malaysian citizens may apply for PR after 5 years of marriage and continuous residence in Malaysia. Parents may also apply but approval is more difficult.
What if my Malaysian spouse passes away?
You may apply to continue staying in Malaysia under humanitarian grounds, especially if you have Malaysian children. Immigration considers each case individually.
Can my LTSVP be cancelled?
Yes, LTSVP can be cancelled if the marriage ends in divorce, if the sponsor withdraws support, or if immigration violations occur. You would need to leave Malaysia.
Is there an age limit for spouse LTSVP?
There is no specific age limit, but immigration may scrutinize marriages with large age gaps to ensure they are genuine.