What is a Professional Visit Pass?
The Malaysia Professional Visit Pass (PVP) is a specialized visa category designed for foreign professionals who need to enter Malaysia for short-term work assignments, training, or technical services. Unlike the Employment Pass which is for long-term employment, the PVP is ideal for temporary professional engagements that do not exceed 12 months.
This pass is particularly popular among multinational corporations that need to send employees to their Malaysian offices or clients for specialized projects, technology transfers, equipment installation, training programs, or consultancy services. The PVP provides a legal framework for professionals to work in Malaysia without the complexity of obtaining a full Employment Pass.
The Professional Visit Pass is issued by the Immigration Department of Malaysia and requires sponsorship from a Malaysian entity. The sponsor takes responsibility for the professional during their stay and must ensure compliance with all immigration regulations. This pass offers flexibility for businesses while maintaining control over the foreign workforce in Malaysia.
PVP Key Facts
Who Qualifies for a Professional Visit Pass?
The Professional Visit Pass is designed for specific categories of professionals who need temporary access to Malaysia for work-related activities. Understanding the eligible categories helps determine if this pass is appropriate for your situation.
Eligible Professional Categories
- Technical experts for machinery installation and commissioning
- Trainers conducting skills transfer programs
- IT professionals for system implementation
- Consultants providing advisory services
- Researchers collaborating with Malaysian institutions
- Artists, performers for shows and events
- Religious teachers and missionaries
- Volunteers for approved NGO projects
Important Distinction
The PVP is NOT for long-term employment. If your assignment exceeds 12 months or involves regular employment with a Malaysian company, you must apply for an Employment Pass instead. Using a PVP for regular employment is a violation of immigration law.
PVP Categories
Professional Visit Passes are issued under different categories based on the nature of the professional activity. Each category has specific requirements and documentation needs.
1. Technical/Installation Services
For professionals involved in installing, repairing, or maintaining equipment purchased from foreign companies. Common for manufacturing and industrial sectors.
- • Equipment purchase agreement required
- • Service contract between companies
- • Duration based on project timeline
2. Training & Knowledge Transfer
For trainers and experts conducting training programs for Malaysian staff. Includes technology transfer and skills development initiatives.
- • Training program outline required
- • List of trainees to be submitted
- • Timeline and curriculum documentation
3. Consultancy Services
For consultants providing professional advice and services to Malaysian organizations. Covers various industries including IT, management, and engineering.
- • Consultancy agreement required
- • Scope of work documentation
- • Consultant's professional credentials
4. Research & Academic
For researchers, academics, and scientists collaborating with Malaysian universities or research institutions on approved projects.
- • Letter from research institution
- • Research proposal and timeline
- • Collaboration agreement
Required Documents
The documentation requirements for a Professional Visit Pass vary based on the category of application. Below are the standard documents required for all PVP applications.
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Passport | Valid for at least 12 months with blank pages |
| Passport Photos | 2 recent photos (35mm x 50mm, white background) |
| Cover Letter | From Malaysian sponsor explaining purpose |
| Professional CV | Detailed resume with qualifications |
| Service Agreement | Contract between foreign and Malaysian company |
| Company Documents | SSM registration, business license of sponsor |
| Project Details | Timeline, scope, deliverables documentation |
Application Process
The PVP application is submitted by the Malaysian sponsor company through the Immigration Department. The process is generally straightforward for well-documented applications.
Sponsor Preparation
Malaysian company prepares all required documents including service agreements and justification for the professional visit.
Submit Application
Application submitted to Immigration Department with full documentation. Fees paid upon submission.
Processing
Immigration reviews application. Processing typically takes 7-14 working days for standard applications.
Approval & Entry
Upon approval, professional enters Malaysia with Visa With Reference (VDR) and PVP is endorsed at immigration.
Fees & Duration
Professional Visit Pass fees depend on nationality and duration. The pass can be issued for up to 12 months and may be extended under certain circumstances.
| Duration | Fee (RM) |
|---|---|
| Up to 3 months | RM250 - RM500 |
| 3 to 6 months | RM500 - RM850 |
| 6 to 12 months | RM850 - RM1,200 |
| Processing Fee | RM125 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I extend my Professional Visit Pass?
Yes, extensions may be granted if the project requires more time. Applications must be submitted before the current pass expires, with justification for the extension.
Can my family accompany me on a PVP?
The PVP does not include provisions for dependents. Family members would need to enter on tourist visas or apply for their own appropriate passes.
Can I convert my PVP to an Employment Pass?
Yes, if you receive a permanent job offer, your employer can apply for an Employment Pass. However, you may need to exit Malaysia during the transition process.
Who pays for the Professional Visit Pass?
Typically, the Malaysian sponsor company pays for the visa fees and processing costs as part of the service agreement between the companies.