Student Visa Procedures (Student Pass)
A complete guide to every stage of obtaining a Malaysian student visa — from university admission all the way to receiving your Student Pass.
What is the Student Pass?
The Student Pass is an official residence permit that allows international students to live in Malaysia for the duration of their studies. It is issued through EMGS (Education Malaysia Global Services) and is typically renewed annually throughout the years of study.
The Complete Process — Step by Step
Obtain University Admission
The first step is an official offer letter from an accredited Malaysian university. We help you choose the university, submit the application and complete the full admissions process.
Submit eVAL Application via EMGS
The university submits the Electronic Visa Approval Letter (eVAL) request on your behalf through EMGS. This stage typically takes 4–8 weeks. We keep you updated at every step.
Obtain Entry Visa
After eVAL approval, you apply for a single-entry visa from the Malaysian embassy in your country. This usually takes only a few days.
Travel to Malaysia
After receiving your entry visa, you travel to Malaysia. Upon arrival, your passport is stamped with an official international student entry stamp.
Complete Medical Examination
You must undergo a medical examination at an EMGS-approved clinic in Malaysia within days of arrival. This typically costs RM 200–350.
Receive Your Student Pass
After completing the medical examination and submitting documents to the university, the Student Pass is officially issued — stamped in your passport and valid for one year before renewal.
Documents Required for eVAL Application
- Valid passport with at least 18 months remaining validity
- Passport photos with white background (usually 4 photos)
- Secondary school certificate + certified translation
- English language certificate (IELTS/TOEFL) if available — or language institute certificate
- Official offer letter from the university
- EMGS fee payment receipt (processed by the university)
- Bank statement proving financial capacity (some universities require this)
Visa Fees and Timelines
| Stage | Approx. Fees | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| eVAL Application (EMGS) | RM 1,000–1,500 | 4–8 weeks |
| Entry Visa | Varies by nationality (USD 20–80) | 3–10 business days |
| Medical Examination | RM 200–350 | 1 day |
| Student Pass — first issuance | Usually included in university fees | 2–4 weeks |
| Annual Student Pass renewal | Varies by university — check with your university's visa office | 2 weeks |
Frequently Asked Questions about the Visa
Can I study on a tourist visa?
Yes for short periods (under 3 months). For longer programmes, an official Student Pass is required. Penalties for violations are strict.
What happens if my visa expires?
It must be renewed at least a month before expiry. Late renewals incur fines. The university usually reminds you of renewal deadlines.
Can I work on a student visa?
You may work up to 20 hours per week during semester breaks and public holidays in approved roles. Working during official study periods is not permitted.
What if my visa application is rejected?
Rejections are rare when documents are complete. If rejected, we help you identify the reason, rectify the issue and reapply.
Need Help with Visa Procedures?
Our team handles your complete visa file from A to Z — at no additional cost.