What are the Malaysia Study Visa Requirements?

20 min read

If you are thinking about studying abroad, then Malaysia might be the perfect place for you. It’s become a really popular choice for students from all over the world. In fact, the Malaysian government is looking to attract more than 250K international students by 2025.

Why, you ask? Well, Malaysia has eight universities in the list of top 500 universities in the world as per the QS World University Ranking 2025. And guess what? Even the cost of living in Malaysia is incredibly lower than many other destinations, such as the US, which is 65.6% more expensive than Malaysia is for Indian students.

The Malaysian government is really focused on education. They’ve opened lots of new universities and courses to choose from. In fact, Malaysia hosts more than 100 institutions,  both public and private.

But in order to enrol in these universities, what you will first need will be a Malaysia study visa. About 2,000 Indian students are studying in Malaysia. This impressive number highlights the growing number of Malaysia study visas for Indians approved. 

Curious to learn what it is that students who get their Malaysia study visa approved know that you still don’t? If yes, you’ve landed on the right page. It will walk you through all the Malaysia student visa requirements ranging from the documents needed, types of study visas, the visa cost, and more.

So, why wait now? Dive in and explore all the details now. 

Key Highlight Table

Here is a snapshot view of all the key details you will explore in this comprehensive blog post. 

Topic	Important Figures
Malaysia Student Visa Types	Student Pass (Visa with Reference): Valid for up to 1 yearMultiple-entry Visa: Valid for 3-12 months
Malaysia Student Visa Requirements for Language Skills	One of the following is required: International English Language Testing System (IELTS): 6 bands Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): 500 Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE-A): 47 Malaysian University English Test (MUET): Band 4 & above
Visa Processing Time	4-6 weeks typically
Malaysia Study Visa Cost	One of the following is required: International English Language Testing System (IELTS): 6 bands Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): 500 Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE-A): 47 Malaysian University English Test (MUET): Band 4 & above
Malaysia’s Average Cost of Living (Without Rent)	INR 40.7k (RM 2.2k) per month

Also Read: Study in Malaysia: Top Universities, Courses, and Admissions

Why Study in Malaysia?

Ever wondered what it would be like to study in a place where your classroom might be just a stone’s throw away from a bustling night market selling delicious nasi lemak and satay? If you do, you will require a Malaysia study visa to get into the country first and experience the unique blend of world-class education and vibrant local culture.

Imagine attending lectures at one of Malaysia’s 92 universities by day. By night, you’re exploring the lively streets of Kuala Lumpur or Penang, sipping on a frothy cup of teh tarik (pulled tea) while working on your assignments. 

Weekends are for adventures, whether it’s hiking up the breathtaking hills of Cameron Highlands, lounging on the pristine beaches of Langkawi, or diving into the rich history of Malacca.

If these aren’t reasons enough, here are some more reasons that will inspire you. Have a look.

• Living in Malaysia costs just INR 40.7k (RM 2.2k) per month without rent, offering a comfortable and affordable lifestyle. Remarkably, the cost of living in Malaysia is, on average, 54.7% lower than in countries like Ireland.
  
• You are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the semester, providing an opportunity to earn extra income while ensuring you have enough time to focus on your studies.
  
• Malaysia ranked 14th as the fastest-growing economy in Asia, with the country’s real GDP growing at 4.3% and GDP per capita increasing by 6.75%. This highlights Malaysia’s robust economic growth and rising prosperity.
  
• The average tuition fee for an undergraduate course in Malaysia ranges from INR 4.5L to INR 13L (RM 25,176 to RM 73k) per year. This makes Malaysia an attractive destination for affordable, high-quality education.
  
• The average salary in Malaysia is INR 1.1L (RM 6.6k) per month, offering a competitive income for a comfortable lifestyle.

Types of Malaysia Study Visa

With its top-notch universities, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking scenery, Malaysia offers a unique study-abroad experience. To make this dream a reality, understanding the Malaysia study visa types is essential.  

With a 90% acceptance rate for Malaysian student visas, your dream of studying here is highly achievable compared to other countries. Each Malaysia student visa type caters to different needs and academic pursuits, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your educational journey. 

Here is an overview of the types of Malaysia study visas you need to consider. 

Malaysia Study Visa Type	Malaysia Study Visa Cost
Student Pass	INR 1K (RM 60) per year or part of the year
Dependent Pass	INR 1.6K (RM 90) per year
Professional Visit Pass	INR 6.4K (RM 360) per year
Social Visit Pass (Temporary Employment)	INR 10.7K (RM 600)
Research Pass	Up to six months –  INR 6.4K (RM 357)  Beyond six months – INR 9.6K (RM 536)

Here are more details. 

1. Student Pass

The Student Pass is the primary visa for international students like you pursuing full-time education in Malaysia. Students enrolled in full-time courses at Malaysian primary, secondary, or tertiary institutions.

• Validity: Generally issued for the duration of the course, with annual renewals.
  
• Wait Time: This Malaysia student visa application processing time is 4-6 weeks. 

2. Dependent Pass

The Dependent Pass is for family members of international students who wish to accompany them to Malaysia.

• Eligibility: Spouse, children under 18, and parents of the primary Student Pass holder.
  
• Validity: Same as the primary Student Pass.

3. Professional Visit Pass

This visa is for you if you are participating in short-term courses, internships, or industrial training programs in Malaysia. 

• Wait Time: This Malaysia student visa application processing time is two weeks.
• Validity: Up to 12 months, based on the program duration.

4. Social Visit Pass (Temporary Employment)

This visa is for international students who wish to work part-time or take up temporary employment while studying in Malaysia.

• Wait Time: This Malaysia student visa application processing time is five working days on the employer’s side and 14 days after approval. 
• Validity: Varies based on the employment duration, usually up to 12 months.

5. Research Pass

The Research Pass is for students and researchers involved in research projects at Malaysian universities or research institutions.

• Wait Time: This Malaysia student visa application processing time is 4-6 weeks. 
• Validity: Based on the research project’s duration.

How to Obtain the Student Pass? 

A crucial step in the journey to study in Malaysia is obtaining a Student Pass (the most common type of student visa you will require) from the Department of Immigration Malaysia, an essential document for pursuing education at any level in Malaysia. 

You can apply for Student Passes in various educational settings, such as:

• Government Schools
• Private Schools
• Public Higher Education Institutions (IPTA)
• Private Higher Education Institutions (IPTS)
• Language Centers
• Training Centers under the Department of Skill Development
• Holders of Dependant Pass (Expatriate)

Required Documents for a Student Pass

• Support letter (Ministry of Education/Department of Skill Development)
• Offer letter from schools/higher education institutions/language centre/training centre
• Two sets of Form Imm.14
• Two sets of passport copies/travel documents
• Two sets of coloured photos (3.5 cm x 3.5 cm)
• Personal Bond form (stamped)

How Long Does the Pass Last For?

Student passes are issued for a maximum duration of 12 months. To avoid overstaying, it is recommended to submit the renewal application (with all required documents) no later than six weeks before the student pass expiry date.

A Multiple Entry Visa Under the Student Pass

The Student Pass includes a Multiple Entry Visa (MEV) for students and their dependents, permitting them to travel in and out of Malaysia throughout their studies. You can also apply for a dependent pass for your spouse or children under 18 years old based on specific terms and fees. 

The pass is renewable annually until the conclusion of the course, given there is maintenance of satisfactory academic performance and attendance. Renewals must be initiated at least three months prior to the current student pass’s expiration date.

Malaysia Student Visa Requirements

Did you know that Malaysia ranks as the 59th happiest country in the world according to the 2024 World Happiness Report? It’s the eighth happiest in Asia and the fourth happiest in Southeast Asia!

That being said, it’s time to explore the Malaysia student visa application requirements, including the documents needed and the bank balance required.

Documents Required for Malaysia Student Visa Application

When submitting your Malaysia student visa application to the Immigration Department, you must include the following documents.

• One passport-size photograph with a white background (35mm x 45mm).
  
• Submit your data page, pages with visa information, and the observation page from the passport.
  
• Your passport must be valid for 18 months or more; one-off applications should have 12 months beyond the study duration.
  
• Provide a copy of the acceptance letter from your university or college.
  
• Fill out the health declaration form and submit the form; download it from the provided link.
  
• Include copies of all academic records, certificates, and transcripts.
  
• Provide the yellow fever vaccination booklet/card if coming from a high-risk country.
  
• A No-Objection Certificate (NOC) is required only for students from Sudan. The institution must apply and collect it from the Sudanese Embassy in Kuala Lumpur.
  
• A Letter Of Eligibility (LOE) is required only for students from Iran. The institution applies for the LOE at the Iranian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, and the embassy provides details to EMGS.
  
• Proficiency in English is mandatory for most courses. Acceptable tests include: 

• IELTS  –  6
• TOEFL  – 500
• PTE Academic – 47

Bank Balance Required to Obtain a Malaysia Study Visa

To obtain a Malaysia study visa, you must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover your tuition fees and living expenses for at least one year. 

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated financial requirements.

Tuition Fees	INR 3.5L (RM 20,000)
Living Expenses	INR 3.2L (RM 18,000)INR 26K (RM 1,500 per month)
Miscellaneous Expenses	INR 35K (RM 2,000)
Total Minimum Bank Balance Required	INR 7.1L (RM 40,000)

Also Read: Top Universities in Malaysia for Indian Students

Malaysia Student Visa Application Process

Malaysia ranked high in areas like basic infrastructure (10th) and tax policy (11th), meaning you’ll benefit from affordable living, well-developed facilities, and a student-friendly tax environment.

To fully enjoy these benefits, securing a Malaysia study visa for Indian students is essential, as it unlocks access to the advantages above and ensures a smooth, enriching educational experience.

Here is the step-by-step procedure to apply for a Malaysia study visa.

1. Secure a place at a Malaysian university by receiving a formal admission letter from your chosen institution and settling any enrollment fees.
   
2. Your university will contact Malaysian immigration authorities to initiate your application. You’ll be asked to review and digitally sign the completed official application form.
   
3. Next, you will have to provide your university with the required documents for the application process.
   
4. Apart from the government application fee, some universities may charge a processing fee. The exact amount varies by institution.
   
5. Once applied, typically, immigration authorities inform the institution about your application status within a week.
   
6. Your university will forward the Visa Approval Letter (VAL) to you. This provisional student pass enables your entry into Malaysia. You will have to present it to immigration officials upon arrival.
   
7. Once you get the VAL, share your arrival dates, airport location, and flight numbers with the university. A university representative often meets students at the airport.
   
8. Within two weeks of your arrival, your university will submit your passport to the immigration department. Upon its return, it will include the student pass sticker.

Malaysia Study Visa Approval Letter (VAL) Application

The Visa Approval Letter (VAL) is an official document issued by the Malaysian Immigration Department through the Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) portal. It confirms that you are eligible to apply for a student visa and study in Malaysia based on the verification of your submitted documents and fulfilment of all requirements.

Here is the process for applying for VAL.

1. Apply to a Malaysian University and Receive an Offer Letter

• Research and choose an accredited Malaysian university and program.
• Submit your application and await the offer letter from the university.
  

2. Register with Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS): Create an account on the EMGS website to begin your student visa application.
   
3. Fill Out the Student Visa Application Form on the EMGS Website: Provide details such as personal information, passport details, course specifics, and insurance information.
   
4. Upload the Required Documents: Upload necessary documents, including the university offer letter, passport, photos, and academic transcripts.
   
5. Select Payment Method and Make Necessary Payments

• Choose to pay through the university or online.
• Make the necessary payments for the application and processing fees.
  

6. Await Application Approval by EMGS: Once approved, EMGS will issue a VAL, which is an approval letter from the Malaysian Immigration Department. This takes up to 14 days.
   
7. Apply for a Single Entry Visa (SEV): With your VAL, apply for an SEV at the nearest Malaysian embassy or consulate in your home country before travelling to Malaysia.
   
8. Enter Malaysia with the VAL and SEV: Travel to Malaysia with your VAL and SEV in hand.
   
9. Complete Post-Arrival Medical Examination and Student Pass Endorsement

• Upon arrival, complete the medical examination.
• Finalise the student pass endorsement process to begin your studies officially.  This typically takes 22 working days (minimum four weeks). 
• Ensure you obtain a Supporting Letter from EMGS before submitting your application to the Immigration Department. 

Malaysia Study Visa for Indians Extension Process

Extending your Malaysia study visa might feel like solving a complex puzzle, but it’s a crucial step to keep your academic journey on track. For Indian students, this process ensures you stay compliant with immigration regulations while enjoying Malaysia’s rich educational landscape.

This section will walk you through the extension process, making it as straightforward as possible so you can focus on what truly matters – your education and experience in Malaysia.

Visa Extension Fees

The fees for extending a Malaysian student visa are approximately INR 19K (RM 1K) for the visa processing. Additionally, there are charges of around INR 9.8K (RM 550) for the student pass and i-Kad (foreign student ID card). Therefore, the total cost for a student visa extension is approximately INR 28.8K (RM 1.6K).

Application Process

To extend your student visa, you must submit your application to the Immigration Department of Malaysia at least three months before your current student pass expires. 

You can do this through your education institution in Malaysia, which will assist you with the required documents and submission process.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Completed application form
  
• Passport with at least six months validity
  
• Copy of your current student pass
  
• Offer letter from your educational institution
  
• Academic transcripts showing satisfactory academic performance
  
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses
  
• Medical report from an EMGS panel clinic
  
• Payment of visa extension fees, as mentioned earlier.

Processing Time 

The entire process of applying for a student visa extension takes around 3-4 weeks. To ensure a smooth transition, it is recommended that you apply for the extension at least six weeks before your current student pass expires. This allows ample time for processing and helps avoid any potential disruptions to your studies.

Post-Arrival Procedures

After landing in Malaysia, international students must follow a series of steps to ensure a smooth transition and successful enrolment. Think of this next step as unpacking your suitcase; it’s a bit of a chore, but it’s necessary to settle in and get comfortable. Just like you wouldn’t skip setting up your Wi-Fi, you can’t skip these important post-arrival procedures. 

These procedures are designed to verify your status and facilitate your integration into the educational system. Get right to it! 

Mandatory Form Completion

All new international students planning to travel to Malaysia must complete a form available on the EMGS website. Here is what you’d be filling in.

• Active contact number of the student (including international code) (number field)
• Active WhatsApp contact number of the student (including international code) (number field)
• Date of flight departure 
• Time of departure
• Date of flight arrival in Malaysia 
• Time of arrival in Malaysia
• Airline company and flight number
• Copy of the flight tickets (must be uploaded)

Other Arrival Procedures

Upon arrival in Malaysia, you must proceed to the International Student Arrival Centre (ISAC) for verification. After completing the verification process at ISAC, you will be escorted by ISAC personnel for immigration clearance and subsequently guided to the arrival hall.

Here are the next steps you will have to take.

• EMGS personnel will hand you over to authorised representatives from your respective educational institutions at the arrival hall.
  
• Educational institutions must register their representatives as “Airport Liaison” in STARS to facilitate student pick-up at the airport.
  
• In case your educational institution is not picking you up at the airport, you must ensure that you have arranged your transportation to their designated locations.

Post-Arrival Medical Screening

New international students like yourself in Malaysia must undergo a mandatory medical screening within seven working days of arrival. This ensures compliance with visa regulations and maintains public health standards. 

Here are the essential steps and requirements.

• Visit an EMGS panel clinic.
  
• Screening includes:
  
  • General examination
  • Blood and urine tests
  • Chest X-ray
    
• Required documents:
  
  • Original passport
  • Two copies of the passport data page and entry stamp
  • Health Examination Report for International Students form
  • Consent letter
    
• Failing the screening can result in visa cancellation.
  
• Appeal within three working days if failed.
  
• Renewals or progressions need screening if they have been over 90 days since the last one.

What To Do If Your Malaysia Student Visa Application is Rejected?

Imagine you’ve packed your bags, planned your Instagram posts from exotic Malaysian locations, and even started dreaming in a mix of English and Bahasa Melayu. But then, you get the dreaded news – your study visa application is rejected. It feels like a plot twist in a movie you didn’t see coming, right? Don’t panic! 

Just like a superhero always has a plan B, you, too, can navigate through this setback. In the event of a rejection of your Malaysia study visa, you have the option to file a Visa Appeal. 

Here are some steps to guide you. 

Common Reasons for Malaysia Study Visa Rejection

Common reasons for Malaysia study visa rejection include the following.

• Unclear purpose of visit
• Insufficient proof of intent to return to your home country
• Inadequate financial documentation

It’s advisable to provide a detailed itinerary, invitation letters, employment contracts, or other supporting documents, depending on your situation.

When to File a Visa Appeal?

Negative decisions on Malaysia study visa applications are communicated formally to you. After receiving a rejection, you may choose to file a visa appeal. This can be done if you believe the rejection was unjustified or if there’s room for clarification that might lead to approval.

If your Malaysian student visa application is rejected, you can appeal the decision within 30 days of receiving the notification of refusal from the Immigration Department.

Appeal Letter for Visa Refusal

A Malaysia Visa Appeal involves formally requesting the consulate to reassess the visa application due to a perceived unjust rejection. This process can be lengthy, sometimes taking up to 6 months. Due to limited available information, many applicants opt to re-apply for a fresh Malaysia study visa online rather than endure the complexities of an offline visa appeal.

When preparing an appeal letter for a Malaysia visa refusal, ensure it includes essential information such as:

• Your name
• Passport number
• Contact details
• A clear statement of the reason for rejection, as stated in the refusal letter

Supporting arguments and relevant documents should also be included to strengthen your case.

Types of Universities in Malaysia and Their Tuition Fee

According to the AD Scientific Index, the top universities in Malaysia include Universiti Putra Malaysia (210) and Universiti Teknologi Petronas (107). These prestigious institutions offer excellent educational opportunities at an affordable cost, with Malaysia study visa fees being relatively low, making it financially accessible for students to attend some of the best universities in the region.

The procedure for obtaining a Malaysia study visa depends on the course type and the institution where you intend to enrol. Additionally, health insurance is compulsory for all student visa applications. Furthermore, students in Malaysia must also obtain an I-Kad, the official Malaysian identity card, alongside their visa.

Here are the two types of universities in Malaysia and their average tuition fees. 

Type of University	Average Tuition Fees
Private Universities	INR 2.6L – INR 7.1L (RM 15k – 40k) per year
Public Institutes	INR 1L – INR 3.5L (RM 6k – 20k)

Intake Periods and Application Timeline at Top Universities in Malaysia

Understanding the academic intakes at Malaysian universities is like choosing the best time to plant your seeds for a successful harvest. Just like you wouldn’t start your garden in the middle of winter, you need to know the right time to begin your educational journey.

And here’s a fun fact: Malaysian students have a quirky tradition of wearing bright, mismatched socks on their first day of classes for good luck and to break the ice. So, get ready to embrace the culture and maybe even start your semester with some colourful flair! 

Academic intakes at Malaysian universities differ between institutions. Typically, universities offer two main intakes:

• February Intake
• July Intake

However, some courses may have more flexible intakes, such as in April and October.

• Business Administration
• Information Technology
• Hospitality Management
• Engineering

Cost of Living in Malaysia for Indian Students

If you’re considering studying in Malaysia, one of the biggest factors to consider is the cost of living. For Indian students, Malaysia offers an affordable yet enriching experience.

Here’s some good news – the cost of living in Malaysia is 71.6% less expensive for an individual than in the United States. With lower living expenses compared to many other study destinations, you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. 

This section will break down the cost of living in Malaysia, from accommodation and food to transportation and leisure, helping you plan your budget effectively. 

Category	Cost
1 Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre)	INR 26.8K (RM 1.5K)
Food (Inexpensive Restaurant)	INR 2.7K (RM 15)
Coke/Pepsi (0.33 litre bottle)	INR 585 (RM 3.24)
Local Transportation (One Way)	INR 540 (RM 3)
Milk (1 litre)	INR 1.3K(RM 7.29)
Cinema (1 Seat)	INR 3.6K (RM 20)
Internet (60 Mbps)	INR 21.1K (RM 117.59) per month

Also Read: Cost of Living in Malaysia for Indian Students

Part-Time Jobs in Malaysia for Indian Students

Beyond just funding your education and late-night snacks, they’re a gateway to discovering Malaysia beyond campus life. From bustling cafes to tech startups, there’s a world of opportunities waiting for you. Wondering how? The answer is getting that part-time job! 

Dive into the exciting realm of part-time jobs in Malaysia, where work meets learning, and every shift is a chance to grow!   

Here’s a look at some of the top high-paying part-time jobs with their estimated hourly pay.

Job Title	Average Hourly Pay
Direct Sales	INR 895 (RM 50)
Photographer	INR 895 (RM 50)
Freelancer	INR 447- 895 (RM 25-50)
Home Tutor	INR 716 (RM 40)
Event Staff	INR 358 (RM 20)

Summing Up

So, you’ve journeyed through the Malaysia study visa maze and gathered all the necessary info like a pro. Think of it as levelling up in a video game – you’ve unlocked the secrets to studying in an amazing, affordable country with a world-class education. 

Remember, a Malaysia study visa isn’t just a piece of paper; it’s your golden ticket to an adventure-filled academic journey. 

From sipping teh tarik while studying to exploring bustling night markets, Malaysia promises an unforgettable experience. Plus, with tuition fees ranging from INR 4.4 lakhs to INR 13 lakhs (RM 25,176 to RM 73,377) per year, studying in Malaysia is an affordable option that offers incredible value for money.

So, pack your bags, embrace the culture, and get ready to write your own success story in Malaysia!

Also Read: Cost of Living in Malaysia for Indian Students. 

Frequently Asked Questions