How to Renew Visit Pass (Temporary Employment) for Foreign Workers in Malaysia

Hiring foreign workers is common in Malaysia, especially in industries such as construction, plantation, manufacturing, services, and agriculture. But keeping their work permits valid is a serious responsibility for employers.

One of the most important permits to manage is the Visit Pass (Temporary Employment) or VP(TE). Read the clear guide for employers on how to renew VP(TE) and avoid legal problems below.

What is a Visit Pass (Temporary Employment)?

The Visit Pass (Temporary Employment), often called VP(TE), is a work permit issued to semi-skilled and unskilled foreign workers. It lets them work legally in Malaysia for one year and can be renewed yearly for up to 10 years.

This pass is usually issued to workers in sectors approved by the Malaysian government, including manufacturing, construction, plantation, agriculture, and services. Foreign domestic helpers also receive a similar permit, but they follow different rules and processes.

Why Is It Important to Renew VP(TE)?

Renewing VP(TE) on time is critical because an expired permit immediately makes the worker’s presence illegal. Employers who let this happen may face penalties, blacklisting, or even deportation of the worker.

A valid VP(TE) also protects the employer’s investment in hiring and training the worker. Renewal keeps the worker insured, medically cleared, and legally recognised by the Immigration Department. In short, it safeguards your business operations and avoids unnecessary legal risks.

When Should Employers Start the Renewal Process?

The Immigration Department recommends starting renewal at least three months before the pass expires. This gives enough time for medical exams, insurance updates, levy payment, and other paperwork.

A renewed VP(TE) is valid for another 12 months. Employers must keep track of expiry dates carefully, as late submissions can lead to enforcement actions, including fines or rejection of the renewal.

Requirements for Renewing Visit Pass (Temporary Employment)

To renew VP(TE), employers must prepare several documents and complete certain checks. Key requirements include:

Valid passport of the foreign worker (at least 12 months validity).
Existing VP(TE) or PLKS (Pas Lawatan Kerja Sementara).
FOMEMA medical examination results confirming the worker is fit to work. This is required for each renewal cycle, usually from the second and third year onward.
Immigration forms such as IM.38 and other related documents.
Levy payment receipt to the Immigration Department, based on the worker’s sector.
Insurance documents, including Foreign Worker Compensation Scheme (FWCS) and Health Insurance Protection Scheme for Foreign Workers (SPIKPA).
Company documents like SSM registration, Form 49, or company representative cards.
Security bond (bank guarantee, insurance guarantee, or deposit) valid for at least 18 months.
Sector-specific supporting documents, if applicable (e.g., approvals for plantation or manufacturing sectors).

How to Renew the Visit Pass (Temporary Employment)

Renewing VP(TE) involves several steps, starting from medical checks to Immigration approval:

1. Prepare Required Documents

Begin by checking passport validity and gathering all mandatory documents, including levy payment proof, insurance policies, and company registration details.

2. Conduct FOMEMA Medical Check-Up

For renewals in the second year onwards, workers must undergo a FOMEMA medical examination. Only clinics registered under FOMEMA can perform this check.

3. Submit Application Online via e-PLKS Renewal System (if eligible)

Certain sectors and employers can use the online e-PLKS renewal system. This platform speeds up the process, but you must still meet all medical, insurance, and levy requirements before applying.

4. Visit the Immigration Office (if necessary)

If online renewal isn’t possible, employers must submit documents directly to the Immigration Department’s Foreign Workers Division.

5. Pay Levy and Processing Fees

Levy rates depend on the worker’s sector, while processing and visa fees are standard. Payment can be made via cash or bank draft addressed to the Director General of Immigration Malaysia (or state Immigration offices if applying locally).

6. Collect the Renewed VP(TE)

Once approved, the Immigration Department will place a renewed sticker on the worker’s passport. The foreign worker’s i-Kad (identity card) will also be updated and sent directly to the employer’s registered address.

Renewal for Sectors with Special Conditions

Different sectors may have additional conditions or different levy rates:

Manufacturing and Construction: Higher levy rates compared to plantation or agriculture.
Plantation and Agriculture: Lower levy costs, but workers may face stricter nationality restrictions.
Services: Certain sub-sectors (like island resorts) may have different levy rates.
Domestic Helpers: Follow a separate process, including different forms and eligibility rules.

Fees and Charges for Renewal

Renewal costs include levy, processing fees, and insurance. The levy varies by sector:

Manufacturing / Construction / Services: Around RM1,850 (Peninsular) or RM1,010–RM1,490 (Sabah/Sarawak).
Plantation / Agriculture: Around RM640 (Peninsular) or RM410–RM590 (Sabah/Sarawak).

Additional fees include:

VP(TE) processing fee: RM60
Visa fee: RM125 (varies by nationality)
Security bond: RM250–RM1,500 (varies by nationality)
Insurance (SPIKPA and FWCS): Sector-specific rates

Employer Responsibilities

Renewing VP(TE) is more than just paperwork. Employers are expected to:

Keep employment records and renewal schedules updated.
Provide proper accommodation and basic welfare for foreign workers.
Report to Immigration if a worker absconds, resigns, or completes their contract using the Check Out Memo process.
Repatriate workers at the end of their employment and reclaim security bonds accordingly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Employers often face issues when renewals are delayed or documents are incomplete. Common mistakes include:

Applying after the permit has expired.
Forgetting to update insurance or medical results.
Missing supporting documents like security bonds or company registration.
Not tracking levy payment deadlines.

Avoiding these errors helps keep the process smooth and prevents legal troubles.

FAQs

Can VP(TE) be renewed online?

Yes, through the e-PLKS renewal system for eligible employers and sectors.

What happens if I miss the renewal deadline?

Late applications may lead to penalties, blacklisting, or rejection. Workers might also face deportation.

Can I renew VP(TE) if the worker has overstayed?

Special procedures may apply. Employers must contact the Immigration Enforcement Division immediately.

Do I need to redo FOMEMA medical check-up for renewal?

Yes, medical checks are required for each renewal cycle, especially from the second year onward.

What sectors are covered under VP(TE)?

Manufacturing, construction, plantation, agriculture, and services.

Can I renew VP(TE) for domestic workers?

No, domestic helpers follow a different application process under the Domestic Helper guidelines.

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