🎓 How to Apply for a Student Visa in Malaysia (2026 Guide for International Students)

✨ Why You Need a Student Visa in Malaysia

Malaysia is one of Asia’s most popular study destinations, attracting students from over 100 countries. To legally study at any Malaysian university or college, international students must obtain a Student Visa, officially known as the Student Pass, issued by the Immigration Department of Malaysia.

This visa allows you to stay in Malaysia for your entire study duration — whether it’s a foundation, bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD program.

📝 Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Malaysian Student Visa

Step 1: Receive an Offer Letter from a Recognized University

Before you apply for your visa, you must be accepted by a Malaysian institution approved by the Ministry of Higher Education. Once accepted, your university will help submit your visa documents through Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS).

Step 2: Apply for a Visa Approval Letter (VAL)

The Visa Approval Letter (VAL) is your official entry authorization. Your university submits your documents to EMGS, including:

• Passport copy (valid at least 18 months)
• Offer letter
• Academic transcripts
• Passport-sized photo
• Health declaration form

Processing time: 4–6 weeks.

Step 3: Obtain a Single-Entry Visa (SEV)

After you receive your VAL, apply for a Single-Entry Visa at the Malaysian Embassy in your home country. This visa lets you enter Malaysia legally to complete the student pass process.

Step 4: Post-Arrival Process in Malaysia

Once you arrive in Malaysia, your university will guide you through:

• Medical screening (within 7 days of arrival)
• Submitting your passport for visa endorsement
• Receiving your Student Pass sticker and i-Kad (student ID card)

⏳ Visa Duration and Renewal

• A Student Pass is valid for 12 months or the duration of your program (whichever is shorter).
• You must renew your visa annually before it expires.
• Renewal depends on academic progress and attendance records.

📄 Required Documents Checklist

• Valid passport (minimum 18 months)
• Offer letter from the institution
• Visa Approval Letter (VAL)
• Proof of financial support or scholarship
• EMGS medical report
• Health insurance coverage
• Passport-sized photos
• 
  

💰 Fees and Processing Time

EMGS Processing Fee

RM 2,000 – RM 2,800

Student Pass Sticker

RM 60 per year

Health Insurance

RM 500 – RM 800

(Fees may vary based on institution and country of origin)

⚠️ Important Visa Rules for International Students

• You cannot convert a tourist visa into a student visa inside Malaysia.
• You must be enrolled full-time at a recognized institution.
• Part-time work is allowed only during semester breaks (up to 20 hours/week).
• Your visa becomes invalid if you withdraw or fail to renew it on time.

💡 Expert Tips for a Smooth Application

 ✅ Apply early — at least 2 months before your intake.

✅ Track your application through the EMGS portal: educationmalaysia.gov.my

✅ Renew your student pass 8 weeks before expiry.

✅ Keep copies of all documents and receipts.

🏛️ Official Sources for Reference

• Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS): https://educationmalaysia.gov.my
• Immigration Department of Malaysia: https://www.imi.gov.my
• Study Malaysia Portal: https://studymalaysia.com

Start Your Journey in Malaysia

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