Study in Malaysia: Are students allowed to work part-time?

Studying abroady is an expensive affair and managing the finances often becomes a difficult task, especially for international students.  This is when part-time jobs come into the picture and help students earn some amount, which helps them cover the heavy expenses. In this article, we will discuss in length about the part-time job opportunities in Malaysia, eligibility criteria, and more.

Studying abroad can make a dent in your pocket and can be a financial challenge for the whole family. While you are excited to study abroad and do new things, financial constraints can puncture all the fun. Working while studying could be a big help, provided you know all the rules.

International students studying in Malaysia often wonder about their ability to work while pursuing their education. Yes, international students are allowed to work part-time in Malaysia. Some specific regulations and conditions must be met to work in Malaysia. Understanding these rules is crucial for students who want to balance work and study effectively. If you are planning to work in Malaysia while you are studying, then you must know and understand the working conditions and the general eligibility criteria specific to Malaysia.

Also Read: Cost of Living for International Students in Malaysia

Malaysia opens new post-study visa option

Starting from December 1, 2023, Malaysia has introduced new visa rules to make it easier for visitors and students to enter the country. This new plan, called the Visa Liberalization Plan, includes several important changes:

• 30-Day Visa Exemption: Visitors from China and India can now enter Malaysia without a visa for up to 30 days.
• Multiple Entry Visa: Travelers can apply for a visa that allows them to enter and leave Malaysia multiple times, with each stay lasting up to 30 days.
• Longer Visitor Visa Validity: The validity of visitor visas has been extended from three months to six months.

One of the most important changes for international students is the new Graduate Pass, also known as the Social Visit Pass. This pass allows graduates from Malaysian universities who have completed a bachelor's degree or higher to stay in Malaysia for up to one year after they graduate. During this year, graduates can continue their studies, travel around the country, or work part-time.

The Graduate Pass is available to international students from 23 specific countries, including Australia, Canada, Germany, and the United States. To get this pass, graduates need to have a valid passport for at least 18 months, have health insurance while in Malaysia, and find a local sponsor.These new visa rules are part of Malaysia's plan to attract more international students. The country aims to bring in 250,000 foreign students by 2025, making it a more attractive place for education.

Part-time working conditions for non-Malaysian students

International students are allowed to work part-time if they fulfil the following conditions:

• If you have the will to work, then you must have a valid ‘student pass'.
• International students should file an application for approval of part-time work.
• International students are allowed to work part-time during semester breaks, festive holidays or more than seven days of holiday for a maximum of 20 hours a week.
• International students are also allowed to work in restaurants, petrol kiosks, mini markets and hotels except in the following positions: cashier, singer, masseur, musician, Guest Relations Officer or any activity deemed to be immoral.
• International students looking to work part-time in Malaysia should submit a copy of their passport, address, contact number, and a letter from the prospective employer.

To be eligible for the part-time work, an application for the same must be forwarded by the representative of the Educational Institution, in the presence of the student at the Immigration Department Headquarters Malaysia. The respective university should also provide a supporting letter allowing the non-Malaysian student to work, and it should also include the dates of the semester break.

The Director-General of Immigration Malaysia has the right to approve or reject any Non-Malaysian student's application to work under section 9 (1) (a) Immigration Act 1959 / 1963 Amendment 2002.

After the approval of the application, students will be interviewed. The passport of a student whose application has been approved will be sanctioned accordingly. The extension of the work should only be given to students who maintain a good academic record.

Application Process for Approval from Authorities

International students looking to work part-time in Malaysia should have the following:

• A supporting letter stating a valid reason to work part-time in Malaysia
• A photocopy of their passport with all pages
• Contact address and number
• Offer letter from the employer including salary, working hours and position
• Academic Calander
• A supporting letter from the Dean or Head of School

Post-study work in Malaysia

Once you complete your studies, you do not need to apply for the work permit by yourself. At this stage, your prospective employer will apply on your behalf. You just need to wait for the "landing order" from the Immigration Department of Malaysia which will be forwarded to you by your employer. The actual cost should be less than USD 500 (INR 42 K); student visa Malaysia fee, levy, work permit fee & processing charges, medical screening depending on circumstances, and is paid for by your employer.

These procedures and guidelines go through changes based on various factors. It will be best to ask the relevant questions before you commit to working in Malaysia to avoid any kind of conflicts later.