How to Work and Immigrate to Malaysia as a Software Engineer?

Are Software Engineers in Demand in Malaysia?

Web and app development and other cutting-edge tech areas like artificial intelligence and cybersecurity are all areas where software engineers are in high demand in Malaysia. The job market is dynamic, so keeping up with local classified ads and industry professionals for the most up-to-date information is important.

How to Immigrate to Malaysia as a Software Engineer?

The software engineering field is expanding in Malaysia, and its immigration policies make it an attractive destination for skilled workers. The following are the measures you can take to immigrate to Malaysia as a software engineer successfully:

Step 1. Determine Your Eligibility

You must show that you are adequately trained and experienced to perform the duties of a software engineer.

• Educational Qualifications. Educational Qualifications. A bachelor’s degree in IT, software engineering, or computer science is usually required.
• Educational Qualifications. Professional Experience. Most software engineer positions in Malaysia, especially those requiring an Employment Pass (EP), demand at least two to five years of professional experience.
• Skill Set and Specialization. Skill Set and Specialization. You can stand out from the competition by emphasizing your experience in cutting-edge fields like web and mobile app development, data science, and artificial intelligence.
• Certifications and Training. Certifications and Training. Employers highly value certifications from respected companies like Cisco, Microsoft, or Oracle. These credentials show that you are dedicated to improving your skills and knowledge.

Step 2. Find a Job

Getting software engineer jobs in Malaysia from a Malaysian company is the most common route to immigration for software engineers. JobStreet, Jobstore, LinkedIn, company websites, recruitment firms like Randstad and Hays, conferences and meetups, and government job portals like MyFutureJobs are all good places to start looking for software engineering jobs in Malaysia.

In addition, it is a good idea to look for job leads in online forums and professional networks. To increase your chances to immigrate to Malaysia as a software engineer, reviewing individual job postings for specific requirements and keeping up with the latest job postings is important.

Step 3. Obtain a Work Visa

There are several procedures and required paperwork to be able to apply for a Malaysia work visa and immigrate to Malaysia as a software engineer. Here’s a rundown of what happens:

1. Job Offer. You’ll need a job offer from a Malaysian company before you can apply for a work visa there.
2. Employment Pass (EP) Application. The Malaysian Immigration Department is where your employer will apply for your Employment Pass (EP). You’ll get all the forms and instructions you need from them.
3. Medical Examination. A medical exam at a recognized facility in your home country may be necessary. This is for your health and safety.
4. Background Check. Some visa categories may require a certificate of no criminal record or background check.
5. Document Preparation. Collect all the paperwork you’ll need, including your passport, a copy of your employment contract, certificates of completion, photographs, and medical exam results.
6. Submission. Your company will handle filing the immigration application with the appropriate government agencies.
7. Processing. The time required for processing varies but is usually between a few weeks and a couple of months. You must keep in touch with both your employer and the immigration authorities.
8. Approval. Your employer will be notified via an approval letter once your EP has been granted. At this point, you can book your trip.

Step 4. Medical Examination and Background Check

As part of your visa application process to immigrate to Malaysia as a software engineer, you may need to get checked out medically and undergo a background check.

Medical Examination

An X-ray of the chest, blood tests, an HIV test, drug testing, and hepatitis checks are all part of a regular medical exam that evaluates your health. You’ve passed the necessary tests to work in Malaysia.

Background Check

A background check is required to verify your safety clearance and criminal history. To determine your reliability so that you can immigrate to Malaysia as a software engineer, you may be asked to provide a police clearance certificate from your home country and character references. Your eligibility for a work visa will be guaranteed if you meet these criteria.

Step 5. Submit Necessary Documents

Collaborate with your company’s HR department or employer to submit the required paperwork for your visa application.

• Passport. A passport that has at least six months left on its expiration date.
• Employment Contract. A certified copy of your signed job contract or letter of offer from your future Malaysian employer.
• Educational Certificates. Documentation of your educational background, including relevant certificates or degrees, is required.
• Passport-Sized Photos. Multiple recent photos that are passport-size and conform to Malaysian government requirements.
• Medical Examination Report. The results of your medical checkup should include a thorough history and physical and diagnostic tests like a chest X-ray, blood work, and an HIV screening.
• Background Check Documents. A certificate of no criminal record from your home country and character references may be required, depending on the type of visa you’re applying for.
• Visa Application Form. Fill out the visa application form your company or the Malaysian Immigration Department has given you and send it in.
• Approval Letter. A copy of the approval letter from the Malaysian Immigration Department that your employer has received may be required.
• Additional Documents. Some companies or industries may have special paperwork requirements.

Step 6. Wait for Approval

Your Employment Pass could take a few weeks to a month to process. If you’re applying for a work visa in Malaysia, keep in touch with your employer throughout the process. You can monitor the status of your application with the help of the updates and reference numbers they provide. Certain types of visa applications can be tracked online in Malaysia by visiting the Immigration Department’s website and entering the corresponding reference number.

You or your employer may ask about any issues with the Immigration Department. As processing times may vary, your patience is appreciated. Keeping yourself updated and communicating proactively will make the application process go more quickly and easily.

Step 7. Arrival in Malaysia

You can start your new job in Malaysia once your Employment Pass is processed. There are a few things you must do right away after you immigrate to Malaysia as a software engineer to set yourself up for success and stay in compliance with the law:

• Complete Immigration Procedures. Immigration checks will be performed at your arrival airport or port of entry. Show your identification documents (passport, visa, etc.). The immigration officer will stamp your visa, allowing you to enter the country legally.
• Report to Your Employer. Make sure your Malaysian employer knows you made it safely to the country. They can help you navigate your first few days in Malaysia.
• Accommodation. Make sure you have accommodations arranged before you get there. Make short- or long-term housing plans to ensure a smooth transition. Use websites like iProperty, PropertyGuru, and Mudah.my.
• Open a Bank Account. A local bank account is required for making purchases and receiving pay. To open a bank account, drop by any bank like Maybank, CIMB Bank, or Public Bank. Please remember to bring your passport and other forms of identification.
• Mobile Phone and Internet. You should get a local SIM card or mobile phone plan to stay in touch while abroad. Having access to the internet is crucial for maintaining relationships and gathering knowledge.
• Register with Local Authorities. In some countries and with certain visas, registration is required. Foreign nationals living in certain parts of Malaysia may be required to register with the authorities there. To find out if you need to register with the government, contact your company or the local immigration office. The Immigration Service or the local police station may be involved, and your employer will usually show you the way. Prepare your passport, visa, and photos, and do as your employer has told you. Documents should be copied and kept for future reference.
• Currency Exchange. Get some of your money changed so you can immediately pay for things like taxis and dinner.

Step 8. Long-Term Stay

The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) visa is intended for foreigners who wish to immigrate to Malaysia as a software engineer and reside there for an extended period. This program grants permanent residency in exchange for meeting certain financial requirements.

1. Eligibility Check. Ensure you can afford to participate in the MM2H program and meet the health conditions.
2. Choose a Program. Choose the Social Visit Pass (SVP) or Multiple Entry Social Visit Pass (SVP), depending on your specific needs.
3. Financial Proof. Prepare proof of funds to show that you can live independently in Malaysia.
4. Application Submission. The MM2H Centre or an authorized agent, must receive your application and supporting documents.
5. Application Processing. It may take several months for your application to be processed. When your application is accepted, you’ll get an approval letter.
6. Insurance and Bond. Get the necessary medical insurance coverage and post a security bond.
7. Visa Collection. The Malaysian Immigration Department is where you can get your MM2H visa.