Effective 1 March 2025, the Immigration Department of Malaysia (JIM) and the Expatriate Services Division (ESD) expanded the electronic pass — or ePASS — system to cover all types of new and renewal expatriate pass applications. This marks the end of the physical endorsement sticker that was previously affixed to expatriates' passports as proof of their immigration status.
The move is part of Malaysia's broader push to modernise and digitalise its immigration processes, reduce administrative delays, and ease the burden on both employers and foreign professionals managing pass renewals.
What Is the ePASS?
The ePASS is a digital version of your immigration pass, issued through the ESD online portal once your application has been approved and the endorsement fee paid. It includes a QR code that can be scanned by immigration authorities to verify its authenticity. Processing time for the ePASS is one working day after payment of the endorsement fee.
Previously, ePASS was only available for renewal applications that did not involve a change of position. The March 2025 expansion extended it to all pass types, including brand new applications.
Practical note: While the ePASS is digital, it is advisable to print a copy and carry it when travelling — particularly in situations where digital access may not be available (e.g. at checkpoints, borders, or during inspections). The physical i-KAD card for Employment Pass and Residence Pass-Talent holders continues to be issued as before.
Which Passes Are Covered?
The ePASS system now applies to the following pass types for both new and renewal applications processed through ESD and MDEC:
| Pass Type | ePASS Applies? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Employment Pass Category I, II & III | Yes | New and renewal applications |
| Professional Visit Pass (PVP) | Yes | New and renewal applications |
| Dependent Pass | Yes | Covers spouses and children of EP holders |
| Long Term Social Visit Pass (LTSVP) | Yes | New and renewal applications |
| Residence Pass-Talent (RP-T) | Yes | New and renewal applications |
| Transfer of Endorsement / Take Up Balance | Yes | Also covered under new system |
| Passes under Public Universities & Government Agencies | No | Existing process remains unchanged |
How It Works — Step by Step
- Your employer or authorised representative submits the pass application through the ESD or MDEC online portal as usual
- Once the application is approved, the endorsement fee is paid online
- The ePASS is generated and available for download within one working day of payment
- The pass holder must be physically present in Malaysia at the time of endorsement — this requirement has not changed
- For those arriving at KLIA1 or KLIA2, the airport endorsement process remains the same — an ePASS will be issued upon arrival instead of a sticker
- Print the ePASS and carry it alongside your passport when travelling
What This Means for Employers
For HR teams and company representatives managing multiple EP applications, the ePASS system eliminates the need to collect physical passports for sticker affixing — a process that previously caused delays, especially when employees were travelling. Pass delivery is now instant upon download, significantly reducing turnaround time between approval and the employee being able to commence or continue work.
Companies are reminded that the applicant must still be physically present in Malaysia when the endorsement is processed. Remote endorsement is not permitted.
i-KAD: No Changes
The physical i-KAD (immigration identity card) continues to be issued for Employment Pass and Residence Pass-Talent holders. There are no changes to the i-KAD process at this time.
Sources: Expatriate Services Division (ESD), Immigration Department of Malaysia — Announcement dated 10 February 2025; Vialto Partners Immigration Alert (February 2025); EY Tax Alert 2025-0644.