ePASS Malaysia: Benefits, Processing Time, and Common Employer FAQs

If you’ve hired foreign workers in Malaysia, you’re probably familiar with the Visit Pass (Temporary Employment) [VP(TE)], which allows them to enter and work legally in the country.

But did you know that Malaysia has now introduced ePASS, a digital version of the foreign worker permit?

Gone are the days when employers had to deal with physical stickers inside passports.

With ePASS, all work permit information is stored digitally, making it easier to manage, download, and verify.

But what does this mean for employers? How does it work, and can it replace the physical permit for official matters like banking and medical claims?

You can find the answers about ePASS in this article, from its benefits to the step-by-step process of using it. Let’s get started!

What is ePASS?

ePASS is a digital work permit issued to foreign workers and domestic helpers (maids) in Malaysia.

Instead of a physical permit pasted inside a worker’s passport, employers now receive an electronic pass after completing the work permit renewal process.

With ePASS, all information related to a foreign worker’s permit is stored digitally.

Employers and workers can access and download the permit through the online portal, eliminating the need for physical documents.

Will Physical Foreign Worker Permits Still Be Printed?

No, physical permits are no longer issued. ePASS completely replaces the printed sticker that was previously placed inside a worker’s passport.

Employers will no longer need to handle physical documents or visit immigration offices to collect work permit stickers.

Instead, the ePASS is available for download once the renewal process is completed.

Can ePASS Be Used for Official Matters (e.g., Bank, Medical Claims)?

Yes, ePASS functions exactly like the physical permit. Workers can use it for various official purposes, such as:

Opening bank accounts
Making medical claims
Applying for government services

Because ePASS is now the standard format for work permits, all institutions including banks, hospitals, and government agencies should accept it as proof of employment status.

While ePASS is officially recognized, some organizations might still prefer physical copies or be unfamiliar with the system, especially in the early transition stages.

Employers should:

Confirm with banks, hospitals, and other agencies beforehand to avoid issues.
Keep a soft copy and printout of the ePASS for situations where a physical document is requested.
If any institution does not recognize ePASS, refer them to Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia for clarification.

As more organizations adapt to the digital system, ePASS should eventually be accepted without hesitation, but during the transition, it’s best to be prepared.

Can ePASS Be Used for Traveling Outside Malaysia?

Foreign workers can travel with ePASS, but employers should confirm travel requirements with Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia (Immigration Department of Malaysia) before their workers leave the country.

While ePASS is recognized as a legal permit, some countries may still request additional documents for immigration clearance upon re-entry.

It is always best to check beforehand to avoid any complications.

How Long Does It Take to Process ePASS After Payment?

The processing time for ePASS is typically between 7 to 14 working days after payment is made.

However, employers should plan ahead and renew work permits early, as delays may occur due to high application volumes or technical issues.

What to Do If I Don’t Receive an Email to Download ePASS?

If an employer does not receive an email with the ePASS download link, they can:

Log in to their renewal account and check the transaction history to download the ePASS manually.
Contact MYEG customer service at 03-7801 8888 or email imi@myeg.com.my (for foreign workers) or maid@myeg.com.my (for domestic helpers).

Download and keep a copy of the ePASS immediately after it becomes available to avoid unnecessary issues.

Is ePASS Sent to the Employer or an Authorized Representative?

In some cases, embassies, law enforcement, or government agencies may require official validation of ePASS.

Employers can verify and print an official validation copy by visiting the Immigration Department’s online ePASS validation system: ePASS Validation Portal

This verification confirms that the ePASS is authentic and linked to a valid work permit.

How to Obtain ePASS Validation for Use with Embassies or Authorities?

There may be situations where embassies or local authorities, such as the police, require validation of a foreign worker’s ePASS.

This could be for work permit verification, travel documentation, or legal matters.

Employers and workers can follow these steps to obtain official validation:

1. Check the ePASS online validation system

The employer or worker can verify the ePASS status online through the Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia website.

Visit the official validation link: ePASS Validation Portal.

Enter the required details (worker’s passport number or ePASS number) to check and confirm its validity.

2. Print a copy for official use

Some authorities may request a printed copy of the ePASS for verification. Download and keep a hard copy of the ePASS to provide when needed.

3. Provide supporting documents

If embassies or authorities require further proof, employers should prepare additional documents, such as:

A copy of the worker’s passport
The employment contract
The ePASS digital confirmation

Seek assistance from immigration

When an embassy, police, or other authority does not accept ePASS, employers can request them to verify it with the Immigration Department of Malaysia.

For additional confirmation, employers may visit the nearest Immigration Office or contact MYEG customer service for assistance.

What If There Is Incorrect Information in the ePASS?

If there is a mistake in the worker’s ePASS (such as incorrect name, passport number, or permit details), employers must contact Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia (Immigration Department of Malaysia) to request corrections.

Errors should be reported as soon as possible to avoid issues with employment verification, travel, or official use.

FAQs

What happens if I don’t download ePASS after receiving the email?

Employers must download and keep a copy of the ePASS as soon as they receive the email. Failure to do so may lead to difficulties in verifying a worker’s employment status or renewing their permit in the future.

Can I update my details on ePASS once issued?

Once issued, ePASS details cannot be changed unless an error is found. If there is incorrect information, employers must contact Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia to correct the mistake.

How do I know if my ePASS is ready for download?

Employers and workers can check the MYEG transaction history for the download link. If no email is received, they should contact MYEG customer support for assistance.

Managing foreign worker permits is now easier with ePASS. This digital system helps employers save time and reduces paperwork.

However, like any new process, it’s important to understand how to access, validate, and use ePASS for official matters.

Staying informed and adapting to these changes will help employers manage their foreign workers smoothly and avoid any unnecessary issues.

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