What Is an SSFW Number and Why Employers Need It

In Malaysia, every foreign worker covered under SOCSO needs a Social Security Foreign Worker (SSFW) number. This unique reference links the worker to their social security record and ensures that monthly contributions are processed without error. Knowing how it works can save time, avoid penalties, and keep you in line with labour laws.

Check this article to know more about SSFW number.

What Is an SSFW Number?

SSFW stands for Social Security Foreign Worker number. It is a unique reference generated by PERKESO (SOCSO) for each foreign employee in Malaysia. The SSFW number sits in the worker’s SOCSO record and is used to track contributions.

From 1 July 2024, coverage for foreign employees changed:

Below 60 years: covered under Employment Injury Scheme and Invalidity Scheme (same schemes as Malaysian employees).
Age 60 and above: covered under the Employment Injury Scheme only.

The SSFW number is part of this registration and contribution process.

Why Do Employers Need the SSFW Number?

SOCSO contributions for foreign workers run through PERKESO’s system. The SSFW number links the employee to your submission file. Without an SSFW number, you can’t complete the monthly SOCSO for that worker. Using the correct SSFW number supports compliance with Malaysian labour and social security rules and helps you avoid penalties or rejected files.

Who Needs an SSFW Number?

Every foreign worker employed in Malaysia needs an SSFW number, no matter the sector or job type. It applies to both new hires and existing foreign staff who are being brought into your payroll.

Malaysians and permanent residents do not use SSFW. They use their NRIC/MyKad for SOCSO.

How to Get an SSFW Number

Employers register foreign employees through the PERKESO ASSIST Portal. During registration, submit Form 1 (Registration of Employer and Employee) together with the required supporting documents.

After PERKESO processes the application, the system issues the SSFW number. Keep this number in your HR and payroll records because you will use it for monthly SOCSO contributions.

Where Can You Find the SSFW Number?

You can find the SSFW number on the worker’s SOCSO registration document and inside the ASSIST portal once the registration is approved. Many payroll systems also store it in the employee’s statutory profile for easy reference.

FAQs

Is the SSFW number the same as the passport number?

No. The SSFW number is generated by PERKESO during SOCSO registration. A passport number identifies the person for immigration, while SSFW is used for SOCSO.

How long does it take to get the SSFW number?

It is issued after PERKESO processes a complete registration in ASSIST. Timing depends on document completeness and workload at the time, so start early, especially for new joiners who need immediate coverage.

Do I need to apply again if the worker changes companies?

The new employer must register the worker in ASSIST. If you cannot retrieve the SSFW number during onboarding, contact PERKESO through the portal or the nearest office to confirm the worker’s record rather than creating duplicate entries.

What if I lost the SSFW number?

Log in to ASSIST and check the employee’s profile or refer to the SOCSO registration document. If you still can’t locate it, reach out to PERKESO for assistance.

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