Malaysia
Malaysia Offers One-Year Visa for Graduates from 32 Countries to Work Without Sponsorship: Malaysia has opened new doors for international graduates by introducing a one-year work visa for students from 32 selected countries, allowing them to work in the country without employer sponsorship.
The initiative, announced by Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS), aims to strengthen Malaysia’s position as a global education and employment hub. The visa, called the ‘Graduate Pass’, is a type of social visit pass issued by the Immigration Department. It enables eligible foreign students to remain in Malaysia for 12 months after completing their studies to work in approved sectors.
Wide Range of Eligible Countries
The 32 eligible countries include: Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, South Korea, India, Japan, China, the Philippines, Australia, New Zealand, Brunei, Germany, the UK, France, Canada, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the UAE, Qatar, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, the US, Oman, and Bahrain.
This diverse list demonstrates Malaysia’s commitment to fostering a multicultural workforce. Furthermore, it strengthens bilateral relations with nations across Asia, Europe, North America, and the Middle East.
Key Benefits of the Graduate Pass
One of the most attractive features of the Graduate Pass is that no employer sponsorship is required. This makes it significantly easier for graduates to enter the job market immediately after completing their degree.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Have completed a bachelor’s degree or higher at a recognised Malaysian higher education institution.
- Apply within the stipulated timeframe after graduation.
By removing the traditional requirement for employer sponsorship, Malaysia has positioned itself as an accessible and competitive destination for international talent.
Strategic Move to Attract Global Talent
With this policy, Malaysia is taking proactive steps to address skills shortages in targeted industries, while giving graduates the flexibility to explore job opportunities across sectors. As a result, employers will have access to a larger talent pool without lengthy visa sponsorship processes.
Moreover, this program aligns with Malaysia’s Economic Transformation Plan, which emphasizes innovation, knowledge-based industries, and international partnerships.
