SharifStudy Best way to Study in Malaysia
The Malaysia Dependent Visa, also known as the Dependent Pass, allows immediate family members of eligible foreign nationals to live in Malaysia for the duration of the main applicant’s stay. This applies to holders of long-term visas such as student visas, employment visas, or the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program. As part of the broader Malaysia visa framework, the Dependent Pass is directly tied to the validity of the sponsor’s visa and can be renewed as long as the main visa remains valid.
Eligible dependents typically include spouses, children under the age of 18 (or under 21 in certain categories), and parents. While dependent children are allowed to study at international schools in Malaysia, dependents—especially spouses—are not permitted to work by default unless their visa is converted to a valid work visa.
What Is the Malaysia Dependent Visa (Dependent Pass)?
The Malaysia Dependent Visa is a permit issued to close family members of foreign nationals who are legally working or studying in Malaysia on a long-term basis. It allows families to live together during the sponsor’s period of residence in Malaysia.
This visa is fully linked to the sponsor’s immigration status, meaning that if the main applicant’s visa expires or is cancelled, the dependent visa will also lose its validity.
The Malaysia Dependent Visa is generally issued under two main categories:
- Dependent Pass: Issued for spouses and children
- Long-Term Social Visit Pass (LTSVP): Typically issued for parents or adult children who remain financially dependent
Who Is Eligible for a Malaysia Dependent Visa?
Not all foreign residents in Malaysia are eligible to sponsor their family members. Eligibility depends on the sponsor’s visa type and status.
1. Who Can Act as a Sponsor?
- Holders of Employment Pass Category 1 or Category 2
- International postgraduate students (Master’s and PhD programs)
- Undergraduate students from selected countries (including Iran, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Turkey, and others)
- Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) visa holders
- Residence Pass–Talent (RP-T) holders
2. Who Qualifies as a Dependent?
- Legal spouse: Husband or wife with a legally registered marriage
- Children: Biological, adopted, or stepchildren under 18 (up to 21 for employment visas; no age limit for children with disabilities)
- Parents: Parents of the main applicant and, in some cases, parents of the spouse (usually under a long-term social visit pass)
Pros and Cons of the Malaysia Dependent Visa
Bringing family members to Malaysia involves weighing both advantages and potential limitations.
Advantages
- Family unity: Enables families to live together during work or study periods
- Education access: Dependent children may attend international or private schools in Malaysia
- Easy renewal: Dependent visas are typically renewed alongside the sponsor’s visa
- Quality of life: Access to healthcare services and life in a culturally diverse country
Disadvantages
- Work restrictions: Spouses are not allowed to work unless they obtain a work endorsement or change to a work visa
- Financial costs: Proof of financial capability, insurance, and visa fees are required for each dependent
- Full dependency: The dependent’s legal stay is entirely tied to the sponsor’s status
Which Visa Types Allow You to Apply for a Dependent Visa?
Eligibility for a Malaysia Dependent Visa depends directly on the sponsor’s visa type. The most common eligible visa categories include student, employment, talent, and long-term residence programs such as MM2H.
Student Pass (Student Visa)
Holders of a Malaysian Student Pass (Student Visa) at the postgraduate level (Master’s and PhD) from all nationalities are generally eligible to bring their immediate family members to Malaysia.
Undergraduate students may only sponsor dependents if they are citizens of approved countries.
Employment Pass
Professionals holding an Employment Pass Category 1 or Category 2 are eligible to sponsor dependents.
Employment Pass Category 3 holders are generally not eligible to apply for a Malaysia Dependent Visa.
Residence Pass–Talent (RP-T)
This 10-year residence visa allows highly skilled professionals to bring their family members to Malaysia, including spouses, parents, and children (in some cases up to 25 years old).
Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H)
Holders of the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program—a long-term residence option often referred to as the MM2H visa—are also eligible to sponsor their immediate family members. This makes MM2H a popular pathway for retirees and long-term residents seeking family-based residence in Malaysia.
Required Documents and Application Process
Required Documents
- Complete copies of all passport pages for both the sponsor and dependents (with at least 12–14 months validity)
- Recent passport-size photographs with a white background
- Proof of relationship (marriage certificate for spouses; birth certificates for children or parents)
- All documents must be translated into English and properly certified
- Proof of financial capability (bank letter showing sufficient funds)
- Valid medical insurance coverage in Malaysia for each dependent
- Official letter of enrollment or employment for the sponsor
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Preparation: Translation and certification of documents in the home country and, if required, through the Malaysian embassy
- Entry to Malaysia: Dependents typically enter on a tourist visa (some nationalities require a Single Entry Visa before travel)
- Application submission: Applications are submitted via the university (for students) or employer (for employees) to Immigration or EMGS
- Fee payment: Includes processing fees, visa sticker fees, and any applicable administrative charges
- Approval and endorsement: Once approved, passports are submitted for dependent visa endorsement
Malaysia Dependent Visa Fees (2026)
Fees vary depending on the sponsor’s visa type and nationality, but generally include:
- Processing fee: approximately MYR 250–500
- Visa sticker fee: MYR 90 per year
- Tourist entry or conversion fees (if applicable)
- Medical insurance costs, depending on the selected plan
Validity Period and Renewal of the Malaysia Dependent Visa
The validity of a Malaysia Dependent Visa is directly linked to the sponsor’s visa. This means the dependent visa is usually issued with the same validity period as the main applicant’s visa and does not have an independent duration.
In most cases:
- The dependent visa expires at the same time as the sponsor’s visa
- The visa remains valid only as long as the sponsor maintains lawful status in Malaysia
How Long Is a Malaysia Dependent Visa Valid?
The validity period depends on the sponsor’s visa type:
- Student Visa: Valid for the remaining duration of the student’s enrollment
- Employment Pass: Valid for the same period as the Employment Pass (usually 1–2 years)
- MM2H Visa: Valid according to the approved MM2H period
- Residence Pass–Talent (RP-T): Can be issued for long-term validity aligned with the RP-T duration
How to Renew a Malaysia Dependent Visa
Renewal of a Malaysia Dependent Visa is generally straightforward as long as the sponsor’s visa is renewed successfully.
The renewal process typically involves:
- Renewing the sponsor’s visa first
- Submitting the dependent visa renewal request at the same time or shortly after
- Providing updated documents such as passports, insurance, and proof of relationship (if required)
Renewal applications are usually submitted through:
The employer (for Employment Pass holders)
The university or EMGS (for Student Pass holders)
The relevant immigration channel (for MM2H or RP-T holders)
Important Notes on Renewal
- The dependent visa cannot be renewed independently of the sponsor’s visa
- If the sponsor’s visa is cancelled or expires, the dependent visa will also become invalid
- Late renewal may result in penalties or the need to exit and re-enter Malaysia
- Dependents must remain eligible (age, marital status, dependency) at the time of renewal
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is eligible for a dependent visa in Malaysia?
Eligible dependents typically include a legal spouse, children under 18 (or under 21 for certain employment visas), children with disabilities regardless of age, and parents under specific long-term social visit arrangements.
What are the requirements for a dependent visa in Malaysia?
All supporting documents must be translated into English and properly certified before submission.
How much is a dependent visa in Malaysia?
How can I bring my foreign spouse to Malaysia?
The marriage must be legally registered, and supporting documents must be translated and certified. The application is typically submitted through the employer or university to Malaysian Immigration or EMGS for approval.
Are dependents allowed to work in Malaysia?
Can children over 18 apply for a dependent visa?
For older children, a separate visa—such as a Student Pass or a Long-Term Social Visit Pass—may be required.
How long does it take to process a Malaysia dependent visa?
Apply for Your Malaysia Visa with Sharif Study
Navigating the Malaysia visa process—whether for study, work, family reunification, or long-term residence—requires accuracy, timing, and the right strategy. Even small mistakes in documentation or visa selection can lead to delays or unnecessary rejections.
At Sharif Study, we help you choose the right Malaysia visa based on your personal profile and guide you through the process with clarity and confidence.
How Sharif Study Can Help You
- Personalized assessment based on your nationality and visa goals
- Clear guidance on choosing the correct Malaysia visa type
- Step-by-step support with documents and application procedures
- Assistance for family, student, work, and long-term residence visas
- Professional support to reduce delays and avoid common mistakes
👉 Contact Sharif Study today for a free consultation and start your Malaysia visa journey with expert support and peace of mind.
Dear Sir,
Are dependents allowed to enter Malaysia concurrently with a student pass applicant and what is the process steps ?
Yes, it’s possible, but it depends on your nationality and to the duration of the visa you receive at the airport. If it’s more than 2 months, there is no problem!
Hello,
As I am coming to Malaysia on Single Entry Visa for PhD Study. Can I bring my family (Wife and son) along with me ? As I have not received student pass which will be granted after joining the university. Please guide me. Thank you
Hello,
Yes, you can bring your family with a Single Entry Visa, but there are specific steps to follow. Contact our agents for a simple guide and detailed help. Thank you for reaching out!(+60147148070)
I am coming to Malaysia for master program, so can I bring my son with me? What is the process and time period
Hi,if my 10 yr old daughter attends international school in Kl,Malaysia.Can we all get visa to stay?We’re from Canada.
Dear Donna
Dependence of student visa belongs to mother. If parents divorced, the father can get a dependent visa.
What type of insurance needed for depandable visa
Hello! You need specific insurance for a dependent visa. Our agents can provide all details. Contact them for help!
Hi
I have a dependant pass.I am currently living in malaysia with my husband.I need to go to my home country for few days and come back
Should i inform and take an approval letter from the high commision ?
Dear Dinu
If your visa is valid, you do not need any approval.
Hi. I would like to apply for dependent pass by myself. Because my agent is giving me a huge fees.
Where should i go.
Jalan sutta immigration office or immigration in putrajaya.
Also cannot see any info regarding fees structure. Please guide
Dear Abdul Sami Khan
Unfortunately We are not providing dependent visa services.
Best Regards
No problem dear. Just let me know where should i go to apply for dependent visa my self
It depends to school or university.
Hi, if the dependent visa for my wife is not issued yet, can she come as a tourist to Malaysia and later on update her passport once the dependent visa is issued?
Dear Kenji
Yes , it’s possible!
I’m working on a category 2 employment pass and want to bring my wife. My company said they will initiate the process for my wife but it might take up to 3months. So I decided to bring her on a visit visa and when she arrives here then I’ll apply for the dependent pass. But my company said this might be risky as after getting VAL, the immigration department might ask her to get visa from your home country or might ask for an exit and then perform re-entry.
Your company is right, changing visas in Malaysia can be tricky. To avoid risks, speak to our agents. They can guide you on the best way to bring your wife.
If she needs to “exit and re-enter,” (assuming she has an A or A- tier passport) Malaysia, can’t she likely just request the visa from, say, the Malaysian embassy in Singapore (visa-free access for 90 days for Americans, for example), or free visa on arrival for Thailand (now 45 days instead of 30 for many people, and then can extend for another 30 days for around $50), maybe Cambodia, etc.? Thailand generally allows this type of entry/exit method for up to 182 days in any 365 day period (used to be the 2 months total with extensions, so 3 times total, but now it’s 2.5 months each visit, then after 2.5 months leave Thailand for at least ~2-5 days to be extra safe, and then come back). In particular, you can generally leave by any route (land, air, or, sea, but air is always safest for immigration, just trust me), but be sure to ALWAYS re-enter by air.
That right there is either 90 days in Singapore or 5 months minimum 6 months maximum in Thailand (with one long weekend visit to where ever, say Cambodia $30 for 1 month visa), or both, in case she needs more time to sort out her visas.
Yes, exiting and re-entering Malaysia through countries like Singapore or Thailand is a common method to extend one’s stay while waiting for visa processing. But, the specific rules can vary depending on passport tier and country relations. Our agents can provide detailed advice on this process. Contact us for more information.
Hi I’m Malaysian and my son is Chinese which is 4,so can i apply any visa for him exclude the tourist visa?But we didn’t register marriage in Malaysia,is there any trouble to extend my son’s visa?
Yes, there are different visa options for your son. The marriage registration issue may affect it. Our agents can guide you better. You can contact them for more details.
Good day Sharifstudy,
You said dependant pass can only be issued after student pass.
How can I go with my wife and 3 children?
Does it mean my family can only join me after like 2 months?
Hello! Your family can join you in Malaysia, but the process takes time. Please contact our agents, they can help explain how to do this faster and easier.
Hi,
I currently in Malaysia with dependent pass. Can I apply for student visa?
Yes, you can apply for a student visa with a dependent pass. Our agents can help you with the process. contact us for more details (+60147148070).
Hi. I’m from Pakistan my husband is working in Malaysia company and he want to call us( me and my son) to Malaysia. So please guide me what is the process of getting visa for me and my son
Hello! We’d be happy to help you with the process of obtaining a visa for you and your son. Our knowledgeable agents have all the information you need. Reach out to them and they will guide you step by step.
Hi. My wife is planning to do Masters from Malaysia and I will go with her on dependent visa. The duration of the degree would be 2 years. I know that I cannot work on dependent visa due to country restrictions. However, can I go company to company and give walk-in interviews and if anyone hires me, so can I change my dependent visa to work visa? Please guide in detail about this
You can change a dependent visa to a work visa if you find a job. For more information on this process, reach out to our agents. They are ready to help you.
Assalomu aleykum I am currently bachelor student of IIUM and I wanna bring my family to Malaysia, I got my student pass 5 months ago so can I get dependent visa for wife ?
Hello,
Yes, you can get a dependent visa for your wife as an IIUM student. Our agents can help you with the process. Get in touch with them.
Hello,
I have an EP and my family is with me on a dependent pass.
I want to get my parents now,
what is the procedure of the same.
Kindly explain.
Hello,
You can bring your parents using a dependent pass. Details vary for each case. Reach out to our agents, they will guide you with the right steps.
Alright. Can you please tell me Do I need to show bank balance as supporting document for family visa application? If yes, what amount should be minimum?
Yes, you usually need to show bank balance for a family visa application. The amount varies. Our agents can give the right advice for your situation. Contact them for more guidance.
Hi Sir,
My husband is a Srilankan and he hold Spouse visa with working permission from immigration. We would like to bring his biological daughter from Sri Lanka to study here in Malaysia and she will be 17 yr this year. Moreover, we would like to bring my husband’s mother and stay with us while his father will be in Sri Lanka. May I know can we get his daughter a student visa and his mother long term visa in Malaysia?
Yes, it’s possible for your husband’s daughter to obtain a student visa and his mother a long-term visa in Malaysia. Connect with our agents for thorough guidance on these processes. They’re ready to help!
Hi
I am from pakiatan and doing my PhD (reserch based )from private uni in cyberjaya malaysia.. I have dependent pass of my husband and 4 children (all kids are below 18). Can my husband work here?how much time it will take to covert his dependent pass to workpermit visa? Can I get admission for my kids in public school(not private as too expensively) here? Can a phd student work here if he/she has 20 hours per week work permit ? What are the requirements????
Hello!
Yes, your husband can work in Malaysia, but he’ll need to convert his dependent pass into a work permit. The conversion process can vary in time, typically taking a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the specific circumstances and documentation required.
For your children, admission to public schools in Malaysia is possible, but it often requires additional steps for non-Malaysian residents, such as specific approvals and potential additional documentation.
As a PhD student in Malaysia, you are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week provided you obtain the necessary work permit. The requirements for this permit include approval from your university and the Malaysian immigration authorities.
For detailed guidance on these processes and to ensure you have all the necessary information and support, I recommend contacting the international students office at your university or our agents who specialize in these matters. They can provide personalized assistance for your family’s needs.
Hello,
My son is thirteen and he will attend the German school in Kuala Lumpur next year for one year. As he is a minor, I would like to accompany him. We are German citizens. Since I would like to travel with him as a dependent person, the question is,
1) do we have to apply for a special visa at the Malaysian consulate in Germany?
2) does the school have to apply for a visa for my son and then for me as a dependent person?
3) If the visa process takes longer, can we still enter with a tourist visa and apply for a student visa and dependent person visa in Malaysia?
Thank you very much for a detailed info!
Felicitas
Yes, your situation involves specific visa types which can be complex. Our agents can provide detailed help on this matter. It’s crucial to get correct information, so contact them for a full guidance.
Hello. As I am coming to Malaysia first time for Ph.D study. Can I bring my family (wife and two sons) with me now? As I have not received the student pass because it will be issued after joining the university.
It’s possible to bring your family while studying, but involves special visa rules. Our agents have lots of experience with these cases. Reach out to them for full details and help.
Hello,
As I am coming to Malaysia on Single Entry Visa for PhD Study. Can I bring my family (Wife and two sons) along with me ? As I have not received student pass which will be granted after joining the university. Please guide me. Thank you.
You may be able to bring your family with you, but this requires specific visas. Our experienced agents can guide you through this. Please reach out to them for accurate information.
I am planning to get Ph.D admission in Malaysian university in January 2024 intake and planning to bring family with me. What should be the minimum funds should I have as a supporting document for obtaining family /dependent pass?
Hello! The minimum funds required for a family/dependent pass can vary based on the university and your personal situation. Our agents can provide specific information about the requirements. Contact us for more details.
Hi,there
I am a student pass holder who is doing MPhil. Can I bring my mother in law as my dependant to look after my baby?
Hello! Yes, as a student pass holder doing an MPhil, you may be able to bring your mother-in-law as a dependant. Our agents can provide more information on the requirements. Contact us for detailed information.
I am living in kl under dependent visa ,can I start studing in university without changing my visa type?
Hello! Yes, you can study on a dependent visa. For university details and steps, contact our agents. They will guide you well!
Dear Sir,
would like to ask, I’m a Malaysian citizen , my wife is Taiwanese curently already got PR (Malaysian Red identity card),
Is it possible to apply dependent passes for my father in-law?
Hello! Yes, your wife with a Malaysian PR can apply for a dependent pass for her father. For the full process and requirements, kindly contact our agents. They’ll guide you step by step.
Dear sir,
I am from pakistan. My husband wants to go to abroad for studies . Can he take me as a dependant? And what will be our expenses and how can we apply . Also tell me about jobs and more information regarding student visa with spouse
Dear friend,
Yes, your husband can take you as a dependent. For detailed information on expenses, application, and jobs, contact our agents. They are here to help you with everything regarding student visa with spouse.
Dear sir,
I’m not a Malaysian citizen. My spouse has a permanent employment in Malaysia. I have a dependent pass. Can I join with a apprentice program in Malaysia with this pass. If not what can I do first?
Regards,
Nadeeka
Dear Nadeeka,
With a dependent pass, there may be specific rules for joining apprentice programs. Contact our agents for clear guidance. They’ll assist you with the best steps to take.
To whom it may concern,
I am an Indian citizen currently in my final year of bachelor program studying at Swinburne University, Sarawak holding a student pass. Can I bring my parents to stay with me in the final year of my course?
Hello! Yes, students can apply for their parents to stay in Malaysia. Talk to our agents for detailed steps and guidance. They’re here to help!
Two of my children have enrolled at a private university in Malaysia, can my husband and i be eligible for parents pass.
Hello! Yes, parents can apply for a pass when children study in Malaysia. Reach out to our agents for more details on the parents’ pass. They’ll guide you through it!
Can my child who is under 21 years of age and is born out of wedlock be eligible for a dependent pass?
Certainly, your child may be eligible for a dependent pass. Contact our agents for detailed information and assistance. We are here to help!
would like to ask, I’m a Malaysian citizen , my husband is Chinese hold with long term Social Visa (Spouse Visa) as well working allowed.
Is it possible to apply dependent passes for my father/Mother in-law?
Yes, it is possible to apply for dependent passes for your father/mother-in-law. For more information and guidance, reach out to our agents. We’re here to support you!
Hi im from pakistan, i wan-to apply for masters in APU. I want to know about some queries about dependants.
Can I accompany my kids n husband on visit visa at the time of joining university or they have to travel later after i get student pass?
Hi, thank you for your question. You can bring your husband and kids on a visit visa when you join the university. For detailed information, please contact our agents directly(+60147148070).
Hello, is a 3-year-old son eligible for a student visa, and I have a 9-year-old son? I work in Singapore, so I bring my family to Malaysia to attend school. Can both of my sons obtain student visas, and can my wife obtain a guardian visa?
Yes, both your sons can apply for student visas, and your wife can apply for a guardian visa. Contact our agents for step-by-step assistance and detailed requirements.
Hello,
Can the dependent visa holder visit Malaysia multiple times? As in, can they travel back to their home country and come back to Malaysia with a valid dependent Visa?
Yes, dependent visa holders can travel in and out of Malaysia multiple times as long as the visa is valid. For more details, contact our agents for assistance.
will my parent get dependent visa if I am under 18 and studying at university
Yes, that would be possible. Please contact our advisors to receive accurate data about your other questions.