Malaysia Raises Salary Requirements for Foreign Work Visas

Malaysia has announced significant increases to the minimum salary requirements for foreign professionals seeking Employment Passes (EP), effective June 1, 2026. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MOHA) published the revised policy on January 15, 2026, following Cabinet approval on October 17, 2025.

The new thresholds aim to reduce dependence on foreign labor and prioritize hiring qualified Malaysians, in line with the goals of the Thirteenth Malaysia Plan (RMK-13). Under the revised framework, the minimum monthly salary for EP Category I rises from RM10,000 to RM20,000.

Category II will now require a minimum of RM10,000, while Category III moves from RM3,000 to RM4,999 to a new band of RM5,000 to RM9,999. All new and renewal EP applications submitted from June 1, 2026, must meet these updated requirements.

MOHA plans to hold consultation sessions with employers and relevant agencies to explain the new requirements and assist businesses in adjusting their hiring strategies.