The Expatriate Services Division (ESD) of the Immigration Department has announced that, effective March 13, 2026, the “Existing Investor” category under the Investor Pass application in the Xpats Gateway system will be removed.
Investors who already own a company in Malaysia or hold a directorship in a company are no longer eligible to apply for the Investor Pass, as such applications fall outside the scope of the current Investor Pass policy.
Applicants under this category are advised to apply for an Employment Pass (EP) or a Professional Visit Pass (PVP), subject to the relevant eligibility requirements and prevailing regulations.
Effective March 13, 2026, any Investor Pass applications under the “Existing Investor” category that remain in draft status will be automatically removed from the system.
Business visitors or foreign investors who fall under any of the following two
categories are still eligible to apply for the Investor Pass:
- New Investor: Potential investors who have not had any investment record in Malaysia;
- Investor in Pipeline: Potential investors who have been identified as interested in making investments in Malaysia, are currently in negotiations with the Malaysian Government or have applied to MIDA for project approvals.
The Investor Pass is a multiple-entry visa (MEV) facility introduced for business visitors or foreign investors to facilitate their business activities, particularly for those who have committed to investing in Malaysia through investment agencies or relevant authorities.
Investor Pass holders are permitted to enter Malaysia for a period of six months, with the option to extend for an additional six months, subject to the applicant’s justification and requirements.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.