Malaysia Revises Minimum Salary for Employment Pass Applications Effective June 1, 2026

On January 11, 2026, the Malaysian Ministry of Home Affairs (Kementerian Dalam Negeri – KDN – MOHA) has announced significant changes to the minimum salary requirements for Employment Pass (EP) applications under Categories I, II, and III. These revisions will apply to all new and renewal EP applications submitted on or after June 1, 2026.
On January 14, 2026, the Ministry issued additional guidance providing further clarification on the revised framework.
On January 15, 2026, the Expatriate Services Division (ESD) released a similar announcement, though it did not specify the maximum duration or the minimum salary requirement for the manufacturing sector.
Key Changes to Minimum Salary Requirements

EP Category

Minimum base salary

Maximum duration

Dependents allowed?

Current

Revised (Effective June 1, 2026)

Current

Revised (Effective June 1, 2026)

Current

Revised (Effective June 1, 2026)

I

RM10,000 & above

RM20,000 & above

Indefinite

10 years

Yes

Yes

II

RM5,000 – RM9,999

RM10,000 – RM19,999

Indefinite

10 years

with succession plan

Yes

Yes

III

RM3,999 – RM4,999

**RM5,000 – RM9,999

3 years

5 years

with succession plan

No

**Yes

** For manufacturing related services, the EPIII revised min. salary is RM7,000 – RM9,999

**Dependents refer to spouse or equivalent, child(ren), parent(s) and parent(s) in-law

Outstanding Questions (Pending ESD Guidance)

Despite MOHA’s increased clarity, several operational questions remain:

  • When EP maximum duration (10 years for EP I & II; 5 years for EP III) officially begins.
  • When succession plan details must be submitted and how ongoing compliance will be assessed.
  • Whether maximum EP duration applies to the role/position or the individual expatriate.
  • Whether EP III holders will become eligible to apply for domestic helper permits under the revised framework.
Erickson Insights & Analysis

Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions.