Malaysia, being just across the causeway from Singapore, attracts many Singaporeans who regularly visit for leisure or commercial purposes. But what are the rules and requirements for Singapore PRs looking to enter and stay in Malaysia, whether for a vacation or on a longer-term basis?
This article examines the visa and entry regulations for Singapore PRs.
Overview of Malaysia Entry Visas
Malaysia issues several types of visas to control entry of foreign nationals based on purpose and length of stay.
Key visa categories include tourist visas, student visas, employment visas, business visas and Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) visas.
Visa-exempt entry for social visits up to 30 days is available for certain nationals but generally excludes PRs from anywhere.
Malaysia Entry for Singapore PRs
For Singapore PRs, the situation regarding Malaysian entry is:
- Singapore PRs need to apply for formal Malaysian visas for entry regardless of purpose unlike Singapore citizens who enjoy visa-free entry.
- No special exemptions or privileges exist for Singapore PRs when entering Malaysia. They are considered foreign passport holders.
- However, the close ties between Singapore and Malaysia facilitate more convenient visa issuance compared to other nationalities.
Tourist Visas
Singapore PRs can enter Malaysia for leisure trips by applying for tourist visas valid up to 3 months:
- Tourist eVisa applications can be submitted online via the Malaysia Immigration website. Approvals are generally issued within 1-3 working days.
- Visa fee for Singaporean PRs is MYR 20 for single entry or MYR 30 for multiple entry.
- Tourist visas allow leisure travel and short-term stays in Malaysia but no employment. Extensions may be possible while in-country.
Social Visit Passes
Besides tourist visas, Singapore PRs can also apply in person for Malaysian social visit passes:
- Social passes allow entry for purposes like family visits, social events etc valid up to 1 month per entry.
- Applications are made at Malaysian entry checkpoints (airports/land). Each entry’s duration is determined by immigration officers.
- Social visit passes do not allow business activities or overstaying in Malaysia. Pass holders are strictly tourists.
Student Visas
For long-term stays, Singapore PRs who intend to study full-time at a Malaysian university need to apply for student visas:
- Malaysia student visas are issued for the duration of the academic program. Renewals are required if programs are extended.
- Student visa holders can take part-time jobs limited to 20 hours per week with university approval.
- Spouses and children may apply for dependent visas to accompany the student visa holder.
Employment and Business Visas
Singapore PRs seeking to work or invest in Malaysia require employment or business visas:
- Employment visa applicants need a job offer letter from a Malaysia-based company sponsor. Contract terms must exceed 6 months with minimum monthly salary met. The company applies for the work visa which is tied to that employer and position.
- For business visas, investors, business owners or employed professionals transferred to Malaysia can apply but may need Malaysian counterparts to sponsor the visa.
- Change of employers requires new visas. Approvals are at Malaysia’s discretion based on economic needs and availability of local talent.
Malaysia My Second Home Visa
The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) long-term residence program allows qualified applicants to stay in Malaysia with a 10-year renewable visa:
- MM2H holders can reside in Malaysia and make occasional trips abroad. The visa is tied to a fixed address.
- No employment is allowed but business ownership, investments and retirement are permitted with sufficient income.
- MM2H is suited for Singapore PRs seeking long-term second home options in Malaysia. But strict eligibility criteria and liquid assets apply.
In summary, while not as seamless as for citizens, Singapore PRs can enter Malaysia through appropriate visa channels catering to their specific purposes ranging from tourism to employment and long-term residence.
Goh Jun Cheng is the chief staff writer for SingaporeAirport.com. Jun Cheng graduated with a degree in journalism from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore.
He has over 5 years of experience writing about aviation, tourism, and lifestyle topics relevant to locals and visitors in Singapore. His articles provide insights into the rich culture, cuisine, and attractions of Singapore. Jun Cheng is an avid traveler who has visited over 15 countries.
When he is not writing or traveling, he enjoys photography, trying new foods, and hiking. As a longtime Singapore resident, Jun Cheng is passionate about sharing hidden gems and perspectives about his home country.
