Corporate Immigration — Implementation of ePASS for Pass Endorsement

Santa Fe publication date

28 February 2025

Overview

The Malaysian government has extended the ePASS, a digital version of the traditional pass sticker, to additional pass categories and types. This new endorsement method eliminates the need for a physical pass sticker to be attached to passports, streamlining the pass application and issuance process.

Who will be affected?

The Immigration Department of Malaysia (JIM) has implemented the ePASS system for the following passes, effective 1 March 2025:

• Employment Pass (EP) Categories I, II, and III – New & Renewal
• Professional Visit Pass (PVP)
• Residence Pass-Talent (RP-T)
• Dependent Pass (DP) – New & Renewal
• Long-Term Social Visit Pass (LTSVP) – New & Renewal
• Transfer of Endorsement (TOE) / Take-Up Balance

Background

This initiative is part of Malaysia’s digital transformation strategy, aimed at:

• Improving efficiency in pass endorsement
• Reducing physical document handling
• Expediting the immigration process for expatriates

The Expatriate Services Division (ESD) under the Immigration Department of Malaysia is leading this transition to digital pass issuance. Initially, the ePASS was only applicable for renewal applications of the Employment Pass (EP), Dependent Pass (DP), and Long-Term Social Visit Pass (LTSVP). However, the implementation has now been expanded to include new pass applications as well.

Impact

• Faster Processing – Eliminates waiting time for physical sticker printing and passport endorsement.
• Reduced Administrative Burden – No need to submit passports for sticker endorsement, minimizing delays and risks.
• Digital Record – ePASS holders receive a digital confirmation instead of a physical sticker in their passport.
• Immediate Issuance at Entry Points – For applicable pass holders, ePASS will now be issued at the Expatriate Services Counter (ESC) at KLIA upon arrival, removing the need to collect a physical pass. However, it is important to note that the standard ESC application process and requirements still apply. Expatriates must ensure that their pass application is properly submitted and approved in advance before they can receive the ePASS upon arrival.

Date of implementation

The ePASS system goes live on 1 March 2025 and applies to both new and renewal applications for EP, DP, and LTSVP processed via Expatriate Services Division (ESD) and Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC).

Santa Fe recommendation

• Employers and expatriates should be familiar with the new digital process to ensure a smooth transition.
• Pass applicants should be aware that ePASS may now be issued digitally upon arrival at KLIA for eligible pass types.
• Ensure HR and mobility teams are updated on ePASS implementation to manage expectations and compliance requirements.

Contact us

Please get in touch with us for further information or clarification:

Samson Poore
Immigration Manager — Malaysia
Santa Fe Relocation
samson.poore@santaferelo.com

Paolo Longo
Regional Immigration Director
Santa Fe Relocation
paolo.longo@santaferelo.com

About our Immigration Services

Our distinguished immigration services oversee a substantial volume of visa applications annually, catering to a diverse array of international corporations. Our seasoned team of immigration experts and accredited migration agents are entrusted with the meticulous management of the entire immigration process on your behalf. We are committed to delivering streamlined reporting and offering comprehensive guidance on all immigration-related affairs, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience for our valued clients.