Corporate Immigration update — Malaysia – JTKSM Applications to Transition to Xpats Gateway Platform Effective 1 July 2025
Santa Fe publication date
10 July 2025
Overview
As part of the Malaysian government’s ongoing digitalisation and streamlining efforts, the Xpats Gateway platform has been further enhanced to serve as a comprehensive end-to-end solution for expatriate hiring. Effective 1 July 2025, employers are now required to submit Prior Approval applications to the Department of Labour Peninsular Malaysia (JTKSM) under Section 60K of the Employment Act 1955 (Act 265) exclusively via the Xpats Gateway portal.
Who will be affected?
This update impacts all employers in Peninsular Malaysia intending to hire foreign nationals under the Employment Pass (EP) or Professional Visit Pass (PVP) categories.
Background
This transition is part of the Malaysian government’s wider initiative to consolidate and digitalise immigration-related processes through a single unified platform. The goal is to enhance efficiency, transparency, and coordination across multiple regulatory agencies involved in expatriate hiring.
Impact
Previously, the Prior Approval application to JTKSM was submitted via the ePPAx (Sistem Pengurusan Pekerja Asing Bersepadu) platform. With this change:
- All new JTKSM submissions must now be made through Xpats Gateway.
- The ePPAx platform will continue to be managed by JTKSM for internal updates, but no direct employer submissions will be required there.
- MYFutureJobs advertisement details are also now integrated into Xpats Gateway under PERKESO’s purview.
Date of implementation
1 July 2025
Santa Fe recommendation
Santa Fe welcomes this move as a positive step toward improved integration and efficiency in managing expatriate employment approvals. We recommend employers:
- Familiarise themselves with the PERKESO application process through Xpats Gateway platform.
- Monitor the expiry of existing JTKSM approvals and only submit new applications once the current approval has lapsed.
- Reach out to us should any clarifications or technical support be needed.
Our team will continue to monitor developments closely and will assist you every step of the way to ensure a smooth transition.
For further questions or personalised guidance, please do not hesitate to contact your Santa Fe Relocations consultant.
Contact us
Please get in touch with us for further information or clarification:
Samson Poore
Immigration Manager — Malaysia
Santa Fe Relocation
samson.poore@staging.santaferelo.com
Paolo Longo
Regional Immigration Director – India, Middle East & Africa
Santa Fe Relocation
paolo.longo@staging.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.
