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Permanent Residency (PR) in Malaysia grants foreign nationals the right to live, work, and study indefinitely in the country without the need for constant visa renewals. While PR holders do not gain the right to vote, they enjoy many of the same rights as Malaysian citizens, including easier access to public services, business registration, and property ownership. PR status is granted through an Entry Permit issued by the Immigration Department of Malaysia.

It is vital to note that Malaysia does not offer a direct PR pathway specifically for international students upon graduation. However, graduating and securing employment in Malaysia is the foundation for achieving PR eligibility through several other established categories, focusing primarily on long-term contribution to the country’s economy and society.

Main Categories for PR Application

After establishing a professional career post-graduation, a former international student may qualify under one of the following main categories:

1. Employment-Based Residency

This pathway is designed for highly skilled professionals who have made valuable contributions to their industry or workplace in Malaysia.

• Requirements: Applicants typically must have worked in Malaysia for at least five consecutive years under a valid Employment Pass (EP). They must demonstrate a significant positive contribution to their field or company and may need an endorsement from the relevant government agency.

2. Expert Category

This category targets individuals with specialized, world-class skills in fields critical to Malaysia's development, such as science, medicine, technology, or finance.

• Requirements: You must possess outstanding skills recognized globally and require a formal recommendation or certification from a key Malaysian government agency related to your field (e.g., MITI, Ministry of Health, or the Central Bank).

3. Investment-Based Residency

This is an option for individuals with substantial financial resources willing to invest significantly in the Malaysian economy.

• Requirements: Applicants must open a fixed deposit account in a local Malaysian bank and deposit at least USD 2 million. This investment must be maintained for a minimum of five years. All applicants under this category require sponsorship from a reputable Malaysian citizen.

4. Spouse of a Malaysian Citizen

This is the most direct pathway for those with familial ties to the country.

• Requirements: You must be legally married to a Malaysian citizen and must have resided in Malaysia continuously for at least five years under a Long-Term Social Visit Pass (LTSVP) before applying for PR.

5. Point-Based System (PBS)

The PBS allows applicants to earn points across various criteria, demonstrating their integration and value to Malaysian society.

• Eligibility Threshold: An applicant must achieve a minimum of 65 points out of a total of 120 possible points to be eligible to apply.

Steps Toward Permanent Residency After Graduation

For an international student aiming for PR, the process involves preparation and strategic career planning:

1. Transition to a Work Visa: After completing your studies, immediately secure a full-time job and obtain the correct work permit, such as an Employment Pass (EP).
2. Build a Career Track Record: Focus on maintaining continuous legal employment for the minimum duration required (typically five years) under the Employment-Based or Expert categories.
3. Contribute and Integrate: Demonstrate your commitment by paying taxes, abiding by the law, and becoming proficient in Bahasa Malaysia (which helps your PBS score).
4. Application Submission: Once eligible, compile all necessary documents (passport, police clearance, education certificates, work permits) and submit the application through the Immigration Department of Malaysia. The process is lengthy, often taking several months to over a year.

Getting PR in Malaysia is a commitment that rewards long-term planning and contribution. While challenging, the benefits of stability, work freedom, and quality of life make it a worthwhile goal for international graduates.