Malaysia Dependent Visa: The Complete 2025 Guide for International Students & Families
Moving to another country to study is a big step, and for many international students, one of the hardest parts is leaving family behind. It’s completely normal to feel uncertain about being apart from your spouse, children, or parents while adjusting to life in a new place.
The good news? With the Malaysia dependent visa, eligible students can bring close family members to stay with them legally during their studies. It’s a way to continue your academic journey in Malaysia without sacrificing the support of your loved ones.
If you’re considering this option, you’re in the right place. And if you’d prefer expert guidance, Agape Education has helped hundreds of families navigate the process with clarity and confidence, with a 99% success rate.
What is a Malaysia Dependent Visa?
The Malaysia dependent visa, officially called the Dependent Pass, lets certain family members of international students stay in Malaysia while the student completes their studies. It’s one of the few options that allows you to bring your family with you legally, offering peace of mind and emotional support during your time abroad.
This visa is typically available to spouses, children under 18, and in some cases, parents of students holding a valid Student Pass. The Dependent Pass is usually issued for the same duration as your student visa and can be renewed alongside it each year.
Think of it as a family visa for international students in Malaysia, a way to stay close to the people who matter most while you pursue your goals.
It’s important to know that not every student is eligible, and not every family member qualifies, but if you meet the requirements, the Dependent Pass can make your student’s experience in Malaysia far more comfortable and complete.
Who is Eligible for a Malaysia Dependent Visa?
Before starting the process, it’s important to understand who can apply for a Malaysia dependent visa. Not all international students are eligible, and the visa is limited to certain immediate family members.
Which students can apply?
To sponsor dependents, you must:
- Hold a valid Student Pass
- Be enrolled in a Master’s or PhD program, or
- Be an undergraduate student from select countries such as Saudi Arabia, UAE, or Qatar
Students in short-term programs, diplomas, or Bachelor’s degrees from non-approved countries are usually not eligible.
Which family members can you bring?
You may apply for a Dependent Pass for:
- Your legally married spouse
- Children under 18
- Parents, in special cases (such as if you are a minor or a postgraduate needing family support)
Dependents do not include siblings, extended family, or unmarried partners.
If you’re unsure whether your family qualifies under the dependent pass requirements in Malaysia, consult your university or a visa advisor for clarification based on your nationality and course.
Required Documents for a Malaysia Dependent Visa
Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility, the next step is preparing the necessary paperwork. Let’s go over what you’ll need for the Malaysia dependent visa application.
General Documents (for all dependents)
These core items are required whether you’re applying for your spouse, child, or parent:
- Copy of the dependent’s passport (all pages)
- Passport-size photos with a white background
- Copy of your Student Pass and passport
- Letter from your university supporting the application
- Completed visa application forms
- Proof of relationship, based on the family member
Additional Documents by Relationship
Spouse
- Marriage certificate (official and translated if not in English)
- Embassy or consulate verification, if required
Children under 18
- Birth certificate
- Custody or adoption papers (if applicable)
- School enrollment letter, or Letter of Oath (if not schooling)
Parents
- Your birth certificate (to show parent-child relationship)
- A letter explaining the reason for their stay
Tips for Smooth Processing
- Use certified translations for all non-English documents
- Double-check name spellings and document consistency
- Ensure passports are valid for at least 12 months
Keeping your dependent pass Malaysia checklist complete and accurate will help avoid delays and reduce stress during processing.
How to Apply for a Malaysia Dependent Visa
If you’re ready to apply for a Malaysian dependent visa, the process is straightforward when you follow the right steps.
Step 1: Get your Student Pass approved
Your Student Pass must be fully approved before applying for any dependent visas. The Dependent Pass cannot be processed without it.
Step 2: Choose where your family will apply
Your family can apply:
- From your home country – Apply for a Visa Approval Letter (VAL). Once approved, they get a Single Entry Visa and travel to Malaysia.
- After arriving in Malaysia – They can enter on a Social Visit Pass (tourist visa) and apply from within the country. This option requires a Journey Performed Fee of RM500 per person and must be done before their tourist visa expires.
Step 3: Apply through your university
Most universities process the dependent pass application via Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS). You’ll need to:
- Submit all documents to your university’s international student office
- Pay applicable fees (visa, EMGS, insurance if required)
- Wait for EMGS to forward the application to Immigration
Step 4: Wait for approval and visa endorsement
Once approved, your dependent’s passport will be stamped with the Dependent Pass, either before arrival or inside Malaysia. The timeline varies, so it’s best to start early and follow up regularly with your university.
Malaysia Dependent Visa Processing Time
The typical Malaysia dependent visa processing time is 4 to 8 weeks from the date your university submits your completed application to EMGS. Some are processed sooner, but delays may occur during peak academic seasons or public holidays.
If applying from within Malaysia, start early to avoid overstaying a tourist visa. If applying from abroad, factor in extra time for the Visa Approval Letter (VAL) and embassy processing.
You can track your application status using the EMGS tracker, with updates like “under review” and “visa approved.”
Understanding the dependent visa approval timeline in Malaysia helps you plan ahead and reduce stress, especially when your family is preparing to travel or settle in
Malaysia Dependent Visa Fees and Cost Breakdown
One of the most important things to plan for is the total Malaysian dependent visa fees. While the process is fairly affordable compared to other countries, costs can add up, especially if you’re bringing more than one family member.
Here’s a simple breakdown of what to expect.
Typical costs per dependent
Expense Type | Estimated Cost (MYR) |
Dependent Pass (LTSVP) Fee | RM 90 per year |
EMGS Processing & Admin Fees | RM 200 – RM 500 |
Journey Performed Fee (if applicable) | RM 500 (for in-country applications) |
Single Entry Visa (SEV) Fee | RM 20 – RM 100 (based on nationality) |
Insurance (optional but recommended) | RM 500 – RM 1,000 |
Document Translation / Certification | RM 100 – RM 300 (if needed) |
So, the total dependent visa Malaysia cost per person can range from RM 1,000 to RM 1,500, not including day-to-day living expenses.
Don’t forget ongoing costs
In addition to visa-related charges, also consider:
- Rent (off-campus housing for families)
- Food and transport
- School fees if you’re bringing children
These student visa family expenses in Malaysia vary by location, but most students budget around RM 3,000–RM 4,500 monthly for a small family.
Planning ahead helps ensure a smooth start to your life together in Malaysia, without financial surprises.
Work and Study Restrictions for Dependent Visa Holders
If your spouse or parent is planning to join you in Malaysia, a common question is: Can they work or study while they’re here? It’s an important part of the decision, especially for couples who usually share financial responsibilities or for family members hoping to stay active during your studies.
Under current immigration rules, dependent visa holders are not allowed to work in Malaysia. That means your spouse or parent cannot take up employment, run a business, or do freelance work, even part-time. This applies whether they’re earning in Malaysia or working remotely for a local company.
If your spouse wants to work, they’ll need to apply separately for an Employment Pass, which must be sponsored by a Malaysian employer. There’s no automatic right to work with a Dependent Pass.
Can dependents study?
Yes, but with limitations.
- Children can attend private or international schools while on a dependent visa.
- Spouses who want to pursue a degree or full-time program will need to apply for their own Student Pass.
Short-term or casual learning (like language classes or workshops) is usually allowed, but anything formal or long-term must go through proper channels.
Understanding these dependent visa Malaysia working rights helps you plan better, especially if your family is looking for ways to stay engaged or productive during their stay.
Duration and Renewal of the Malaysia Dependent Visa
Once your dependent visa is approved, it’s natural to wonder: How long does it last, and what do I need to do to keep it valid? Staying on top of renewal timelines is important to avoid any unexpected visa issues for your family.
How long is the dependent pass valid?
The Malaysian dependent visa is usually granted for the same duration as your Student Pass. In most cases, that’s 12 months. If your student visa is renewed for another year, your dependent’s pass can be renewed at the same time.
It’s important to remember that once your Student Pass expires, your family’s dependent visas become invalid too, so it’s essential to align all renewals carefully.
How to renew a dependent visa in Malaysia
To begin the Malaysia dependent visa renewal process, apply through your university’s international office at least 6–8 weeks before the expiry date. You’ll need:
- A valid passport (with 6+ months remaining)
- Updated visa documents (passport, Student Pass copy, and photos)
- Any school letters (if renewing for a child)
- Updated proof of relationship, if requested
Late renewals may result in fines or even require starting the process from scratch. So it’s always safer to be proactive when renewing your family visa in Malaysia.
Malaysia Dependent Visa for Parents
If you’re wondering “Can I bring my parents while studying in Malaysia?” — the answer is yes, in some cases. However, the process is slightly different compared to bringing a spouse or child.
Parents do not receive the standard Dependent Pass, but instead can apply for a Long-Term Social Visit Pass (LTSVP). While the name is different, the purpose is the same — it allows your parent to stay in Malaysia legally while you complete your studies.
Who can apply for a parent visa?
You may be able to apply for the Malaysia dependent visa for parents if:
- You’re a Master’s or PhD student, or
- You’re under 18 years old and need parental supervision
Each case is reviewed individually by Immigration.
Required documents include:
- Your birth certificate (to prove the parent-child relationship)
- A letter explaining the reason for your parent’s stay
- Your parent’s passport copy and recent photos
- Proof of your Student Pass
Parents are not allowed to work or study on this visa, and renewals are tied to your student visa.
If you need help applying for a long-term visit pass for parents in Malaysia, a visa advisor can guide you through the extra steps involved.
Key Considerations When Bringing Family to Malaysia
Once your visa is sorted, it’s time to think about the everyday realities of living in Malaysia with your family. From accommodation to emotional well-being, there’s a lot to plan — but with the right preparation, it can be a smooth and rewarding experience.
1. Accommodation
Most university hostels don’t allow dependents, so you’ll need to rent off-campus housing. Look for a safe, accessible area near your campus and public transport. Landlords may request proof of visa or income before offering a lease.
2. Monthly Living Costs
Bringing family means higher expenses. On average, plan for:
- Rent: RM 1,500 – RM 2,500
- Groceries and meals: RM 800 – RM 1,200
- Utilities and transport: RM 300 – RM 600
- Schooling (if applicable): varies
Typical student visa family living in Malaysia expenses total around RM 3,000 to RM 4,500 per month.
3. Schooling for Children
Children on a Dependent Pass can attend private or international schools. Public schools are usually not available to foreign dependents, so check fees, admission criteria, and curriculum in advance.
4. Health Insurance
Private medical insurance is highly recommended. While healthcare in Malaysia is affordable, unexpected emergencies can lead to high out-of-pocket costs. Many providers offer family plans tailored to expats.
5. Emotional Adjustment
Relocating affects everyone differently. Your spouse may miss their support network, children may take time to adjust to school, and parents may face cultural or climate differences. Joining local communities, expat groups, or university family circles can help ease the transition.
Planning ahead makes life as an international student family in Malaysia far more manageable, both emotionally and practically.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applying for a Malaysia dependent visa may seem simple, but small errors can lead to frustrating delays or even rejections. Here are the most common pitfalls — and how you can avoid them.
1. Not checking eligibility early
Not all students qualify to sponsor dependents. If you’re in a short-term program or an undergraduate course from a non-approved country, you may not be eligible.
Tip: Confirm your eligibility with your university or a visa advisor before starting the process.
2. Incomplete or incorrect documents
One of the most frequent dependent pass application issues involves missing or inconsistent paperwork, like untranslated documents, incorrect names, or expired passports.
Tip: Follow a detailed checklist and review all documents carefully before submitting.
3. Applying or renewing too late
Families entering Malaysia on tourist visas have a limited window to apply. Delays can lead to overstaying, which may affect future visa approvals.
Tip: Apply as early as possible—ideally within the first two weeks of arrival—and renew at least 6–8 weeks before expiry.
4. Misunderstanding visa restrictions
Spouses cannot work, and dependents cannot enroll in full-time studies without switching to the appropriate visa type.
Tip: Be clear on what the Dependent Pass allows and what it doesn’t.
Avoiding these student family visa errors in Malaysia ensures a smoother experience and helps protect your family’s legal stay.
How Agape Education Can Help
Studying abroad is a big step, and bringing your family along adds even more to the plan. From documents and deadlines to renewals and housing, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s where Agape Education comes in.
We’ve helped hundreds of students study in Malaysia with family, and we understand how important it is to get everything right, not just for your education, but for your peace of mind.
Here’s how we support you:
- Confirm your eligibility
- Help gather and review all required documents
- Guide you through the application process
- Coordinate with your university and EMGS
- Assist with renewals and status tracking
- Offer guidance on family logistics, like housing and schooling
Whether you’re applying from home or already in Malaysia, we provide clear, step-by-step support to avoid delays and get your family here with you legally, smoothly, and confidently.
Contact Agape Education
📞 Whatsapp: +60163542461
📧 Email: info@studywithagape.c0m
FAQs: Malaysia Dependent Visa
Still have questions? Here are answers to the most common concerns about the Malaysia dependent visa.
Who is eligible to apply for a dependent visa in Malaysia?
Postgraduate students (Master’s or PhD) with a valid Student Pass can apply. Some undergraduate students from approved countries (e.g., Saudi Arabia, UAE) may also qualify.
Can my spouse work in Malaysia on a dependent visa?
No. Dependent Pass holders are not allowed to work. A separate Employment Pass is required to work legally.
Can my child go to school in Malaysia on a dependent visa?
Yes, but only in private or international schools. Public schools are generally not open to foreign dependents.
How long is the visa valid, and can it be renewed?
It’s usually valid for one year, matching the Student Pass. It must be renewed annually with your student visa.
How long does the process take?
Most applications are processed within 4 to 8 weeks, depending on document completeness and university handling time.
For more help with your situation, reach out to Agape Education. We’re here to guide you through every step.
Conclusion
The process of bringing your loved ones to Malaysia can be smooth when you have the right information and support. Whether you’re a Master’s or PhD student, or an eligible undergraduate, the Malaysia dependent visa opens the door to studying abroad without leaving your family behind.
If you’re ready to start the journey, let Agape Education help you take the next step.