Malaysia•AsiaStudent Dependant Pass
At a Glance
2 weeks
MYR RM 840
Varies (Valid as long as sponsor's employment pass is active)
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
None
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required
Overview
Residence pass for spouses and children of Master's or PhD students in Malaysia, with no work authorization.
The Student Dependant Pass enables spouses and children of Master's or PhD-level international students to reside in Malaysia during the academic program. Issued by the Immigration Department of Malaysia, it is exclusively available to postgraduate-level students and their immediate families, reflecting Malaysia's support for high-value academic talent.
The pass remains valid for the duration of studies, subject to annual renewal. Fees include processing, sticker, and journey charges (see feeBreakdown for full details). Processing takes 14 working days. Dependents gain legal residence but no work authorization, and the pass is tied entirely to the principal student's valid Student Pass.
This visa is ideal for spouses and minor children accompanying international graduate students pursuing Master's or PhD degrees at Malaysian institutions who need stable family residence during their academic tenure.
Cost Breakdown
Requirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Principal student must be enrolled in a full-time Master's or PhD program.
The student must hold a valid Student Pass.
Qualifying dependents: Spouse and children under 18.
Dependents must be physically present in Malaysia for the application process.
Fees: None (for the pass itself, though processing/EMGS fees may apply).
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Valid passport (minimum 18 months validity)
Passport photograph (3.5cm × 5cm, white background)
Marriage certificate (for spouse)
Birth certificate (for children)
Health insurance policy (minimum 12-month coverage)
IMM.12 Form (new application) or IMM.55/IMM.38 Forms (renewal)
Institution support letter
Copies of principal student's passport (biodata page and current Student Pass)
Personal bond form (stamped)
3-month bank statements (financial proof)
Relationship verification certificates certified by embassy or foreign mission
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- Allows family members to reside in Malaysia with the student
- Valid for the full duration of the principal student's Master's or PhD program
- Spouses and children under 18 can apply; family qualification clearly defined
- Provides legal immigration status for dependents during the student's academic tenure
- No separate income requirements; financial support tied to principal student's enrollment
Worth Knowing
- Dependents are not permitted to work or engage in any income-generating activity
- Pass validity strictly tied to principal student's active Student Pass status
- Limited to spouses and children under 18; extended family not qualifying
- Processing timeline varies; no guaranteed expedited processing
- No work authorization for dependents; family members prohibited from employment
- Pass terminates immediately if principal student's Student Pass is cancelled or student departs Malaysia
Application Process
Obtain sponsor status
Primary applicant approved for Employment Pass
Prepare family documents
Gather family member documents
Submit dependant application
Sponsor submits dependant pass application
Receive VAL
Visa Approval Letter issued for family
Apply for visa
Family applies for visa at embassy with VAL
Receive pass
Dependant Pass issued upon arrival
Application Forms
Go to application portal| IMM.12 Dependant Pass application form (new applications) | — |
| IMM.55 Dependant Pass renewal form | — |
| IMM.38 Dependant Pass renewal form (alternative) | — |
Related visas
More visas in Malaysia
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- Orphan to be Adopted in the U.S.
United States
- Bereaved Partner Visa
United Kingdom
- Visit Visa (VR)
Vietnam
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