If you are planning to study in Malaysia, you need to understand the Malaysia student visa application process before travelling. International students generally apply for a Malaysian Student Pass through Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) after receiving an offer from a Malaysian educational institution.
For Pakistani students, the process normally includes the Student Pass application, Visa Approval Letter (eVAL), and, where required, a Single Entry Visa before travelling to Malaysia.
Step 1: Get Admission from a Malaysian Institution
First, apply to a recognised Malaysian university, college or other approved educational institution.
After your admission is accepted, you will receive an Offer Letter. This document is an important part of the Student Pass application.
Step 2: Apply for the Student Pass
Students can submit their Student Pass application online through the EMGS system, or the educational institution may submit it on their behalf.
You can create an account through the official EMGS Student Visa system and track your application online.
Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents
Common documents for a new Student Pass application include:
- Passport-size photograph with a white background
- Passport biodata page
- University or college Offer Letter
- Academic certificates and transcripts
- Health Declaration Form
- English-language proficiency evidence, where required
- Other documents requested for your particular application
- Birth Certificate from Nadra Pakistan
EMGS advises applicants to check the current document requirements because additional documents may apply depending on the applicant and institution.
Step 4: Wait for the Visa Approval Letter
After the Student Pass application is processed, an electronic Visa Approval Letter (eVAL) is issued when the application is approved.
The eVAL is issued before the student’s entry into Malaysia. Students should not travel to Malaysia for study while the eVAL application is still being processed.
Step 5: Apply for a Single Entry Visa
Pakistani passport holders are among the nationalities listed by EMGS as requiring a pre-arrival visa for Malaysia in the relevant student-visa process. After receiving the required approval, eligible students can apply for the Single Entry Visa (SEV) through the Malaysian eVISA system.
The Malaysian Immigration Department states that a student eVISA application requires a valid eVAL and a passport biodata page with the required validity.
Step 6: Complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card
Before travelling, students should complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) within the required period before arrival. EMGS currently advises students to complete it within three days before arriving in Malaysia.
Step 7: Travel to Malaysia
Once you have the required approval and visa documents, you can travel to Malaysia.
Keep your important documents with you, including your passport, Offer Letter, eVAL and visa documents.
Step 8: Complete Medical Screening After Arrival
New international students are required to undergo medical screening at an EMGS panel clinic in Malaysia within seven working days of arrival.
This step is important for completing the Student Pass process.
Step 9: Student Pass Endorsement
After the required procedures are completed, the Student Pass is endorsed by Malaysian Immigration. The educational institution normally assists students with this process.
Important Tips for Pakistani Students
Before applying for a Malaysia student visa, make sure:
- Your passport has sufficient validity.
- Your name and details are consistent across your documents.
- Your academic documents are ready.
- Your Offer Letter is valid.
- You upload clear copies of required documents.
- You check your EMGS application status regularly.
- You do not travel before receiving the required approval.
- You verify the latest visa requirements before making travel arrangements.
How Long Does the Student Visa Process Take?
Processing time can vary depending on document completeness and required clearances. EMGS says its client charter for a complete Student Pass application is 14 working days, although incomplete or incorrect applications can take longer.
