Pathway fit
We compare this option against employment, business, residency, and special-program alternatives before advising submission.
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Contract-Based Work Visa
Structured visa support for fixed-term roles, project-based assignments, professional visits, and employer-backed contract staffing.
Best fit for
Project teams
Contract professionals
Employers hiring short-term specialists
At a Glance
Processing Time
PVP: 2-4 weeks; Fixed-term EP: 4-6 weeks
Validity
PVP: Up to 12 months, not renewable beyond that; Fixed-term EP: Matches contract duration (max 2 years)
Estimated Fees
PVP: RM50-150; Fixed-term EP: RM100-200 per year
Document readiness
Applicant, sponsor, company, family, and financial documents are clarified before filing to reduce avoidable delays.
Compliance first
The page avoids guaranteed approval claims and keeps timelines subject to category, sponsor readiness, and authority review.
Overview
About Contract-Based Work Visa
For professionals engaged in fixed-term projects, temporary assignments, or contract-based work in Malaysia, the Contract-Based Work Visa provides a compliant pathway. This is ideal for consultants on short-term client engagements, technical specialists on project deployments, trainers conducting workshops, contractors on construction projects, and interim executives. The visa structure depends on assignment duration: under 60 days uses Professional Visit Pass (PVP), while 60 days to 2 years uses a Fixed-term Employment Pass.
Processing Time
PVP: 2-4 weeks; Fixed-term EP: 4-6 weeks
Validity
PVP: Up to 12 months, not renewable beyond that; Fixed-term EP: Matches contract duration (max 2 years)
Estimated Fees
PVP: RM50-150; Fixed-term EP: RM100-200 per year
Eligibility
Who Qualifies for Contract-Based Work Visa
Valid contract or project letter from Malaysian host company
Clear scope of work and assignment duration
Relevant professional qualifications for the assignment
Proof of ongoing employment with home company (for secondments)
Clean criminal record
Documentation
Required Documents
Valid passport with 18 months validity
Contract or project engagement letter
Host company registration documents
Detailed assignment scope and timeline
Professional qualifications and CV
Medical examination report
Police clearance certificate
Process
Application Process
01
Step 1
Determine appropriate visa type based on duration
02
Step 2
Prepare contract and assignment documentation
03
Step 3
Submit application through ESD or PVP channel
04
Step 4
Await approval from Immigration Department
05
Step 5
Complete medical screening if required
06
Step 6
Collect visa endorsement
Benefits
Advantages of Contract-Based Work Visa
Flexible duration matching project needs
No long-term commitment required
Can be renewed for extended projects
Suitable for multiple short-term visits
Important
Restrictions & Limitations
Limited to specified project or assignment
Cannot take on other employment
Must leave Malaysia upon contract completion
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
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While You're Here
Discover Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur
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Petronas Twin TowersBatu CavesMerdeka Square
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Penang
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Langkawi
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Langkawi Sky BridgeCable CarIsland Hopping
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