How International Students Can Work in Malaysia After Graduation

You’re not the only one asking, “What jobs can I get in Malaysia after graduation and how much will I earn?”

Malaysia’s job market is growing fast and international graduates are finding real chances to build their careers here.

Malaysia’s graduate employment rate has stayed above 80% in recent years, with industries like IT, finance, healthcare, and logistics driving demand.  This means more career opportunities in Malaysia for international graduates who bring the right skills and qualifications.

This guide will break down the jobs in Malaysia for international students after graduation, highlight work visa regulation 2025, and share tips to boost your employability.

Can International Students Work in Malaysia After Graduation?

Yes, but it's not automatic. Malaysia offers a Graduate Pass, a type of Social Visit Pass, that allows international students to stay in Malaysia for up to 12 months after completing their studies. During this period, you can look for jobs, gain work experience, or further your studies.

However, this pass does not grant full-time employment rights. To work legally, you'll need to transition to a proper work visa.

Transitioning from Student Visa to Work Visa

Here's the realistic process:

1. Secure a Job: You must first find a job with a Malaysian employer willing to hire you.

2. Employer Applies for Work Visa: Your employer will apply for a work visa on your behalf.

3. Cancel Student Visa: Once your work visa is approved, you'll need to cancel your student visa.

4. Start Working: With the work visa in place, you can legally begin your employment.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Work Visa in Malaysia

Getting a post study work visa in Malaysia requires planning and following the right steps. Here’s a simple guide for international graduates on how to legally start working in Malaysia after completing their studies.

1. Ensure Your Passport Is Valid

Before initiating any application, confirm that your passport has at least 18 months of validity remaining. This is a standard requirement for most visa applications in Malaysia. .

2. Secure a Job Offer from a Malaysian Employer

Obtain a job offer from a Malaysian company. The employer must be eligible to hire foreign talent and willing to sponsor your work visa application. 

3. Employer Initiates Work Visa Application

After securing a job, your employer will submit the required documents to Malaysian authorities (Immigration Department or ESD) to apply for your work visa.

4. Receive Visa Approval Letter (VAL)

Upon approval of your application, your employer will receive a Visa Approval Letter (VAL). This document is essential for the next steps in the process.

5. Exit Malaysia and Apply for Visa with Reference (VDR)

Student visas cannot be converted to work visas in Malaysia. You must leave the country and apply for a Visa with Reference (VDR) at a Malaysian embassy or consulate. The VDR allows you to re-enter Malaysia for employment purposes.

6. Re-enter Malaysia and Complete Immigration Procedures

Upon re-entering Malaysia with your VDR, proceed to the Immigration Department to complete necessary procedures, which may include:

• Medical Examination: Undergo a medical check-up at an approved clinic.
• Visa Stamping: Have your work visa stamped in your passport.
• i-Kad Collection: Obtain your i-Kad, the identification card for foreign workers in Malaysia.

7. Commence Employment

With all formalities completed, you can legally begin your employment in Malaysia.

Types of Work Visas / Permits

If you're an international graduate aiming to work in Malaysia, it's crucial to understand the different work visa options available. 

Here's a breakdown to help you navigate:

1. Employment Pass (EP)

The Employment Pass is designed for skilled professionals in managerial, executive, or technical roles. It has three categories based on salary and contract duration:

Documents Required

• Valid passport (at least 18 months validity)
• Recent passport-sized photo
• Updated resume/CV
• Copy of highest educational qualifications
• Employment contract (signed and stamped)
• Job description
• Company’s Form 9, 24 & 49 (for companies registered under the Companies Act)
• Business license or relevant regulatory approval

2. Visitor’s Pass (Temporary Employment Pass)

This pass is for foreign workers in semi-skilled or unskilled positions in approved sectors such as construction, manufacturing, plantation, agriculture, and services. There are two categories:

• Foreign Worker Temporary Employment Pass: For workers in the above sectors.
• Foreign Domestic Helper (FDH) Temporary Employment Pass: For female workers employed as domestic helpers.

Requirements

• Age between 18 and 45 years
• Medical examination clearance from FOMEMA (Foreign Workers Medical Examination Monitoring Agency)
• Employer must obtain a foreign worker quota from the Ministry of Home Affairs
• Employer must apply for the pass before the worker's arrival in Malaysia

Documents Required

• Valid passport
• Passport-sized photo
• Medical examination report
• Approval letter from Ministry of Home Affairs
• Employer's business license
• Visa application forms (IMM.12 and IMM.38)
• Employer’s Form 49, Form B & D (if applicable)

3. Professional Visit Pass (PVP)

The PVP is for foreign professionals visiting Malaysia for short-term assignments, training, or consultancy roles. It's typically valid for up to 12 months.

Requirements

• Applicant must possess acceptable professional qualifications or skills
• Employment contract or agreement with a Malaysian company
• The Malaysian company must be registered with the Expatriate Services Division (ESD)

Documents Required

• Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)
• Passport-sized photo
• Application letter from the Malaysian company detailing the purpose and duration of the visit
• Copy of the company's profile
• Letter of award or contract (if applicable)
• Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) (if applicable)
• Security or personal bond (depending on nationality)

Future Career Pathways for Graduates in Malaysia

Wondering, “What jobs can I get in Malaysia after graduation?” Here’s a snapshot of growing industries and roles for 2025, along with typical salary ranges:

IT & Digital Economy

• Software developers, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists
• Roles in AI, cloud computing, and fintech

Healthcare & Biotechnology

• Nurses, medical technologists, biomedical researchers
• Opportunities in hospitals, labs, and R&D centers

Engineering & Manufacturing

• Civil, mechanical, and process engineers
• Focus on automation, semiconductor, and industrial projects

Tourism & Hospitality

• Hotel managers, event planners, travel coordinators
• Opportunities in hotels, resorts, and tourism agencies

Banking & Finance

• Accountants, financial analysts, fintech professionals
• Roles in banks, insurance, and digital financial services

Malaysia’s economy is expanding in tech, healthcare, and sustainable industries, giving skilled graduates real chances to start their careers.

👉 Want to see the full list of high-demand jobs in Malaysia for 2025? Check out our updated guide here.

Understanding Graduate Earnings in Malaysia

Many students ask, “How much can I earn as a fresh graduate in Malaysia?” On average, international graduates can expect starting salaries between RM 2,500 and RM 5,000 per month, depending on your degree, industry, and skills.

IT & Finance: Roles like software developers, data analysts, and financial analysts typically start at RM 4,000 – RM 5,000 per month

Healthcare & Biotechnology: Positions such as nurses, lab technicians, and research assistants usually start at RM 3,000 – RM 4,500 per month

Engineering & Manufacturing: Civil, mechanical, and process engineering graduates can expect RM 3,500 – RM 5,000 per month

Hospitality & Service: Entry-level roles like hotel staff or event coordinators start at RM 2,500 – RM 3,500 per month, with opportunities for growth

👉 For a full breakdown by industry and degree, explore our detailed guide on fresh graduate salary in Malaysia.

Challenges International Graduates Face in Malaysia

Moving to a new country for work sounds exciting, but international graduates in Malaysia do face real challenges. Knowing them upfront can help you plan better and stay realistic:

➔ Visa & Legal Barriers: Getting the right post study work visa in Malaysia isn’t automatic. Your student visa won’t directly convert to a work visa, and employers must sponsor you.

➔ Competition with Local Graduates: Malaysia has a strong local workforce. You’ll compete with Malaysian graduates for jobs, especially in tech, finance, and healthcare. Internships and skills help you stand out.

➔ Language & Cultural Challenges: While English is widely used, knowing Bahasa Malaysia helps. Adapting to local work culture and communication styles also takes time, but it’s worth it for long-term career growth.

Also read: Language and Communication Tips for International Students Studying in Malaysia

5 Tips to Land a Job in Malaysia after Graduation

Wondering how to get a job in Malaysia after graduation? Here are practical ways to improve your chances:

#1. Internships & Work Experience

Gain real-world experience during your studies. Employers value graduates who can hit the ground running.

#2: Networking

Attend career fairs, industry events, and join professional communities. Connections can open doors to job opportunities.

#3. Professional Certifications

Boost your employability by earning certifications relevant to your field, like IT, finance, or healthcare credentials.

#4. Leverage University Career Services

Use career centers for job listings, resume reviews, and interview prep; they’re there to help you succeed.

#5. Develop In-Demand Skills

Focus on digital, technical, and language skills that are highly sought after in Malaysia’s growing industries.

Following these steps can improve employability in Malaysia and give you a realistic advantage in the competitive job market.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can international students stay in Malaysia after graduation?

Yes, international students can stay in Malaysia for up to 12 months under the Graduate Pass to look for work. To work full-time, you’ll need to secure a job and apply for a post study work visa in Malaysia.

2. What are the requirements for a Malaysia employment pass?

To get an Employment Pass (EP) in Malaysia, you must have a valid job offer from a Malaysian company, relevant qualifications, and meet minimum salary requirements depending on the EP category. Your employer will handle most of the application process.

3. What jobs are in demand in Malaysia for foreigners?

High-demand roles for international graduates include IT & digital economy, healthcare & biotechnology, engineering, finance, and hospitality. Skills in tech, digital, and specialized professional roles are particularly sought after.

4. How long does Malaysia employment pass take?

Processing for an Employment Pass in Malaysia usually takes 4–8 weeks, depending on the visa type and completeness of your application. Planning ahead is essential due to competition and paperwork.

5. Is Malaysia good for international graduates to work?

Yes, Malaysia offers growing career opportunities for international graduates, especially in tech, healthcare, finance, and engineering. With the right skills and preparation, international graduates can build a rewarding career here.

What’s Next?

The future of jobs in Malaysia for international students after graduation looks exciting, especially in the digital economy, tech, healthcare, and green industries. With the right skills and some planning, you can find real opportunities to kickstart your career here.

It won’t always be easy, there’s competition and visa rules to navigate. But if you focus on in-demand skills, internships, and networking, you can stand out and land a great role. Malaysia is a vibrant place for graduates who want to learn, grow, and build their careers.