Immigration update: Malaysia | Extension of FMCO & enhancement of renewal process for Employment Pass
The Government of Malaysia has announced the extension of the Full Movement Control Order (FMCO) for the whole of Malaysia. See our previous alert here, confirming the original start date of the FMCO.
Who are affected
Expatriates on EP (All categories), their dependents and their maids.
Background
The National Recovery Plan (NRP) was put in place starting June 1, 2021, with a total nationwide lockdown which involves the full closure of social and economic sectors.
Initially targeted for two weeks, it was then extended until June 28, 2021. However, as Malaysia is still averaging 5,000 cases a day nearly a month into the lockdown, recording 5,586 new cases and 60 deaths on June 27, Malaysia is unable to exit phase one and move into phase two.
The three key conditions to be met in phase one, the most critical stage for Malaysia’s public health system, are as below:
+ Getting daily Covid-19 cases to drop below 4,000.
• The rate of bed use in ICUs returns to ‘moderate’ levels (not defined).
• 10 per cent of the population fully vaccinated.
On a separate development, the Immigration Department of Malaysia (ESD purview) is pleased to announce an update to the renewal process for the Employment Pass (EP). This update, effective from 1 July 2021 onwards, will be applicable for expatriates who will remain in Malaysia and wish to proceed with the EP renewal for the same position in the same company.
For this renewal scenario, the following three (3) documents are no longer required to be uploaded during the EP renewal application:
• Education Certificate
• Resume
• Job Description
Impact
• MDEC will be closed for this entire period or until/after the lockdown is lifted.
• Delays in processing applications due to no physical passport submission at the counters.
Implementation
Effective from 28th June 2021.
How Santa Fe can assist
We are closely monitoring the situation and will provide an update when possible.
Santa Fe can support your business with any immigration compliance and advisory issues concerning your expatriate population. We can review current employees’ visas and assist with necessary advice or solutions to ensure ongoing compliance with the Malaysian Immigration Act and Regulations.
We will also keep your business updated on ongoing developments on all Malaysian immigration matters and will advise on any changes requiring your attention.
Should you have any questions, please contact the following:
KS Balasingam
Immigration Team Lead
Santa Fe Relocation
Malaysia
D: +60 19 600 6900
E: ks.balasingam@santaferelo.com
Robert Day
Group Head of Immigration Operations
Santa Fe Relocation
London, UK
D: +44 7990 021125
E: robert.day@santaferelo.com
To read more immigration updates, click here
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