AP Ukhwah

Contact Info

Follow Us

Foreign Worker Quota Advisory for Employers

Special Foreign Worker Quota Application Window in Malaysia (Jan–Mar 2026)

The Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN) Malaysia will open a special foreign worker quota application window from 19 January to 31 March 2026. During this period, eligible employers may submit new or pending quota requests in accordance with Malaysia’s labour market controls, sector limits, and regulatory requirements.

Quota approvals remain subject to workforce justification, compliance history, accommodation readiness, and assessment by relevant authorities. Applications submitted outside the official window may not be considered.

Consult Quota Advisor Call for Quota Guidance
Employer Quota Compliance Overview

Foreign Worker Quota Application Requirements for Employers in Malaysia (2026)

The Malaysian Government has confirmed that foreign worker quota applications will only be accepted during the special window from 19 January to 31 March 2026. Employers must submit complete and accurate quota applications in accordance with KDN, MOHR, and the Immigration Department of Malaysia.

Quota approvals are not automatic and remain subject to sector caps, labour market needs, employer compliance history, and supporting documentation.

Government Authorities Involved in Quota Assessment

Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN) Ministry of Human Resources (MOHR) Department of Labour (JTKSM) Immigration Department of Malaysia
Regulatory Notice: Applications submitted outside 19 January – 31 March 2026 may not be processed, except under exceptional circumstances approved by the authorities.

Special Foreign Worker Quota Window — Key Considerations for Employers

  • Quota applications are time-limited and must be submitted within the official window
  • Applicable to approved sectors such as manufacturing, construction, services, plantation, and agriculture
  • All submissions are assessed under KDN and relevant regulatory guidelines
  • Employers with complete documentation and strong compliance records are prioritised
  • Accommodation compliance (Act 446), levy status, and manpower justification are mandatory
Employers should refer to official labour guidance issued by the Department of Labour (JTKSM) for the latest compliance requirements.

Special Application Window for 2025 Quotas

  • Application Period: 19 January – 31 March 2026
  • Eligibility: All approved sectors as of 1 October 2025, including services previously closed under KPDN & MOTAC
  • Application Process: Employers must apply directly at the KDN One-Stop Foreign Worker Management Centre (no third-party agents)
  • Appointments: Book via KDN system starting 16 January 2026
  • Conditions: Subject to inter-ministerial review and standard foreign worker employment regulations

Why the 2026 Special Foreign Worker Quota Window Matters

The Malaysian Government has tightened foreign worker recruitment rules, making accurate quota submissions and full regulatory compliance essential. The special quota application window from January to March 2026 is a critical opportunity for employers to secure workforce approvals legally and on time.

Govt Deadline for Quota Applications

The Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN) will only accept foreign worker quota applications between 19 January and 31 March 2026. Applications submitted outside this period may not be processed.

  • Sector caps and labour demand still apply
  • Incomplete submissions risk rejection
  • Compliance history may affect approval

Employer Compliance Readiness

Employers must demonstrate legitimate business operations and justified manpower requirements before quota approval is granted.

  • Valid business registration and operations
  • Workforce justification by sector and role
  • Compliance with labour and immigration laws
  • Act 446 hostel compliance where applicable

Immigration & Permit Processing

Once quota approval is obtained, immigration processes must be handled accurately to avoid delays or work stoppages.

  • Visa With Reference (VDR) submissions
  • ePLKS and VP(TE) coordination
  • Immigration follow-ups and documentation
  • Renewal planning for workforce continuity

Risk Control During Special Window

Proper planning during the special quota window helps employers minimise enforcement risks and operational disruptions.

  • Lower exposure to penalties and enforcement
  • Higher approval success rates
  • Clear timelines aligned with government processing
  • Better workforce stability for 2026
Chat Quota Advisor View Our Services Call for Compliance Advice
The Malaysian Government has opened a special foreign worker quota application window from 19 January to 31 March 2026.
  • Applications submitted outside this period may not be considered
  • Managed under the Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN)
Yes. Both new and existing employers may apply, subject to eligibility and compliance checks.
  • Existing employers must show valid workforce justification
  • New employers must meet minimum operational requirements
No guarantee. Applications submitted after the deadline are generally not accepted unless approved under exceptional circumstances.
  • Late submissions risk automatic rejection
  • Subject to government discretion
No. Quota approval is only the first step.
  • Visa approval (VDR / PLKS) is still required
  • Medical, security, and immigration checks apply
  • Manufacturing
  • Construction
  • Plantation & Agriculture
  • Services (approved sub-sectors)
Yes. Quota approvals remain subject to sectoral caps and labour market needs.
  • Business registration & financial standing
  • Compliance history
  • Workforce justification documents
Processing timelines vary based on sector, documentation completeness, and quota availability.
Yes. Employers must comply with Akta 446 before quota approval.
  • Application rejection
  • Possible audit or enforcement action
  • Delayed future approvals
Streamlining Foreign Workforce Solutions Across Peninsular Malaysia

Hassle-Free Foreign Worker Recruitment in Malaysia

Navigating the complexities of foreign worker recruitment can be overwhelming. Our expert team delivers clear guidance, efficient processing, and full compliance support — ensuring your manpower needs are met without the stress.

Chat with Us Now

Quick response from our recruitment specialists.

1