Important Notice: Please be informed that our company name has been changed from Agensi Pekerjaan Ukhwah Sdn. Bhd. to Agensi Pekerjaan Andaraya Sdn. Bhd.
AP Andaraya

Contact Info

Follow Us

Trusted by Employers Across Malaysia

Foreign Worker Recruitment Process in Malaysia — Your Complete Compliance Guide

Streamline your foreign worker recruitment with a licensed recruitment agency in Malaysia. We manage the entire hiring process — from KDN quota approval and MOHR documentation to Immigration clearance and FOMEMA medical screening — ensuring full legal compliance and a seamless onboarding experience.

Free HR Consultation Call Our Recruitment Team
0
Workers Successfully Placed
0%
Compliance Record
0%
Client Satisfaction
0
Years Industry Experience
Employer-Focused Recruitment Solutions

Complete Guide to Foreign Worker Recruitment & Compliance in Malaysia (2025–2026)

Employing foreign workers in Malaysia requires adherence to up‑to‑date statutory and administrative regulations from MOHR, KDN, and the Immigration Department. Our structured recruitment framework empowers HR teams and employers to stay compliant, manage quota applications, and streamline worker onboarding with minimal risk.

Key Regulatory Authorities:

Ministry of Human Resources (MOHR) Department of Labour (JTKSM) Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN) Immigration Department of Malaysia
Important Update: The Home Ministry (KDN) has opened a **special quota application window from 19 January to 31 March 2026** to receive additional 2025 foreign worker quota applications across all approved sectors, including services previously closed early. Applications continue to be processed under standard eligibility conditions and sector caps. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Tailored Foreign Worker Recruitment & Compliance Services

  • Foreign Worker Quota Application & Compliance (Quota Info)
  • Overseas Worker Sourcing & Screening
  • Work Visa (PLKS) & Immigration Processing
  • Arrival Management & Online Reporting
  • FOMEMA Medical Checking & Certification
  • ePLKS Renewal & Employer Online Support
  • Worker Accommodation Compliance (Akta 446) (Akta 446 Info)
  • Regulatory & Business Advisory Support (RBA Services)
For official compliance and amendments, always refer to the Department of Labour (JTKSM) and official KDN/Immigration Department portals for the latest circulars and requirements.
Malaysia Foreign Worker Recruitment Process 2026

Complete Foreign Worker Hiring & Compliance Guide for Employers in Malaysia (2026)

Step-by-step legal framework for Malaysian employers and HR teams — covering eligibility checks, Section 60K approval, quota applications, medical screening, permit issuance, renewals, and repatriation in compliance with MOHR, KDN, and Immigration Department guidelines. Includes updates for the special quota window (19 Jan – 31 Mar 2026).

STEP 0 Pre-Recruitment
Sector & Eligibility Validation
Confirm your company's industry and job positions comply with the latest MOHR and Immigration Department Malaysia approved sectors. Only authorized sectors can hire foreign workers in 2026.
Action Items:
  • Check approved sectors: Manufacturing, Construction, Plantation, Agriculture, Services, Mining & Quarrying
  • Confirm eligible source countries (15–20 approved nations as of 2026)
  • Ensure worker age between 18–45 years
  • Submit proof of local recruitment efforts (Section 60K Employment Act)
  • Disallow front-line roles (cashier, sales, customer-facing positions)
Important: Foreign workers cannot marry Malaysians or other foreigners under VP(TE) terms and are strictly limited to approved roles only.
STEP 1 2–4 Weeks
Section 60K Approval & Quota Application (ePPAx 2.0)
All employers must obtain Section 60K approval via ePPAx 2.0 and apply for quota allocation through the One-Stop Centre (OSC). These are mandatory before recruitment or visa submission. New 2026 update: Employers may submit applications during the special quota window (19 Jan – 31 Mar 2026) to request additional quota for 2025 approvals.
Action Items:
  • Submit company documents: SSM, EPF, SOCSO, business license, and audited reports
  • Obtain digital approval under Section 60K (valid 12 months)
  • Apply for quota at OSC with full justification
  • Maintain soft and hard copies for audit readiness
Employment Duration: Up to 10 years + 3 years extension (total 13 years) in approved sectors.
STEP 2 Concurrent
Engage a Licensed Recruitment Agency (KDN-Approved)
Appoint a KDN-licensed agency registered under JTKSM to manage documentation, sourcing, and full compliance under bilateral recruitment agreements. Only licensed agencies are allowed post-2025.
Action Items:
  • Verify KDN license validity on the official MOHA portal
  • Review service contract clauses for compliance and accountability
  • Confirm agency's source country authorization
  • Assess service record and compliance performance
STEP 3 4–8 Weeks
Overseas Recruitment & Pre-Departure Screening
Approved overseas partners handle candidate sourcing, biometric verification, pre-departure medicals, and employment briefings as required by the source country and Malaysian labour policies.
Action Items:
  • Use only authorized sub-agents in approved countries
  • Ensure passports have ≥18 months validity
  • Conduct GAMCA/FWAMS-certified medicals
  • Execute bilingual contracts with clear terms and signatures
  • Provide welfare and rights awareness sessions
Note: Source country restrictions apply (e.g., Indonesia – female workers only in manufacturing; India – selected roles only).
STEP 4 2–3 Weeks
Visa with Reference (VDR) & Levy Payment
Apply for Visa with Reference (VDR) through the Immigration Department and pay the government levy online via FWCMS/eServices. Ensure all 2026 levy updates are applied.
Action Items:
  • Submit digital VDR application with all documents
  • Pay levy per sector: RM1,850 (Manufacturing, Construction, Services, Mining), RM640 (Plantation, Agriculture)
  • Submit electronic security bond and retain receipts
  • Track status via Immigration portal
2026 Levy Update: Annual levy must be paid before VDR issuance — strict enforcement under new Immigration directive. Special quota applications during the window 19 Jan – 31 Mar 2026 are eligible for processing.

Critical Compliance Deadlines (2026)

FOMEMA Medical Examination
Must be completed within 30 days of arrival. Pre-departure medicals are also required for source country compliance. Non-compliance triggers automatic repatriation.
PLKS (Work Permit) Issuance
Apply immediately after FOMEMA clearance. Employment without valid PLKS is strictly prohibited.
Immigration Arrival Clearance
Complete online arrival confirmation within 24 hours via the Immigration Department portal.
Permit Renewal Application
Submit 90 days before expiry to avoid levy penalties, permit lapses, or restrictions on extensions.
Check Out Memo (COM)
File immediately upon termination, transfer, repatriation, or medical rejection — delays are non-compliant.
Special Quota Window (2026)
Employers can apply for additional quota between 19 January – 31 March 2026. Applications outside this window will be processed under standard quota rules.

Essential Documents for Legal Recruitment

Pre-Recruitment Approvals
  • MOHR ePPAx Section 60K approval
  • OSC quota allocation letter (KDN)
  • Licensed agency KDN permit copy
  • Bilingual employment contract
Worker Identification
  • Valid passport (≥18 months)
  • MOFA medical certificate
  • Police clearance (if required)
  • Verified skill/education certificates
Medical Compliance
  • FOMEMA medical (pre-departure & post-arrival) within 30 days
  • Health clearance reports
  • Vaccination records
  • FOMEMA compliance certificate
Financial & Levy
  • Levy payment receipt (Immigration Malaysia)
  • Security bond (RM1,500 per worker, unless updated by MOHR)
  • Payroll & payslip records
  • PERKESO & EPF contributions
Immigration Documents
  • Visa with Reference (VDR)
  • PLKS Work Permit Card
  • i-Kad registration
  • Renewal/extension approvals
Employer Legal Compliance
  • SSM registration & LHDN number
  • Operating license (sector-specific)
  • Employment contracts and wage records
  • Certified accommodation verification

Pre-Hiring Compliance Checklist (2026)

Confirm industry and nationality eligibility
Obtain ePPAx Section 60K approval
Secure OSC quota allocation
Apply during special quota window if applicable (Jan–Mar 2026)
Engage licensed KDN agency only
Conduct FOMEMA medical (pre-departure & post-arrival)
Sign bilingual employment contract
Submit VDR & pay levy/security bond
Complete arrival reporting within 24 hours
Apply PLKS & i-Kad immediately after medical clearance
Register PERKESO & EPF (2% + 2%)
Renew permit 3 months before expiry
File COM for repatriation, termination, or quota completion

Compliance Notice: Non-compliance may result in repatriation, blacklisting, or fines up to RM50,000. Always verify latest circulars from MOHR, KDN, and Immigration Malaysia.

Employer Reminder:
  • FOMEMA medical must be done within 30 days — no extensions allowed.
  • All recruitment must use licensed agencies only.
  • Maintain employment and levy records for 3 years minimum.
  • Repatriation and termination must follow Immigration Malaysia protocol.
  • Special quota applications must comply with the Jan–Mar 2026 window rules.

Need Assistance?

Contact our compliance experts for personalized guidance

Chat Compliance Advisor View Recruitment Services Call for Compliance Advice

Malaysia Foreign Worker Recruitment Guide 2026

Official compliance reference for legal and ethical recruitment in Malaysia.

Verify latest updates at: MOHR | Immigration Department | OSC Portal

Last Updated: January 2026 | Compliance Verified

Complete Employer Support for Legal & Compliant Foreign Worker Recruitment (2025)

In 2025, Malaysia introduced stricter foreign worker recruitment regulations requiring prior approvals, verified quota applications, and enhanced welfare compliance. Our dedicated compliance team assists employers at every stage — from Section 60K approval to PLKS renewals — ensuring full alignment with MOHR and Immigration Malaysia standards.

Section 60K Approval & Quota Application
  • MOHR ePPAx Section 60K approval (effective Dec 2024)
  • Preparation and submission of employer documentation
  • Quota application and tracking via One Stop Centre (OSC)
  • End-to-end coordination for faster approval turnaround
Collaboration with Licensed Overseas Agencies
  • Partnership with MOHR-licensed foreign recruitment agencies
  • Recruitment only from approved source countries
  • Verification of valid KDN agency permits
  • Compliance with ethical sourcing and international standards
Visa, VDR & Work Permit Processing
  • Visa With Reference (VDR) and ePLKS submissions
  • VP(TE) issuance and Immigration Department follow-ups
  • Comprehensive document preparation and coordination
  • Renewal reminders for uninterrupted work authorization
Medical, EPF & PERKESO Compliance
  • FOMEMA medical examination scheduling within 30 days of arrival
  • PLKS and i-Kad issuance assistance
  • Mandatory EPF (2% employer / 2% employee) from Oct 2025
  • PERKESO social security registration for full legal compliance

From approvals to ongoing compliance, our experts handle every process so employers can hire confidently under Malaysia’s 2025 Foreign Worker Framework.

Chat Compliance Advisor View Recruitment Services Call for Compliance Advice
No. Male Indonesian workers are permitted in all sectors except manufacturing. Female workers are allowed in all sectors.
  • Male Indonesian workers: Not allowed in manufacturing
  • Female Indonesian workers: Allowed in all sectors

Approved countries (15):

No. Country Male Female Allowed Sectors
1Thailand✓✓Manufacturing, Construction, Plantation, Agriculture, Services, Mining & Quarrying
2Cambodia✓✓
3Nepal✓✓
4Myanmar✓✓
5Lao PDR✓✓
6Vietnam✓✓
7Philippines✓✗
8Pakistan✓✓
9Sri Lanka✓✓
10Bangladesh✓✓
11Turkmenistan✓✓
12Uzbekistan✓✓
13Kazakhstan✓✓
14India✓✓Services (restaurants only), Construction (high-tension), Agriculture, Plantation
15Indonesia✓✓Manufacturing (female only), Construction, Plantation, Agriculture, Services, Mining
Special Restrictions:
• Indonesia: Males prohibited in manufacturing
• Philippines: Female workers not allowed
• India: Limited to specific sectors only
No. Indian workers cannot work in manufacturing.
  • Services: Restaurants only (cooks)
  • Construction: High-tension cables only
  • Agriculture
  • Plantation

Approved sectors:

Sector Specific Roles
ManufacturingAll manufacturing roles
ConstructionAll construction work
PlantationPalm oil, rubber, etc.
AgricultureFarming and cultivation
ServicesRestaurant (Cooks only), Cleaning & Sanitation, Resort Islands
Typical processing time: 4–6 weeks (with complete documentation)

Timeline breakdown:

  • Document preparation: 3–5 days
  • Medical examinations: 7–10 days
  • Government processing: 14–21 days
  • Visa issuance: 3–7 days
  • Travel arrangements: 2–5 days

Factors affecting processing time:

  • Document completeness and accuracy
  • Country of origin
  • Sector and quota availability
  • Government holiday periods
Generally, no. Workers are bound to their employer under their work permit.

Exceptional circumstances:

  • Company closure or bankruptcy
  • Legal disputes or contract violations
  • Safety or welfare concerns
  • Family reunification cases

Required transfer process:

  • Written consent from current employer
  • Approval from new employer
  • Immigration Department approval
  • Valid justification for transfer
Personal Documents
  • Valid passport (min. 18 months)
  • Birth certificate
  • Educational certificates
  • Skills certificates (if any)
  • Police clearance certificate
Official Documents
  • Medical examination report
  • Employment contract
  • Passport-sized photographs
  • Translated & authenticated documents
  • Insurance documents
Note: Document verification, authentication, and translation services are handled to meet Malaysian requirements.
Submit passport, current PLKS copy, visa sticker, FOMEMA report, employer documents, and proof of levy & insurance at least 30 days before expiry.
FOMEMA screening is conducted at approved clinics within 30 days of arrival and at required intervals. Results are linked electronically to immigration systems.

Comprehensive end-to-end services:

Pre-Arrival Services
  • Worker recruitment & screening
  • Permit applications (PLKS/VDR)
  • Medical examinations
  • Document processing & authentication
  • Visa applications
Post-Arrival Services
  • Airport pickup & onboarding
  • Accommodation arrangement
  • Insurance coverage (SPIKPA/FWCS)
  • Monthly payroll management
  • Permit renewals & extensions
  • 24/7 support & welfare monitoring
  • Orientation on workplace safety
  • Company rules & compliance
  • Skill-specific training (machinery, hospitality, etc.)
  • Language and cultural integration support

Employers must comply with:

  • Immigration Act 1959/63 (Act 155)
  • Employment Act 1955 (Act 265)
  • Foreign Workers Management (PLKS/VDR) regulations
  • FOMEMA medical screening requirements
  • Levy & insurance payments (SPIKPA/FWCS)
  • Fines up to RM50,000 per worker
  • Imprisonment up to 5 years
  • Deportation of foreign workers
  • Blacklisting of employers
Maintain valid permits, pay wages and levies, provide Act 446-compliant housing, insure workers (SPIKPA/FWCS), and report renewals promptly.

Government levy rates vary by sector (annual payment):

Sector Annual Levy (RM)
Manufacturing1,850
Construction1,850
Plantation640
Agriculture640
Services (All Categories)1,850
💡 Important: These rates are subject to change. We monitor updates closely and ensure your compliance automatically.
  • 💰 Fines up to RM50,000 per worker
  • ⚖️ Imprisonment for repeat offences
  • ❌ Business license suspension
Penalties include fines, quota suspension, license revocation, and blacklisting — depending on the nature of the violation.
Report abscondment/termination to Immigration within 24–48 hours. Keep documentation and follow repatriation procedures.
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