Malaysia Dependent Visa - Definitive Guide

The Malaysian dependent permit is an endorsement that lets individuals enter the country as a dependent of a Malaysian employee or student pass holder for a long duration. A Malaysia dependent visa for Indians is a mandatory requirement if you are going as the immediate family member of them. The visa is issued as a normal sticker visa. It can allow a stay duration of up to 1 year.  Something to note is that being a type of the ‘Visa with Reference’ (VDR), your dependee or sponsor will have to procure a letter of approval from the Immigration Department in Malaysia first. 

Applications for the Malaysia dependent visa for Indian citizens have to be made through a Visa Application Centre (VAC). However, before starting the application, you must ensure that you are eligible to apply for the ‘dependent’ category, You can then proceed to make the application as follows - 

1. Visit the website of the Malaysian Visa Application Centre (VAC).
2. Download the application form and fill in all the details. 
3. Proceed to book an appointment at the VAC for the application submission. 
4. Visit the appointment centre with the application form, documents, and the fees. 
5. Submit your application at the VAC.

Ensure that you provide true information and genuine documents. Providing false information and fake documents can lead to visa rejection. In case you are facing difficulties in the process or if you are confused about the requirements, you may use the services of a travel agency.

To apply for the Malaysia Dependent visa from India, you must meet the following eligibility criteria - 

• You must be living in India while lodging the application. If you are living on a residence permit in another nation, you will have to apply to the respective authority there.
• You must hold a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of your entry in the country. 
• You must possess an approval from the Immigration Department in Malaysia.
• The dependent permit is only allowed if the family member is a spouse, parent, or child. Other relations are not permitted under this category.
• If the sponsor is a student, they must be on a Masters level or PhD level course. Bachelor degree or lower cannot apply. 

As per the Malaysia dependent visa requirements from India, the following documents must be submitted for a successful application - 

• Fully filled and signed application form.
• 2 photos as per the specifications. 
• Proof of relationship such as birth certificate, marriage certificate, etc. 
• ‘Employment pass’ or ‘student pass’ copy of the sponsor.
• If you are applying at a VAC outside your jurisdiction, you must also provide Aadhar card, rent agreements, Marriage certificates, etc. 
• Approval letter from the Immigration Department in Malaysia.
• Confirmed flight tickets. 

As per the Malaysia dependent visa photo requirements, the photographs submitted must meet the following specifications -

• 35mm X 50mm
• Colour: Coloured
• Head must occupy the central position
• Must be captured within the last 3 months
• Background: Solid, plain white or grey
• 80% face coverage
• Neutral expression
• Glasses: Thin framed and prescription glasses only
• Headgears - only for religious reasons
• Facial hair - permitted

The time for processing of the dependent visa depends on the volume of applications at the embassy, the number of entries, your previous travel history, staff availability at the VAC, and so on. Normally, it can take up to 7 days to process the application. It can also take some extra time for getting the letter of approval. As a result, ensure that you apply well in advance. 

The fees for the dependent permit depends on the foreign exchange rates as well as the country of application. It also includes other service charges levied by the VAC, as well any delivery charges if you choose that option. You must check the exact amount before starting the application.

Upon submitting your ‘dependent visa’ application at the respective VAC, it is then forwarded to the High Commission of Malaysia in New Delhi or to the Consulate General of Malaysia in Mumbai or Chennai as per the jurisdiction. The respective mission will then process your application. Note that the VAC has no influence over the decision making of the visa. They are simply in charge of the administrative part. 

Once your application has been successful, you can collect your passport from the VAC, or have them deliver it to you for an additional charge. 

You can check the status of your application by entering your passport number and date of birth here. Alternately, you can simply contact the travel agency you have applied through. 

On successfully obtaining your dependent pass approved, you must keep in mind the following few points to ensure that you have a hassle-free journey -

Before you travel - 

• Note the validity and stay duration mentioned on your visa. You must not stay in the country beyond this period.
• Carry all your travel documents before you travel to the country. 

At the border

• You must show your passport with the visa to the immigration officer. Your entry stamp will be stamped on the passport.
• You may be asked to show the copy of the other documents submitted as part of your application. 
• You may be asked about the basic details of your visit including details on your family members. Ensure that you answer honestly and without any hesitance. 

When you enter Malaysia

• While you are on a dependent pass, you cannot work on the payroll of a Malaysian company. You may apply for an employment pass if you want to work.
• On entering Malaysia, take your passport to the Immigration Department or to the respective employer/school to get the dependent sticker stamped.
• Carry a copy of your passport and visa while you are travelling within the country.
• You must respect the culture and customs of the country, as well as abide by the immigration laws during your stay. 
• Follow the laws in the country. Drug trafficking and use in Malaysia is a death penalty offence.