Malaysia: Minimum Salary Requirements for Employment Pass To Be Increased

Update May 28, 2026: Malaysia’s Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) has confirmed that eligible Employment Pass Category III applications within the Global Business Services (GBS) sector for roles requiring native or near-native language proficiency will continue to be assessed under the current salary thresholds until June 1, 2027. Eligibility remains subject to MDEC assessment and verification requirements. 

MDEC has also indicated that companies anticipating significant operational impacts from the revised policy may engage directly with the agency for further discussions. Any flexibility or exemptions will remain subject to applicable policy requirements and approval by the relevant authorities.  

January 15, 2026: Malaysia’s Ministry of Home Affairs has announced revisions to the minimum salary requirements for Employment Pass (EP) Categories I, II and III, which will take effect on June 1, 2026. Under the revised framework, the minimum salary for EP Category I will increase from MYR 10,000 to MYR 20,000 and above, while EP Category II will rise from MYR 5,000 – MYR 9,999 to MYR 10,000 – MYR 19,999. EP Category III will also be adjusted, with the minimum salary increasing from MYR 3,000 – MYR 4,999 to MYR 5,000 – MYR 9,999.  

All new and renewal Employment Pass applications filed on or after June 1, 2026 must meet the updated salary thresholds. Employers are advised to proactively review and adjust their foreign knowledge worker workforce planning and compensation frameworks to minimize potential disruptions to future assignments and renewal filings. 

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen.