Studying in Malaysia offers great opportunities not only for education but also for gaining valuable work experience. International students can work part-time during their studies under certain conditions, helping to support themselves financially and build skills for their future careers.
Get Work GuidanceUnderstand the regulations before starting work in Malaysia.
Up to 20 hours per week during semester breaks of more than 7 days.
Restaurants, petrol kiosks, mini-markets, hotels (excluding cashier, entertainment, or Guest Relation Officer roles).
Cashiers, singers, masseurs, musicians, Guest Relation Officers (GROs), and other restricted positions.
Prior approval from the Malaysian Immigration Department is mandatory before starting any work.
Follow these steps to legally work while studying in Malaysia.
Obtain a formal job offer specifying your role, salary, and working hours.
Contact your educational institution to initiate the application process and get support.
Your university will assist in submitting the work approval request to the Immigration Department.
Your student pass must be valid and officially endorsed to include permission to work.
Continue your career journey in Malaysia after graduation.
After completing your studies, you may be eligible for a 12-month Graduate Pass (social visit pass) to search for employment in Malaysia, available for certain nationalities.
Once you secure a job, your employer can sponsor an Employment Pass (Category III), allowing you to work legally in Malaysia, with options to renew.
Make the most of your work experience while staying compliant with Malaysian regulations.
Our expert counsellors can guide you through the work permit application process and help you understand your rights and opportunities!
Common questions about part-time work rights for international students.
Yes, with prior approval, students can work up to 20 hours per week during semester breaks longer than 7 days in specified sectors.
Allowed sectors include restaurants, petrol kiosks, mini-markets, and hotels, excluding cashier and entertainment roles.
You need a job offer, then your university helps apply to Immigration for approval to work legally.
No, part-time work is permitted only during semester breaks exceeding 7 days.
You may apply for a Graduate Pass valid for 12 months to find employment. After that, an employer-sponsored Employment Pass is required to continue working.
Cashiers, singers, masseurs, musicians, and Guest Relation Officers (GROs) are prohibited roles.
Yes, always carry your student pass and work approval documents to avoid legal issues.
