Can employers bring domestic helpers (maids) from West Malaysia to Sarawak?

Many West Malaysian employers migrating to Sarawak for work-related purposes may relocate with their pre-existing domestic helpers. However, it is common for West Malaysian employers to run into issues bringing their domestic helpers to Sarawak. 

Secondly, there are also Sarawakian employers hiring domestic helpers from West Malaysia due to competitive prices or policies in the Klang Valley. 

However, West Malaysia issued permits cannot be used in Sarawak. Sarawakian employers can seek to transfer their helpers to Sarawak, if relocating back to Sarawak. Unfortunately, this option does not exist for West Malaysian employers.

These are common questions among Sarawak based households, and the right answer lie in understanding how immigration rules work. Because Sarawak has autonomy over its own immigration matters, the type of work permit issued is very important. Hiring under the wrong jurisdiction can create complications for both the employer and the helper.

Difference Between West Malaysian and Sarawak Work Permits

1. West Malaysian e-Pass for domestic helpers 

• Helpers hired under a West Malaysian e-Pass are only permitted to enter Sarawak for 30 days per entry.

• They cannot legally reside and work in Sarawak beyond this period.

• This restriction makes the West Malaysian permit unsuitable for long-term household employment in Sarawak.

  
  

2. Sarawak e-Pass for domestic helpers

• Helpers hired directly under Sarawak Immigration are fully authorised to live and work in the state.

• These helpers can also travel to West Malaysia without restrictions on duration of stay.

• This arrangement offers both legal compliance and flexibility for families who may need their helpers to accompany them to Peninsular Malaysia.

Why This Matters for Household Employers in Sarawak

• Legality: Ensures the helper’s employment is recognised under Sarawak’s immigration laws.

• Continuity: Prevents disruptions that can occur if a helper’s stay is limited to short visits.

• Flexibility: Provides freedom of travel between Sarawak and West Malaysia, which can be useful for family trips or temporary stays.

Key Takeaway

For Sarawak-based employers, the practical choice is to hire helpers with work permits issued by Sarawak Immigration. This avoids complications linked to West Malaysian permits and ensures that both employer and helper enjoy a smooth, stable, and legally secure employment relationship.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ 1: Can I hire a helper in West Malaysia and bring her to work in Sarawak? 

No. A helper with a West Malaysian e-Pass can only enter Sarawak as a visitor for up to 30 days. She cannot legally stay and work in Sarawak long-term under that permit.

FAQ 2: Can a helper with a Sarawak work permit travel to West Malaysia? 

Yes. Helpers hired under Sarawak Immigration can travel to West Malaysia without time restrictions. But it is recommended that the permanent place of employment remains in Sarawak. 

FAQ 3: What happens if I hire a helper under a permit issued by West Malaysia in Sarawak?

The worker is more at risk of overstaying or being denied entry at the Sarawak entry point.

FAQ 4: Can I transfer a West Malaysian helper’s permit to Sarawak Immigration? 

In most cases, a new application under Sarawak Immigration is required and this is only possible if the employer or sponsor is Sarawakian. If a West Malaysian employer is relocating to Sarawak, they will require their own permit under the Expatriate Services Division. Expatriates must sponsor permits of their domestic helper under the Expatriate Services Division. Transfers between the Domestic Helper Unit and the Expatriate Unit is currently not possible. The change of location transfer processes may change from time to time and you are advised to check with the Sarawak Immigration Department on such a transfer before making any arrangements. 

FAQ 5: Why does Sarawak have different rules from West Malaysia? 

Sarawak and Sabah have special autonomy over immigration matters. This means work permits issued in West Malaysia are not automatically valid in Sarawak, and vice versa.

Our website and its contents are provided for general information purposes only and nothing on this website or in its contents is intended to provide professional advice. Please contact us at info@migratesafe.org or +6082-295175 for more information.