Hiring expatriates in Malaysia begins with a critical first step: registering your company with the Expatriate Services Division (ESD), a control unit under the Immigration Department of Malaysia.
The process involves stringent document requirements and specific eligibility criteria. To help you streamline your application and avoid common delays, we’ve compiled the definitive document checklist and answered the most frequent questions from employers like you.
The Essential ESD Company Registration Document Checklist
Ensure you have all these documents prepared before starting your application. Missing or incomplete documents are the number one cause of processing delays.
| No. | Document Description | Notes / Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Directors' ID Copies | Copy of MyKad (Malaysian ID) or Passport Biodata Page for every director registered with SSM. |
| 2 | Company Business Profile | Must include the following components: i. Background of company ii.Business activities iii. Organization structure iv. Location of company / number of branches (include branch addresses) v.Photo of the premise (front and interior) vi.Photo of the products / services offered |
| 3 | Latest Phone Bill | The most recent copy of the company's telephone bill (for the registered office). |
| 4 | Premise Proof | Copy of the Tenancy Agreement (rental) or Sales & Purchase Agreement (ownership) for the business premise. |
| 5 | SSM Form 9 or Section 14 | Latest Certificate of Incorporation / Notice of Registration (refer to Company Secretary). |
| 6 | SSM Form 24 or Section 78 | Latest Return of Allotment of Shares / Notification of Change in Register of Members (details of shareholders) (refer to Company Secretary). |
| 7 | SSM Form 49 or Section 51 | Latest Particulars of Directors / Notification of Appointment/Cessation of Director (refer to Company Secretary). |
| 8 | SSM e-Info | Latest official company profile extract from SSM (refer to Company Secretary). |
| 9 | Audited Financials | The company's latest Audited Financial Report (refer to Accountants/Auditors). For new companies with no audited financial statement yet, an explanation letter will be required. |
| 10 | Local Authority License (PBT) | Copy of the local municipal/town council license (e.g., business license, signboard license, if applicable). |
Need help navigating the complexity of registering your company with the Expatriate Services Division? Find out more about our services here.
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