What are the permitted sectors?
There is no exhaustive list of permitted sectors to hire expatriates in Sarawak. Generally, the industries that allow the hiring of expatriates in Sarawak and Malaysia are:
| 🧑🏽💻Digital Economy | 👷🏽Oil, Gas and Energy | 🏖️Tourism | 💳Financial Services |
|---|---|---|---|
| ☎️Communication,Content and Infrastructure | 💼Business Services | 🌴Palm Oil | 🔌Electronics & Electrical |
| 🛒Wholesale and Retail | 📚Education | 🩺Healthcare | 🌾Agriculture |
Certain sectors are also considered on a case by case basis depending on the need of the State. The Sarawak government also allows work permits for charitable organizations and religious activities.
Types of Work Permits Available
There are a few types of work permits in Sarawak, and there are less categories than in West Malaysia.
| Purpose | Duration | Immigration Pass | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Long term employment | 1 - 5 years | Employment Pass 1 or 2 | Earning above RM3,000 or RM5,000 and minimum age of 27 years old |
| Short term employment | 6 months or 12 months | Professional Visit Pass | Earning above RM3,000 and minimum age of 27 years old |
| Spouse of Sarawakian | 1 year | Spouse Programme Employment Pass | Earning above RM3,000 and existing marriage to Sarawakian |
Each applicant must demonstrate or satisfy the requirement of special skills**.**
Do West Malaysians and Sabahans also need work permits?
Yes, any non-Sarawakian Malaysian will also require work permits to work in Sarawak. The passes above are also available to West Malaysians and Sabahan applicants.
Tell us what you need
Describe your situation and we’ll tell you which pass fits it, what it costs and how long it takes.
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