The 5 Milestones of the Malaysian Student Visa
Stage 1: University Submission to EMGS STAR System
3 - 5 Business DaysOnce you accept your university offer letter and pay the initial EMGS processing fee (approx. RM 2,500 - 3,000 depending on university), the university international office compiles your documents and submits them to the EMGS STAR portal.
Stage 2: EMGS Document & Health Screening Audit
7 - 10 Business DaysEMGS case officers verify your academic certificate authenticity, English language qualification (IELTS/PTE or English medium certificate), program MQA accreditation, and pre-arrival medical declaration form.
Stage 3: eVAL (Visa Approval Letter) Issuance
🌟 Official Visa ApprovalThe Immigration Department of Malaysia (Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia) completes security clearance and issues the electronic Visa Approval Letter (eVAL). With this document, you are legally approved to enter Malaysia as an international student!
Stage 4: Single Entry Visa (SEV) Endorsement
3 - 7 Business DaysStudents from visa-required countries (such as Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, China) apply for the Single Entry Visa (SEV) through the official Malaysian e-Visa portal or the Malaysian High Commission. Unilink assists you with this application.
Stage 5: Post-Arrival Medical & Student Pass Sticker
Final 100% Yellow PassWithin 7 to 10 days of arriving in Malaysia, the university international office takes you to an EMGS panel clinic for the mandatory post-arrival medical checkup. Upon passing, your passport is submitted to Immigration to receive the multi-entry 1-year renewable Student Pass sticker.
Required Document Checklist for EMGS
Frequently Asked Questions About EMGS
How long does the entire EMGS visa process take?
From the day the university uploads your files to EMGS, it typically takes between 3 to 5 weeks to receive your 70% electronic Visa Approval Letter (eVAL). We recommend submitting applications at least 6 to 8 weeks before your course intake date.
Can international students work part-time in Malaysia?
Yes. International students in Malaysia are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during semester breaks and holidays of more than 7 days in designated sectors like restaurants, petrol stations, mini-markets, and hotels.
Can I bring my spouse or family on a Dependent Pass?
Students enrolled in Master's or PhD degree programs are permitted by Malaysian Immigration to bring their spouse and children on a Dependent Pass. Unilink's KL office handles dependent pass processing.