Internship, Secondment, and Training Visa Options in Malaysia (2025)

Malaysia is a vibrant destination that offers diverse internship opportunities for foreign students and professionals. To accommodate such programs, the country has outlined two main visa categories for internships: the Professional Visit Pass and the Social Visit Pass - Internship (SVP-I). Each pass caters to specific needs and requirements. Here’s a comprehensive look at these visa options:

1. Professional Visit Pass

This visa category is designed for specialized roles requiring expertise transfer, research, or training within Malaysia. It also includes student internships. Below are the detailed requirements and conditions for this pass:

Eligibility and Conditions:

• Permitted Categories: This pass is tailored for individuals engaging in:

  • Expertise Transfer

  • Research

  • Training at Expatriate Services Division (ESD)-registered companies

  • Volunteering

  • Exhibitions

  • Student Internships (applicable for Foreign Embassies, ESD-registered companies, and hotels)

• Age Limit: Applicants must be at least 27 years old.

• Non-Salaried: It is important to note that holders of the Professional Visit Pass are not allowed to receive a salary during their stay. The applicant may receive a stipend or continue to be payrolled from abroad. 

• One Project/Contract Only: This pass is strictly limited to one project or contract.

• Hotel Trainees: Special provisions exist for hotel internships:

  • For hotels rated 4 stars and above, a maximum of 6 months internship is permitted, with a cap of 25 trainees.

  • For 3-star hotels, the internship program is restricted to Indonesian trainees only.

2. Social Visit Pass - Internship (SVP-I)

The SVP-I is another option for interns looking to gain valuable experience in Malaysia. However, it operates under different parameters compared to the Professional Visit Pass.

Eligibility and Conditions:

• Length of Pass: The SVP-I is valid for 3 months, with the possibility of renewal depending on the validity of the applicant’s Principal Pass.

• Restrictions on Dependents: Dependents are not allowed under this pass category.

• Internship must be related to course of study

Choosing the Right Pass

When applying for an internship visa in Malaysia, understanding your eligibility and the program’s requirements is crucial. While the Professional Visit Pass is suitable for those with expertise and extensive professional training, the Social Visit Pass - Internship (SVP-I) offers a shorter, more flexible option for younger individuals pursuing internships.

Both options reflect Malaysia’s commitment to fostering global knowledge exchange and professional development. By aligning your application with the appropriate visa type, you can pave the way for a seamless and enriching internship experience in this dynamic country.

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