What is the EMGS System?
Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) is the official body, working alongside the Malaysian Immigration Department, responsible for processing and issuing Student Passes for international students in Malaysia.
Required Documents for Application
- Official Offer Letter from the university.
- Full passport copy (all pages including the cover). The passport must have a minimum validity of 18 months.
- Official passport-sized photograph with a white background (must adhere strictly to EMGS photo guidelines).
- Previous academic certificates and transcripts.
- Health Declaration Form.
Steps to Obtain Your Visa (VAL) - Pre-Arrival
- Get Admission: You must first receive an official Offer Letter from a recognized Malaysian university.
- Medical Check-up (Pre-arrival): Some nationalities require a medical check-up at approved overseas clinics before initiating the application.
- Application Submission: The university (or sometimes the student) uploads the documents and pays the visa processing fees to the EMGS system.
- Track Application: You can track your application status via the EMGS website or mobile app. When the progress reaches 32% - 70% (depending on nationality), the Visa Approval Letter (e-VAL) is electronically issued.
- Single Entry Visa (SEV): After receiving the e-VAL, students head to the nearest Malaysian embassy (or apply via the eVisa portal) to obtain a Single Entry Visa to enter Malaysia.
Post-Arrival Procedures in Malaysia
- Immigration Clearance: Upon arrival at the airport, you must present your e-VAL, SEV, and Offer Letter to the immigration officer. A university representative will usually be there to receive you (Meet and Greet).
- Post-Arrival Medical Screening: Within 7 days of arrival, you must undergo a mandatory medical screening at an EMGS-approved clinic in Malaysia.
- Issuance of Student Pass & i-Kad: After passing the medical screening, the university will submit your passport to the Immigration Department to endorse the annual Student Pass sticker and issue your international student identity card (i-Kad).
Estimated Fees
The EMGS visa processing fees (which typically include the medical screening, basic insurance, and immigration fees) range between RM 1,500 and RM 2,500. This is usually paid to the university to process on your behalf.