How to get a work visa in Malaysia as a Colombian citizen
Complete guide to all available work permit pathways, requirements, costs, and processing times.
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Malaysia offers Colombian workers 3 distinct visa pathways to live and work legally. Colombians are valued for a strong passport, a growing bilingual tech workforce, and Spanish-language ties to Europe. Applications are made at the Malaysia diplomatic mission serving Bogotá.
Phù hợp nhất cho ai
- ✓Professionals on an Employment Pass
- ✓Remote workers via the De Rantau digital-nomad pass
- ✓Electronics and technology specialists
- ✓Islamic finance and shared-service professionals
- ✓Anyone seeking a low cost of living in Asia
Available visa pathways
The Employment Pass (EP) Category I is Malaysia's premium work visa for senior professionals and executives earning RM10,000 or more per month (RM120,000 annually as of early 2026). It is issued for a maximum contract duration of 60 months and is the most flexible of the EP categories, allowing holders to bring dependents and, in certain circumstances, switch employers without leaving the country. The EP is administered through the Expatriate Services Division (ESD) online portal and the newer ePASS system, which has been gradually replacing the legacy process since 2024.
The Employment Pass Category II targets mid-level professionals earning between RM5,000 and RM9,999 per month. It is the most commonly issued EP category in Malaysia and covers a broad range of professional roles in technology, engineering, finance, and other knowledge-economy sectors. The pass is granted for up to 24 months and is renewable, subject to the employer demonstrating that the position still requires foreign expertise.
DE Rantau is Malaysia's digital nomad visa, launched under the Malaysia Digital initiative (formerly MSC Malaysia). It allows remote workers, freelancers, and self-employed digital professionals to live and work in Malaysia for up to 12 months, with the option to renew. The program is specifically designed for individuals who earn income from clients or employers outside Malaysia and do not take local employment.
💡 route.tipFor: Have your Bogotá police clearance certificate ready, and check whether your degree and supporting documents need to be apostilled or legalised for use in Malaysia.
Application timeline for Malaysia
Employer registers with ESD portal
Your employer registers the company and the expatriate post with the Expatriate Services Division (ESD) online portal.
1-2 weeksSubmit EP application via ESD
Your employer submits the Employment Pass application with your qualifications, job offer, and passport details.
1-2 daysApproval and ePASS issuance
Immigration Malaysia processes the application. Approved passes are issued digitally via the ePASS system (no physical sticker).
2-4 weeksTravel to Malaysia
Enter Malaysia with your ePASS approval. Present the approval letter at immigration.
VariesFOMEMA medical exam
Complete the mandatory FOMEMA medical examination within 30 days of arrival at an approved clinic.
1-3 daysCommon required documents
Documents commonly required for a Malaysia work visa for Colombians:
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| Item | Amount | In COP |
|---|---|---|
| route.cost.visaFee | RM 1000-2000 | $911,111 |
| route.cost.minSalary | RM 120,000 | $109,333,333/yr |
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Apply at the Malaysia diplomatic mission serving Bogotá. Check the official embassy or visa application centre website for appointment booking, fees and current document requirements.
Hướng dẫn liên quan
Làm việc và sinh sống tại Malaysia
Các ngành tuyển dụng chính
Malaysia hires international talent in electronics and semiconductor manufacturing, Islamic finance, shared-service and business-process centres, tourism, and palm-oil and commodity industries.
Chi phí sinh hoạt và chất lượng cuộc sống
Malaysia has one of the lowest costs of living among developed Asian destinations - a one-bedroom apartment in Kuala Lumpur is around MYR 2,500 a month. English is widely spoken, healthcare is good value, and the country is well connected for regional travel.
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Frequently asked questions
What salary is needed for a Employment Pass Category I in Malaysia?
The minimum salary is RM 240,000 per year.
How long does it take to get a work visa in Malaysia?
Processing times range from 2 to 4 weeks.
Do I need a job offer for a Malaysia work visa?
Not always. DE Rantau does not require one.
Can I bring my family on a Malaysia work visa?
Yes. 2 of 3 visa types allow dependants.
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