Malaysia Launches a New One-Year Investor Pass with Fast-Track Digital Application

Malaysia has introduced a new investor-focused visa program allowing eligible foreign business travellers to stay in the country for up to six months, with a possible six-month extension.

Officially called the Long-Term Social Visit Pass for Business Visitors or Foreign Investors, the initiative is now live. It offers a digital-first application route aimed at reducing red tape and speeding up entry for those exploring or managing investments in Malaysia.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail announced the pass during a parliamentary session on March 6. The pass reflects a strategic push to improve Malaysia’s business environment by addressing delays and procedural complexities.

Applications are processed through the Xpats Gateway system, an end-to-end digital platform designed to centralize and simplify the immigration workflow.

Three Investor Categories Eligible and Minimal Documentation Requirements

The new investor pass applies to three distinct groups:

• New investors exploring opportunities in Malaysia
• Foreign investors currently engaging with Malaysian government bodies
• Existing investors with ongoing or already-established business projects

Each group benefits from a streamlined application process with a guaranteed five-day turnaround. The required documentation varies by category but remains minimal.

All applicants must provide a passport valid for at least one year and, depending on the category, may need to submit corporate incorporation certificates or audited financials.

Applications are supported by investment agencies and qualify for multiple-entry visas, making it easier for businesspeople operating across Southeast Asia to manage cross-border travel during the validity of the pass.

Malaysian authorities hope to make investor entry more efficient and transparent by shifting to a direct-access, single-window system and removing agent intermediaries.