Relocating for work is a family decision, and the Dependant Pass (DP) is the mechanism that allows your loved ones to join you in Malaysia. The DP is strictly tied to the 'Principal' pass holder—usually the parent or spouse who holds an Employment Pass (Category I or II) or an MM2H visa. The validity of the DP is always synchronized with the Principal's pass. If the Principal's visa is cancelled or expires, the Dependant Passes are automatically cancelled as well. This ensures that the family unit remains together under a single sponsorship umbrella. Eligibility for the DP is limited to immediate family members. This includes legally married spouses and children under the age of 21 (including legally adopted children). For children over 21 or for parents of the Principal, a separate Long-Term Social Visit Pass (LTSVP) must be applied for, as they do not qualify for the standard DP. The process is managed through the same portal as the Principal's visa (ESD or MDEC), making it relatively efficient to apply for the whole family at once.
Rights and Restrictions for Dependants
It is important to understand what a Dependant Pass holder can and cannot do while in Malaysia: * Education: Children on a DP are permitted to study in primary and secondary international schools without needing a separate Student Pass. However, for higher education (University), they must usually convert to a Student Pass. * Work: Holders of a DP are NOT allowed to work in Malaysia by default. If a spouse finds a job, they must usually cancel their DP and apply for their own Employment Pass. There is an exception for spouses of Category I EP holders, who can apply for a work endorsement in certain specialized cases, but this is rare. * Daily Life: The DP allows for multiple entries into the country, meaning family members can travel freely for holidays without affecting their residency status.
Marriage Certificate
Must be translated into English and officially certified by your embassy or a public notary.
Birth Certificates
Required for all children, also needing official translation and certification.
Passport Pages
A full copy of the dependant's passport (all pages) is required for the application.
Timing
It is often faster to apply for the DP *after* the Principal has arrived and had their sticker affixed, although joint applications are possible.