The Long-Term Social Visit Pass (LTSVP) is a versatile category of visa used for various social reasons that require a stay longer than the standard 90 days. Its most common use is for the foreign spouses of Malaysian citizens. Unlike the Employment Pass, which is for work, the LTSVP is for 'social' residence. It offers stability for families, allowing spouses to live together without the constant need for 'visa runs' to neighboring countries. The pass is usually granted for a period of 6 months to 5 years and is renewable. For foreign spouses, the LTSVP is a crucial step towards permanent integration. While it is fundamentally a social pass, the Malaysian government allows spouses on this pass to work under certain conditions. This is a significant benefit, as it allows the spouse to contribute to the household without requiring a separate Employment Pass quota from a company.
The Spouse Pass and Work Endorsement
If you are the foreign spouse of a Malaysian, the LTSVP application requires proof of a legal marriage registered in Malaysia. Once you have the pass, you can apply for a 'Work Endorsement' (permis de travail). This is a free stamp placed in your passport by the Immigration Department. To get it, you simply need a job offer letter from a Malaysian company. There is no minimum salary requirement, and the company does not need an expat quota. This makes spouses on LTSVP very attractive to local employers due to the lack of administrative overhead.
Parents of Students
Foreign parents of children studying in Malaysian international schools or universities can apply for an LTSVP to reside with their children. This is often referred to as a 'Guardian Pass'.
Stability
The pass is often issued for 1 year initially, and subsequent renewals can be for 2 or 3 years depending on the officer's discretion and the history of the applicant.
Security Bond
A security bond (refundable deposit) is usually required, the amount of which varies by nationality.