Study in Malaysia: Are Students Allowed to Work Part-time?

For international students, it is important for students to work part-time in order to manage living costs while studying abroad. If you plan to Study in Malaysia, you might be thinking if Study in Malaysia: Are students allowed to work part-time? The answer is yes, international students are generally permitted to work.

The Malaysian government imposes specific and strict limitations on when and where you can work in Malaysia with a student visa. You must follow these rules precisely to avoid jeopardizing your immigration status. 

Can You Work Part Time in Malaysia? Rules and Restrictions

The Malaysian Immigration Department has strict guidelines regarding when and where international students can work. If you plan to work part-time in Malaysia to help cover the Living cost in Malaysia for international students, you must follow these regulations:

1. Working Hours

You can work for a maximum of 20 hours per week. Part-time employment is prohibited during active academic weeks. You are only permitted to work during semester breaks or official holidays.

2. Job Sector Limitations

International students on a student visa in Malaysia are restricted to four specific sectors. Sectors such as Hotels, positions like singers, masseurs, musicians, or Guest Relations Officers (GROs). Restaurants, excluding the position of cashier. You can also work in Petrol Kiosks or Mini-Markets

3. Application and Approval Process

The ability to work part-time in Malaysia is not automatic upon arrival. Students must get approval from the Department of Immigration:

1. The application must be made through your educational institution (university or college).

2. You must provide a letter from your institution confirming the dates of your semester break. You should also have an offer letter from the prospective employer detailing the working hours and salary.

3. You (the student) must be present with a representative from your institution when the application is submitted to the Immigration Department.

4. Approval and extension of the part-time work permit are dependent on maintaining good academic achievement.

Students need to understand these limitations. While the work can certainly offset some of the Living cost in Malaysia for international students, it should not be relied upon to cover the majority of the Tuition fees.

Can International Students Work in Malaysia After Graduation?

For students who have successfully completed their studies, the options for staying and working long-term require a complete visa change.

1. The Graduate Pass (Short-Term Stay)

Malaysia introduced the Graduate Pass to allow fresh degree-level graduates to remain in the country temporarily.

• The duration is up to 12 months for post-graduation.

• It is helpful for students who want to explore job opportunities, intern, or travel.

• Eligibility is restricted to graduates from specific countries and requires a local sponsor and personal bond.

2. Employment Pass (Long-Term Work)

To work long-term, you must have full-time employment and transition to an Employment Pass (EP) or a Professional Visit Pass (PVP).

• The most important rule is that you cannot apply for the Employment Pass yourself. Your Malaysian employer must sponsor and apply on your behalf.

• Employment Passes are categorized e.g., Category I, II. It is based on salary, skill level, and contract duration, with minimum monthly salary requirements.

Cost of Studying in Malaysia for International Students

Malaysia is a good choice, particularly for Indian students. This is because of its relatively low cost of education and living compared to Western countries.

Tuition fees in Malaysia for international students are competitive. Here are the tuition fees in Malaysia for International Students:

(Note: RM 1,000 is approximately ₹17,500 as of late 2025.)

The estimated Living cost in Malaysia for international students is manageable.

• Students should budget between RM 1,500 and RM 2,500 per month, excluding tuition. This amount covers accommodation, food, utilities, and transport.

• Local food is inexpensive, and public transport is reliable. This can help you keep costs low even in major cities like Kuala Lumpur.