Moving to Malaysia? How to Land a Job as a Foreigner
If you’re a foreigner looking for jobs in Malaysia, you’ll need the right strategies to secure a work visa and impress employers. Here’s your step-by-step guide to getting hired!
By Matt Khoo on 2025-02-23 at 10:51 AM
Updated on 2025-04-29 at 9:53 AM
Can Foreigners Work in Malaysia?
Yes! Malaysia welcomes skilled foreign professionals, especially in industries like IT, engineering, finance, digital marketing, and education.
However, landing a job as a foreigner comes with challenges, as many employers prefer hiring locals first.
To boost your chances of getting hired, you need to understand the job market, visa requirements, and the most effective job search strategies.
1. Understand Malaysia’s Job Market for Foreigners
Before you start applying, it’s crucial to know which industries are open to hiring foreigners.
🔹 High-demand jobs for foreigners in Malaysia:
✔ Technology & IT: Software developers, cybersecurity experts, and AI specialists.
✔ Engineering: Civil, electrical, and mechanical engineers are in demand.
✔ Finance & Accounting: Roles in banking, fintech, and corporate finance.
✔ Education: International schools and universities hire foreign lecturers.
✔ Hospitality & Tourism: Chefs, hotel managers, and tourism professionals.
💡 Pro Tip: Some jobs are restricted for Malaysian citizens. Check the latest government guidelines on job categories open to foreigners before applying.
2. Find the Right Job Portals for Foreigners
Many Malaysian job portals cater specifically to expats and foreign professionals. Here’s where to start:
🔹 Top Job Portals for Foreigners in Malaysia:
✔ Hiredly – Great for white-collar and professional jobs.
✔ JobStreet – A popular portal for all industries.
✔ LinkedIn Jobs – Connect directly with hiring managers.
✔ Expat.com – A job board for expats.
📌 Tip: Make sure your LinkedIn profile is updated and optimized for recruiters in Malaysia.
🔗 Related Read: Malaysia’s Top Job Portals: Which One Should You Use in 2025?
3. Get Your Work Visa & Employment Pass
In Malaysia, foreign workers need an Employment Pass (EP) to work legally. Your employer must sponsor your visa, so it’s important to apply for jobs at companies willing to hire and sponsor foreigners.
🔹 Work visa options for foreign professionals:
✔ Employment Pass (EP): For skilled professionals earning at least RM5,000/month.
✔ Professional Visit Pass (PVP): For short-term work contracts (up to 12 months).
✔ Residence Pass-Talent (RP-T): For highly skilled professionals who want long-term work in Malaysia.
✅ How to Get a Work Visa:
✔ Secure a job offer first—your employer must apply for your Employment Pass.
✔ Meet the salary requirements (typically RM5,000/month and above).
✔ Ensure your qualifications match the job requirements.
✔ Wait for your work visa approval before relocating.
📌 Tip: If you’re applying from overseas, some employers may prefer candidates who already have a valid work permit or are residing in Malaysia on a dependent or spouse visa.
4. Network & Connect with Employers
Many jobs aren’t advertised online—they’re filled through connections and referrals. That’s why networking is crucial for foreigners.
🔹 How to network effectively in Malaysia:
✔ Join industry groups and expat communities (LinkedIn, Facebook, and networking events).
✔ Attend career fairs and industry conferences.
✔ Connect with recruiters specializing in expat hiring.
🔗 Related Read: 7 Ways to Stand Out in Malaysia’s Ultra-Competitive Job Market
5. Optimize Your Job Applications
Your resume and job applications need to stand out to compete with local candidates.
🔹 Common job application mistakes foreigners make:
❌ Using a generic resume not tailored to the Malaysian job market.
❌ Applying for jobs that don’t offer visa sponsorship.
❌ Not including a professional summary highlighting your unique skills.
✅ How to Improve Your Job Applications:
✔ Customize your resume for every job application.
✔ Use keywords from the job description to pass applicant tracking systems (ATS).
✔ Add a Malaysia-based phone number (get a local SIM if needed).
✔ Highlight how your skills benefit Malaysian businesses.
🔗 Related Read: Job Application Checklist: 7 Things to Do Before Hitting Submit
6. Consider Remote Work as an Alternative
If you struggle to find on-site jobs with visa sponsorship, you can look for remote jobs that allow you to work for international companies while staying in Malaysia.
🔹 Best remote job industries for foreigners:
✔ IT & software development
✔ Digital marketing & content writing
✔ Graphic design & UI/UX
✔ Virtual assistance & customer service
🔗 Related Read: Remote Work in Malaysia: 5 Surprising Pros & Cons You Need to Know
7. Prepare for the Malaysian Work Culture
Work culture in Malaysia varies depending on the industry, but foreign professionals should be aware of common workplace norms:
🔹 What to expect in a Malaysian workplace:
✔ Hierarchy matters – Respect for seniority is important.
✔ Punctuality is expected – Arrive on time for meetings and deadlines.
✔ Multicultural environment – Offices often have a mix of Malays, Chinese, Indians, and expats.
✔ English is widely used, but knowing some Malay can be helpful.
📌 Tip: Adaptability is key—understanding the local work culture helps you integrate better.
Finding a job in Malaysia as a foreigner is possible with the right strategy. Focus on high-demand industries, apply through trusted job portals, and make sure your resume and application stand out. Most importantly, connect with employers who are willing to sponsor your work visa. Not sure where you fit in? Take the Hiredly Work Personality Test to discover jobs that match your strengths! Start your job search today! Browse the latest Malaysia job vacancies on Hiredly and take the first step toward your new career.
By Matt Khoo on 2025-02-23 at 10:51 AM
