Holiday closures to limit filing, delay processing

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Authorities in Malaysia will restrict permit and visa filing during the Christmas and New Year’s holiday period.

What does the change mean? Companies should take note of the limited services and plan accordingly.

• Implementation time frame: Roughly between Dec. 21 and Jan. 2, depending on the location.
• Visas/permits affected: Employment passes, professional visit passes and other immigration-related services.
• Who is affected: Employers and foreign nationals in Malaysia.
• Next steps: Employers and employees should lodge applications as soon as possible and no later than the cutoff dates listed below if they need decisions before the holidays.

Key dates: In West Malaysia, the Expatriate Service Division’s online system will not be available from 6 p.m. on Dec. 26 through 8 a.m. on Jan. 2. During this period, authorities will not accept online applications for employment passes and professional visit passes or other immigration services handled by the system.

In East Malaysia, passport collection will not be available between Dec. 21 and Jan. 1 in Sarawak and Labuan and between Dec. 28 and Jan. 1 in Sabah. Application submissions will not be accepted from Dec. 28 to Jan. 1 in Sarawak and Sabah and from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1 in Labuan.

BAL Analysis: Businesses may need to adjust their timelines because of the holiday closures. Processing delays should be expected both during the holiday period and in the days after offices reopen. Foreign consulates will also likely operate on a limited basis during the holidays. Those in need of consular services are encouraged to contact the consulate in question about holiday schedules and services.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Malaysia. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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