Reminder: e-Xpats Service Centre to close ahead of new system launch

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation said this week that e-Xpats Service Centre will be closed Nov. 13 and 14 as authorities prepare to launch a new version the e-Xpats system Nov. 15.

What does the change mean? The front counter at the e-Xpats Service Centre will be closed and will not be accepting applications Nov. 13 and 14. Applications must be submitted by Friday, Nov. 10 in order for them to be processed in the current system before the switch is made next week.

• Implementation time frame:  Nov. 13 and 14.
• Visas/permits affected: Employment passes, dependent passes, social visit passes.
• Who is affected: Companies in the MSC and ICT categories.
• Impact on processing times: Employers who miss transition-period filing cutoffs may experience processing delays as MDEC migrates to the new system.
• Business impact: Businesses may have to make minor adjustments to their schedules because of the office closures and filing deadlines.

Background: As BAL reported last month, MDEC is set to enact a number of changes to its e-Xpats system, including changes to processing times, fees and payment methods. The new system is expected to streamline processing over the long term, but short-term delays are possible as the system is rolled out.

BAL Analysis: Employers should take note of the planned office closures and deadlines and plan accordingly.

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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