RP-T applications to be processed at MYXpats Centre

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Officials have announced changes to Malaysia’s Residence Pass-Talent (RP-T), which provides qualifying foreign nationals with 10-year permits to work and reside in Malaysia.

What does the change mean? Beginning Feb. 1, all Residence Pass-Talent (RP-T) applications will be processed at the Malaysia Expatriate Talent Service Centre (MYXpats Centre) in Petaling Jaya. Minimum salary requirements and processing fees will also increase.

• Implementation time frame: Feb. 1.
• Visas/permits affected: Residence Pass-Talent (RP-T) applications.
• Who is affected: Foreign nationals submitting RP-T applications.
• Impact on processing: Officials hope that the change will streamline processing, though delays are possible during the changeover.
• Next Steps: Applicants should take note of the changes to make sure they follow proper procedures and meet minimum qualifying criteria.

Background: The RP-T was introduced in 2011 and allows eligible foreign nationals to reside and work in Malaysia for 10 years. RP-T holders are allowed to switch employers at will. RP-T dependent passes are available for spouses and children under 18; children ages 18 and up may apply for and obtain long-term social passes.

Beginning Feb. 1, all applications will be processed at the MYXpats Centre in the Surian Tower, Petaling Jaya, Selangor.

Minimum salary requirements will increase to 15,000 Malaysian ringgits (about US$3,361) per month. The change, from the current monthly minimum of 12,000 ringgits, is an increase of 25 percent. Fees will also increase as follows:

Online applications must be submitted through this TalentCorp website once the changeover occurs. The current site will continue to be used through Jan. 31.

BAL Analysis: The change should streamline processing of RP-T applications. While the higher salary threshold will make qualifying for the program more difficult, the program remains a good option for qualifying foreign nationals looking for long-term work and residence opportunities in Malaysia.

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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