Spouse Visa Malaysia: Renewal of Long Term Social Visit Pass 2025

 New LTSVP Renewal Process from 1st October 2025

The Immigration department has announced that with effect from 1st October 2025, LTSVP holders in Peninsular Malaysia can fully renew their pass online using the ePLSI system.

Renewal applications can be made at https://www.imi.gov.my (select the ePLSI option)

The new system is 'end-to-end' meaning that the LTSVP pass can be self printed and there is no need to visit the immigration office. 

If you are unable to apply online (or can apply online but are unable to print the pass), you should visit Immigration. You will need to bring originals and copies of all the required documents.

Under the previous online system, if a pass had less than 14 days left the renewal application could not be made online and had to be done at Immigration. Immigration say that this requirement has now been dropped.

Note: new LTSVP applications, transfer of a pass to a new passport, and renewals for passports that have expired or have less than 6 months validity must still be done at the Immigration office.

Further details can be seen in this post on JIM's Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1FQkVmtmmt/ 

For more information about LTSVP renewals visit the following pages:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/ForeignSpouses/
and
https://www.facebook.com/FSSGMY/

The Immigration Facebook page also has regular updates:
https://www.facebook.com/imigresen/

Malaysian Permanent Residence: Replacing your Red IC (MyPR)

 

JPN has recently advised IC holders (including PR holders) to replace their card if it is more than 10 years old. 

Previously it was only necessary to replace an IC in the following circumstances:

• IC had been damaged
• IC had been lost
• IC had been stolen
• IC holder reached 18 years of age
• IC holder changed permanent address

The cost to replace a MyPR card is RM40, although an additional processing fee will be charged to replace a card that has been lost.

See this JPN Facebook post: 

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17Dr9F4aF9/ 

What if I have lost my MyPR?

• Make a police report (JPN say this is only needed for a second or subsequent loss). This can be done at a police station or online at https://ereporting.rmp.gov.my/index.aspx 
• Go to JPN with the police report
• Apply for a replacement card and pay the MyPR application fee (RM40) and a processing fee: RM100 (first time loss of card), RM300 (second time), RM1,000 (third and subsequent times)

What if my MyPR has been stolen? 

• Make a police report (this must always be done for a stolen card). This can be done at a police station or online at https://ereporting.rmp.gov.my/index.aspx 
• Go to JPN with the police report
• Apply for a replacement card and pay the MyPR application fee (RM40). A processing fee does not need to be paid to replace a card that has been stolen.

What if I have lost or had my MyPR stolen overseas? 

You are advised to make a police report in that country, then follow the steps above.

See the JPN website for more details:

https://www.jpn.gov.my/en/core-business/identity-card/mykad-gantian-hilang-eng

Malaysia Immigration: Using the Autogates at KLIA and KLIA2

Since November 2022, foreign nationals holding a Malaysia long term pass and a biometric passport have been able to use the Autogates at KLIA and KLIA2:  https://www.klia2.info/news/2022/autogate-system-at-klia-extended-to-long-term-visit-pass-holders-from-nov-15/. 

Tourists from certain countries are also permitted to use the Autogates (70 countries as at Feb 2025).

There are plans to install Autogates at other entry point starting in 2026. See this link:  https://www.bernama.com/en/news.php?id=2473334

Note that Autogates are not the same as QR Gates. The QR Gates are reserved for Malaysian citizens, see info here. There are proposals to allow foreigners to use the QR Gates in future: 

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/malaysia-qr-code-clearance-airport-foreigners-4978156 

Using the Autogates as an LTSVP holder

As an LTSVP holder, before using the Autogates I first had to be stamped out and back into Malaysia at the manual counter, and my fingerprints scanned. I could then use the Autogates the next time I travelled out of and back into Malaysia.

After I renewed my passport and transferred my LTSVP, I again had to be manually stamped out and back in to Malaysia before I could continue to use the Autogates.

Using the Autogates as a PR holder

After receiving my PR I checked my eligibility to use the Autogates on the Immigration website: https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/egate and it showed this message that I am not eligible to use the Autogates:

On my first overseas trip after obtaining PR, I was unable to use the Autogates on re-entering Malaysia, so I went to the Malaysian Passport counter where my passport was stamped, I showed my Red IC and had my fingerprints scanned. 

However, on my next overseas trip I was able to re-enter Malaysia using the Autogates. So I think I just needed to use the manual counter on my way in and back out before the system recognised my eligibility. I’ve since checked again on the Immigration website https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/egate and it now confirms that I am eligible to use the Autogates:

A Facebook post in August 2025 shared a photo of a sign at KLIA2 stating that Permanent Residents can use the Malaysian Passport Counter. The sign is a bit confusing as it says passengers should do this if they are a "Malaysian passport holder" which PR holders are not, but it seems to confirm that PR holders who use a manual counter should choose the Malaysian counter rather than the foreign one:

Driving overseas with a Malaysian Licence: Getting an International Driving Permit (IDP) from JPJ

To drive overseas using a Malaysian driving licence, some countries require the driver to hold an International Driving Permit as well as the Malaysian domestic licence. 

This article shows some commonly visited countries and the requirements for a Malaysian driving licence holder:

https://says.com/my/lifestyle/which-country-accepts-malaysian-driving-licence

Note: Many websites offer an "International Driving Licence," but these are not official documents. Only an International Driving Permit (IDP) is valid, and it must be issued by the official authority in the same country where the domestic driving licence was issued. If you hold a Malaysian driving licence, you must get your IDP from JPJ, or you could get a fine for driving with invalid documents, see:  https://internationaldrivingpermit.org/fake-idp-websites-to-avoid/ 

The format of the IDP was revised by JPJ in April 2024:

Requirements to apply for an IDP at JPJ:

• Applicant must hold a Class B2 or D Competent Driving Licence (CDL).

• CDL must have been held for over 1 year.

• CDL must have at least 1 year left until expiry.

• A fee of RM150 must be paid (IDP validity is 1 year)

• Note: the applicant must have a plastic physical driving licence. The paper 'slip' that has been issued for licence renewals since February 2024 is not valid for overseas use. A physical licence can be requested when renewing the licence (for an additional fee).

• JPJ announced a new format of the plastic physical licence in May 2025. See: https://paultan.org/2025/05/21/jpj-introduces-new-version-of-malaysian-driving-licence-card-with-enhanced-security-features/ 

Documents needed to apply for an IDP at JPJ:

• Passport (plus copy of bio page and visa)

• Competent Driving Licence (CDL) (and copy of both sides)

• 1 passport photo (white background)

• Completed Form JPJL1, which can be downloaded here:  https://www.jpj.gov.my/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Borang-Permohonan-Lesen-Memandu-JPJ-L1.pdf 

• I also brought evidence of upcoming travels (my flight itinerary) but I wasn't asked to show it.

Application Process:

The JPJ website says that an application for an IDP can be made at any JPJ State or Branch Office:

https://www.jpj.gov.my/en/web/main-site/pemandu-en/-/knowledge_base/driver/application-for-idp-international-driving-permit  so it should be possible to apply at UTC branches, but I decided to go to Wangsa Maju JPJ state office. 

At JPJ dress rules may be enforced e.g. no shorts/t-shirts/ slippers /short skirts.

I arrived at JPJ at 745am on a Tuesday and joined the queue at Pintu 1 (Ground Floor). There are now 2 queues, a priority lane for Malaysians and another lane for foreign passport holders. 

Foreigner queue on the left, Malaysians on the right:

The doors opened at 8am and I queued to take a ticket at the counter as the JPJeQ app was not in use. I got a ticket at 845am and my number was called at 1030am. However it then only took 5 minutes for me to hand over the documents, pay the RM150 fee and be given the IDP, so I was finished just after 1030am. By contrast, a Malaysian who arrived at JPJ at the same time as me collected their IDP at 915am.

The fee must be paid using a local debit or credit card or via e-wallet. Cash and international bank cards are not accepted by JPJ.

Driving in Malaysia: 2025 Update for Foreign Licence Holders

The Road Transport Department (JPJ) has announced that from 19th May 2025 they will no longer convert foreign driving licences to Malaysian licences.

The only exceptions to this policy are for diplomats, Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) participants, and Malaysians who only hold foreign licences.

Foreign spouses, permanent residents and others will no longer be eligible for licence conversion.

More information is available here:

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/05/16/no-more-conversion-of-foreign-driving-licences-from-may-19-says-jpj

JPJ's announcement also provided guidance for foreign nationals residing in Malaysia for less than 12 months, who can use their foreign licence to drive in Malaysia:

• Those from countries party to the Geneva Convention on Road Traffic 1949 and the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic 1968 may drive using an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued by the relevant authority in their home country.
• Nationals of ASEAN countries may use their home driving licence, in accordance with the 1985 Agreement on the Recognition of Domestic Driving Licences Issued by ASEAN Countries

I took the Malaysian driving test in March 2020 during a period when licence conversions were similarly restricted (September 2018 to December 2020). Details of the process are here: 

https://spousevisamalaysia.blogspot.com/2020/03/malaysian-driving-lessons-test-for.html

Malaysian Permanent Residence: My Experience of the PR Process

I am very grateful that my application for Malaysian Permanent Residency (Permit Masuk) was approved. The immigration and police officers who handled my application and interviews were professional and helpful, which made the process easier.

Below I've outlined details of each stage of my application which might be of interest to others.

Please note: These are my personal experiences only; everyone's circumstances are unique and applications are individually assessed by Immigration, Police and Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN). 

For specific advice you should visit Immigration. You can also find out information and ask questions in the Facebook Groups in the 'Useful Links' section.

I have described the process based on when I applied in 2022, prior to the introduction of a 'Points System' for foreign spouses in March 2024.

 

More information on the PR/Permit Masuk application process can be found on the FAQ page:

https://spousevisamalaysia.blogspot.com/2025/01/malaysian-pr-permit-masuk-faqs.html

Dates of each stage of my PR application:

We were married in 2014 and I was advised by immigration that I could submit my Permit Masuk application in my 6th year of holding a LTSVP. However, due to Covid lockdowns, and being discouraged by many negative stories online about how challenging it is to get PR, I only applied 8 years after my initial LTSVP:

• Submitted Permit Masuk application: July 2022
• Immigration Interview: November 2022
• Police Interview: April 2023
• Followed up with State Immigration: November 2023
• Home visit from Immigration and Police officers: February 2024
• Online status updated to show file transfer to Putrajaya: November 2024
• Online status updated to show approval of Permit Masuk: December 2024
• Received Permit Masuk approval letter: January 2025
• Shortened LTSVP at State Immigration: January 2025
• Obtained Permit Masuk and PR stamp at Putrajaya Immigration: February 2025
• Applied for Red IC at Putrajaya JPN: February 2025
• Collected Red IC from State JPN: March 2025

Links to detailed posts of each stage of my PR application:

1. Application Process: https://spousevisamalaysia.blogspot.com/2022/11/malaysia-permanent-residence-permit.html 
2. Immigration Interview: https://spousevisamalaysia.blogspot.com/2022/11/malaysia-permanent-residence-pr-permit.html 
3. Police Interview: https://spousevisamalaysia.blogspot.com/2023/04/malaysia-permanent-residence-pr-permit.html
4. Immigration and Police Home Visit, File Transfer to Putrajaya and Permit Masuk Approval: https://spousevisamalaysia.blogspot.com/2024/12/malaysia-permanent-residence-pr-permit.html
5. Receiving Permit Masuk Approval Letter and Shortening Current LTSVP: https://spousevisamalaysia.blogspot.com/2025/01/malaysian-pr-permit-masuk-receiving.html 
6. Getting Permit Masuk Certificate and PR Passport Stamp:  https://spousevisamalaysia.blogspot.com/2025/02/malaysian-pr-permit-masuk-getting.html
7. Applying for Red IC (MyPR): https://spousevisamalaysia.blogspot.com/2025/02/malaysian-pr-permit-masuk-applying-for.html
8. Collecting Red IC (MyPR): https://spousevisamalaysia.blogspot.com/2025/03/malaysian-pr-permit-masuk-collecting.html

Malaysian Permanent Residence: Collecting Red IC (MyPR)

Collect Red IC (MyPR) from JPN (March 2025)

I applied for my Red IC at JPN Putrajaya and was advised that it would take between 1 month and 3 months to be ready. I phoned JPN after 4 weeks and it wasn't yet available, but when I called again 2 weeks later it was ready, so overall it took 6 weeks.

Only the applicant (the foreign spouse) has to go to JPN to collect the IC. I brought the following documents:

• JPN receipt
• Passport (but I wasn't asked to show it)

I had asked to collect my IC at JPN KL so I went to Bahagian Kad Pengenalan at JPN Jalan Duta (on the Ground Floor).

I arrived at around 830am and was given a queue number at the info counter. When my number was called my thumb prints were scanned and I was given my IC. I paid RM2 for a plastic card holder. JPN staff were very efficient and I received my IC only 20 minutes after arriving!

I could now check my status on the JPN website https://semakankpmys.jpn.gov.my/ using my new IC number and it showed 'Kad telah diambil':

The IC number is made up of 6 digits for date of birth, followed by a 2 digit country code and then 4 other digits. The country codes can be seen here: https://www.jpn.gov.my/my/kod-negara

Here is an example of a Red IC (MyPR) from the JPN website. MyPR cards have the wording 'Pemastautin Tetap' (Permanent Resident):

I am very pleased that I now have my PR and IC! 

More information on the PR/Permit Masuk application process can be found on the FAQ page:

https://spousevisamalaysia.blogspot.com/2025/01/malaysian-pr-permit-masuk-faqs.html

Malaysia Immigration: Using the QMS App at Putrajaya

Immigration announced that the QMS queue management app was being used at Putrajaya from 1st November 2024 but on my visits to immigration I hadn't seen any signs for it and so took a paper ticket in the normal way. 

However it is actually in use alongside the paper ticket system, and is a good way to get a ticket number and get notification when your number is called. You may even get seen earlier if you get a number before other people queuing for a paper ticket.

Note that only certain branches use QMS e.g. Putrajaya does but KL currently doesn't (other than for Malaysians renewing passports at select branches).

Using the app:

You will need to know which floor the office is on for the service you want. e.g. at Putrajaya the Permit Masuk counter is on Level 1.

This example is for getting a ticket for the Permit Masuk counter at Putrajaya:

• Download the app from either the Google Play Store or Apple Store.
• Allow notifications when asked.
• Click on 'Service Providers' 
• Select 'Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia'. 
• Scroll down and choose 'WP Putrajaya'.
• Choose 'Putrajaya (Bahagian Visa Aras 1)'
• Select 'Permohonan Permit Masuk' and 'Get Ticket'

See this website for links to download the app, plus additional details (although it describes passport renewals): https://www.imi.gov.my/index.php/pengumuman/qms-mobile-apps/

Malaysia Immigration: Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)

The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) was introduced on 1st December 2023. Details can be seen here: https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main 

All foreign nationals are required to complete the MDAC before arrival, with a few exceptions. 

Initially the list of exempt travellers included Permanent Residents, but not LTSVP and other long term pass holders:

The exemptions were later updated to show that from 1st January 2024 Malaysia long term pass holders were also not required to complete the MDAC:

If you don't fall into one of the categories above and do need to apply for a MDAC you should only apply for it at the official website:

https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main 

There are lots of unauthorised websites offering MDAC, but they are unofficial and charge applicants a fee. You don't need to pay anything to register at the official government website - it is FREE!

Malaysian Permanent Residence: Applying for Red IC (MyPR)

Visit JPN to apply for Red IC (MyPR) (February 2025)

According to JPN, a PR holder must apply for a Red IC (MyPR) within 30 days after getting the Permit Masuk certificate. See: https://www.jpn.gov.my/en/core-business/identity-card/mypr-12thn-eng 

Both the applicant and Malaysian spouse must go to JPN for the application process.

We went to JPN in Putrajaya immediately after getting the Permit Masuk certificate and PR passport stamp as it is across the road from the immigration building. The IC section (Bahagian Kad Pengenalan) is on Level 2.

The application can be done at Putrajaya or any JPN state office https://www.jpn.gov.my/en/mypr-eng. It is also possible to apply at Putrajaya and request to collect the IC at another state office; I asked to collect mine at JPN WP Kuala Lumpur.

We were asked for the following documents [note that Putrajaya only required 1 photocopy, other offices may need 2 copies]:

• Permit Masuk certificate (plus copy of both sides)
• Permanent Resident passport stamp (plus copy)
• Applicant's passport (plus copies of bio page and all expired LTSVP stickers)
• Proof of Address, e.g. utility bill (plus copy)
• Malaysian spouse IC (plus copy of both sides)
• Marriage Certificate (plus copy)

If needed, there is a photocopy shop on the ground floor of the JPN office in Putrajaya.

This is the checklist we were given at the number counter. The staff member would only give us a ticket number once we had organised our documents (originals and copies) into the correct order shown in the list, and he had checked them:

When our ticket number was called we went to the desk to submit our documents and were asked to fill in Form JPN.KP01. The staff member should be able to assist you with filling it in.

Both my wife and I had our thumb prints scanned. My photo was then taken, note that if you are wearing a white colour shirt you will have to put on a JPN black colour jacket for the photo.

I paid the RM40 fee and was given a receipt and advised that my IC will be ready in 1 to 3 months time.

JPN was busy when we went; we were given a ticket at around 245pm, waited over 2 hours for our number to be called and only completed everything after 530pm.

The IC status can be checked by phoning or visiting JPN.

The JPN staff also said I could check online using the QR code on the receipt (which points to https://semakankpmys.jpn.gov.my/), but it's not possible as only people replacing their IC who already have an IC number can check online, as I got the response 'Status Permohonan: Tiada permohonan terkini':

NEXT STEP: Collecting Red IC (MyPR):  https://spousevisamalaysia.blogspot.com/2025/03/malaysian-pr-permit-masuk-collecting.html

Malaysian Permanent Residence: Getting the Permit Masuk certificate and PR passport stamp

Visit Putrajaya Immigration for the Permit Masuk certificate and PR passport stamp

(February 2025)

Both the applicant and spouse must go to Putrajaya Immigration within 30 days after getting the LTSVP shortened. No appointment is required as Putrajaya is walk-in only.

The following documents were needed: 

• Permit Masuk approval letter (plus copy)
• 1 Passport photo (blue background)
• Statutory Declaration that marriage is still valid. We used the Commissioner for Oaths at Putrajaya Level 2 (RM10). Our photos had a white background, but blue might be better.
• Applicant's passport (plus copy of bio page)
• Shortened LTSVP (plus copy)
• Malaysian spouse IC (plus copy of both sides)
• Marriage certificate (plus copy)

These are the steps taken:

• We went to Permit Masuk office at Level 1 (Ground Floor). We arrived at 715am and joined the queue outside the office. There were about 20 people ahead of us at this time. 
• The doors opened at 8am and we took a number which was called at 840am. It is also possible to use the QMS app which can be a better way to get a number. See this post: https://spousevisamalaysia.blogspot.com/2025/02/using-qms-app-at-putrajaya-immigration.html
• We gave the officer our documents and were given a green colour payment form to fill in and told to go to Level 3 to pay. We went directly to payment counters 12 and 13 (there was no need to join the queue) and made the RM120 payment.
• We then returned to the Permit Masuk counter and gave the form and receipt to the same officer. We had completed all of this before 9am.
• We were asked to return at 230pm for collection, but at 1245pm an officer called me to say we could come now to collect. However we were at lunch and could not make it back in time before the office closed at 1pm. 
• We went back around 2pm and my name was called by an officer at the collection counter. We signed and put our thumb prints and were then given the Permit Masuk certificate (Im.5) and my passport with the Permanent Resident stamp.

Permit Masuk Certificate

The certificate has a 6 month validity date, in which the applicant must enter Malaysia after the permit is granted. As I was already in Malaysia, the 6 month validity was not relevant, so the certificate was stamped with 'JOURNEY PERFORMED'. The officer said I must keep the Permit Masuk certificate safely; it is needed when applying for a new PR stamp upon passport renewal.

PR Passport Stamp

The stamp states that it 'is valid until expiration of the Passport' and the holder 'is required to obtain similar notification on renewal of passport'. The immigration officer reiterated that I must transfer the PR stamp when I replace my passport.

After this stage my online status was updated to:

We had just enough time to visit Putrajaya JPN later the same day to apply for the Red IC (MyPR). Before we went to JPN, we made photocopies of both the Permit Masuk certificate (both sides) and passport stamp at the shop next to the Permit Masuk office.

NEXT STEP: Applying for Red IC (MyPR):  https://spousevisamalaysia.blogspot.com/2025/02/malaysian-pr-permit-masuk-applying-for.html

Malaysian Permanent Residence: Receiving Permit Masuk Approval Letter and Shortening LTSVP

Receiving the Permit Masuk Approval Letter (January 2025)

One month after the online approval I hadn't received the approval letter, so my wife and I visited Putrajaya to ask if they could print a copy. 

We went to the Permit Masuk counter at Level 1 (Ground Floor) and took a number at 1015am. Our number was called at 1230pm, the officer was apologetic but said he couldn't print a copy and that another batch of letters had been sent out that day. He asked us to wait another month for it to arrive. He said if it didn't arrive we could phone them instead of visiting (Tel 03-8880 1501 or 03-8880 1243).

The approval letter arrived a few days later, approximately 5 weeks after my online approval. It was in an envelope marked 'Urusan Seri Paduka Baginda'. A copy of the Statutory Declaration form to be used at Putrajaya was included in the envelope.

Important: If an applicant does not obtain the Permit Masuk stamp and certificate within 6 months from the date of the approval letter, they would have to start the whole process again. 

My approval letter was dated the day it was posted, so the 6 month period started on the mailing date, not on the date my application was approved by KDN or when my status was updated to 'Diluluskan'.

 

Now that I had the approval letter I was able to take the following step:

Visit State Immigration Office to shorten LTSVP (January 2025)

Both the applicant and spouse must go to the state immigration office where the LTSVP was issued to have the duration of pass shortened.

We did this at KL (Jalan Duta); I booked an appointment using the 'Kutipan Pasport EPLSI' option.

The gates opened at 715am and the office doors opened at 730am. We queued for a number but the officer at the desk sent us to the Permit Masuk counter to get form IM12 and fill it out before returning to her for a number. We didn't need to attach a passport photo to it, although another applicant said they had to provide a photo with a blue background.

We went back to the ticket counter, got a number, and had submitted our documents before 8am.

The following documents were needed:

• Form IM12
• Permit Masuk approval letter (plus copy)
• Applicant's passport (plus copy of bio page)
• LTSVP (plus copy)
• Malaysian spouse IC (plus copy of both sides)
• Marriage Certificate (plus copy)

Our number was called again at 10am and I collected my passport. 

The LTSVP was shortened to a 30 day validity, within which time the Permit Masuk passport stamp and certificate must be obtained from Putrajaya. There is no fee for shortening the LTSVP, and no refund is given for the unused period of time on the LTSVP. 

NEXT STEP: Getting Permit Masuk Certificate and PR Passport Stamp:  https://spousevisamalaysia.blogspot.com/2025/02/malaysian-pr-permit-masuk-getting.html