PUTRAJAYA: The Immigration Department will introduce a special online pass (eSP) for foreign nationals wishing to enter and stay in Malaysia for no more than 30 days, effective from January next year.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said this initiative is part of the government's efforts to digitalise and enhance administrative efficiency.
"The Home Ministry, through the Immigration Department, is launching the eSP as part of our transformation towards digital service delivery.
"This special pass is a document issued to foreign nationals, granting them the right to enter and stay in Malaysia for up to 30 days under Regulation 14 of the Immigration Regulations 1963," he said at a press conference today.
Saifuddin explained that, currently, the application and issuance of special passes are done manually, where applicants must visit counters and submit physical documents.
He added that about 50 per cent of foreign nationals who visit the Immigration Office are dealing with matters related to their stay in Malaysia, causing congestion at the Visa, Pass, and Permit Division.
"In 2023, 139,344 special passes were issued, while as of October this year, 119,019 special passes have been issued to foreign nationals.
"Thus, the introduction of eSP will help reduce congestion at counters and foster a new work culture," he said.
The eSP platform will manage the status of holders of Long-Term Social Visit Passes (PLS) and Professional Visit Passes (PLIK) who have valid passes.
Foreign nationals who are waiting for decisions on new applications, extensions, or changes to their Long-Term Social Visit Pass, or those facing issues such as illness (hospitalisation), traffic accidents, natural disasters, or other justifiable situations, can apply for the eSP.
"Essentially, the eSP is a facility to assist applicants in managing immigration matters, especially in emergencies or those requiring special consideration.
"However, the Home Ministry will not compromise on security, even though the application process is online, security and transparency will not be overlooked," he added.