World Immigration News

Foreigners abusing social visit passes to work in Malaysia, says Immigration Dept

Release Date: 2026-03-12
Media: The Star
Summary: Malaysia’s Immigration Department is intensifying enforcement against foreign nationals who misuse social visit passes by entering the country as tourists but working illegally at businesses such as restaurants and factories.

From January 1 to March 9, authorities conducted 2,618 operations nationwide and arrested 9,497 foreign nationals. Of these, 1,158 were detained for violating the conditions of their passes under Regulation 39(b) of the Immigration Regulations 1963, often by engaging in activities not permitted under their social visit passes.

The highest number of arrests for pass violations involved nationals from Bangladesh, Thailand, Indonesia, China, and Pakistan. Among the 1,158 detained, 482 were specifically arrested for abusing social visit passes. Investigations also found that some individuals were involved in managing or operating business premises without proper authorization.

The Immigration Department stated that enforcement will continue to be strengthened and warned that those who violate immigration laws may face detention, prosecution, and deportation. Authorities also urged the public to provide information about foreigners conducting illegal business activities.
Tags: Malaysia

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