KUALA LUMPUR - The Malaysian Immigration Department has mandated the shortening of expatriate passes prior to their permanent departure from Malaysia, following a directive from the Home Ministry.

The department said companies are now required to submit pass-shortening applications for expatriates who will be leaving the country permanently.

The application must be submitted through the Expatriate Services Division (ESD) Online system under the “Sub-Product” tab.

“Upon application approval, a Shorten Pass Slip will be issued and can be downloaded from the ESD Online.

“Pass holders are required to ensure that the Shorten Pass Slip remains in their possession throughout the departure process and present it upon request,” the department said in a notice on 14 November.

The department also announced the introduction of exit clearance procedures for holders of expired Employment Passes and Professional Visit Passes.

Companies must complete exit clearance via ESD Online if no renewal or pass-shortening application is submitted after the pass expires effective 18 November.

The exit clearance must be submitted within 30 days from the pass expiry date.

Failure to comply may result in restricted access to ESD Online, including the inability to submit or pay for new applications.

The department said the directive will remain in force until further notice or an official instruction is issued.

Further information is available through the FAQ section or the MyXpats helpdesk at helpdesk@myxpats.com.my or +603-7839 7171.