Malaysia’s New Overstay Management Program for Employment & Dependent Passes

 

A picture of Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

Malaysia’s Overstay Management Programme: What Foreign Workers & Dependents Need to Know

What Is the Overstay Management Programme?

From 21 October 2025, the Malaysian Immigration Department (JIM) has launched a new initiative called the Program Pengurusan Tinggal Lebih Masa (Overstay Management Programme).

 
This program is designed to help long-term pass holders — specifically those holding an Employment Pass (EP) or a Dependent Pass (DP) — resolve short overstays in a simpler, more predictable way. 

How the Fine Structure Works

Under this programme, EP and DP holders who overstay up to 90 days are eligible for a fixed compound fine instead of being referred to the Enforcement Division.

Overstay Duration	Compound Fine
1–30 days	RM 30 per day
31–60 days	RM 1,000 total
61–90 days	RM 2,000 total

Who Is Not Eligible for the Fine-Only Option?

There are certain scenarios where the overstay will not be handled by paying a fine, but instead will still be referred to the Enforcement Division. These include:

• Overstays exceeding 90 days

• Repeated overstay offenders

• Overstays under a Special Pass

• Individuals with a criminal or immigration offense record in Malaysia

• Those listed under the “Senarai Syak” (Suspect List)

Changes to Special Pass Fees

Alongside the overstay fines, there’s another key update: the Special Pass (SP) application fee has gone up. For non-OIP (Overstay Investigation Paper) cases, the fee has doubled — from RM 100 to RM 200 per application.

Why Malaysia Is Making This Change

• Streamlined Process: Instead of subjecting short overstays to a complex investigation, the new system offers a more efficient resolution via fixed penalties.

• Predictability: The clear fine structure makes it easier for pass holders and employers to plan ahead and understand their liabilities.

• Compliance Encouraged: Employers and pass holders are strongly advised to renew or extend passes at least 3 months before expiry to avoid fines.

What This Means for Foreign Workers & Their Families

1. Less Risk for Minor Overstays: If your overstay is under 90 days, you can handle it by paying a fine — avoiding the more serious and time-consuming enforcement process.

2. Better Planning Needed: To steer clear of fines, both employers and pass holders should track visa/pass expiry dates and act proactively.

3. Higher SP Cost: If you’re applying for a Special Pass, expect to pay more now.

4. Serious Cases Still Escalated: For overstays beyond 90 days or recurring cases, the stricter enforcement regime still applies. MDEC (Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation) – official notice on the Overstay Management Programme. MDEC

Key Takeaways & Tips

• The Overstay Management Programme is in effect from 21 October 2025

• EP and DP holders who overstay 1–90 days can pay fines instead of being referred to enforcement, if they don’t fall into the excluded categories.

• Non-eligible cases include repeated overstays, very long overstays (beyond 90 days), being on a Special Pass, or having prior immigration or criminal issues.

• Plan renewals early: start the renewal or extension process about 3 months before your pass expires.

• Remember: Special Pass fee has increased, so account for that in your immigration planning.