If you’re married to a Malaysian citizen and wish to stay in Malaysia for an extended period, the Long Term Social Visit Pass (LTSVP) might be your ideal choice. This pass offers foreign spouses of Malaysians the opportunity to reside in the country for up to five years, all while allowing for engagement in various forms of employment or business activities without converting the pass. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know when applying for an LTSVP, including eligibility criteria, conditions, and the essential documentation required.
What is a LTSVP?
The Long Term Social Visit Pass (LTSVP) serves as a visa for foreigners seeking a stay in Malaysia for at least six months. It is suitable for foreign husbands or wives of Malaysian citizens, parents of Malaysian citizens, children of Malaysian citizens, and permanent residents of Malaysia who wish to join their family members in Malaysia and stay for an extended period. Here’s what you should know when applying for an LTSVP as a spouse:
What are the Eligibility Criteria?
To qualify for an LTSVP as a foreign spouse to a Malaysian citizen, certain conditions must be met:
- Your marriage must be registered in Malaysia or another country recognized by Malaysia.
- You must have a valid marriage certificate.
- You must possess a valid passport and visa.
- You must have a financial guarantee from your Malaysian spouse to support you financially while you are in Malaysia.
- You must have no criminal record.
How long can I stay in Malaysia with LTSVP?
Once the application is approved, the foreign spouse can stay in Malaysia for a maximum of five years. This extended period allows for quality time with the Malaysian spouse, as well as exploration of employment and business opportunities. The LTSVP is a multiple-entry pass renewable as long as the marriage remains valid.
Documentation Checklist for LTSVP Application:
Ensure you have the following documents when applying for an LTSVP for your spouse:
- Form Imm.12 / Imm.55
- Form Imm.38
- Copy of the marriage certificate
- Copy of the child’s birth certificate (if applicable)
- Latest Affidavit confirming the validity of the marriage
- ‘Security Bond’ form (stamped RM10.00)
- Identity card of the sponsor/spouse
- Proof of sponsor/spouse’s income
- Copy of sponsor/spouse’s passport
- Wedding photographs
Can Spouse Work or Start a Business with an LTSVP in Malaysia?
Spouses of Malaysian citizens can work in Malaysia with their Long Term Social Visit Pass through a simple endorsement process by the Immigration Department. To apply, they must submit an application letter, proof of employment or business registration, marriage certificate, and their valid pass to the relevant Immigration office..
Checklist of required documents:
- Copy of husband / wife’s Identity Card
- Copy of the Applicant’s latest Passport and pass
- Affidavit of Oath with photograph (stamped by the Commissioner of Oaths from the Government Court)
- Copy of Marriage Register / Marriage Certificate
- Job Offer Letter from the employer (using Company Letterhead )
- Employment Contract (stamped with RM 10 revenue) which explains:
- Position
- Working period
- Monthly income
- Signatures of both parties (employer and employee)
- Applicant, Citizen Spouse and Employer Information Form
- Company Registration Form (printed directly from My Data – SSM system) latest
While the LTSVP provides an extended stay and work opportunities, it’s crucial to note that it does not confer permanent residency. For permanent residency, a separate application must be made. For any further inquiries or guidance, feel free to reach out to the Malaysian Immigration Department.
Remember, every case is unique, and consulting immigration authorities or professionals can ensure a smoother LTSVP application process. Best of luck with your application!
If you require assistance or have questions, our law firm, TYH&Co, is here to guide you through the process.
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