The Malaysian Immigration Department has improved the entry and residence permit application procedures for foreign spouses of Malaysian citizens, with applicants who submit complete documents being informed of the results within six months.
The Minister of Home Affairs, Saifuddin, told the media after attending a citizenship ceremony in Perak that there were foreign spouses who had applied for entry and residence permits and had waited 15 years without knowing the outcome. Now, the authorities have mandated that the results must be communicated to the applicants within a maximum of six months.
Saifuddin revealed that the Immigration Department has also introduced new standard operating procedures to allow applicants to clearly understand the application process, including the required documents, and to provide relevant guidance.
Saifuddin said: "This is an important step forward. By simplifying the application process for foreign spouses, they can settle in Malaysia without having to face cumbersome procedures."
The entry and residence permit allows foreigners who come to Malaysia for reasons such as studying or reuniting with family to enter and reside in the country.
Between 2020 and 2024, the Malaysian Immigration Department received a total of 23,674 applications for entry and residence from various foreign nationals, of which 52% were approved and 48% were rejected.
