Part-time jobs in Malaysia are available to eligible international students, but strict Immigration rules apply. Students may take approved part-time jobs for up to 20 hours per week during semester breaks or holidays lasting more than seven days.
A valid Student Pass does not automatically allow a student to take a job. The student must apply through their university or college and receive approval from the Malaysian Immigration Department before starting.
Part-Time Jobs in Malaysia: Who Can Apply?
International students studying at eligible public universities or private higher education institutions may apply for permission to take part-time jobs in Malaysia.
Students enrolled at language centres, training centres, skills centres or accredited centres are not currently eligible for this facility.
| Rule | Current Requirement |
|---|---|
| Maximum hours | Up to 20 hours per week |
| Permitted period | Semester breaks or holidays lasting more than seven days |
| Required pass | Valid Student Pass |
| Approval | Prior approval from the Malaysian Immigration Department |
| Application method | Through the student’s university or college |
| Eligible institutions | Public universities and private higher education institutions |
When Can International Students Take Part-Time Jobs?
International students may take approved part-time jobs only during:
- Official semester breaks
- Official holidays lasting more than seven days
Students cannot assume they may take regular part-time jobs during normal teaching weeks. The university must confirm the eligible holiday period as part of the application.
Always check the dates with your university’s international office before accepting a job.
How Many Hours Can International Students Work?
The maximum permitted time is 20 hours per week. This is a weekly limit and does not mean students may work 20 hours every day.
Students must continue meeting their academic and Student Pass requirements. Taking an unauthorised job, exceeding the permitted hours or accepting a prohibited position may put the Student Pass at risk.
What Part-Time Jobs Are Allowed in Malaysia?
The Malaysian Immigration Department currently allows approved part-time jobs at the following locations:
- Restaurants
- Petrol stations
- Mini markets
- Hotels
- University or college areas
A job is not automatically approved because it is located in one of these places. The student must still apply through the educational institution and receive Immigration approval before starting.
Which Part-Time Jobs Are Not Allowed?
International students are not permitted to take cashier jobs. Certain other positions are also prohibited, including:
- Singer
- Masseur or masseuse
- Musician
- Guest Relation Officer
- Restricted front-desk positions
- Student recruitment agent
- Any activity considered immoral or prohibited under Malaysian law
If the job title or duties are unclear, ask your university’s international office to confirm whether the position is permitted before accepting it.
Is Immigration Approval Required?
Yes. A valid Student Pass alone is not enough. Students must obtain approval from the Malaysian Immigration Department before starting a part-time job.
The application must be submitted through the university or college where the student is enrolled. The student may also need to attend the Immigration Department with an authorised representative from the institution.
Documents Required for a Part-Time Job Application
The Malaysian Immigration Department currently lists the following documents:
- A formal job offer letter
- A support letter from the university or college
- The student’s semester schedule and holiday dates
- A copy of the passport biodata page
- A copy of the current valid Student Pass
The university or Immigration Department may request additional documents. Follow the latest checklist provided by your institution.
How to Apply for Part-Time Job Permission
- Find an eligible job: Confirm that the workplace and duties fall within the permitted categories.
- Get a written offer: Ask the employer to provide a formal job offer letter.
- Contact your university: Speak with the international office or Student Pass unit.
- Prepare your documents: Submit the offer letter, passport copy, Student Pass copy and other requested records.
- Obtain university support: The institution must prepare a support letter and confirm the semester-break dates.
- Submit the application: Follow the university’s instructions for applying to the Immigration Department.
- Wait for approval: Do not start the job until official permission has been granted.
Can Students Take Part-Time Jobs During Class Weeks?
Current guidance limits part-time jobs to official semester breaks or holidays lasting more than seven days. Students should not take regular jobs during teaching weeks unless their university and the Immigration Department provide written confirmation that it is permitted.
Are Online or Freelance Jobs Allowed?
Official Student Pass guidance focuses on approved part-time jobs at specific locations. It does not provide general permission for freelancing, online businesses or self-employment.
Students should not assume that online jobs are automatically allowed. Ask the university and Malaysian Immigration for written guidance about the exact activity before earning income or operating a business.
Can Student Dependant Pass Holders Take Jobs?
No. The Malaysian Immigration Department states that Student Dependant Pass holders cannot take jobs or conduct business using that pass.
What Happens if a Student Takes a Job Without Permission?
A student who breaks the part-time job rules may have their Student Pass revoked. Unauthorised employment may also cause immigration, university and future visa problems.
Students should obtain approval before starting and keep copies of the approval letter, job offer and university documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can international students take part-time jobs every week?
No. The 20-hour weekly limit applies only during approved semester breaks or holidays lasting more than seven days. Immigration approval is also required.
Can international students take cashier jobs?
No. International students are specifically prohibited from taking cashier positions.
Can language-centre students take part-time jobs?
No. The current Immigration guidance does not extend this facility to Student Pass holders studying at language centres, training centres, skills centres or accredited centres.
Can students start a job while approval is pending?
No. Students must wait until permission has been granted before starting the job.
Will the university find a part-time job for the student?
Not necessarily. The university helps with the permission process, but job availability and recruitment depend on the employer and institution.
Do Not Depend on a Part-Time Job to Pay Your Fees
Part-time jobs should not be treated as the main source of money for tuition or living expenses. Approval, suitable vacancies, permitted periods and earnings are not guaranteed.
Students should arrange enough funds for tuition, accommodation, Student Pass costs and everyday expenses before travelling to Malaysia.
Get Admission Guidance From MyUnv
Planning to study in Malaysia? Send MyUnv your academic qualification, preferred programme, intake and approximate budget. We can help you explore suitable university options and understand the admission process.
Read our Study in Malaysia guide or begin through the MyUnv application form.
Reviewed by: MyUnv admissions team
Last reviewed: 30 September 2026
Disclaimer: Immigration rules, permitted jobs and application procedures may change. Students must confirm the latest requirements with their university and the Malaysian Immigration Department before accepting or starting any job.
