Expatriate Jobs: Navigating Work Permits and Departure Procedures in Malaysia

The intricacies of working abroad, especially in countries like Malaysia, can be complicated, especially when one needs to leave for another job. Understanding the legal requirements and potential consequences is crucial. This article explores the process of obtaining employment in other countries without cancelling your Employment Permit (EP) in Malaysia, and the implications of leaving without proper procedures.

Can People Go for Other Country Jobs Without Cancelling the EP in Malaysia?

Whether or not you can work for another country without cancelling your Employment Permit (EP) in Malaysia is a common query. The straightforward answer is that you do not have to cancel it to go on a vacation or for another job. Many individuals find themselves enjoying their vacation or moving to another job abroad without revoking their EP. However, it is essential to understand the rights and responsibilities of both the employer and the employee in such scenarios.

Would it Be Possible to Cancel After Going to Another Country?

The process of legal termination of an EP is a meticulous one. Here are the key documents that must be submitted to the Immigration Department:

A Letter of Approval to be submitted by the Employer The Employee’s Passport A Letter of Release obtained from the Income Tax Department

This complex process can take some time and is not recommended for someone who needs to leave immediately. In essence, if you plan to terminate your employment, it is best to do so before leaving the country to avoid complications.

What Problems Can Happen When Departure at the Immigration in Malaysia?

The consequences of leaving Malaysia without cancelling your EP are significant. The passport bearer is not allowed to exit the country, effectively wasting an air ticket. In more severe cases, if the individual manages to leave and does not return to Malaysia within 30 days, they may be banned from working in the country permanently. This blacklist can be shared with other countries, making it difficult to get another Employment Permit (EP) in the future.

Abscondment of an EP is considered a serious immigration offense and is more severe than overstaying. If the employer reports the abscondment to the police and immigration authorities, the former worker may face detention even after a decade if they attempt to enter Malaysia as a tourist. These strict measures highlight the importance of properly terminating an EP and exiting the country legally.

These legal requirements and potential repercussions underscore the significance of proper planning and adherence to employment permit regulations.

Understanding the Risks

Before undertaking a new job or vacation, an expatriate should carefully evaluate the risks involved. Leaving Malaysia without cancelling an EP can result in long-term consequences, including difficulties in re-entering the country and potential bans from work permits.

If you are considering leaving Malaysia for another job, it is highly recommended to strictly follow the legal requirements to avoid these challenges. Misunderstanding the processes and timelines can lead to significant complications that can affect both your personal and professional life.