Step-By-Step Process of Getting an EMGS Student Visa to Malaysia for International Students
7th October 2025
Malaysia has become a premier nation in Asia that welcomes international students. Modern universities, a safe living environment, and a multi-cultural environment make it an ideal place for higher education. If an international student hopes to study in the country legally, a student visa has to be arranged through Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS), which is an authorized authority that operates under the direction of the Malaysia government to support the issues of international students, including issuing student visas.
At BCES Admissions Abroad we will facilitate this process easier for you. Here is a step by step guide on the EMGS student visa application, documents you will need, and how to ensure a hassle-free experience from your home country all the way to the university campus in Malaysia.
What is the EMGS Student Visa?
Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) is a government body that manages the admission and immigration procedures for foreign students in Malaysia. EMGS involves a transparent and efficient administration, which also adequately monitors international students throughout their studies in Malaysia.
The EMGS Student Pass, also known as the Malaysia Student Visa, is a prerequisite for any non-Malay student wishing to study full-time in Malaysia. The visa does allow you to live, study and take full advantage of the student perks in Malaysia for the duration your course or program lasts.
How to Apply for the EMGS Student Visa
- Get an Offer Letter from a Malaysian Institution
Before you can apply for a Malaysia student visa, you must first receive an official offer letter from a university or college that is registered under EMGS. Always check the EMGS-approved institution list to ensure your chosen university is recognized.
- Submit Your Application via the EMGS Online Portal
Once you’ve received your offer letter, your university will initiate your visa process through the EMGS online portal. You’ll need to provide the following documents:
- A scanned copy of your passport (all pages)
- Certified copies of your academic records
- Passport-sized photos (as per EMGS specifications)
- Medical screening report from an approved clinic
- The official offer letter from your university
The EMGS portal allows you to monitor your application status in real-time, promoting transparency throughout the process.
- Receive the Visa Approval Letter (VAL)
Once your documents have been reviewed and approved, you will be sent your Visa Approval Letter (VAL). A VAL is essentially proof that you have been formally allowed to enter Malaysia for the purpose of study. You will present this letter to the immigration official when you arrive in Malaysia.
- Undergo a Medical Check-Up
Medical screening for all foreign students is mandatory. It can either be conducted before departure (in an EMGS-approved clinic in your home country) or upon arrival in Malaysia.
- Endorsement of Student Pass
After arriving in Malaysia, your university will help you complete the final step — getting your Student Pass sticker on your passport. This sticker serves as your legal permit to study and live in Malaysia for the duration of your course.
Why Choose Malaysia for Higher Education
Malaysia boasts a world-class education system, English-language programs, and multicultural student body. Top-ranked British and Australian universities have branch campuses in Malaysia, which issue globally recognized degrees.
The nation is also renowned for being safe, culturally diverse, and welcoming locals, which are amongst the most hospitable countries to host students. Under the EMGS system, all processes related to students — from the visa application to renewals — are efficiently maintained, and hence both the students and parents can rest assured.
Advises for a Seamless EMGS Visa Process
- Apply for your visa early to prevent any sort of hindrances.
- Ensure your passport has a validity period of more than 12 months.
- Provide all documents in English or with translated copies certified by authorities.
- Update or track only through the official EMGS website.
- Be in constant touch with your university’s international office for information.
At BCES Admissions Abroad, we are experts in facilitating students’ application for their Malaysia student visa and getting admitted to the best EMGS-approved schools. Our professional counselors assist you in each step — from documentations and online application to post-approval support.
Whether you’re applying for an undergraduate, postgraduate, or diploma course, BCES takes care of your EMGS visa process smoothly and with proper guidance.
If you’re ready to begin your journey, contact us today at +91 9319996330 for personalized assistance and start your study adventure in Malaysia with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
EMGS (Education Malaysia Global Services) is responsible for managing student visas to ensure that all international students are fulfilling the dignity of every study permission regulation in Malaysia.
Timeframe will be variable based upon you and whether or if the university has confirmed that they will be offering their program. You will be able to track your application at any time through the EMGS online portal.
Yes, part-time work is available to international students during semester holidays and breaks, in accordance with Malaysian Immigration Laws.
Yes, the EMGS Student Pass is often provided for one year and needs to be renewed on an annual basis, with the assistance of your University.
If your VAL expires, contact your University immediately for assistance in reapplying or renewing your VAL before you travel to Malaysia.
Yes, every student will need to complete a medical screening at an EMGS Clinic before or after you arrive in Malaysia.
You can check your application status for EMGS by using your passport number or reference ID on the approved website.
