Malaysia Student Dependent Visa: Bring Your Spouse Family While Studying

Thinking about studying in Malaysia but worried about leaving your loved ones behind? 

Under Malaysia’s student dependent visa policy, you may be able to bring your spouse or children with you while you study.

Not every international student qualifies, though. The Malaysia student dependent visa is usually available for full-time postgraduate students in programs longer than 12 months, and there are specific rules you’ll need to follow.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about bringing your family to Malaysia — from student visa with spouse requirements and eligibility, to application steps, costs, and restrictions. 

Who Can International Students Bring to Malaysia?

If you’re planning your studies in Malaysia, one of the first questions that might come to mind is: “Can I bring my family with me?” The answer is yes but only certain family members qualify under the Malaysia student dependent visa rules.

As an international student, you can bring your immediate family to Malaysia. This usually includes your spouse, children under 18 years old, and in some cases, your parents.

However, not all relatives are eligible — extended family members like siblings or cousins can’t be included under the dependent visa for students in Malaysia.

Here’s a quick breakdown to make it easier:

Are All Students Allowed to Bring Family Members?

Not all international students in Malaysia are allowed to bring their families. The dependent visa Malaysia student policy mainly applies to those enrolled in full-time postgraduate programs (Master’s or PhD) that last more than 12 months. 

If you’re only taking a short course, language program, or diploma, your dependents usually won’t qualify.

Another thing to keep in mind is the student visa age limit in Malaysia. While there isn’t a strict cut-off for postgraduate students, most universities and immigration authorities generally accept students between 18 to 35 years old for undergraduate courses, and slightly older for postgraduate studies. 

This matters because only students who meet the age and program requirements can sponsor dependents under the student dependent visa scheme.

Malaysia Student Dependent Visa Requirements

To apply for a Malaysia student dependent visa, you first need a valid Student Pass. Without it, your university won’t be able to submit an application for your dependents.

Once that’s sorted, you’ll need to prepare the right documents. Here’s the complete list of documents needed for a dependent visa Malaysia student application:

• All passport pages of each dependent (valid for at least 12 months)
• Two recent passport-size photos (white background, 45 mm x 35 mm)
• Marriage certificate (for spouse) -  translated into English by an authorized translator
• Children’s birth certificates - translated into English (if applicable)
• Relationship letter (for spouse and children) from your Embassy
• Letter of Oath for children aged 7–18 (stating whether they’re homeschooled or not attending school)
• Permission to Study application form for children attending school in Malaysia
• Completed Dependent Pass application form

How to Apply for a Dependent Pass in Malaysia (Step by Step)

Once you have your Student Pass, you can start the process of bringing your family with you. The application is usually handled through your university and processed by EMGS (Education Malaysia Global Services). 

Here’s how it works step by step:

1. Apply through your university

Your university submits the Dependent Pass application to EMGS on behalf of your spouse, children, or parents.

2. Submit all required documents

Provide the full set of documents (passports, photos, marriage/birth certificates, embassy letter, etc.) to your university. They’ll verify and forward them for approval.

3. Wait for Immigration Department review

The Malaysian Immigration Department reviews the application. If anything is missing, you’ll receive an email request to provide additional documents.

4. Receive approval (3–4 weeks)

Once approved, your dependents will be issued a Long-Term Social Visit Pass (LTSVP), usually valid for up to 12 months.

5. Keep your Student Pass valid

Remember: your dependents’ LTSVP stays valid only as long as your own Student Pass remains active.

Visa Fees for Family Member

Applying for a dependent visa Malaysia student comes with a few mandatory fees. These charges cover processing and immigration requirements. Here’s the breakdown:

Dependent Pass Malaysia: Work & Study Restrictions

Can dependents work in Malaysia?

No,  family members holding a Dependent Pass are not allowed to work in Malaysia. If your spouse wants to work, they must first secure a job offer and then apply for an Employment Pass. This application is submitted by the hiring company to the Immigration Department.

Can children study in Malaysia on a Dependent Pass?

Yes, children under 18 years old can study in Malaysia while on a Dependent Pass. For those aged 7–18, parents must submit a Permission to Study application form so the child can enroll in a local or international school.

What about children over 18 years old?

If your child is 18 or older and wants to continue studying, they’ll need to apply for a separate Student Pass instead of staying under your dependent visa.

Do Dependents Need a Visa Approval Letter (VAL)?

Not all dependents need a Visa Approval Letter (VAL). This requirement only applies to nationals from certain countries considered high-risk by Malaysia’s Immigration Department; for example, Nigeria, Afghanistan, and a few others.

👉 If your dependent is from one of these countries, you’ll need to secure the VAL before their Dependent Pass can be issued. Otherwise, the standard Dependent Pass application is enough.

Types of Student & Family Visas in Malaysia 

If you're wondering how many types of visa are there in Malaysia for international students and their families, the main ones are these three: Student Pass, Dependent Pass, and Social Visit Visa.

Tips for Bringing Your Family to Malaysia

So, you’ve sorted out your student visa and dependent visa for Malaysia, now comes the real planning: how to make your family’s stay comfortable and stress-free. 

Here are some key tips every international student should keep in mind:

1. Sort Out Accommodation Early 

No student hostel or university residence allows family members. If you’re bringing your spouse or children, look into private apartments near campus or family-friendly housing options. Many universities in Malaysia have an International Student Office that can guide you toward the best areas for student accommodation.

2. Plan for Living Costs 

On average, international students spend RM 1,500–RM 2,500 per month on living expenses in Malaysia. With dependents, you’ll need to budget extra for housing, food, school fees (if your children are studying), and healthcare. Planning your living costs in Malaysia in advance will make the transition smoother.

3. Make Use of University Support 

Most universities in Malaysia offer services to help international students adjust, from visa support for dependents to guidance on healthcare and local schools. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your university’s international office; they’re there to make sure your family’s move is as easy as possible.

Final Thoughts

Bringing your family to Malaysia while you study is definitely possible, but it comes with specific requirements and responsibilities. From securing a Student Pass to applying for a Dependent Pass, each step needs careful planning. 

Remember that only eligible students (usually full-time postgraduate programs over 12 months) can bring dependents, and family members must follow immigration rules on work and study.

With the right preparation, you can make the transition smooth for both you and your family. Studying in Malaysia can be a rewarding experience, and having your loved ones by your side can make it even better.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a student dependent visa in Malaysia?

A student dependent visa in Malaysia, also called a Dependent Pass, allows the spouse and children (under 18) of eligible international students to stay in Malaysia during the study period. It is only available to students enrolled in full-time postgraduate programs over 12 months, and the pass remains valid as long as the student’s Student Pass is active.

2. Can I bring my spouse on a Malaysia student visa?

Yes, if you are enrolled in a full-time postgraduate program lasting more than 12 months, you can bring your spouse to Malaysia. After getting your Student Pass, your university can apply for a Dependent Pass on their behalf. 

3. Can dependents work in Malaysia on a student visa?

No, dependents on a Dependent Pass cannot work in Malaysia. To work legally, your spouse must first secure a job offer and then apply for an Employment Pass through their hiring company.

4. How many types of visas are available for international students in Malaysia?

There are three main types of visas for international students in Malaysia:

• Student Pass
• Dependent Pass 
• Social Visit Visa