PUTRAJAYA: The Immigration Department (JIM) is set to introduce an online special pass (eSP) starting January 2025 as part of its efforts to digitalize service delivery and expedite government transactions, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail announced. The special pass, which is a document issued to foreigners, allows the holder to enter and stay in Malaysia for no more than thirty days under regulation 14 of the Immigration Regulations 1963.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Saifuddin Nasution explained that currently, the application and issuance of special passes are conducted manually, requiring applicants to physically visit counters to submit documents. This manual process contributes to congestion, as 50 percent of transactions at the Social and Professional Visit Pass counter at the Visa, Pass, and Permit Division are related to special pass applications.

The eSP initiative aims to alleviate counter congestion and promote a new work culture in what is referred to as the “silent offic
e.” Saifuddin Nasution highlighted that in 2023, 139,344 special passes were issued, with 119,019 issued by October this year. The eSP facility will be available to foreign nationals awaiting decisions on new applications, extensions, or exchanges of long-term social visit passes, professional visit passes, or those experiencing emergencies such as illness, accidents, or natural disasters.

The Minister emphasized that while the application process will move online, the Ministry of Home Affairs remains committed to maintaining security standards. Applicants must adhere to conditions and provide necessary supporting documents, with each application carefully reviewed by officers to ensure eligibility. Those who do not meet the requirements or have their applications denied will need to visit the nearest Immigration office for further inspection and clarification.