PLS@XPATS Pass (Emergency Work Pass)

The PLS@XPATS Pass (Emergency Work Pass) was introduced by the Immigration Department of Malaysia in October 2022 to address urgent labor needs for critical technical tasks. It serves as a specialized, short-term social visit pass that bypasses the lengthy processing times of standard work permits, filling the gap for companies facing operational emergencies. By allowing foreign experts to enter the country rapidly for essential maintenance, repairs, or system recovery, the program ensures that critical infrastructure and production lines remain functional without compromising national interests or economic stability.

This pass is designed for foreign experts aged 18 and older who are urgently needed to perform critical work in sectors such as oil and gas, IT, aviation, manufacturing, and defense. It is distinctively characterized by its rapid three-day processing time and a 30-day validity period, which is non-extendable. It is intended strictly for emergency professional interventions rather than long-term employment, requiring the sponsoring company to provide detailed project schedules and job descriptions to justify the necessity of the expert's immediate presence in Malaysia.