Quick answer: A Visa With Reference (VDR) lets an approved expatriate who is abroad enter Malaysia to have the Employment Pass endorsed. ESD's FAQ says an applicant abroad can apply for a VDR together with the pass application, and that it can be issued by presenting the approval letter at the MYXpats Centre counter. Whether a person needs one depends on nationality: applicants abroad must obtain a visa from a Malaysian mission if their nationality requires one. A VDR is not a work pass, and it is used only for entry.
- A VDR can be applied for together with the pass application if the applicant is abroad.
- It can be collected at the MYXpats Centre counter with the approval letter.
- Whether a visa is needed depends on nationality.
- A VDR allows entry for endorsement, not work.
- The company tells the applicant to obtain the VDR if applicable.
What a VDR Is
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Entry to Malaysia for an approved expatriate to endorse the pass |
| When to apply | Together with the pass application if the applicant is abroad |
| Where to collect | MYXpats Centre counter, with the approval letter |
| Who needs one | Applicants whose nationality requires a visa to enter Malaysia |
| Work rights | None by itself |
Steps
Tick the VDR option
When submitting the application, if the applicant is abroad.
Wait for approval
Approval comes before the VDR is issued.
Collect or receive the VDR
At the MYXpats Centre counter with the approval letter.
Travel to Malaysia
With the passport, VDR and approval letters.
Endorse the pass
At ESC KLIA or the MYXpats Centre within 30 days.
VDR for Other Passes
VDR also appears in other routes. A Professional Visit Pass holder enters with a VDR or an approval letter if the nationality is visa exempt, and a DE Rantau Pass holder obtains an eVISA or VDR before entering. The rules differ by pass.
Mistakes
Entering on a tourist stamp
Use the approval and visa route.
Assuming every nationality needs a VDR
It depends on nationality.
Confusing VDR with a work pass
The pass is endorsed after entry.
Need a pass sorted out? WhatsApp us. We will check your case before you apply.
Three Scenarios
Scenario 1. An engineer from a visa-required country applies for the VDR together with the pass.
Scenario 2. A manager from a visa-exempt country enters on the approval letter.
Scenario 3. A company forgets to tell the employee to obtain a VDR and the employee is delayed at the border.
How We Help
What we handle for you
Before you apply
- Check that your company meets the requirements and that the post and salary fit the right category.
- Prepare your business plan and financial plan from your company idea or business model, where the application needs one.
Application
- Prepare and submit the pass application and respond to Immigration's queries.
Why companies choose us
End-to-end under one roof
- We handle company incorporation, accounting and payroll as well as expatriate pass applications, so your structure, payroll and hiring plan stay aligned.
- The company is set up correctly from day one.
We check before you invest
- We confirm eligibility, including whether you can hire the expatriates you need, before a foreign investor decides to incorporate in Malaysia.
- Neutral Consulting PLT is a Kuala Lumpur firm led by a Managing Partner who is a member of the Malaysian Institute of Accountants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers.
What is a Visa With Reference for an Employment Pass?
A visa that lets an approved expatriate abroad enter Malaysia to endorse the pass.
When do I apply for a VDR?
Together with the pass application, if the applicant is abroad.
Where do I collect it?
At the MYXpats Centre counter, with the approval letter.
Do all nationalities need one?
No. It depends on whether the nationality requires a visa.
Is a VDR a work permit?
No. It is used for entry.
Is the VDR available online?
ESD's FAQ said it would be made available through the system. Check ESD Online for the current process.
Who tells the employee to get the VDR?
The company, if applicable.
Does a Professional Visit Pass need a VDR?
A PVP holder enters with a VDR or an approval letter for visa-exempt countries.
Does a DE Rantau holder need one?
MDEC's FAQ says an approved holder obtains an eVISA or VDR before entering.
Do dependants need a VDR?
It depends on their nationality.
What if the visa is refused?
Contact the MYXpats helpdesk or the company's adviser.
Can you arrange the VDR?
Yes. We include it in the application plan.
Sources
Official sources
- Immigration Department (ESD), MYXpats FAQs
- Immigration Department (ESD), MYXpats Centre FAQ
- Immigration Department (ESD), Guidelines for the entry of expatriates
- Immigration Department, Professional Visitor Pass (Expert)
- MDEC, DE Rantau Pass FAQ v10.0
This page is general information, not legal advice. Agencies change their requirements, so confirm the current rules with the Immigration Department (ESD) and MIDA, or with us, before you act. Checked November 2026.
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Hiring or relocating an expatriate? We will check your case first. All consultations are by video call.