So your work permit is coming up for renewal — congratulations, first of all. It means you’ve been working legally in Malaysia, which puts you in a much better position than many others. Now let’s make sure you don’t mess up the renewal and end up working on an expired permit, which is a serious legal problem.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Here’s what you need to know about renewing a Malaysia work permit in 2026.
When Should You Start the Renewal Process?
Start at least 3 months before your current permit expires. That’s the standard advice, and it’s genuinely important. Processing takes time, and if your permit expires while renewal is pending, your immigration status becomes complicated.
Your employer is usually responsible for initiating the renewal, but don’t assume they’ll do it on time. Remind them. Mark the date on your calendar. Be proactive — it’s your livelihood at stake.
Who Renews the Permit — You or Your Employer?
Your employer initiates and processes the renewal through the FWCMS portal. Just like the original application, you cannot renew it yourself as a worker. However, you are responsible for completing your FOMEMA medical and having all your documents updated.
Malaysia Work Permit Renewal Requirements 2026
Before your employer submits the renewal application, make sure:
Your Passport is Valid
Your passport must have at least 12–18 months of validity remaining after the new permit period. If your passport is expiring, renew it first — both in Bangladesh (through your embassy in Malaysia) and ensure the new passport is linked to your immigration records.
FOMEMA Medical Examination
Every renewal requires a fresh FOMEMA medical examination at an approved clinic in Malaysia. This checks your current health status. Costs: approximately RM 180–250 (BDT 5,000–7,000).
If you fail the medical during renewal, your permit cannot be renewed, and you may be required to return to Bangladesh.
SOSCO Registration
You must be registered with SOSCO (Social Security Organisation Malaysia). Your employer should have registered you when you first arrived. If not, this needs to be sorted before renewal.
Insurance Coverage
Your Insurance Guarantee (IG) and Foreign Worker Hospitalisation Scheme (FWHS) must be valid. Your employer typically handles these.
No Outstanding Legal Issues
No overstay history, no criminal record in Malaysia, no pending immigration violations.
Step-by-Step Renewal Process
Step 1: Employer logs into FWCMS and submits renewal application (3 months before expiry)
Step 2: Worker completes FOMEMA medical examination at approved clinic
Step 3: MOHA reviews renewal application (2–4 weeks)
Step 4: Renewal approved — new permit sticker/card issued
Step 5: Worker continues employment with new permit validity
How Many Times Can You Renew?
For Temporary Employment Pass (TEP) holders:
- Renewable annually
- Maximum total stay: 10 years
Once you hit the 10-year maximum, you cannot renew further and must return to Bangladesh (or apply for a different immigration status if eligible).
For Employment Pass holders:
- Category I and II: Maximum 10 years total (from June 2026)
- Category III: Maximum 5 years total (from June 2026)
The clock started running on June 1, 2026, and resets if you change employers, positions, or categories.
Renewal Costs
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| FOMEMA medical renewal | RM 180–250 (BDT 5,000–7,000) |
| Work permit renewal processing fee | RM 60–120 (BDT 1,700–3,400) |
| Insurance Guarantee renewal | Employer pays |
| Total (worker’s share) | Approximately BDT 7,000–10,000 |
What Happens if Your Permit Expires Before Renewal?
This is where things get serious. Working in Malaysia on an expired permit is illegal and can result in:
- Fines
- Detention by immigration
- Deportation
- Being blacklisted from Malaysia
Don’t let it get to this point. Start early, remind your employer, and keep copies of all renewal documents.
Renewal vs Changing Employers
If you want to renew but also change employers at the same time, this is a more complex process. The new employer needs to apply for a fresh permit, not a renewal. Plan accordingly.
Also read: Malaysia Work Permit Complete Guide 2026 | Malaysia Work Permit Cost Guide
Last Updated: June 2026
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