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Before travelling to Sarawak, new students are mandated to apply for student pass/visa. To obtain this, student must acquire a Visa Approval Letter (eVAL/VAL) from Malaysia Immigration Department (Sarawak).
With effect from 1st August 2022, all international student’s pass/visa application must be submitted to Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) throught the university.
Your student pass/visa application documents should be forwarded to Admissions Office and the university will submit these documents to EMGS.
Attempting to enter Malaysia using a Tourist Visa and then converting it into student pass/visa is not possible. This will lead to Malaysia Immigration advising you to exit Malaysia and cause unwarranted delays with both EMGS and Malaysia Immigration Department.
In the event that you have already applied for an eVAL/VAL but attempt to enter Malysia using a Tourist Visa, please be aware that you will likely be denied entry at the immigration entry point. It is crucial to adhere to the correct visa application and entry procedures to avoid any complications or issues with immigration authorities.
Required documents
Transferring from Other Institution Within Malaysia
For students who are transferring from another institution within Malaysia to Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak, there are specific steps and documents required when applying for eVAL/VAL for studying with this university.
Transferring Process
Students who are transferring must first cancel their previous institution's pass/visa and obtain a Release Letter from the previous institution before proceeding with applying for eVAL/VAL with Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak.
Required documents
Pre-Departure & Entry to Malaysia / Sarawak
Please refer to Pre-Departure & Entry Guidelines
Renewing your student pass/visa is an important responsibility for all international students in Swinburne Sarawak. A valid student visa allows you to study full time and have multiple entries into Malaysia. Please carefully follow the steps outlined below to ensure a smooth renewal process.
Reasons for Renewal
Renewing your student visa/pass is essential to avoid penalties for everstaying. It is recommended to renew your student pass/visa 3 months before expiry. While Malaysia Immigration Department issues and manages these passes, Swinburne Sarawak Visa Unit will assist you in applying for your student pass/visa renewal through Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS).
Malaysia Immigration Laws & Regulations for Renewal
To be eligible for student pass/visa renewal, you should meet the following conditions:
Violation of Student Pass
Student pass/visa renewal after expiry
If you submit your student pass/visa renewal after expiry date, the Malaysia Immigration Department will impose penalties. The penalty amount will be determined by immigration authorities.
Additionally, a Special Pass fee of RM100 and Overstayed Penalty and Expired Visa/Pass fee as per Ancillary Fee will be charged on top of the renewal processing fee.
Submission Processes
Follow these steps for the renewal process:
Following these steps and adhering to the guidelines will ensure a successful student pass/visa renewal process. If you require any further assistance, please contact iss@swinburne.edu.my or visit Visa Services Counter.
When it comes to changing program as an International Student in Malaysia, there are specific guidelines to follow:
Change of Program within the First Semester
The Malaysia Immigration Department (Sarawak) only allows changes of program during the first semester of study without requiring you to exit Malaysia. This means that you can change your program to any other approved program during your initial semester without leaving Malaysia.
Change of Program after the First Year
If you wish to change your program after completing the first year of study, you will need to exit Malaysia and re-apply for a new Visa Approval Letter (eVAL/VAL) from your home country.
Progressing to a Higher Level of Study
Required Documents
Please refer to New Student Pass/Visa Application.
When you complete your studies with us, withdraw from a course or transfer to another Malaysian Institution, it is important to prroperly cancel you rcurrent student pass/visa to avoid future travel document and visa-related inconveniences.
If you fail to formally notify the university about your current status with the university, the university is obligated by Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) to report students to Malaysia Immigration Department, Royal Malaysia Police and your respective embassy to trace your whereabouts.
Withdrawal from the University / Completed Studies / Returning to Home Country:
If you are leaving the university, completing your studies or returning to your home country, follow these steps for student pass/visa cancellation:
Complete the required forms available on the Student Form webpage. Submit thest documents to Visa Services Counter at least seven (7) working days before your departure:
Important Notes:
Transfer to other Institution in Malaysia
If you are transferring to other institution within Malaysia, in addition to the documents required for withdrawing from the university, you will need the following additional document:
Please provide all the necessary documents accurately for a smooth student pass/visa cancellation process. If you have any questions or concerns, reach out to Visa Services Counter or email us at iss@swinburne.edu.my.
Transfer to Swinburne University of Technology Australia
If you are transferring to Swinburne University of Technology Australia, you will be required to formally withdraw from Swinburne Sarawak Campus and cancel your current student pass/visa before transferring and leaving Malaysia.
In addition to the documents required for withdrawing from the university, you will need the following additional documents:
