To PVIP Visa Holders: Regarding Visa Transfer (Visa Balance) Procedures Due to Passport Renewal
(Based on information as of January 3, 2026)
Overview of the PVIP Visa
The PVIP (Premium Visa Programme) is a long-term residency scheme launched by the Malaysian government in 2022. It primarily targets high-value investors and foreign nationals meeting specific asset requirements, granting a multiple-entry visa valid for up to 20 years (renewable).
The programme permits family members to accompany the principal applicant, allowing them to reside, conduct business activities, work, and study within Malaysia.
If you hold a PVIP visa, the visa information remains on your old passport upon its expiration or renewal. Therefore, you must undergo a procedure to transfer the visa information to your new passport.
This procedure is commonly referred to as the “Visa Balance Procedure” or “Visa Transfer/Extension Procedure.”
Reasons Visa Balance Procedures Are Required
Failure to complete visa transfer procedures after passport renewal may result in the following issues:
- Visa information recorded in the old passport may be deemed invalid for practical purposes.
- During entry or while staying in the country, immigration authorities or relevant agencies may require additional time for verification or may raise concerns.
- Administrative issues may arise due to discrepancies between the passport number registered with a bank account and the actual passport number.
Particular caution is needed regarding bank accounts. If the passport number is not updated within a certain period after changing it, restrictions on fund management may apply.
List of Required Documents
The main documents to be submitted to the Immigration Bureau are as follows. Some documents will be prepared by the visa agency.
- Copies and originals of the photo pages (biometric data pages) from both the old and new passports (one copy and one original each)
※Originals will be returned after verification - One copy of the PVIP visa (visa stamp or approval page)
- Copy of Approval Letter: 1 copy
- Passport photo: 1 copy
(Color, background: blue, size: 3.5cm × 5.0cm) - IM12 form: 1 copy (prepared by the visa agency)
- IMM.55 form: 1 copy (prepared by the visa agency)
- Copy of the page with the most recent entry stamp
If using an automated gate (self-service kiosk): Submit boarding pass and flight reservation confirmation - Power of Attorney (in English)
※ Prepared by the visa agency
Application Process and Estimated Duration
The general process is as follows:
- Day 1: Submit required documents to the visa agency
- Day 2: Visa agency staff submit application to the Immigration Bureau
- Day 3: Reserve day (in case additional verification or supplementary documents are required)
- Day 4: Visa transfer to new passport completed and passport returned
The process typically takes approximately 4 business days. For urgent requests, please consult the agency in advance.
Fees
Government-Related Fees
- Visa Fee: RM2,000 (per year) × Remaining Years
Example: For 10 years remaining: RM20,000
Agency Application Fee
- Up to 2 persons: RM2,000 + SST 8%
- 3 persons: RM2,200 + SST 8%
- 4 persons or more: RM2,400 + SST 8%
Additional Options (Optional)
- For passport collection or return at a hotel
Travel Expense (one-way): RM100 + SST 8%
*Visa Balance procedures can only be applied for by visa agencies authorized by the Malaysian government.
Important Notice Regarding Bank Procedures After Passport Renewal
After completing your Visa Balance procedures, promptly update your passport number at your transaction bank.
Bank accounts are managed linked to passport information. Failure to update this information for an extended period may result in restrictions on account usage, in accordance with Bank Negara Malaysia regulations.
It is recommended to complete this procedure around the same time as your passport renewal.
Bank Accompaniment Support (Optional)
- Support Fee: RM300 + 8% SST (Maximum 2 hours)
Summary
For PVIP visa holders, the Visa Balance procedure following passport renewal is mandatory.
To ensure smooth stays and various procedures in Malaysia after renewal, prompt action is recommended.
Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or need assistance with document preparation.
*This information is based on content as of January 3, 2026. Immigration regulations are subject to change; please verify the latest information before applying.