Questions Malaysians ask us
Short answers to the questions we hear most often. The visa guides have the full detail.
Can only Malaysians apply?
No. We write with Malaysians in mind, whether you are at home or working in Singapore or elsewhere, but every job is open to applicants of any nationality with the right skills and experience.
What does "employer-sponsored" mean?
The employer supports your work visa (the Skills in Demand visa in Australia, the AEWV in New Zealand) and has to follow government rules on pay and conditions.
I use English every day. Do I still need IELTS or PTE?
Possibly. Many Australian jobs need an English test score, usually IELTS or PTE, and some New Zealand jobs ask for English evidence too, however much you use English. Each job ad shows what that employer needs.
Will my SKM or trade certificate be accepted abroad?
Keep it, but expect your trade to be checked again. Australia requires a skills assessment for some occupations, usually through Trades Recognition Australia or VETASSESS, and in New Zealand some trades, such as electrical and plumbing work, need occupational registration. The visa guides explain when this applies.
Which documents should I get ready first?
Your passport, an English CV, references and payslips from every employer, and your qualifications and trade certificates, with certified copies and English translations of anything in Bahasa Malaysia. If police certificates are requested, add a PDRM Certificate of Good Conduct. Some of these take weeks, so start early.
I work in Singapore. Can I apply from there?
Yes. You do not need to be in Australia or New Zealand to apply for either visa. If you have lived in Singapore or another country long enough, you may need a police certificate from there as well as from Malaysia. Do not resign until your visa is decided.
How long does the whole process take?
Plan for roughly two to six months from job offer to visa grant. It depends on the country, your occupation and how quickly your documents are ready.
Can my partner and children come too?
Usually yes. Both visas have options for a partner and dependent children, under the rules that apply when you lodge.
Someone is asking me for money to get a job. Should I pay?
No. Never pay for a job offer. Buying a job or sponsorship breaks Australian and New Zealand rules and can lead to your visa being refused.
How do I apply for a job?
Open the vacancy and use "Apply by email", or "Ask on WhatsApp" if you have a question first. Send your English CV with your trade certificates.