
Malaysia is a great place for international students to intern, with a rapidly developing economy and groundbreaking sectors, it offers a bonus for your CV and a chance to develop your network in Asia. International students can apply for internships in Malaysia, but the opportunities are competitive, so students are encouraged to plan early and apply to many companies. Internships in Malaysia can run alongside your studies, but students should be aware that some internships may require a minimum time commitment of 2-3 months. Nationals from many countries do not need a visa for a stay of less than 3 months in Malaysia, but for longer stays, an internship visa will be mandatory.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| International student internship availability | Available |
| Companies offering internships | Coca-Cola Bottlers (M) Sdn Bhd, Petronas, Maybank, CIMB Group, MaGIC, Ernst and Young, KPMG, Nestlé, Dell, Intel, Shell, Unilever |
| Visa requirements | Multiple Entry Visa (MEV) or Single-Entry Visa (SEV) |
| Additional documents | University letter, internship offer letter, passport, photographs, qualifications, medical examination report, personal bond form |
| Minimum internship duration | 40 working days (8 weeks) |
| Maximum internship duration | 90 days |
| Work hours | Part-time, not exceeding 20 hours per week |
| Application process | Start early, network, tailor application, prepare documents |
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What You'll Learn

International student internship requirements in Malaysia
International students can do internships in Malaysia, and many university programs in Malaysia require students to complete an internship or practical course to graduate. International students can also do internships at some of the top global companies in Malaysia.
To apply for an internship in Malaysia, international students will need a Multiple Entry Visa (MEV) to study and work in the country. They will also need to submit the following documents:
- A signed copy of the student pass application form
- Two passport-size photographs
- A copy of all certified pages of their passport that is valid for at least a year from the date of entry into the country
- A copy of their qualifications as per the requirements stated by EMGS or IHE
- A pre-arrival medical examination report
- A stamped hand-written personal bond form
International students can also apply for a Social Visit Pass (SVP) if they are currently enrolled in a university. This allows a stay of up to 90 days, depending on the applicant's nationality, and can be extended in certain cases.
When it comes to the internship itself, there are a few requirements to keep in mind. Firstly, internships in Malaysia typically last between 2 and 6 months, with a minimum duration of 2 months for international students. On rare occasions, internships may last for 1 year. Secondly, internships must be with a legitimate company registered in Malaysia, and the employer must provide an internship offer letter stating the position as an intern or practical trainee. The internship duration must be for at least 40 working days or 8 weeks.
It is important to note that internships in Malaysia are not considered full-time jobs, and interns are not considered employees. Therefore, there is no legal requirement for organizations to pay interns. However, some organizations may offer an allowance, with paid internships typically ranging from RM600 to RM1500 (USD 130 to USD 320).
International students can also consider online internships, which allow them to complete their training remotely while being attached to an organization in Malaysia. Additionally, freelancing is another option to gain industry experience while studying in Malaysia.
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How to apply for an internship in Malaysia
International students can apply for internships in Malaysia, and there are several ways to go about it.
University Internship Programs
If you are an international student at a university in Malaysia, your institution may have its own internship program or partnerships with companies in Malaysia. For example, Monash University Malaysia offers a Work Experience Program (BEW3110) that international students can apply for at any time during their course. The university also provides students with a general letter of recommendation that can be submitted to multiple employers.
AIP International Program
AIP offers internships in Malaysia that promise professional development and cultural immersion. These internships are English-speaking and year-round, catering to those interested in industries like finance, technology, and sustainable development. AIP provides support in understanding visa requirements and navigating the application process.
Direct Applications
Students can also apply directly to companies in Malaysia. To do so, students must ensure that they are applying to a legitimate, registered company in Malaysia. The company must provide an internship offer letter that states the position as an intern or practical trainee, and the internship must be for at least 40 working days or 8 weeks.
Required Documents
When applying for internships in Malaysia, you may need to submit various documents, including:
- Resume/CV
- Cover letter
- Academic transcript
- Passport
- Visa
- Medical examination report
- Qualifications
- Passport-size photographs
It is important to start planning early and apply to multiple companies, as internship opportunities for international students in Malaysia are competitive.
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Internship opportunities for international students in Malaysia
Malaysia is a great place for international students to intern. The country's rapidly developing economy and groundbreaking sectors offer a bonus for your CV and a chance to develop your network in Asia. Many companies in Malaysia are on the lookout for talented interns who can provide help and insight into their business.
Visa Requirements
To study and work in Malaysia, international students will require a Multiple Entry Visa (MEV). Along with this, students will need to submit a signed copy of the student pass application form, two passport-sized photos, a valid passport, and other relevant documentation. Nationals from many countries do not need a visa for a stay of less than three months in Malaysia. However, for longer stays, an internship visa will be mandatory.
Available Internships
There are many internship opportunities available in Malaysia for international students. Some examples include:
- Coca-Cola Bottlers (M) Sdn Bhd: Interns can work on exciting projects and gain experience in the food and beverage industry.
- Petronas: The national oil and gas company of Malaysia offers internships in engineering, technology, and business.
- Maybank: The largest bank in Malaysia offers internships in banking and finance.
- CIMB Group: Interns can gain experience in the banking and finance industry.
- MaGIC (Malaysian Global Innovation & Creativity Centre): MaGIC is a government-funded accelerator for startups.
Application Process
Students are encouraged to start their internship search early and apply to as many companies as possible, as internship opportunities can be competitive. Many companies start accepting applications in the fall semester. It is important to tailor your resume and cover letter to each internship and highlight your relevant skills and experience.
Duration
Internships in Malaysia generally vary in duration, with some lasting a minimum of 40 working days (or 8 weeks), while others may last for several months. Employers usually prefer a minimum commitment of 2-3 months, as longer internships provide greater exposure to the organisation's operations.
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International companies offering internships in Malaysia
International students can do internships in Malaysia, and in fact, most university programs in the country require students to undergo an internship or a practical course. These internships are considered a graduation requirement and can be completed within the university or with any centre of excellence at the university.
Malaysia's diverse business landscape and strategic position in the ASEAN region make it an attractive destination for internships. The country offers a range of industries, from manufacturing to services, providing interns with practical learning and career growth opportunities.
When considering an internship in Malaysia, it is recommended that international students seek out top global companies, which are typically located in bigger cities such as Johor, Kuala Lumpur, and Penang. These cities offer unique cultural experiences alongside the opportunity to gain experience with renowned brands.
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Visa requirements for international students interning in Malaysia
International students seeking internships in Malaysia must navigate specific visa requirements to ensure a smooth entry into the country. Here is a comprehensive guide detailing the necessary steps and considerations for obtaining the correct visa.
Firstly, it is essential to distinguish between internships and employment. The Social Visit Pass (SVP) is intended for social visits and educational exchanges, but it may not permit paid employment during your stay in Malaysia. If you plan to receive remuneration for your internship, ensure you understand the visa requirements for paid work.
For students currently enrolled in a university, the Social Visit Pass (SVP) offers a short-term option, allowing a stay of up to 90 days, depending on the applicant's nationality. This pass is extendable in certain cases, but applicants should consult with the local Malaysian Embassy or Consulate for accurate information. To obtain the SVP, students must possess the required documents, which may include an application fee, an official letter from the hosting company or institution in Malaysia, police clearance, and a valid passport.
For longer stays or internships that involve paid work, international students typically require a Multiple Entry Visa (MEV) to study and work in Malaysia. This visa permits part-time work for no more than 20 hours per week in selected organisations. To obtain the MEV, students must submit a signed copy of the student pass application form, two passport-size photographs, a valid passport, a copy of their qualifications, a pre-arrival medical examination report, and other supporting documents.
It is important to note that visa requirements may vary based on your country of origin. For instance, residents of Canada and the United States can enter Malaysia with a visitor's visa for up to 90 days. If your internship exceeds this duration, you may need to explore other visa options or consider re-entering the country after visiting nearby Southeast Asian countries like Singapore and Thailand.
Additionally, some international students may need to obtain a Visa with Reference (VDR) from Malaysia Representative Offices overseas before entering the country. This requirement applies to foreign students in Higher Education Institutions (HEI) with an approved Visa Approval Letter (VAL). However, those from countries that do not require visas for entry may present the VAL upon arrival without obtaining a VDR beforehand.
Lastly, certain exemptions apply for specific pass holders. Holders of the Expatriate Pass can pursue their education without applying for a Student Pass, provided they have an offer from recognised institutions of Higher Learning. Similarly, Dependant Pass holders below 18 years old are exempt from applying for a Student Pass, while those above 18 must convert their pass to a Student Pass.
In conclusion, international students intending to intern in Malaysia must carefully navigate the visa requirements outlined above. It is advisable to consult official government sources and seek guidance from universities or visa specialists to ensure compliance with the latest entry requirements.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, international students can do internships in Malaysia.
Some examples of internships in Malaysia that international students can apply to include:
- Petronas, the national oil and gas company of Malaysia, offers internships in engineering, technology, and business.
- Maybank, the largest bank in Malaysia, offers internships in banking and finance.
- Coca-Cola Bottlers (M) Sdn Bhd offers internships in the food and beverage industry.
- CIMB Group offers internships in banking and finance.
- MaGIC (Malaysian Global Innovation & Creativity Centre) is a government-funded accelerator for startups.
The requirements for international students to do an internship in Malaysia include:
- A Multiple Entry Visa (MEV) to study and work in Malaysia.
- An offer letter from a Malaysian college or university.
- A signed copy of the student pass application form.
- Two passport-size photographs.
- A copy of all certified pages of your passport that is valid for at least a year from the date of entry into Malaysia.
- A pre-arrival medical examination report.
- A stamped hand-written personal bond form.
International students should also be aware of the following when considering internships in Malaysia:
- Internship opportunities for international students in Malaysia are competitive, so it is recommended to start the search early and apply to as many companies as possible.
- Passports must be valid for at least six months, although a validity of 12 months is recommended.
- Nationals from many countries do not need a visa for a stay of less than 3 months in Malaysia. However, for longer stays, an internship visa will be mandatory.
- The organisation must be a registered business in Malaysia.
- The organisation must provide an internship offer (not part-time employment or any other employment arrangement).
- Employers usually prefer a minimum commitment of 2-3 months.
- Internships can run side by side with studying, but it is important to stay focused and manage projects and assignments.
































