1. Why SSM Alone Is Not Enough
In Peninsular Malaysia, an SSM Sdn Bhd plus an Employment Pass often suffices. Sabah and Sarawak control their own immigration — even company directors need state-level permission to reside beyond 90 days. That permission is the DP10 Professional Pass, issued by Sabah Immigration (JIM Sabah) or Sarawak's UKAS/Immigration.
2. The Capital Rules
| Structure | Paid-up capital | DP10 eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| 100% foreign-owned | RM500,000 | Director + key posts |
| JV with Malaysian | RM300,000 | Director + key posts |
| Below threshold | — | No DP10; nominee route only |
Capital must be paid up and evidenced (bank statements), not just authorised. Auditors verify it.
3. Documents & Timeline
- Company docs: SSM certificate (Sec 17), M&A, latest audited accounts or management accounts, office tenancy in Sabah/Sarawak.
- Personal docs: passport (18+ months validity), CV, degree/professional certs, 3-month bank statements, employment contract with the Sdn Bhd.
- Submit to JIM Sabah / Sarawak Immigration — agent or company secretary files.
- Wait 3–6 weeks. 1–2 year pass, renewable with tax filings (BE form) and EPF/SOCSO where applicable.
4. The Nominee Shortcut
Below the capital threshold — or while waiting — use a nominee local director (licensed secretary firms offer this, ~RM3,000–6,000/yr with proper agreements). The company stays compliant; you run it remotely and visit on 90-day social passes. Downside: no residency, no local bank signatory rights, and some tenders exclude nominee structures.
5. Red Flags
- "Guaranteed DP10 in 7 days" — impossible; state checks take weeks.
- Working on a social visit pass while "waiting" — an offence if caught; enforcement raids happen in KK/Kuching.
- Sarawak MM2H vs DP10 confusion — different passes, different counters. Ask which desk before queuing.
