Visa Rules for Indonesian Maids in Malaysia

Hiring a foreign domestic helper has become increasingly common in Malaysian households. Indonesian maids are among the most sought-after due to their experience, cultural compatibility, and language skills. However, hiring an Indonesian maid in Malaysia involves strict legal procedures that employers must follow to avoid immigration violations and ensure the safety of the worker.

One common misconception is that domestic helpers can enter Malaysia on a tourist visa or visa-on-arrival (VOA) and have their employment documentation completed later. This practice is illegal under both Malaysian and Indonesian laws and can lead to serious consequences for both employers and helpers.

This guide outlines the step-by-step process for legally hiring an Indonesian domestic helper, focusing on the correct visa application, documentation, and post-arrival procedures.

Step 1: Understanding Visa Requirements – Visa with Reference (VDR)
To employ an Indonesian maid, the employer must apply for a Visa With Reference (VDR) through the Malaysian Immigration Department. The VDR serves as official permission for the helper to enter Malaysia for employment purposes.

Basic Eligibility Criteria:

• Age: The maid must be between 21 and 45 years old.
• Medical Examination: Must pass a medical examination at a recognized clinic in Indonesia.
• Passport: Must hold a valid Indonesian passport.
• Employment Contract: A valid, signed employment contract is required.
• Training and Briefing: The maid must undergo mandatory training and a pre-departure briefing in Indonesia.

Step 2: Application Process for VDR
Employers must submit the following as part of the VDR application:

Required Documents:

• Application letter from the employer
• Copy of the maid’s passport
• Completed application forms (e.g., IMM.47)
• Recent passport-sized photographs
• Letter of approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs (if applicable)

Submission and Processing:

• Applications are submitted through the official Malaysian Immigration portal or via licensed maid agencies.
• Relevant fees must be paid during submission.
• Once approved, the Immigration Department issues the VDR, allowing the maid to obtain her work visa and enter Malaysia legally.

Step 3: After VDR Approval – Entry and Employment Permit

Entry to Malaysia:
Once the VDR is approved, the maid may enter Malaysia. It is essential that the entry is done using the approved work visa, not a tourist visa or VOA.

Temporary Employment Permit:
After arrival, employers must apply for a Temporary Employment Visit Pass (Pas Lawatan Kerja Sementara) for the maid within one month.

Renewal:
The temporary employment permit must be renewed annually, and the renewal application should be submitted at least three months before expiration.

Why You Should NOT Use a Tourist Visa or Visa-On-Arrival (VOA)
Some employers or agents may try to bypass the formal process by bringing domestic helpers into Malaysia using a tourist visa or VOA, intending to settle documentation later. This practice is illegal and exposes both employer and helper to serious consequences.

Risks for Employers:

• Legal penalties, including fines or imprisonment
• Blacklisting from future maid hiring
• Potential impact on business licenses or personal immigration records

Risks for Maids:

• Detention or deportation
• No access to medical coverage, legal protection, or employment rights
• Increased vulnerability to exploitation or trafficking

Benefits of Legal Hiring

Following the legal hiring process protects both the employer and the domestic helper:

• The maid receives proper training, medical screening, and legal protection
• Employers gain peace of mind by avoiding legal issues
• Both governments maintain ethical recruitment standards, ensuring transparency and safety

Final Thoughts

Hiring a domestic helper can significantly improve quality of life, especially for families needing extra help with household responsibilities. However, it’s essential to approach the process legally and ethically. Avoid shortcuts like visa-on-arrival entries, which may lead to legal consequences and harm the welfare of the domestic helper.

If you’re unsure about the documentation or process, working with a licensed maid agency in Johor Bahru or elsewhere in Malaysia is highly recommended. An agency can ensure full compliance with the latest regulations and help you find trained, eligible maids from Indonesia.

Need Help Hiring an Indonesian Maid in Malaysia?

For more information or assistance with the legal hiring process, feel free to reach out to Agensi Pekerjaan Fomas Sdn. Bhd. (AP FOMAS). Our team is ready to guide you through every step—from documentation and VDR applications to post-arrival processing—ensuring a smooth and compliant hiring experience.

Contact AP FOMAS today to get started with hiring a trained and trusted domestic helper. Founded in 2000, Agensi Pekerjaan Fomas Sdn. Bhd. (AP FOMAS) has built a solid reputation for delivering reliable and efficient domestic recruitment services across Malaysia. With operations spanning Johor, Kuala Lumpur, and Selangor, we are committed to expanding our reach to serve households nationwide.

As one of Malaysia’s most trusted names in domestic helper recruitment, we specialize in sourcing qualified maids from Indonesia, the Philippines, and other countries. Our strength lies in our rigorous recruitment process—every candidate is thoroughly pre-screened and pre-selected to meet the unique needs of each employer. At AP FOMAS, we don’t just fill positions—we match households with the right domestic helper for lasting peace of mind.