A work permit is the most important form of documentation required for those seeking employment in the country. Normally this is obtained for the employee by the employer once in the country. Employees and their families are allowed to enter the country on social passes issued by Malaysian Immigration officials upon arrival.

The work permit application process is bureaucratic and can be lengthy. Employers will often deal with the paperwork on behalf of their expatriate employees but some companies and individuals opt to use the services of an agency. Permits are given for varying periods from six months to several years. Dependents of work permit holders are not allowed to work unless they obtain a permit in their own right.

There are restrictions on the number of expatriate workers that can be employed by companies, depending on the company's level of foreign paid-up capital. For executive posts which require professional qualifications and practical experience, expatriates may be employed up to a maximum period of 10 years subject to the condition that Malaysians are trained to eventually take over the posts. For non-executive posts which require technical skills and experience, expatriates may be employed up to a maximum period of five years while Malaysians are trained to take over the posts. It is not known to what extent these conditions are enforced.