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Malaysia Opens Special Quota Application Window for Foreign Workers (Jan–Mar 2026): What Employers Need to Know

January 2, 2026January 6th, 20263 min read

Malaysia Opens Special Foreign Worker Quota Application Window (2026)

Malaysia has announced a special application window for foreign worker quota applications, providing employers with additional time to regularise and plan their workforce requirements for the year.

According to a media statement issued by Kementerian Dalam Negeri (KDN) on 30 December 2025, the special window will be open from 19 January 2026 until 31 March 2026.

This initiative is intended to support employers across approved sectors in submitting applications in a more structured and organised manner, while ensuring alignment with existing foreign worker policies and eligibility criteria.

Key Dates Employers Should Note

  • Appointment booking opens: 16 January 2026
  • Special quota application window: 19 January 2026 – 31 March 2026
  • Applications must be submitted directly at the One-Stop Centre for Foreign Worker Management (KDN)

Who Is Eligible to Apply?

The special application window applies to:

  • All sectors and subsectors approved by the Government on 1 October 2025
  • Employers that meet the eligibility criteria for foreign worker employment
  • Applications involving the services sector, including those previously closed earlier under the supervision of the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN)

All applications submitted during this period will be reviewed together with the relevant supervising ministries and remain subject to prevailing foreign worker employment conditions.

Why This Matters for Employers in Malaysia

This special application window provides employers with:

  • Additional time to plan workforce needs more accurately
  • An opportunity to regularise quota applications in line with current requirements
  • Greater clarity on eligibility and sector coverage
  • A structured process that supports ethical and compliant recruitment

The move also aligns with the Government’s broader MADANI commitment to improving service delivery efficiency while remaining responsive to industry needs.

What Employers Should Prepare Before Applying

To ensure a smoother application process, employers should review:

  • Workforce requirements and headcount planning for 2026
  • Sector eligibility and approval status
  • Supporting documentation required for quota applications
  • Accommodation readiness and compliance, where applicable
  • Internal timelines to meet appointment and submission deadlines

Early preparation helps reduce delays and avoids last-minute issues during the application window.

Conclusion
The opening of this special quota application window offers employers a valuable opportunity to plan and submit foreign worker applications in a more structured and compliant manner.

Employers are encouraged to review their workforce needs early, understand eligibility requirements clearly, and prepare documentation ahead of the January 2026 opening.

For official updates and application procedures, employers should refer to the Ministry of Home Affairs’ official channels.

If you require guidance on understanding eligibility requirements or preparing workforce documentation for the upcoming quota application window, professional advice can help ensure your application process is well-organised and compliant. Reach out to us now.