How Much Do Foreigners in Malaysia Earn? | IT Employee Salary @NikiandBhavi

Malaysia IT Salary Guide for Foreigners (2025)

Exchange Rate (as of March 8, 2025): 1 MYR = 19.75 INR

This document provides an overview of IT salaries in Malaysia for expatriates based on their visa category. Salaries vary depending on job role, experience, and visa type.

Employment Pass Categories & Salary Requirements

1. Employment Pass Category I

• Minimum Monthly Salary: RM10,000 or more (Approx. ₹197,500+ INR)
• Eligible Positions: Top-level management or specialized roles
• Contract Duration: Up to 5 years
• Renewability: Yes
• Dependents: Allowed to bring dependents and hire a foreign domestic helper

2. Employment Pass Category II

• Monthly Salary Range: RM5,000 to RM9,999 (Approx. ₹98,750 – ₹197,450 INR)
• Eligible Positions: Managerial or professional roles
• Contract Duration: Up to 2 years
• Renewability: Yes
• Dependents: Allowed to bring dependents and hire a foreign domestic helper

3. Employment Pass Category III

• Monthly Salary Range: RM3,000 to RM4,999 (Approx. ₹59,250 – ₹98,725 INR)
• Eligible Positions: Technical or support-level roles
• Contract Duration: Up to 2 years
• Renewability: Limited to two renewals
• Dependents: Not permitted to bring dependents or hire a foreign domestic helper

Average Monthly Salaries for IT Professionals (Based on Experience)

Job Role	0-2 Years Experience	3-5 Years Experience	5+ Years Experience
Software Engineer	RM3,000 – RM5,000 (₹59,250 – ₹98,750)	RM6,000 – RM10,000 (₹118,500 – ₹197,500)	RM10,000 – RM15,000 (₹197,500 – ₹296,250)
IT Manager	-	RM8,000 – RM12,000 (₹158,000 – ₹237,000)	RM10,000 – RM18,000 (₹197,500 – ₹355,500)
CIO (Chief Info Officer)	-	-	RM25,000 – RM40,000 (₹493,750 – ₹790,000)

Decision-Making Factors for Expatriates

• Salary vs. Cost of Living: Compare salary offers with living expenses such as rent, transportation, and daily needs.
• Visa Eligibility & Stability: Higher salary jobs (Category I & II) offer better security and benefits.
• Industry & Demand: Fields like AI, cybersecurity, and fintech offer higher salaries.
• Negotiation & Benefits: Consider additional benefits like medical insurance, relocation allowances, and bonuses.
• Cultural & Work Environment: Understand local labor laws and employment rights.

Sources

1. Expatriate Salary Survey - ECA International
2. Employment Pass Guidelines - Malaysia Immigration

Disclaimer

The salaries mentioned are approximate and may vary based on company, location, and individual qualifications.