The single most important thing to know about Malaysia's 10-year passport is that you cannot apply for it from your sofa. The Immigration Department confirmed at launch that MyOnline Passport handles the five-year book only, and the 10-year option is a walk-in application at an immigration office. Everything else about the process follows from that one constraint.
The option went live on 1 July 2026, alongside a redesigned passport book. Here is what it costs, who it suits, and what to bring.
What the 10-year passport actually is
From 1 July 2026, Malaysian citizens aged 18 and above can choose between a five-year and a 10-year validity period when applying for an international passport.
The physical book is the same either way. Both versions carry the redesigned document's 94 security features — up from 49 in the previous book — including a polycarbonate biodata page with a transparent security window, laser engraving, an angle-sensitive hologram, microtext, optically variable and UV-reactive inks, an upgraded encrypted biometric chip, and 48 visa pages carrying Malaysian landmark designs.
There is no premium book and no lesser book. The only difference between the two options is how long it lasts and what you pay.
The cost, and the actual saving
| Option | Fee | Ages |
|---|---|---|
| 5-year passport | RM200 | 13–59 (standard) |
| 10-year passport | RM350 | 18–59 |
Concessionary rates have been reported for the 10-year book — RM175 for citizens aged 60 and above, and a fee exemption for registered OKU cardholders aged 18 and above. Confirm the applicable rate at the counter before you pay, since fee schedules are set by the department.
The saving is straightforward but modest. Two consecutive five-year passports cost RM400. One 10-year passport costs RM350. Over a decade, that is RM50 and one fewer trip to an immigration office.
The Home Ministry's stated reason for introducing it was reducing renewal frequency rather than saving money, and that framing is honest. The convenience is the product.
Who it actually suits
The 10-year book is a clear win if you are 18 or over, settled, and your appearance and personal details are unlikely to change dramatically.
It is a weaker fit if:
- You are close to 59. Age-banded fee structures and validity rules mean the maths changes near that boundary. Ask at the counter.
- You expect a name change. Marriage, deed poll or legal name changes require a new passport regardless of remaining validity.
- You travel to countries with strict blank-page requirements. Ten years on 48 pages is fine for most people and tight for frequent business travellers.
- You are under 18. The 10-year option is limited to adults.
Before you go: check the rollout phase
The redesigned document is being issued in stages. The Immigration Department has published a phased rollout across nine phases spanning roughly two months, which means not every office was issuing the new book from day one.
The department also explicitly advised Malaysians not to rush renewals. Your existing passport remains usable until six months before its expiry date, which is also the buffer most destination countries require on arrival.
Check the department's own channels for the current phase before you make the trip, especially outside the Klang Valley.
What to bring to the counter
Requirements are set by the Immigration Department and can vary by office, so treat this as a packing list rather than a legal checklist.
- Your MyKad. Original, and make sure the details on it are current. If you have moved, sort that first — our guide on changing your address on your MyKad covers the process.
- Your existing passport, if you have one, including expired books.
- Supporting documents for any change in personal particulars — marriage certificate, deed poll, court order.
- Payment. Counter payment methods vary by office; card is generally accepted but do not assume cash-only or card-only.
- Time. Walk-in means queueing. Go early, and avoid the first working day after a public holiday.
Photographs are taken at the counter for the new document, so you do not need to bring your own.
Step by step
- Confirm your nearest immigration office is issuing the new document and check its operating hours.
- Walk in and take a queue number for passport application. The 10-year option is selected at the counter, not online.
- Submit your MyKad and supporting documents and have your photograph and biometrics captured.
- Select the 10-year validity option when asked. This is the only point at which the choice is made.
- Pay the fee and keep the receipt.
- Collect as instructed. Standard renewals have historically been ready quickly, but collection timing depends on the office and the rollout phase.
If you only need five years
The five-year book remains RM200 and can be renewed entirely online through MyOnline Passport at the Immigration Department's portal, with payment by FPX or card. For most people that is still the faster route, and we walk through the whole thing in our guide to renewing a Malaysian passport online.
Online renewal is for renewals only. First-time applications, lost passports and damaged books all require a counter visit regardless of which validity you choose.
FAQ
Can I apply for the 10-year Malaysian passport online?
No. The Immigration Department has confirmed that MyOnline Passport supports the five-year passport only. The 10-year option must be applied for in person at an immigration office.
How much is the 10-year Malaysian passport?
RM350 for applicants aged 18 to 59. The five-year passport remains RM200. Concessionary rates have been reported for citizens aged 60 and above and for registered OKU cardholders — confirm at the counter.
Is the 10-year passport different from the five-year one?
Only in validity and price. Both use the same redesigned book with 94 security features, a polycarbonate biodata page and 48 visa pages.
Do I need to renew my passport now?
Not necessarily. The Immigration Department has advised against rushing, noting that existing passports remain valid for use until six months before expiry.
Who can apply for the 10-year passport?
Malaysian citizens aged 18 and above. Applicants under 18 are limited to the five-year option.
Sources: Lowyat.NET on the walk-in-only requirement, The Star on the RM350 fee, Immigration Department of Malaysia.
