KUALA LUMPUR: September 8, 2026 – The Immigration Department of Malaysia (JIM) has clarified that refugees holding valid cards issued by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) remain subject to the Immigration Act 1959/63.
According to JIM, UNHCR card holders can still face action if they commit other immigration offences, including working without a valid permit or pass.
Employers who hire UNHCR card holders without proper authorisation are also liable for enforcement action.
JIM said exemptions are only granted for two specific offences — namely, not possessing a valid travel document or pass, and overstaying.
The department stressed that such exemptions do not mean UNHCR card holders are exempted from other provisions under the Immigration Act 1959/63.
The management of refugees and asylum seekers in Malaysia is carried out based on National Security Council (MKN) Directive No. 23 and the Cabinet Committee on Refugees and Asylum Seekers.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN) and JIM are entrusted with implementing the registration of refugees through the Refugee Registration Document Programme (DPP).
JIM affirmed its commitment to enforcing immigration laws firmly and in accordance with the law and government policies.
Source: Immigration Department of Malaysia
