Urgent: KDN Special Quota Window (Jan – Mar 2026)

Special foreign worker quota application window 2026

The Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN) has announced a special foreign worker quota application window from 19 January to 31 March 2026. Eligible employers may submit new or pending quota requests during this period.

19 JanWindow Opens
31 MarDeadline 2026
5Approved Sectors
C·657JTKSM Licence
Employer Quota Compliance Overview

Foreign worker quota application requirements (2026)

Quota applications will only be accepted during the special window, and must be submitted in accordance with KDN, MOHR, and Immigration Department requirements. Approvals are not automatic — they remain subject to sector caps, labour market needs, employer compliance history, and supporting documentation.

Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN)

Reviews and approves quota applications during the window.

Ministry of Human Resources (MOHR)

Oversees Section 60K approvals and labour policy alignment.

Department of Labour (JTKSM)

Verifies workforce justification and accommodation readiness.

Immigration Department

Handles VDR, PLKS, and worker entry procedures post-approval.

Regulatory Notice

Applications submitted outside 19 January – 31 March 2026 may not be processed, except under exceptional circumstances approved by the authorities.

Special Application Window

Key details for the 2026 window

Application Period

19 January – 31 March 2026.

Eligibility

All approved sectors as of 1 October 2025, including services previously closed under KPDN & MOTAC.

Application Process

Employers must apply directly at the KDN One-Stop Foreign Worker Management Centre — no third-party agents.

Appointments

Bookable via the KDN system starting 16 January 2026, subject to inter-ministerial review.

Why This Window Matters

Our principles for a successful application

Government Deadline

KDN will only accept applications between 19 January and 31 March 2026. Sector caps and labour demand still apply; incomplete submissions risk rejection.

Employer Compliance Readiness

Employers must demonstrate legitimate business operations, workforce justification by sector and role, and Act 446 hostel compliance where applicable.

Immigration & Permit Processing

Once quota is approved, VDR submissions, ePLKS and VP(TE) coordination, and renewal planning keep your workforce continuous and compliant.

Risk Control

Proper planning during the window reduces exposure to penalties and enforcement, and raises approval success rates.

FAQ

KDN quota & compliance (2026 update)

What is the special foreign worker quota application window for 2026?
KDN has opened a special window from 19 January to 31 March 2026. Applications submitted outside this period are generally not considered — employers should prepare documentation and workforce justifications early.
Is this quota window applicable for new and existing employers?
Yes. Both new and existing employers may apply, but approvals depend on workforce justification, business operations, financial capability, and prior compliance records.
Will applications be accepted after 31 March 2026?
There's no guarantee. Late submissions are usually rejected unless an official extension is announced by the government.
Does quota approval guarantee worker entry into Malaysia?
No. Quota approval is only the first stage. Employers must still complete VDR, PLKS work permit processing, medical screening, and immigration security checks before workers can legally enter.
Which sectors are eligible for the foreign worker quota?
Manufacturing, Construction, Plantation, Agriculture, and selected sub-sectors within Services. Sector eligibility may vary depending on current national labour policies.
How is employer eligibility assessed?
Based on valid business registration, financial standing, operational capacity, workforce justification documents, and previous compliance records.
Is hostel compliance required before quota approval?
Yes. Employers must comply with Act 446 (Workers' Minimum Standards of Housing, Accommodations and Amenities Act). Proper accommodation certification may be required before final quota approval.
What happens if my quota application is non-compliant?
Non-compliant applications may result in rejection, additional documentation requests, or government audits. Repeated non-compliance may cause delays in future approvals or enforcement action.
Related Services

Our core compliance & workforce services

Recruitment Process

Step-by-step guidance on quota approval, source country coordination, medical screening, and post-arrival compliance.

Learn more

Foreign Worker Recruitment

End-to-end sourcing, screening, and placement across all MOHA-approved industries.

Learn more

Act 446 Accommodation

Hostel assessment, documentation preparation, and JTKSM approval coordination.

Learn more

Need help with the 2026 quota window?

Confirm your eligibility and get your application submitted before 31 March 2026.