The Immigration Department has stopped issuing passports with validity periods exceeding 10 years following reports of Malaysians facing travel difficulties overseas.
In a statement, the department said the maximum validity period for the Malaysian International Passport will now be capped at 10 years, which will take effect immediately.
Some travellers faced problems during check-in
The announcement comes after several Malaysians holding passports valid for more than 10 years reportedly faced problems while checking in with certain airlines overseas.
The matter has since been referred to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), where the Immigration Department said ICAO’s response did not prevent Malaysia from issuing passports with validity periods exceeding 10 years.
However, confusion reportedly arose as some airlines interpreted the additional six-month validity requirement differently.
To prevent further problems, the department has decided to standardise the maximum passport validity period at 10 years.
The decision does not mean Malaysia has stopped offering regular 10 year passports and Malaysians who are eligible can still apply for one.
Only passports with a validity period exceeding 10 years, such as 10 years plus several additional months, will no longer be issued until the matter is resolved with the airlines and ICAO. Five-year passports are also unaffected.
Free replacements for affected M’sians
As for Malaysians who already hold passports valid for more than 10 years, they will receive free replacements.
The replacement passport will have a maximum validity period of 10 years, and affected holders will be given priority during the process.
The Immigration Department will also issue notification letters to airlines to assist affected Malaysians who are currently overseas.
However, it has yet to announce when the free replacement process will begin, where holders should apply or which documents they will need to bring.
Affected passport holders are advised to check for further announcements from the Immigration Department, especially if they are planning to travel soon.
