The Sabah Immigration Office in Malaysia is set to undergo significant changes with a temporary closure and relocation that will impact many, particularly those dealing with visa, pass, and permit applications. This article provides an overview of what to expect during this period and how it might affect applicants and stakeholders.
Overview of the Closure
The Visa, Pass, and Permit Department of the Sabah Immigration Office will be closed from April 26 to May 6, 2024, due to a move to a new location. During this time, no applications, including those for initial and renewal of Professional Visit Passes and endorsement applications, will be processed. This pause in operations is due to the logistical requirements of moving to the new office situated at Level 1, Wisma Perindustrian, Jalan Istiadat, Teluk Likas, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
Expected Impacts
Processing Delays: With the office closure, applicants can expect delays in the processing of their immigration applications. This will particularly affect those in urgent need of services from the Visa, Pass, and Permit Department.
Resumption of Services: Services are scheduled to resume on May 6, 2024, at the new location. Applicants should be prepared for potential backlog issues as the office clears the pent-up demand from the closure period.
How to Prepare
Plan Ahead: Individuals and organizations relying on timely visa and permit processing should prepare for these disruptions by submitting applications well in advance or making alternative arrangements.
Stay Informed: Keeping up-to-date with any updates from the immigration office can help in planning and adjusting schedules accordingly.
Pros:
Overview of the Closure
The Visa, Pass, and Permit Department of the Sabah Immigration Office will be closed from April 26 to May 6, 2024, due to a move to a new location. During this time, no applications, including those for initial and renewal of Professional Visit Passes and endorsement applications, will be processed. This pause in operations is due to the logistical requirements of moving to the new office situated at Level 1, Wisma Perindustrian, Jalan Istiadat, Teluk Likas, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
Expected Impacts
Processing Delays: With the office closure, applicants can expect delays in the processing of their immigration applications. This will particularly affect those in urgent need of services from the Visa, Pass, and Permit Department.
Resumption of Services: Services are scheduled to resume on May 6, 2024, at the new location. Applicants should be prepared for potential backlog issues as the office clears the pent-up demand from the closure period.
How to Prepare
Plan Ahead: Individuals and organizations relying on timely visa and permit processing should prepare for these disruptions by submitting applications well in advance or making alternative arrangements.
Stay Informed: Keeping up-to-date with any updates from the immigration office can help in planning and adjusting schedules accordingly.
Pros:
- The move could lead to improved facilities and services at the new location.
- Planning for the closure can minimize the impact on individuals and businesses.
- Significant delays in processing applications due to the closure.
- Inconvenience caused to applicants needing urgent processing of their immigration documents.
I hope they at least expedite the backlog once they reopen. 
