To work in Malaysia, you need a valid work visa. Familiarize yourself with the types of work visas available, such as the Employment Pass (EP) for skilled workers. Your employer typically sponsors this visa. Identify industries that are open to hiring foreign graduates.
Opening a construction company in Malaysia involves the same steps as for any kind of enterprise in the country, with the difference that you need to obtain the special construction license; the document is issued by the CIDB (Construction Industry Development Board), the main institution which regulates this sector.
To become a general contractor start by earning a high school diploma and gaining experience in construction or a related field. Complete relevant training or education such as a construction management program and learn key skills like budgeting and project management.
This is a key point in understanding how can a US company hire a foreign independent contractor. As long as the contractor complies with the tax and legal requirements of their home country and the U.S., they can provide services to a U.S. company without being considered an employee.
To carry on business as a sole proprietor, the taxpayer must register with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia, SSM) in person or online.
You will have to register your business, and most contractors register as sole proprietors. You will also need client service contracts, a work permit, tax ID number and method of payment for your clients to use. You must also invoice your clients and avoid any appearance of being in an employee relationship.
An employee enjoys the benefits and protection under the Employment Act 1955 as well as the Industrial Relations Act 1967. An independent contractor, on the other hand, is only bound to the contract and the terms therein.
Sector-specific employment: Foreign workers are allowed only in approved sectors, including: Manufacturing. Construction. Plantation. Agriculture. Mining and quarrying.
IRS Form W-8BEN or IRS Form W-8BEN-E Foreign independent contractors must submit IRS Form W-8BEN (for individuals) or IRS Form W-8BEN-E (for entities) to the US company they work for. This form certifies the contractor's foreign status and can help reduce or eliminate withholding tax on payments.
Submit an application to the Ministry of Human Resources and wait for a conditional approval. With the approval document, make a levy payment at the Malaysian Immigration Department. Identify foreign workers to undergo health screening in the source country before departure to Malaysia.