Malaysia Launches 10-Year Passports for Adults, Increases Lost Passport Fees

Malaysia Introduces 10-Year Passport for Adults

Starting June 4, 2026, Malaysian citizens aged between 18 and 59 can apply for a new 10-year passport. This new option doubles the previous passport validity period for adults and comes with a fee of RM350. This change aims to provide a longer renewal cycle for a significant portion of the population.

Alongside the introduction of the longer-validity passport, Malaysia has also updated its policies regarding lost passports. The fees for replacing a lost passport have been significantly increased, now ranging from RM550 to RM1,350, depending on how many times a passport has been lost previously. This tiered penalty system is designed to encourage greater care in safeguarding official travel documents.

The new passport system focuses on the 18 to 59 age group, offering them a more convenient renewal schedule. The standard fee for this 10-year passport is RM350, a fixed price for eligible individuals. This contrasts with the revised charges for lost passports, which create a steeper financial consequence for those who misplace their travel documents.

New Passport Validity and Fees

The primary change for eligible Malaysians is the extended validity period of the passport. Previously, passports were issued for five years. Now, citizens aged 18 to 59 can opt for a passport that is valid for a full decade. This longer duration means fewer renewals are needed over a person’s lifetime, offering a practical benefit.

The cost for this new 10-year passport is set at RM350. This fee applies to the standard application process for the extended validity document. It represents the official price for obtaining a passport that will last twice as long as the previous standard issue.

Revised Lost Passport Replacement Charges

Malaysia has also implemented a new fee structure for replacing lost passports. The cost is no longer a flat rate but varies based on the frequency of loss. For a first-time lost passport, the replacement fee starts at RM550.

If a passport is lost for a second time, the replacement fee increases. The exact amount will depend on the specific regulations, but it will be higher than the initial RM550. For subsequent losses, the fees continue to rise, reaching up to RM1,350 for individuals who have lost their passports multiple times. This tiered system aims to deter carelessness and emphasize the importance of passport security.

Eligibility for the 10-Year Passport

The new 10-year passport option is specifically available to Malaysian citizens who fall within the age bracket of 18 to 59 years old. This age range covers the majority of the working-age adult population. Those outside this age group, such as minors or individuals aged 60 and above, will likely continue to follow the previous passport issuance rules, which typically involve shorter validity periods.

The focus on this specific age group suggests an effort to streamline the process for the most active travelers and working citizens. By offering a longer validity period, the government aims to reduce administrative burdens for both the applicants and the issuing authorities. This targeted approach ensures that the benefits of the new system are directed towards those who will most frequently need to renew their travel documents.

Implications of the New Policy

The introduction of the 10-year passport and the revised lost passport fees creates a clear distinction between routine passport issuance and replacement due to loss. For eligible adults, the RM350 fee for a decade of validity offers good value. However, the significantly higher costs for replacing lost passports serve as a strong incentive to keep travel documents safe.

This policy shift may encourage more individuals to be diligent about protecting their passports. The increased financial penalty for repeated losses underscores the importance of responsible document management. The government’s move reflects a dual approach: providing convenience through longer validity for the majority while imposing stricter measures for those who repeatedly lose their passports.

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