On what pass can a foreign wife live in Malaysia?

The foreign spouse of a Malaysian citizen may apply for a Long-Term Visit Pass (Spouse) through the Immigration Department, and later for permanent residence after a certain period (current conditions to be verified). The application requires a Malaysian marriage certificate — one more reason to register a marriage abroad promptly at the state Islamic religious affairs office. A marriage that cannot be registered, for example because the wali is in doubt or an unauthorised polygynous marriage has not been resolved, makes the spouse pass, the child's birth registration and maintenance claims difficult. Do not marry on a visa that does not allow it, such as an umrah or tourist visa in a country that requires approval. See cross-border marriage.