Malaysia is a popular destination for Korean companies and individuals starting new business or life. To set up a local entity or obtain a work visa, you must clear a complex document-certification process. Malaysia is a non-Hague country, so a Korean document is recognized only after Ministry of Foreign Affairs consular confirmation and Malaysian Embassy legalization. Here is how to handle it online in one stop.
What is embassy legalization?
Embassy legalization confirms that a public document (or notarized private document) issued in one country holds the same legal effect in another. Many people confuse it with the apostille, which is the simplified route between Hague members. Malaysia is currently classified as a non-member, so documents bound for Malaysia are not recognized by an apostille alone — they require Ministry of Foreign Affairs consular confirmation followed by the Malaysian Embassy's confirmation stamp.
When do you need it?
- Work-permit application (degree, transcript, career certificate, criminal record)
- Local company or branch setup (corporate documents)
- Investment registration and corporate account opening
- Appointing a local representative or director
- International marriage and identity documents
Key documents
| Category | Documents |
|---|---|
| Personal | Degree/transcript, career certificate, criminal record certificate, family relation certificate |
| Corporate | Business registration, certificate of corporate registry, articles of incorporation, power of attorney |
The certification process, step by step
- Document issuance / notarizationIssue the document; notarize private documents to gain public effect.
- Certified translationTranslate into the required language and notarize.
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs consular confirmationObtain consular confirmation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- Malaysian Embassy legalizationThe Malaysian Embassy in Korea provides the final confirmation.
- SubmissionSubmit to the Malaysian authority.
How to apply with Apostille Korea
Apostille Korea handles issuance support, certified translation, consular confirmation, and Malaysian Embassy legalization in one stop, entirely online.
Why can't the apostille be used for Malaysia?
Malaysia is a non-Hague country, so an apostille alone is not recognized. Consular confirmation plus Malaysian Embassy legalization is required.
Which documents are needed for a work permit?
A degree/transcript, career certificate, and criminal record certificate are typical, depending on the role.
Is certified translation required?
Yes, often in the required language with notarization. We advise per the receiving body.
Can corporate documents be processed together?
Yes. Personal and corporate documents can be legalized in one request.
How long does it take?
Because several stages are involved, timelines vary by case. Your specialist provides an estimate after intake.
Why Apostille Korea
- Specialist team — apostille, certified translation, and embassy legalization handled directly by experts.
- One-stop service — from issuance support to the finished certification, resolved together.
- Fully remote — apply online from anywhere and receive your documents — no in-person visit.
- Fast handling — urgent cases processed quickly with real-time status updates.
- Accurate guidance — tailored advice analyzing each country's and document's requirements.