Brunei

Moving to Brunei: The Complete Expat’s Guide (Visas, Costs & More)

Brunei, officially the Nation of Brunei, the Abode of Peace, is a country located on the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia. It is bordered by Malaysia to the north, east, and west, and by the South China Sea to the south. It has a population of 460,348, with the majority of the population residing in the northern part of the country. The capital and largest city is Bandar Seri Begawan. The official language is Malay, but English and Chinese are also widely spoken. The climate in Brunei is tropical, with a wet season from October to March and a dry season from April to September. The average temperature is 28°C (82°F) in the summer and 26°C (79°F) in the winter. The economy of Brunei is based on oil and natural gas production. The main agricultural products are rice, sago, fruits, and vegetables. The main industries are oil refining, natural gas processing, and textiles. Brunei is a member of the United Nations, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC).

Moving to Brunei: Your Complete Visa Guide & Document Checklist

1. General Requirements (Often for most visa applications)

Original passport with a validity of at least six months beyond the intended stay in Brunei. Must have sufficient blank pages for visa and entry/exit stamps. A copy of the passport’s biodata page is usually required.

Recent, color, passport-sized photographs (usually 2-4) with a white or plain background, meeting specific dimensions as per the application guidelines.

Duly completed and signed visa application form (Form 19). This form is typically downloadable from the website of the Brunei Ministry of Foreign Affairs or obtainable from a Brunei Darussalam Mission abroad.

Confirmed return or onward ticket, or proof of sufficient funds to purchase one. Details of confirmed accommodation (hotel booking or letter of invitation from a sponsor in Brunei).

Evidence of sufficient funds to support oneself during the stay in Brunei (e.g., recent bank statements, letter from employer confirming financial support). The required amount can vary.

For tourism: May not be strictly required if not sponsored.
For business/employment/social visit sponsored by a Brunei resident/company: A letter of invitation from the sponsor in Brunei Darussalam. The sponsor may need to apply for the visa on behalf of the applicant.

May be required, especially for long-term visas (e.g., employment). This certificate should be from the applicant’s country of origin or residence, possibly legalized or apostilled.

For certain visa types, particularly Employment Passes or long-term stays, a medical examination conducted by an accredited clinic may be required. This often includes tests for specific communicable diseases.

Proof of payment of the applicable visa application fee. Fees vary by visa type and nationality.

Required if arriving from or having transited through a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.

2. Specific Requirements for Common Visa/Pass Types

Offer Letter/Employment Contract: A valid employment contract or letter of offer from a company registered in Brunei Darussalam.
Employer Sponsorship: The employer in Brunei typically applies for the Employment Pass (and visa, if required for entry) on behalf of the foreign national. This involves submitting applications to the Department of Labour and the Department of Immigration and National Registration.
Quota Approval (Buruh Quota): The sponsoring company must have the necessary labor quota approval from the Labour Department.
Educational and Professional Qualifications: Certified copies of academic and professional certificates, relevant to the job.
Medical Examination: Required, often to be done at an approved clinic in Brunei upon arrival or pre-departure.
Security Bond: The employer is usually required to furnish a security bond.

For spouses and unmarried children (usually under 18) of Employment Pass holders.
Application by Principal Pass Holder/Sponsor: The Employment Pass holder or their sponsoring company applies for the Dependent Pass.
Marriage Certificate: For spouse, original and certified copy, often requiring translation if not in English or Malay, and potential legalization/attestation.
Birth Certificate(s): For children, original and certified copies, with similar translation and legalization/attestation requirements.
Proof of Relationship: Documents establishing the relationship with the principal Employment Pass holder.
Sponsor’s Employment Pass Copy: Copy of the valid Employment Pass of the principal applicant.

Letter of Acceptance: An official letter of admission or enrollment from a recognized educational institution in Brunei.
Sponsorship: Usually sponsored by the educational institution or a local guardian.
Proof of Financial Means: Evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses during the study period (e.g., bank statements, scholarship letter).
Accommodation Proof: Details of accommodation arrangements in Brunei.
Medical Examination: May be required.

Typically for short-term business meetings, conferences, seminars, or specific professional assignments.
Letter of Invitation: From a registered Brunei company or organization, detailing the purpose and duration of the visit, and who will bear the expenses.
Company Registration Documents: From the sponsoring Brunei company.
Letter from Applicant’s Employer: Stating the purpose of the visit and confirming employment.
May require pre-approval from the Immigration Department in Brunei, applied for by the local sponsor.

For visiting family or for other social purposes, often sponsored by a Brunei citizen or permanent resident.
Letter of Invitation/Sponsorship: From the sponsor in Brunei, along with a copy of their Brunei IC (Identity Card) or passport.
Proof of Relationship (if applicable): E.g., marriage or birth certificates.
Security Bond: The sponsor may need to provide a security bond.

3. Requirements for Permanent Residency (PR)

Long Period of Residence: Usually requires many years of continuous, lawful residence in Brunei (e.g., 10-20 years or more, depending on the specific category).
Financial Stability and Contribution: Applicants typically need to demonstrate significant financial stability, investment in Brunei, or notable contributions to the country.
Good Conduct: A clean criminal record and a history of good conduct are essential.
Knowledge of Malay Language and Culture: Proficiency in the Malay language and understanding of Bruneian culture, customs, and traditions is often a requirement, potentially involving an interview or test.
Specific Categories:
- Investors with substantial investments.
- Highly skilled professionals who have made significant contributions.
- Individuals married to Brunei Citizens (still a lengthy and stringent process).
- Individuals born in Brunei to parents who were permanent residents may have a pathway, but it’s not automatic.
Application Process: Involves a detailed application to the Department of Immigration and National Registration, subject to thorough vetting and approval by various government authorities. There is no guarantee of approval.

Important Notes:

Visa Application via Sponsor: For many long-term passes (Employment, Dependent, Student), the application is typically initiated by a local sponsor (employer, educational institution, resident) in Brunei through the Department of Immigration and National Registration. The foreign national may then need to complete formalities at a Brunei Mission abroad to get a visa to enter, if required.
Legalization/Attestation of Documents: Documents issued outside Brunei (e.g., educational certificates, marriage/birth certificates) generally require legalization by the Brunei Darussalam Mission in the country of origin or the respective Foreign Ministry, and sometimes by the applicant’s own Foreign Ministry first. Brunei is not a signatory to the Hague Apostille Convention, so apostilles are not typically used; embassy legalization is the common route.
Translation: All documents not in English or Malay must be officially translated into English or Malay by a certified translator.
Registration & ID Card (Kad Pengenalan): Upon arrival in Brunei on a long-term pass, individuals are usually required to register with the Department of Immigration and National Registration and will be issued a Brunei Identity Card (e.g., Green IC for expatriate workers, Purple IC for dependents).
No Freelance Work: Employment Pass holders are generally only permitted to work for the sponsoring employer in the specified occupation.
Strict Laws: Brunei has strict laws, including Sharia law which applies to Muslims and in some instances to non-Muslims. Visitors and residents are expected to respect local laws and customs.
Consult Official Sources: Requirements can change. Always consult the official website of the Brunei Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Department of Immigration and National Registration, or the nearest Brunei Diplomatic Mission for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

From Visa Application to Residence Card: The Complete Expat Process in Brunei

Required for all non-citizens undertaking employment.
1. Employer Application (Pre-Entry): The sponsoring employer in Brunei must apply for a Foreign Worker License (Lesen Mengambil Pekerja Asing – LPA) and subsequently the specific Employment Pass for the employee *before* the employee enters Brunei. This is typically done through the Labour Department (Jabatan Buruh).
2. Labour Market Considerations: Approval often depends on quotas and demonstrating that the position cannot be easily filled by a Bruneian citizen.
3. Required Documents (by Employer): Company registration details, justification for hiring a foreigner, employee’s personal details and qualifications, employment contract details, LPA application forms, etc.
4. Initial Approval: A letter of approval in principle (‚Bur 500’/’Bur 555‘) is usually issued upon successful application. This approval is necessary for the next step (Visa application).

Required for entry for the purpose of employment (even if visa-exempt for tourism).
1. Application (Pre-Entry): After receiving the initial work pass approval, the foreign employee must apply for an Entry Visa specifically for employment purposes at the nearest Brunei Darussalam embassy or consulate abroad.
2. Required Documents (Examples): Valid passport, visa application form, passport photos, the work pass approval letter from the Brunei Labour Department, flight itinerary, possibly other documents depending on the embassy/consulate requirements.
3. Outcome: If approved, an entry visa valid for employment purposes will be affixed to the passport, allowing entry into Brunei.

Mandatory procedures upon arrival.
1. Entry: Enter Brunei using the issued Employment Visa.
2. Medical Examination: Must undergo a mandatory medical examination at an approved clinic in Brunei shortly after arrival (usually within 2 weeks).
3. Work Pass Endorsement: Once the medical exam is cleared, the employer submits documents (including medical report, passport) to the Immigration and National Registration Department (Jabatan Imigresen dan Pendaftaran Kebangsaan – JIPK) to get the official Employment Pass endorsed in the employee’s passport. This endorsed pass serves as the primary work and residence authorization.
4. Identity Card: Foreign residents on long-term passes are typically required to apply for a Foreign National Identity Card (Kad Pengenalan Penduduk Asing – often green coloured). This is done at the JIPK.
5. Validity: The Employment Pass and associated visa/residence status are typically valid for 1 or 2 years initially.

Renewal required before expiry.
1. Timing: The employer must initiate the renewal process well in advance of the current pass expiry date (e.g., 2-3 months before).
2. Process: Renewal generally involves applications to both the Labour Department (for continued work authorization/LPA) and the Immigration and National Registration Department (for the pass endorsement/renewal).
3. Requirements: May require updated company information, employee performance details, possibly a new medical check-up depending on duration and regulations.

– Labour Department (Jabatan Buruh): Responsible for Foreign Worker License (LPA) and initial work pass processing. Website might be integrated within a ministry portal (e.g., Ministry of Home Affairs).
– Immigration and National Registration Department (Jabatan Imigresen dan Pendaftaran Kebangsaan – JIPK): Responsible for visas, pass endorsement, entry/exit control, Foreign National Identity Cards. (e.g., www.immigration.gov.bn)
– Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Wisma Putra): Oversees Brunei embassies/consulates abroad where visas are applied for. (e.g., www.mfa.gov.bn)
– Ministry of Health: Sets standards for and oversees mandatory medical examinations.
– Embassies/Consulates of Brunei Darussalam Abroad: For visa applications before entry.

The Ultimate Expat Master Checklist: A Guide to Your New Life

Brunei has a public healthcare system (RIPAS Hospital is the main one) offering highly subsidized services for citizens and permanent residents. For expatriates, private health insurance is strongly recommended. Check policy coverage (inpatient, outpatient, dental, vision, evacuation), pre-existing conditions, and claim procedures. Required documents for private insurance typically include: passport, visa/residence permit.Public Healthcare: Ministry of Health Brunei Darussalam. Private Insurers: Takaful Brunei Am (TBA), Insurans Islam TAIB Holdings Sdn Bhd, AIA Brunei, Tokio Marine. International providers like Cigna, Allianz, Aetna may offer expatriate plans.Expatriate Private Health Insurance (Annual):
Individual: $800 – $2,500+
Couple: $1,600 – $5,000+
Family (2 children): $2,500 – $8,000+ (Highly variable based on coverage and provider).
Public healthcare for citizens/PRs involves nominal fees per visit (e.g., BND 1, approx. $0.74).

Requirements for account opening: Passport, Brunei-issued ID (IC) or valid employment pass/visa, proof of address (e.g., utility bill, tenancy agreement), sometimes an employer’s letter. Opening an account usually requires a personal visit. Minimum deposit and other specific conditions vary by bank. Consider services like online banking, ATM network, and international transfers.Local Banks: Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD), Baiduri Bank, Standard Chartered Brunei, HSBC Brunei (winding down retail operations, check current status), Perbadanan Tabung Amanah Islam Brunei (TAIB).Minimum initial deposit: $50 – $500 (BND 70 – BND 700) depending on the bank and account type. Some accounts may have monthly service fees if the minimum balance is not maintained.

Registration typically in the name of the tenant or property owner. Required documents often include: Tenancy agreement or proof of ownership, passport/IC, completed application form. A security deposit may be required. Check contract terms and disconnection/reconnection procedures.Electricity: Department of Electrical Services (DES), Ministry of Energy.
Water: Public Works Department (JKR), Ministry of Development.
Internet/Mobile: Telekom Brunei Berhad (TelBru/UNN), Datastream Digital (DST), Progresif Cellular Sdn Bhd.Electricity Deposit (refundable): $75 – $300+ (BND 100 – BND 400+) depending on property size.
Water Deposit (refundable): Often nominal or included with electricity.
Internet Setup/Router: $0 – $150 (BND 0 – BND 200) depending on provider and promotion.
Monthly Internet: $30 – $150+ (BND 40 – BND 200+) depending on speed and plan.

Choice of system: Public (Malay medium with English for certain subjects), private (various curricula including British, Australian, Islamic), or international schools (e.g., International School Brunei – ISB, Jerudong International School – JIS). Check admission deadlines, age cut-offs, and availability well in advance. Required documents typically include: Child’s birth certificate, passport/IC, parents‘ passports/visas, previous school records, immunization records. Entrance assessments or interviews may be required.Ministry of Education (for public schools and overall regulation), specific private and international schools for their admission processes.Public Schools: Minimal fees for citizens; expatriates may pay higher, subsidized fees.
Private Local Schools (Annual): $1,000 – $5,000+ (BND 1,400 – BND 7,000+)
International Schools (Annual): Registration fee: $500 – $2,000 (BND 700 – BND 2,800). Tuition: $7,000 – $25,000+ (BND 9,800 – BND 35,000+) per child, varying by grade level. Additional fees for uniforms, transport, extracurriculars.

Foreign driving licenses can be used for a short period (typically up to 3 months). After that, conversion to a Brunei driving license is required. International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for initial use alongside national license. Conversion process involves: Application form, original foreign license (and certified translation if not in English or Malay), passport, IC/employment pass, passport-sized photos, passing a vision test and potentially a theory test (Highway Code). Some countries have direct conversion agreements.Land Transport Department (Jabatan Pengangkutan Darat – JPD), Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications.Conversion Fee: Approx. $15 – $30 (BND 20 – BND 40) for the license card.
Translation (if needed): $20 – $50 (BND 28 – BND 70).
Theory Test (if required): Approx. $7.50 (BND 10).
License Renewal (per year): Approx. $7.50 – $15 (BND 10 – BND 20) depending on class.

Global Financial Requirements for Entering and Living in Brunei (First Few Months)

660 – 1110Based on a local diet, largely self-catering (approx. BND 300-500 per month). Costs can be higher if eating out frequently or preferring imported goods.

1330 – 2660For a simple to moderate apartment (approx. BND 600-1200 per month). Highly dependent on location (e.g., Bandar Seri Begawan vs. other areas), size, and amenities. Student-style rooms could be less.

440 – 1770Typically 1-2 months‘ rent, due at the beginning of the lease. Based on the estimated rent range.

200 – 600Very rough estimate for a basic travel medical insurance plan or a budget for potential minor treatments. Comprehensive international health insurance, which is recommended for non-residents, will be considerably more expensive and should be researched separately. Recent regulations may require certain pass holders to have specific medical insurance coverage.

110 – 220Primarily using public buses (approx. BND 1 per ride; estimating BND 50-100 per month). Taxis are significantly more expensive. Owning or renting a car would also be a higher cost.

1000 – 1500Strongly recommended for unforeseen expenses, price fluctuations, activities, or emergencies. This is a general recommendation.

2740 – 6360These are the estimated core costs for three months. This total does not include the financial buffer.

Moving to Brunei: The Ultimate Guide to Renting Apartments, Costs & Neighborhoods

$10 – $20 (USD $7.40 – $14.80)$300 – $550 (USD $222 – $407)$450 – $800 (USD $333 – $592)$700 – $1,300 (USD $518 – $962)$1,000 – $2,200+ (USD $740 – $1,628+)Gadong, Kiulap, Berakas (near amenities), Central BSBJerudong, Rimba, Mata-Mata, Beribi, Sengkurong, newer developments in BerakasGenerally very safe. Standard caution in deserted/poorly lit areas at night. Be mindful of petty theft in crowded places (rare) or if valuables are left visible in cars. Kampong Ayer (water village) if unfamiliar at night.

$8 – $16 (USD $5.92 – $11.84)$250 – $450 (USD $185 – $333)$350 – $700 (USD $259 – $518)$600 – $1,100 (USD $444 – $814)$900 – $1,800+ (USD $666 – $1,332+)Town centre, areas around commercial strips, Pandan area.Panaga (esp. for Shell staff), Mumong, Lumut (nearby), residential areas off Jalan Maulana/Jalan Tengah.Generally very safe. Standard caution in isolated areas. Be aware near riverbanks (crocodiles).

$7 – $15 (USD $5.18 – $11.10)$200 – $400 (USD $148 – $296)$300 – $600 (USD $222 – $444)$500 – $950 (USD $370 – $703)$800 – $1,600+ (USD $592 – $1,184+)Town centre, areas near shops and facilities.Residential areas surrounding the town, often linked to oil & gas company housing. Anduki area.Generally very safe. Standard caution in isolated areas. Be aware near riverbanks/coastal areas (crocodiles).

General Requirements in Brunei

Passport & valid Visa (Employment Pass, Dependant’s Pass for foreigners). Brunei IC (locals). Letter of employment/proof of income often requested.

Security deposit (typically 1-2 months‘ rent). Advance rent (1 month). Lease term usually 1-2 years (negotiable). Utilities (water, electricity, gas) usually separate. Agent fees may apply (0.5-1 month’s rent). Inventory list for furnished places. Diplomatic clause sometimes included for expats. „Fiador“ (co-signer) not typically required for expats with stable employment.

Cost of Living Comparison: Brunei vs. Major European Economies

5-1010-1512-188-1210-158-12

2-30.8-1.20.9-1.30.7-1.01.0-1.50.7-1.0

30-5050-8060-9040-6030-5040-60

0.51.5-1.81.6-2.01.3-1.61.7-2.11.4-1.7

Moving to Brunei with Kids? The Complete Guide to the Bruneian School System & Costs

Early Childhood Education (Ages 3-5)

Private International Schools

$3,700 – $18,500+ (BND 5,000 – BND 25,000+)

Usually an additional cost (books, supplies, activity fees).

Process: Direct application to the school. Availability may vary. Child usually needs a Dependant Pass or specific Student Pass.
Documents: Child’s passport & visa/pass, birth certificate (may require translation/attestation), vaccination records, photos. Parent’s passport & employment pass/Brunei ID.

Private Local Kindergartens

$1,500 – $5,000+ (BND 2,000 – BND 7,000+)

Often additional; varies by school.

Primary Education (Ages 6-11 approx. – Year 1-6)

Private International Schools

$7,400 – $26,000+ (BND 10,000 – BND 35,000+)

Typically an additional cost for books, uniforms, technology, and extracurricular activities (ECAs).

Process: Direct application to chosen school. May require assessment tests/interviews. Student Pass application typically supported by the school.
Documents: Child’s passport & Dependant/Student Pass, birth certificate (translated/attested), previous school records/transcripts (translated/attested), vaccination records, photos. Parent’s passport & employment pass.

Private Local Schools

$2,200 – $11,000+ (BND 3,000 – BND 15,000+) (Language of instruction varies, some bilingual).

Usually purchased separately; uniforms also required.

Government (Public) Schools

~$750 – $1,500+ (BND 1,000 – BND 2,000+) (Fees for non-citizens, subject to space & approval. Malay is primary language, English for some subjects).

Generally purchased by parents.

Secondary Education (Ages 12-18 approx. – Year 7-11/13)

Private International Schools (offering IGCSE, A-Levels, IBDP etc.)

$11,000 – $30,000+ (BND 15,000 – BND 40,000+)

Additional costs for books, uniforms, exam fees, technology, trips, and ECAs.

Process: Direct application. Entrance exams, interviews, and review of academic records are common. Student Pass required.
Documents: Student’s passport & Student Pass, birth certificate (translated/attested), official transcripts from all previous secondary schooling (translated/attested), vaccination records, photos. Recommendation letters may be needed.

Private Local Schools (may lead to national exams or IGCSE)

$3,000 – $15,000+ (BND 4,000 – BND 20,000+)

Usually purchased separately; exam fees additional.

Government (Public) Schools

~$1,100 – $2,200+ (BND 1,500 – BND 3,000+) (Fees for non-citizens, subject to space, approval & academic merit. Bilingual instruction, Malay prominent).

Generally purchased by parents; exam fees for O/A-Levels.

Tertiary Education (Post-Secondary)

Government & Private Institutions

International student fees vary significantly by institution and program (e.g., $3,000 – $15,000+ USD per year for university). Language of instruction mainly English at universities for many programs, Malay also used.

Purchased by students. Living expenses additional.

Process: Direct application to the institution. Specific entry requirements (e.g., A-Level results, diploma, language proficiency – IELTS/TOEFL may be required for English-taught programs). Student Pass required.
Documents: Passport & visa, attested academic certificates & transcripts, language proficiency proof, application forms, photos, financial guarantee.

What Happens After Job Loss in Brunei? An Expat's Guide to Residency, Rights & Next Steps

No: State unemployment benefits are generally not available to foreign nationals. The social security system (Tabung Amanah Pekerja – TAP) primarily covers retirement savings and certain protections for local citizens and permanent residents.

N/A: Foreign nationals are typically not entitled to unemployment benefits from the Bruneian state. Financial self-sufficiency or employer responsibility during employment is expected.

N/A.

For foreign nationals, residency is almost exclusively tied to a valid Employment Pass (Pas Kerja) or other work-related permits, which are sponsored by a specific employer for a specific role.

Job loss (e.g., contract termination, redundancy) typically leads to the cancellation of the Employment Pass. The employer is obligated to notify the Department of Immigration and National Registration and the Labour Department.

Primarily Employment Pass and any dependent passes linked to it.

Employer: Mandatory reporting to the Department of Immigration and National Registration and the Labour Department for cancellation of the Employment Pass.
Employee: Must cooperate with the employer for the cancellation process and prepare for departure.

There is no formal „grace period“ for job searching within Brunei after an Employment Pass is cancelled. Upon cancellation, the individual is generally required to settle affairs and depart Brunei within a short timeframe (e.g., typically 7-14 days, or as instructed by Immigration). The employer is usually responsible for repatriation.

Difficult and not a direct transfer. A foreign national cannot typically remain in Brunei to search for a new job after their current Employment Pass is cancelled. A new employer would need to apply for a new Employment Pass for the individual. This often requires the individual to have exited Brunei. The new application is subject to all standard requirements, including labor market testing (proving no suitable local candidate is available).

Employment Passes are strictly tied to the sponsoring employer and the approved position/occupation. Any change requires formal approval or a new application. Working for an unauthorized employer is a serious offense.

Yes, always. A new employer must submit a completely new Employment Pass application to the relevant authorities. The individual cannot start work with a new employer until the new pass is approved and issued.

Overstaying after permit cancellation can lead to fines, detention, deportation, and future entry bans into Brunei. Working without a valid pass is illegal and carries severe penalties for both the individual and any unauthorized employer.

1. Liaise closely with your current employer regarding the termination process, final settlements, and Employment Pass cancellation.
2. Ensure all contractual obligations are met (notice period, final pay, etc.).
3. Prepare for departure from Brunei once the Employment Pass is cancelled or by the date specified by authorities.
4. The employer is generally responsible for the cost of your repatriation (flight ticket to home country).
5. If seeking new employment in Brunei, this would typically need to be arranged with a new sponsoring employer from outside Brunei or through a new, independent application process.

How Much Does It Really Cost to Move to Brunei? A Breakdown of Relocation Costs

Fees associated with applying for and obtaining the necessary visa and permits to reside in Brunei.Employment Visa, Dependant PassBND 50 – BND 500+ (depending on visa type and duration)

Expenses related to moving your belongings and yourself to Brunei.Airfare, shipping, temporary accommodationBND 2,000 – BND 10,000+ (depending on volume of goods and origin country)

Costs for securing a place to live in Brunei.Rental deposit, monthly rentBND 500 – BND 3,000+ per month (depending on location and type of accommodation)

Day-to-day costs of living in Brunei.Groceries, utilities, transportationBND 500 – BND 2,000+ per month (depending on lifestyle and family size)

Costs for obtaining necessary insurance coverage in Brunei.Health insurance, vehicle insuranceBND 200 – BND 1,000+ per year (depending on coverage type and provider)

Costs for learning Malay, if not already proficient.Private lessons, group classesBND 100 – BND 500+ per month (depending on intensity and provider)

Fees for getting your professional qualifications recognized in Brunei.Assessment fees, translation costsBND 100 – BND 500+ (depending on profession and complexity of assessment)

Want to Move to Brunei? Your Guide to Navigating Bruneian Visas & Permits

For citizens of many countries (incl. Germany, USA, UK, most EU) for tourism/business stays (typically 14, 30, or 90 days depending on nationality).Official Link (MFA)

Required for non-exempt nationalities or for tourist/social visits longer than the visa-free period allows.Official Link (Immigration)

For short-term professional or business-related visits (meetings, seminars, inspections) for non-exempt individuals or specific activities.Official Link (Immigration)

For foreign nationals who have secured employment with a company in Brunei. Requires sponsorship from the employer.Official Link (Immigration)

For spouses and children (under 18) of Employment Pass holders.Official Link (Immigration)

For foreign nationals accepted to study at a recognized educational institution in Brunei.Official Link (Immigration)

Your First 4 Essential Steps for Registration & Permits When Moving to Brunei

Application for Visa / Pass (e.g., Dependant’s Pass, Student Pass). This is the basic permit required for legal entry and longer-term stay. The type of visa/pass depends on the purpose of stay (e.g., for dependents, students). Registration is handled by the immigration authority.Department of Immigration and National Registration (Jabatan Imigresen dan Pendaftaran Kebangsaan – JIPK), under the Ministry of Home Affairs (KHEDN).
JIPK Website

Proof of Medical Examination & possibly Health Insurance. A medical check-up (often required before arrival) is usually mandatory for long-term passes. Proof of sufficient health insurance coverage might also be required by immigration authorities or the employer.Requirements are set by JIPK (Immigration). Health system information is available from the Ministry of Health (Kementerian Kesihatan).
Ministry of Health Website

Application for Employment Pass. Necessary for legal employment. The process typically involves the employer first obtaining a Foreign Worker License (Lesen Pekerja Asing – LPA) from the Labour Department, followed by the application for the Employment Pass submitted to the Immigration Department (JIPK).Labour Department (Jabatan Buruh), under the Ministry of Home Affairs, and Department of Immigration and National Registration (JIPK).
Websites: JIPK Website, Ministry of Home Affairs (for Labour Dept info)

Application for Recognition of Foreign Qualifications. This is the process for evaluating and recognizing foreign school, university, or vocational qualifications for the purpose of employment or further education in Brunei.Brunei Darussalam National Accreditation Council (BDNAC – Majlis Kebangsaan Pengiktirafan Kelayakan), under the Ministry of Education (Kementerian Pendidikan).
Websites: BDNAC Website or Ministry of Education Website

What Can You Really Earn in Brunei? A 2025 Salary Guide by Profession

Typical Working Conditions & Salaries in Selected Professions – Brunei

Oil & Gas

Typical Monthly Hours: ca. 173-190

Usual Annual Leave (Working Days): 14 – 25

Typical Gross Annual Salary (BND)*: 24,000 – 48,000

Estimated Net Annual Salary (BND, approx.)**: 21,960 – 43,920

Gross Annual Salary (USD, approx.)***: 17,800 – 35,500

Typical Monthly Hours: ca. 173-190

Usual Annual Leave (Working Days): 14 – 25

Typical Gross Annual Salary (BND)*: 48,000 – 96,000+

Estimated Net Annual Salary (BND, approx.)**: 43,920 – 87,840+

Gross Annual Salary (USD, approx.)***: 35,500 – 71,000+

Public Sector

Typical Monthly Hours: ca. 160-173

Usual Annual Leave (Working Days): 20 – 30

Typical Gross Annual Salary (BND)*: 18,000 – 36,000

Estimated Net Annual Salary (BND, approx.)**: 16,470 – 32,940

Gross Annual Salary (USD, approx.)***: 13,300 – 26,600

Typical Monthly Hours: ca. 160-173

Usual Annual Leave (Working Days): 20 – 30+ (school holidays)

Typical Gross Annual Salary (BND)*: 30,000 – 54,000

Estimated Net Annual Salary (BND, approx.)**: 27,450 – 49,410

Gross Annual Salary (USD, approx.)***: 22,200 – 40,000

Construction

Typical Monthly Hours: ca. 190

Usual Annual Leave (Working Days): 14 – 20

Typical Gross Annual Salary (BND)*: 25,000 – 50,000

Estimated Net Annual Salary (BND, approx.)**: 22,875 – 45,750

Gross Annual Salary (USD, approx.)***: 18,500 – 37,000

Services (Retail/Hospitality)

Typical Monthly Hours: ca. 190

Usual Annual Leave (Working Days): 14 – 20

Typical Gross Annual Salary (BND)*: 9,600 – 21,600

Estimated Net Annual Salary (BND, approx.)**: 8,784 – 19,764

Gross Annual Salary (USD, approx.)***: 7,100 – 16,000

Healthcare

Typical Monthly Hours: ca. 173-190

Usual Annual Leave (Working Days): 14 – 25

Typical Gross Annual Salary (BND)*: 21,600 – 42,000

Estimated Net Annual Salary (BND, approx.)**: 19,764 – 38,430

Gross Annual Salary (USD, approx.)***: 16,000 – 31,000

IT

Typical Monthly Hours: ca. 173-190

Usual Annual Leave (Working Days): 14 – 25

Typical Gross Annual Salary (BND)*: 18,000 – 36,000

Estimated Net Annual Salary (BND, approx.)**: 16,470 – 32,940

Gross Annual Salary (USD, approx.)***: 13,300 – 26,600

Typical Monthly Hours: ca. 173-190

Usual Annual Leave (Working Days): 14 – 25

Typical Gross Annual Salary (BND)*: 30,000 – 60,000+

Estimated Net Annual Salary (BND, approx.)**: 27,450 – 54,900+

Gross Annual Salary (USD, approx.)***: 22,200 – 44,400+

Notes & Assumptions

* BND: Brunei Dollar. The Brunei Dollar is pegged to the Singapore Dollar (1 BND = 1 SGD).

** Net Salary: Brunei has no personal income tax, but employees contribute 8.5% to a national provident fund (TAP & SCP). The net salary is an estimation after this deduction.

*** USD Conversion: Based on an approximate exchange rate of 1 BND ≈ 0.74 USD. This rate fluctuates.