Guide to Residency in Malaysia

Obtaining a residency visa in Malaysia is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Malaysia gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Understand the Types of Residency Status
  • Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Programme: A renewable 10-year multiple entry visa for qualified applicants.
  • Labour/Employment Pass: For individuals employed by a Malaysian company.
  • Student Pass: For individuals enrolled in a Malaysian educational institution.
  • Permanent Residency (PR): For individuals who meet specific criteria and have stayed in Malaysia for a certain period.
• Check Eligibility Criteria
  • MM2H: Requires a fixed deposit, minimum monthly income, and medical insurance. Official MM2H Website
  • Employment Pass: Requires a job offer from a Malaysian company. Official MyXpats Website
  • Student Pass: Requires an offer letter from a Malaysian educational institution. Official Education Malaysia Website
  • PR: Requires meeting specific criteria such as staying in Malaysia for a certain period, having a sponsor, etc. Official Immigration Department of Malaysia Website
• Prepare Required Documents
  • Passport with validity of at least 18 months.
  • Passport-sized photographs.
  • Completed application form for the specific residency status.
  • Supporting documents based on the type of residency status (e.g., job offer letter, offer letter from educational institution, fixed deposit certificate, etc.).
• Apply for a Tax Number (if applicable)
  • Visit the nearest Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (LHDN) office.
  • Submit a copy of your passport and a completed Borang Pendaftaran Nombor Cukai (Tax Registration Form).
  • Official LHDN Website
• Apply for Residency Status
  • Submit the application form and supporting documents to the relevant authority (e.g., MM2H Centre, Immigration Department, etc.).
  • Pay the applicable processing fee.
• Wait for Approval
  • Processing time varies depending on the type of residency status.
  • You can check the status of your application through the relevant authority's website.
• Complete Medical Examination (if applicable)
  • For certain types of residency status, you may be required to undergo a medical examination at a registered clinic or hospital in Malaysia.
  • Submit the medical report to the relevant authority.
• Receive Residency Status
  • If your application is approved, you will receive your residency pass and/or visa.
  • Ensure that your passport is valid throughout your stay in Malaysia.
• Renew Residency Status (if applicable)
  • Certain types of residency status, such as MM2H and Employment Pass, require renewal.
  • Submit the renewal application form and supporting documents to the relevant authority before the expiration of your current pass.

Additional Information

It is recommended to consult with the relevant authority or a registered immigration agent for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

All official websites mentioned above have an English version available.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Malaysia?

"In order to visit or stay in Malaysia, visitors must apply for a visa. Depending on the purpose of their stay, there are various types of visas available, including short-term visit passes, tourist visas, student visas, and professional visas. Applicants must submit their passport for the visa application, along with the required documents and fees. Residency in Malaysia requires an Employment Pass or an approved Long-Term Visit Pass. To obtain an Employment Pass, the applicant must provide proof of employment as well as personal documents and supporting documents from the employer. If they are granted an Employment Pass, they can apply for their work permit and permanent residence. For a Long-Term Visit Pass, applicants must provide proof of banking transactions, documents attesting to their financial capability, and a return ticket, among other documents. They must also demonstrate that the reason for their stay is legitimate. Holding a Long-Term Visit Pass does not provide the right to work in Malaysia," commented one member living in Malaysia.

"Work visa, business visa, student visa, or MM2H are long-term options. The easiest one is a student visa," mentioned one expat living in Malaysia.