Here are the answers to frequently asked questions, Most have been provided by the MM2H One Stop Centre. The answers are only applicable for people joining the revised programme introduced in 2024
GENERAL
The rules were changed several years ago and you may now apply if you have a Malaysian wife/husband. It
should be noted that Malaysia does not accept same-sex marriages.
We have helped former Malaysian citizens apply for the visa without any problems
The government usually allows six months to collect the visa. You do not have to move to Malaysia immediately the visa is endorsed in your passport but those under 50 years of age are required to spend 90 days a year in the country. All approved applicants must purchase a property within one year of receiving approval.
If you are not married, you will have to apply separately and you will both need to qualify for the programme.
Unfortunately, having an MM2H visa does not entitle applicants to Permanent Residency and it cannot be converted to PR status.
Many websites are not updated and contain old information. We have been an agent since 2005 and update our website promptly so you can rely on the information it contains. If in doubt contact our help desk on this website.
It is possible to live in Malaysia on a very low monthly income but to enjoy a reasonably comfortable lifestyle a couple would need around RM10,000 (US$2400) a month
APPLICATION
There is currently no requirement to show proof of income or liquid assets. This condition was removed. However, you will need enough funds to place the fixed deposit and put down on a property. You should also consider the funds required for living expenses
That is not necessary as long as all required documents are submitted. Upon approval, applicants must come to Malaysia to have their passports endorsed (after a medical test by a doctor in Malaysia, placing the required fixed deposit, and arranging medical insurance).
The government has indicated a maximum of three months (13 weeks) but with a limited number of cases being approved under the new terms and conditions, we cannot confirm the average number of weeks.
FIXED DEPOSIT
The fixed deposit placement only has to be made by the main applicant. Dependents are not required to place one.
Most banks will want to see the conditional letter of approval to open the bank account. Setting up the FD account is simple but transferring the money from your home country to the bank account here can take several days. There are restrictions on how much cash you can bring into the country (currently US$10,000 equivalent).
There is no tax on the interest from the Fixed Deposits.
You may keep the interest on the Fixed Deposit. Interest paid to foreigners varies from bank to bank, but is currently around 3.0 percent.
It can be in either currency. The ringgit amount would be at the bank's daily conversion rate.
Partial withdrawal can be made at any time after the visa is endorsed in the passport. It can only be withdrawn for approved purposes – currently property purchase, education or medical expenses in Malaysia or domestic travel (air ticket hotel costs)
PROPERTY PURCHASE
Yes, it will be accepted but it will not qualify for withdrawal of 50% of the fixed deposit. In order to do this the sale and purchase agreement must be dated after the visa is endorsed.
Approved applicants have one year to buy a property. MM2H agents are expected to check this is done. Non-compliance may result in the visa being revoked.
It has to be a residential property. This includes SOHO apartments (‘Small office, home office’ designed for people who work from home) and service apartments. At this stage, it does not include senior living communities which usually require long-term tenancy agreements or membership fees.
It can be shared ownership with anyone who was listed on the conditional approval letter.
SPECIAL FINANCE ZONE
At this time Forest City is the only place that qualifies although it is expected that in due course (no
timeline given) it will be expanded to other areas in Johor.
MINIMUM STAY IN MALAYSIA
The minimum stay requirement is only for those aged under 50. It does not apply to those over 50 or reach the age of 50 after joining the programme.
It required that the visa holder spend at least 90 days every year in Malaysia. The first year is on pro rata basis. Visa holders cannot average their days in Malaysia over the full period of the visa as they must meet this condition every year.
WORKING IN MALAYSIA
Only the Platinum MM2H visa allows people to work in Malaysia. The other visas do not permit it so while it is possible to invest and be a shareholder in a local company, working in any capacity is not permitted even holding the position of director. It you wish to work it would require converting your visa to an employment pass.
CHANGING PRINCIPAL
The new rules allow the principal to designate a dependent as successor upon their death but the mechanics of this have not yet been finalized. The government recommends preparing a will in Malaysia to facilitate transfer of any locally held assets.
If you have other questions about MM2H or would like us to be your agent, please contact us through our free Help Desk.
Our company Borneo Vision (MM2H) Sdn Bhd is an approved agent for the programme. We can submit your application without you being here. You only need to come to Malaysia when it is approved. Check out “Six reasons to use us as your agent”.