Immigration Pathway in Malaysia
Malaysia is a dynamic, high-income nation of approximately 34.2 million people, strategically located at the crossroads of Southeast Asian trade. It is celebrated for its harmonious multi-cultural society, world-class healthcare, and an exceptionally high quality of life with a relatively low cost of living. Ranking 23rd globally for competitiveness and 33rd for innovation, Malaysia offers a stable environment for both families and investors. Choosing Malaysia means enjoying a modern infrastructure, prestigious international schools, and a “Plan B” residency in a country that consistently ranks as one of the world’s top retirement destinations.
Passport Visa-Free Access
Access to 183 countries, including China, Japan, and the EU.
Passport Rank
9th globally on the Henley Passport Index
Taxation
Territorial tax system; foreign-sourced income is largely tax-exempt until late 2026.
Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Program
Renewable visa options for 5, 15, or 20 years.
Include spouse, children up to 34, and parents.
Unlimited residential property ownership with financing up to 80%.
Multiple-entry visa allowing seamless travel in and out.
Access to one of Asia’s most advanced medical systems.
The MM2H program is a “Long-Stay Residency” pass designed for those who wish to live in Malaysia without renouncing their original citizenship. Think of it as a premium “Resident Member” status: you get the right to live, study, and even start businesses (in certain tiers) while maintaining your global lifestyle. Under the 2026 tiered system, you place a fixed deposit—ranging from $150,000 to $1 million—and purchase a local property. It is a safe, government-backed exchange that secures a stable home base for your family in a tropical, English-speaking paradise.
Time to Residency
Approximately 3 to 4 months
Residency Requirement
90 cumulative days per year
Established Time
Program launched in 2022.
Criteria For MM2H Applicants
| Category | Platinum | Gold | Silver |
|---|---|---|---|
MM2H Term | 20 years renewable | 15 years renewable | 5 years renewable |
Fixed Deposit | USD 1 million | USD 500,000 | USD 150,000 |
Maximum Fixed Deposit Withdrawal | 50% on property, medical, education, or tourism expenses | 50% on property, medical, education, or tourism expenses | 50% on property, medical, education, or tourism expenses |
Property Purchase Requirement | MYR 2 million or above | MYR 1 million or above | MYR 600,000 or above |
Minimum Stay in Malaysia | 90 days per year (applicant age 25-49 can fulfill this requirement as either principal or dependent) | 90 days per year (applicant age 25-49 can fulfill this requirement as either principal or dependent) | 90 days per year (applicant age 25-49 can fulfill this requirement as either principal or dependent) |
Dependents | Can include spouse, unmarried children under 34, parents, parents-in-law | Can include spouse, unmarried children under 34, parents, parents-in-law | Can include spouse, unmarried children under 34, parents, parents-in-law |
Domestic Helper | Permitted | Not permitted | Not permitted |
Conduct Business/Work | Permitted | Not permitted | Not permitted |
MM2H – Q&A
What exactly is the MM2H Program?
The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program is a long-term residency-by-investment scheme that allows foreign nationals to live in Malaysia for up to 20 years. It is a “Multiple Entry Visa” that grants you the freedom to move in and out of the country seamlessly while maintaining your original citizenship.
What are the financial requirements for the different tiers?
As of 2026, the program is divided into three tiers based on your fixed deposit amount:
Silver: $150,000 fixed deposit.
Gold: $500,000 fixed deposit.
Platinum: $1,000,000 fixed deposit.
All tiers also require a mandatory residential property purchase.
How many days must I actually stay in Malaysia each year?
Participants must spend a minimum of 90 cumulative days per year in Malaysia. This is a collective total, meaning you can make multiple short trips to fulfill the requirement. Note: This requirement is often waived for participants aged 50 and above.
How long is the visa valid, and can I renew it?
The validity depends on your tier:
Silver: 5 years
Gold: 15 years
Platinum: 20 years
All visas are renewable at the end of their term, provided you still meet the financial and medical requirements.
Does this program lead to Permanent Residency (PR) or Citizenship?
No. The MM2H is a social visit pass, not a PR track. While it allows for long-term living, it does not grant the right to a Malaysian passport or the right to vote.
Can my children and parents join me as dependents?
Yes, the program is highly family-oriented. You can include your spouse, children (unmarried) up to the age of 34, and even your parents or parents-in-law as dependents.
Can my children study in Malaysia under this visa?
Yes. Children included as dependents can study at Malaysia’s prestigious international schools or private universities without needing to apply for a separate Student Pass.
Can I work or do business in Malaysia as an MM2H holder?
Generally, the Silver and Gold tiers are for residency only. However, Platinum Tier holders are granted the right to work, invest, and engage in business activities in Malaysia.
What is the mandatory property purchase rule?
Under the latest 2026 regulations, all new MM2H participants must purchase a residential property in Malaysia. The minimum purchase price depends on the tier (e.g., RM 600,000 for Silver, up to RM 2 million for Platinum). You can withdraw up to 50% of your fixed deposit to help pay for this property.
What is the estimated timeline from application to approval?
The process is relatively efficient compared to Western programs. Once your complete documentation is submitted through an authorized agent, the estimated timeline for approval and visa endorsement is 3 to 4 months.
How can Altec Global Inc. help with MM2H Application?
Altec Global acts as your end-to-end consultant. We handle the entire document preparation, professional translation, liaison with the Malaysian Immigration Department, and the final visa endorsement process in Malaysia.
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Immigration applications can be complex and require careful preparation. Our team provides expert guidance from eligibility assessment through submission, helping ensure accurate, well-documented applications and a stronger path forward.