
Malaysia - Golden Visa
While Malaysia doesn’t have a program officially called a “Golden Visa,” it offers a similar pathway for foreigners seeking long-term residence through the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program. This program allows eligible individuals to live in Malaysia for an extended period with various benefits.
Here’s a breakdown of the MM2H program:
Key Features:
Long-term Visa: Offers renewable visas for 5, 10, 15, or 20 years, depending on the chosen category.
Investment-based: Requires a fixed deposit in a Malaysian bank and/or property purchase in Malaysia.
Open to Many Nationalities: Welcomes applicants from countries with diplomatic relations with Malaysia.
Family Inclusion: Allows applicants to bring their spouse, children, parents, and parents-in-law.
Categories and
Requirements:
The MM2H program has different tiers with varying financial requirements and visa durations:
Platinum Category:
Fixed Deposit: USD 1 million (~MYR 4.5 million)
Property Purchase: Minimum MYR 2 million
Visa Duration: 20 years
Gold Category:
Fixed Deposit: USD 500,000 (~MYR 2.25 million)
Property Purchase: Minimum MYR 1 million
Visa Duration: 15 years
Silver Category:
Fixed Deposit: USD 150,000 (~MYR 675,000)
Property Purchase: Minimum MYR 600,000
Visa Duration: 10 years
Special Economic/Financial Zones (SEZ/SFZ) Category:
No proof of offshore income required
Property Purchase: Exclusively in designated zones and directly from developers
Visa Duration: 5 years
Benefits:
Long-term Stay: Enjoy a stable and extended stay in Malaysia.
Dependents: Bring your family members to live with you in Malaysia.
Tax Benefits: While no direct tax exemptions are offered under the updated program, participants may benefit from Malaysia’s tax policies depending on their financial circumstances.
Flexibility: Platinum and Gold category participants are allowed to hire domestic helpers and conduct business or work in Malaysia.
Education: Access to local schools and universities at similar rates as citizens.
Healthcare: Utilize Malaysia’s public healthcare system at subsidized rates.
Property Ownership: Fewer restrictions on property purchases compared to non-residents.
Application Process:
Document Preparation: Gather necessary documents, including passport, proof of financial stability, medical report, and other supporting documents.
Submission and Processing: Submit the application to the Immigration Department of Malaysia, often through an authorized MM2H agent.
Approval: Upon approval, you will receive a renewable Social Visit Pass (Multiple Entry Visa).
Important Considerations:
Eligibility Criteria: Meet specific age, financial, and health requirements.
Minimum Stay: Platinum, Gold, and Silver category participants must stay in Malaysia for a cumulative 90 days per year.
Application Fees: Vary by category, with professional fees ranging from MYR 40,000 to MYR 70,000.
Property Lock-in Period: There’s a 10-year lock-in period for properties purchased under the MM2H program, with an option to upgrade to higher-priced property.
The year is 2025. Always check for the latest updates and regulations from the official Malaysian immigration authorities or consult with an immigration specialist.