Malaysia Retirement Visa - Eligibility and Application (2024)

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Retirees from around the world are attracted by the beautiful landscapes, warm climate, delicious food, and affordable cost of living in Malaysia. The beautiful Southeast Asian country is perfect for everyone who enjoys a quiet and relaxing life.

However, to live in Malaysia as a retiree, you will need to apply for a Malaysian retirement visa.

The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program is a government-promoted program to allow retirees to live in Malaysia for as long as possible on a multiple-entry social visit pass.

Who Is Eligible For a Retirement Visa in Malaysia?

To qualify for a retirement visa for Malaysia, you must fulfill the requirements below:

  • You must be at least 35 years of age.
  • You must be able to support yourself during your time in Malaysia.
  • If you are under the age of 50, you must have liquid assets worth a minimum of RM 500,000 (appx. USD 118,500) and an offshore income of at least RM 10,000 (appx. USD 2,370) per month.
  • If you are over the age of 50, you must have at least RM 350,000 (appx. USD 83,000) in liquid assets and an offshore income of at least RM 10,000 (appx. USD 2,370) per month.
  • You must have a clean criminal record.

Can I Bring my Dependents to Malaysia With a Retirement Visa?

Yes, Malaysia permits you to bring your family members with a retirement visa. The family members include:

  • Your legal spouse
  • Children under the age of 21 (unmarried)

You can apply for a social visit pass for them at the same time you apply for the retirement visa. The application procedure is the same, but you will be asked to submit additional documents for each family member.

Once their visa is approved your family can move in with you and share the same rights as Malaysian citizens (work, study, etc.)

How Much Does a Malaysian Retirement Visa Cost?

The fees for a Malaysian Retirement visa are as follows:

Principal$1,400
Dependents (spouse/children)$300 (for each dependent)

Benefits of Malaysia Retirement Visa

Obtaining a retirement visa in Malaysia grants you many benefits:

  1. A ten-year (renewable) visa. Retirees who are accepted into the MM2H program will receive a ten-year visa. After your visa expires, you can apply to renew it indefinitely.
  2. Tax-free income. Any money you transfer into Malaysia will be tax-free. The tax exemption applies to the payment of offshore pension funds into Malaysia and other foreign funds transferred into Malaysia. The country of Malaysia has regulations about reporting large transfers of money, so you must properly report it.
  3. You can purchase a house. You can purchase a house priced over $237,000, depending on where you decide to live. However, you will need to receive state approval for any purchase you want to make.
  4. You can buy or import a car. Participants of MM2H can purchase a new locally assembled vehicle or import a pre-owned private vehicle as long as they follow the terms and conditions:
    • The total value for purchasing or importing a new locally assembled vehicle (CKD) or a pre-owned private vehicle (CBU) is $35,550.
    • The applications should be made within two years from the approval date of an MM2H visa.
  5. You can own a business and make an investment. MM2H members are allowed to own their own businesses as Directors. You can also invest in local companies, share markets, or unit trusts.
  6. You can get a domestic helper. You are allowed to apply for one domestic helper to conform to the prevailing guidelines of the immigration department of Malaysia.
  7. You have access to education. During this time, you and all accompanying family members can register in private colleges and universities in Malaysia.

How to Apply For a Malaysia Retirement Visa?

Here is how to apply for a Malaysia retirement visa:

  1. Visit the official website of Malaysia My Second Home program to start the application.
  2. Print out all the forms on the website and fill them out following the instructions on the MM2H site. The application form must be signed at the end.
  3. Submit the application to an MM2H Center. You must submit the application forms, along with the required documents, to an MM2H Center either in person or via a courier. Find what documents you need to submit under “Documents Required for a Malaysia Retirement Visa” below.
  4. Wait for the MM2H visa approval.

Note: You can submit the application yourself through Malaysia My Second Home website. However, you can also hire a retirement agency to help you with the application submission; before hiring an agency, make sure they are licensed by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture.

Documents Required for a Malaysia Retirement Visa

When applying for a Malaysia retirement visa, you must submit the following documents to support your application:

  • Your valid original passport, along with copies of passport pages (visa and entry stamp pages).
  • The original and copies of the conditional approval letter.
  • The application form for a Malaysia retirement visa.
  • One passport-size photograph with a blue background meeting the Malaysia Visa Photo Requirements.
  • Proof you are financially capable of supporting yourself in Malaysia. You have to submit the three last months’ bank statements, proving you have access to at least RM 350,000 (if you are over 50 years of age) and RM 500,000 (if you are under the age of 50).
  • Proof that you are a pensioner, such as a pension verification letter (if applicable).
  • Proof of medical insurance for your stay in Malaysia.
  • Letter of good conduct from the relevant authority in your country (e.g. the police).
  • Intention letter for individual/agency representative letter for MM2H company (if applicable).
  • Any other required documents regarding your identity and address.

Note: All documents should be translated into English by the Institute of Language and Literature or the Embassy or Consulate General of Malaysia abroad.

After the Retirement Visa Is Approved

After the Malaysian Department of Immigration approves your Retirement visa application, you must travel to Malaysia and collect your Conditional Approval Letter in person. Other requirements after your Malaysian retirement visa is approved include:

  • You and your dependents must submit a medical report from any private hospital or registered clinic in Malaysia.
  • You must have medical insurance coverage valid for Malaysia from any insurance company.
  • If you apply yourself, you must make a direct security bond, which ranges from RM 200 to RM 2,000 (appx. USD 47 to USD 470) depending on your nationality. For applications via licensed companies, the company must provide a personal bond for their clients.

Fixed Deposits for Retirees in Malaysia

After your Malaysian retirement visa is approved, you must make a fixed deposit in a Malaysian bank to prove you can maintain yourself financially. The deposit depends on your age:

  • Over the age of 50: You are required to open a fixed deposit account of RM 150,000 (appx. USD 35,550).
    • After a one-year period, if you fulfill the fixed deposit criteria, you can withdraw up to RM 50,000 ($11,850) to purchase a house for the education of your children in Malaysia and for medical purposes.
    • You must maintain a minimum balance of RM 100,000 ($23,700) from the second year onwards and throughout your stay under the MM2H program.
  • Under the age of 50: You are required to open a fixed deposit account of RM 300,000 (appx. USD 71,100).
    • After one year, you can withdraw up to RM 50,000 (appx. $11,850) for house purchasing, your children’s education, and medical reasons.
    • You must also maintain a minimum amount of RM 150,000 (appx. $35,470) from the second year onwards and during your stay in Malaysia under the retirement program.

Can You Work in Malaysia With a Retirement Visa?

Yes, you are allowed to work with a Malaysia retirement visa. Holders of the retirement visa from the age of 50 and above who have specialized skills in certain approved sectors can work for up to 20 hours per week.

However, the decision on whether to approve the part-time job for you will depend on the approving committee’s view on whether a Malaysian can perform the job or not.

What Is the Duration of a Retirement Visa for Malaysia?

The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program grants retirees a ten-year multiple entry visa. The visa is automatically renewed after the expiration date at the end of the first ten years.

Can I Become a Permanent Resident in Malaysia with a Retirement Visa?

Unfortunately, having a retirement visa does not entitle you to Permanent Residence in Malaysia, and you cannot convert it to PR status. However, the MM2H visa is issued for ten years, it is renewable and permits you to enter and depart Malaysia as many times as you like without any restrictions.

Best Places to Retire in Malaysia

Malaysia has a lot to offer to retirees, from beaches to jungles, fantastic cuisine, and low living costs, to numerous beautiful places for retirement.

Here are some of the best places for retirees in Malaysia:

Penang

Known as the Pearl of the Orient and “The Island of Pearls,” Penang is characterized by many beautiful landscapes. The diverse and cosmopolitan society likes to celebrate. Penang offers you healthcare through numerous public and private hospitals.

Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu is perfect for retirees who enjoy living in coastal areas, and it is one of the cheapest cities in the world for expats to live in. You will have time to explore the lush rainforests, the crystal clear waters, stunning mountains, and the city’s architecture.

Kota Kinabalu has a quality health system with a diverse range of healthcare facilities.

Kuala Lumpur

A sophisticated city that offers the right commodity for a happy retirement, Kuala Lumpur is one of the most visited cities in Asia. It is perfect for retirees that want to spend the rest of their lives in a diverse environment, surrounded by culture and architecture.

Melaka

The historic city is known for its historical buildings and structures, museums, multi-religious society, and beautiful landscapes.

Melaka houses a number of government and private hospitals and health clinics all over the state, providing uniform and equivalent healthcare to its residents.

Johor Bahru

If you like tasting local food and coffee Johor Bahru is perfect for you. The city has three public hospitals, four health clinics, and thirteen Malaysian clinics. So healthcare will not be a problem for you.

>> How to move to Malaysia?

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Malaysia Retirement Visa - Eligibility and Application (2024)

FAQs

Malaysia Retirement Visa - Eligibility and Application? ›

You must be at least 35 years of age. You must be able to support yourself during your time in Malaysia. If you are under the age of 50, you must have liquid assets worth a minimum of RM 500,000 (appx. USD 118,500) and an offshore income of at least RM 10,000 (appx.

How can I get retirement visa in Malaysia? ›

The MM2H programme is a way for foreigners to retire and live in Malaysia for an extended period of time. In August 2021, Putrajaya imposed stricter MM2H conditions, which included needing to show RM1. 5 million (US$338,000) in liquid assets and having a minimum RM40,000 monthly income.

What are the requirements for a retirement visa? ›

A retirement visa will allow you to spend your well deserved retirement years in a foreign country. To be granted a retirement visa, you must be of retirement age (typically from 50 years of age and above) and have enough money to support yourself.

How to apply retirement in Malaysia? ›

To retire in Malaysia, you'll need to successfully apply for the national Malaysia My Second Home programme which requires at least RM1. 5 million (S$462,733) in liquid assets and a monthly offshore income of RM40,000 (S$12,378).

How much money do you need to retire to Malaysia? ›

Members can deposit this money in a Malaysian bank and receive interest. After the first year, they can withdraw up to half this amount if they choose to spend it on a home, car or education. Expat retirees also require proof that they have about $354,000 USD (1.5 million RM) that could be converted to cash.

Can US citizens retire in Malaysia? ›

However, to live in Malaysia as a retiree, you will need to apply for a Malaysian retirement visa. The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program is a government-promoted program to allow retirees to live in Malaysia for as long as possible on a multiple-entry social visit pass.

How can I immigrate to Malaysia from USA? ›

To become eligible for permanent residency in Malaysia, you must meet a set of requirements, such as, you must have resided in the country for at least 10 years, you do not hold another nationality, and you are proficient in the Malay language.

What is the easiest retirement visa to get? ›

Portugal. Besides being one of the easiest places to get a retirement visa, Portugal is also one of the cheapest countries to retire in. It is a popular destination among retirees who want a place with warm temperatures, a low cost of living, excellent healthcare, and high quality of life.

How much income do you need for retirement visa? ›

This is a temporary residency visa targeted at financially self-sufficient retirees. In order to meet the program's minimum income requirement, you'll need to provide proof of income of US$1,000 per month (or equivalent) from a permanent pension source or a retirement fund.

Can you get a retirement visa in USA? ›

While some other countries offer foreigners retirement visas, sometimes known as silver cards, the United States does not have a retirement visa program – and has no current plans of creating one.

Can Americans move to Malaysia? ›

American citizens can visit Malaysia and receive a visa on arrival for up to three months. When you move to Malaysia, you will need to go through the Malaysian Representative Office to arrange a visa. To get your visa, you will need approval from the Department of Immigration before applying.

How long can an American stay in Malaysia? ›

Immigration officials will place an entry stamp, known as a social visit pass (visa), in your passport authorizing a stay of up to 90 days. Travelers may apply to the Malaysian Immigration Department for extensions, which may or may not be granted. You must exit Malaysia using the same passport that you used to enter.

What is the retirement age for expats in Malaysia? ›

An employer cannot prematurely retire an employee before the employee attains the age of 60.

Is it better to retire in Thailand or Malaysia? ›

Retiring in Thailand can be difficult if you aren't as familiar with the country. However, English is commonly spoken in areas with a higher tourist rate, helping make Thailand a top retirement destination. As a retiree, Malaysia arguably has a greater quality of life to cost ratio than anywhere else on the continent.

What is the 10 year visa in Malaysia? ›

The Residence Pass-Talent (RP-T) is a 10-year renewable pass for highly qualified expats to continue to live and work in Malaysia. Introduced in 2011, the RP-T also offers expats an attractive range of benefits, including the flexibility to change employers multiple times during the validity of the pass.

Which part of Malaysia is best for retirement? ›

So Where are the Best Retirement Places In Malaysia?
  • Penang.
  • Kuala Lumpur.
  • Kota Kinabalu.
  • Melaka.
  • Johor Bahru.

How long can a retired US citizen stay out of the country? ›

If you leave the U.S., we will stop your benefits the month after the sixth calendar month in a row that you are outside the country. You can make visits to the United States for specific periods of time, depending on how long you've been outside, to continue receiving your benefits.

Can a US citizen own property in Malaysia? ›

Foreign ownership of property is liberal (foreigners can own 100% of the property) in Malaysia as long as minimum requirements are met. In law, foreigners can own any type of properties EXCEPT the following: Properties valued less than RM1 million in most of the major states.

How much is the retirement village in Malaysia? ›

It is available only for those aged 55 and above, and residents have to pay a lifetime lease deposit of RM310,000 to RM466,000 and a monthly maintenance fee ranging from RM398 to RM597.

How much is Malaysia visa for US citizens? ›

Visa Fee According To The Country
CountriesSingle/Multiple Entry Visa (RM)Transit Visa (RM)
Sri Lanka15.0015.00
Sudan12.904.30
United States of America6.0020.00
Uruguay13.5013.50
36 more rows

Can I have dual citizenship in the US and Malaysia? ›

Dual citizenship is not recognized in Malaysia. To become a citizen of Malaysia, you must renounce your previous nationality.

Can I move to Malaysia permanently? ›

Getting Permanent Residency in Malaysia is possible through the Malaysian Entry Permit. The Malaysian government issues an Entry Permit (Malaysia PR) to certain categories of foreign nationals. If you receive Malaysia permanent residency, you will get an Entry Permit and Identification Card (MyPR).

What is the easiest countries for an American to retire to? ›

To help you narrow down your options, here are our picks for the best countries to retire to.
  • Panama. Panama tops most lists of the best countries to retire in, and there are good reasons for that. ...
  • Costa Rica. ...
  • Portugal. ...
  • Ecuador. ...
  • Greece. ...
  • Belize. ...
  • Nicaragua. ...
  • The Philippines.

What country can US citizens stay the longest without a visa? ›

Canada – 180 days

You can stay here for up to 180 days before having to go elsewhere.

What country can I retire to with $800 a month? ›

Ecuador. If you're looking for a country where you can retire outside the US comfortably with $800 per month and experience one of the most ecologically diverse places in the world, then Ecuador might be for you. The go-to city for US retirees in Ecuador is Cuenca, which also happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage site.

What is proof of income for retirement? ›

a copy of financial or bank account statement, a copy of signed federal income tax return, an IRS W-2 form, or. an IRS 1099 form.

What is the 4 retirement income rule? ›

In the first year of retirement, you can withdraw up to 4% of your portfolio's value. If you have $1 million saved for retirement, for example, you could spend $40,000 in the first year of retirement following the 4% rule. Beginning in year two of retirement, you adjust this amount by the rate of inflation.

What is the 7 percent rule for retirement? ›

What is the 7 percent rule? The 7 percent rule is a retirement planning guideline that suggests you can comfortably withdraw 7 percent of your retirement savings annually without running out of money.

Can a US citizen retire in another country? ›

Almost any country you would want to live in welcomes American retirees, as long as they can prove that they have a certain minimum income from some combination of Social Security, a pension, and investment income.

Are US citizens living abroad eligible for Social Security? ›

Can I Collect Social Security if I Live Outside the U.S.? If you are a U.S. citizen and qualify for Social Security retirement, family, survivor or disability benefits, you can receive your payments while living in most other countries. Join our fight to protect Social Security.

Can you get Social Security if you retire outside the US? ›

If you are a U.S. citizen, you may receive your Social Security payments outside the U.S. as long as you are eligible for them.

How safe is Malaysia for American citizens? ›

There is a threat of kidnappings-for-ransom from both terrorist and criminal groups. These groups may attack with little to no warning, targeting coastal resorts, island resorts, and boats ferrying tourists to resort islands.

Is Malaysia visa free for US citizens? ›

U.S. citizens are generally allowed to travel to Malaysia without a visa for business/tourist trips of less than ninety days.

How many American expats live in Malaysia? ›

Malaysia. Like Thailand, Malaysia is a popular destination for US expats due to its favorable climate, fantastic beaches, and warm people. According to the Malaysian government, over 30,000 Americans are living in Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Langkawi are the most popular destinations for US expats in Malaysia.

Is Malaysia friendly to USA? ›

Bilateral ties between Malaysia and the United States were established upon Malayan independence in 1957. The US was, and still is one of the largest trading partners for Malaysia and is traditionally considered to be Malaysia's oldest and closest ally in military, economic and education sectors.

Can I live in Malaysia without a job? ›

Live in Malaysia without employment (visa run)

Even without a permit there are many foreigners that stay in Malaysia for a longer period of time. Although they do not have a work permit and are not joining the MM2H programme, they are still able to stay in Malaysia for years.

Can I live in Malaysia for a year? ›

Most expats entering Malaysia, whether for business or holiday, will need to obtain a visa, although nationals of some countries can enter visa-free. Those wanting to live and work in Malaysia for an extended period will need to obtain a residence visa or work permit prior to their arrival.

Is Malaysia still a good place to retire? ›

With great weather, natural beauty, a low cost of living and a favourable tax regime, Malaysia is a tempting destination for retirees.

Do retired people pay taxes in Malaysia? ›

If the retirement is due to ill health and the pension is received from the government or from an approved pension scheme. For an employee in the public sector who elects for optional retirement, his pension will be taxed until he attains the age of 55 or the compulsory age of retirement under any written law.

What is the best place to retire in the world? ›

Countries Natixis ranked as secure retirement locations are mostly concentrated in Europe but also include New Zealand and Australia. The top three countries in the rankings are Norway, Switzerland and Iceland, all of which have life expectancies of 83 years, compared to 77 in the U.S. and the world average of 72.

What is the retirement age in Malaysia for foreigners? ›

Minimum retirement age

According to Section 4(1) of the Act, the minimum retirement age in Malaysia is set at 60 for those working in the private sector.

Is Malaysia a good place for Americans to live? ›

Malaysia Offers Luxury Living at a Low Cost

Even if you choose to live in its most expensive city, the cost of living in Malaysia is very reasonable. This makes it a great destination for many expats — especially retirees looking to keep their expenses to a minimum.

Is Malaysia visa free for American citizens? ›

General Entry Information

U.S. citizens are generally allowed to travel to Malaysia without a visa for business/tourist trips of less than ninety days.

Can US citizens enter Malaysia without visa? ›

U.S. citizens do not require a Tourist Visa to enter Malaysia. However, a valid U.S. passport is required.

Is Malaysia a good country to retire? ›

With great weather, natural beauty, a low cost of living and a favourable tax regime, Malaysia is a tempting destination for retirees.

What is the retirement process in Malaysia? ›

Legality and Longevity. The current Malaysia retirement age is at sixty years old. Before reaching an employee's 60th birthday, no employer can request the employee to retire early. On the contrary, an employee can request an early retirement, which he or she resigns from the employment.

What is considered senior citizen in Malaysia? ›

The elderly/Senior citizens are defined as individuals aged 60 years and above.

What is the best age to retire in Malaysia? ›

In Malaysia, the majority of Malaysians tend to retire around the age of 60, which is the official retirement age in Malaysia for the public sector.

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