Malaysia Visa & Work Permit Complete Guide 2026 | Employment Pass, Dependant Pass & Long-Term Social Visit Pass
Explore Malaysia's visa options and requirements for expatriates, including Employment Pass and family visas.
Malaysia is a vibrant and diverse country, offering a unique blend of cultures and opportunities for expatriates. Whether you're considering Malaysia for work or retirement, understanding the visa and immigration requirements is essential.
Main Visa Types
Employment Pass (EP)
The Employment Pass is a work permit for expatriates employed by a Malaysian organization.
- Requirements: Approval from the Expatriate Committee or relevant authorities is needed. The company must be eligible to apply.
- Key threshold or figure: Only valid in Peninsular Malaysia.
- Validity: Up to 60 months, depending on the employment contract.
- Application fee: Check the official site for current fees.
Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H)
The MM2H program allows foreigners to stay in Malaysia on a long-term basis.
- Requirements: Applicants must be 25 years or older and meet financial criteria, including a fixed deposit in a Malaysian bank.
- Key threshold or figure: Participants must stay in Malaysia for at least 90 days per year if under 50.
- Validity: Subject to approval by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
- Application fee: Check the official site for current fees.
Tax & Living Notes
Income tax (residents, YA 2023–2025, source: HASiL):
| Chargeable Income (RM) | Rate |
|---|---|
| 0 – 5,000 | 0% |
| 5,001 – 20,000 | 1% |
| 20,001 – 35,000 | 3% |
| 35,001 – 50,000 | 6% |
| 50,001 – 70,000 | 11% |
| 70,001 – 100,000 | 19% |
| 100,001 – 400,000 | 25% |
| 400,001 – 600,000 | 26% |
| 600,001 – 2,000,000 | 28% |
| Exceeding 2,000,000 | 30% |
Healthcare: Malaysia offers a mix of public and private healthcare services, with private insurance recommended for expatriates.
Housing: Rental prices in Kuala Lumpur can range from RM1,500 to RM4,500 per month, depending on location and size.
Cost Summary
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Employment Pass Fee | Check official site |
| MM2H Application Fee | Check official site |
| Average Rent (Kuala Lumpur) | RM1,500 - RM4,500 |
Pre-Move Checklist
- Verify Eligibility: Ensure your employer is eligible to apply for an Employment Pass.
- Financial Preparation: Meet the financial requirements for MM2H, including fixed deposits.
- Healthcare Plan: Arrange for private health insurance if necessary.
- Housing Search: Begin looking for accommodation in your preferred area.
- Legal Compliance: Ensure all documents and applications comply with Malaysian immigration laws.
Moving to Malaysia offers a wealth of opportunities, but it's crucial to navigate the visa and immigration process carefully to ensure a smooth transition.
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References
Data sourced from official government and immigration authority pages.
- Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (HASiL) – Individual Tax Rates
- マレーシア観光省 MM2H - Guidelines - Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture
- マレーシア移民局（IMI）ESD - ESD (Malay)
- マレーシアデジタル経済公社（MDEC） - DE Rantau
- マレーシア移民局（IMI）オンライン
- マレーシア移民局（IMI） - Malaysian Immigration Department
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Detailed Guide
For more details on a specific Malaysia visa program, see the guide below.
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