Which Malaysia Visa Route Fits You?
Six main ways people move to Malaysia long-term, compared at a glance — so your enquiry goes to the right place from the start.
Employment Pass (EP)
Learn moreEmployer-sponsored, tiered by salary category. The most common route for professionals, managers, and technical specialists.
Best for
You already have a job offer from a Malaysian employer
Work locally?
Yes — for your sponsoring employer
Typical duration
Up to 10 years (Category I/II) or 5 years (Category III), under the policy effective 1 June 2026
Director & Investor Visa
Learn moreRequires company registration, paid-up capital, and usually a local resident director alongside you.
Best for
You're setting up or acquiring a company and want to run it yourself
Work locally?
Yes — for the company you direct
Typical duration
Initial approval 1-2 years, renewable based on business performance
Malaysia Tech Entrepreneur Programme (MTEP)
Learn moreA fast-track pathway via MDEC for software, SaaS, and digital platform founders — not for traditional businesses with minor tech components.
Best for
You're a tech founder building a product-led business
Work locally?
Yes — for the company you direct
Typical duration
Initial 2 years, renewable on milestones
Company Registration
Learn moreNot an immigration route on its own — registering a company does not grant permission to live or work in Malaysia. Usually the first step before a visa application.
Best for
You need a Malaysian legal entity before any director, investor, or MTEP application
Work locally?
No local employment
Typical duration
Perpetual existence once incorporated, subject to annual compliance
Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H)
Learn moreFinancial and eligibility requirements apply and vary by age — ask us for the current thresholds, since published figures change.
Best for
You want long-term residency without local employment — retirees, financially independent individuals, families
Work locally?
No local employment
Typical duration
10 years, renewable subject to meeting ongoing requirements
Digital Nomad Visa (DE Rantau)
Learn moreFor freelancers, consultants, and remote employees with qualifying foreign income — not a route to work for a Malaysian company.
Best for
You work remotely for clients or employers outside Malaysia
Work locally?
Only for foreign clients/employers
Typical duration
3-24 months, renewable
This is a general comparison, not legal or immigration advice. Approval, processing times, and eligibility depend on your specific profile, sponsor, and the relevant authority's review — ask us for current requirements before relying on any figure here.
Not Sure Which One Applies to You?
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