fb-pixel

Malaysia Permanent Residence Visa - Requirements and Application Process

22-Mar-2023

8 min read

Are you planning to live in Malaysia permanently? Here is what you'll need to know!

For those who want to live in Malaysia permanently for work, school, or other reasons, the Malaysia Permanent Residence Visa is an option.

Depending on the exact category of the visa, eligibility criteria can differ, but they often include factors like age, level of education, work experience, and financial stability.

Brown rocks on seashore during daytime

What Is Malaysia PR Visa?

A Malaysia Permanent Residence (PR) Visa is a document that allows foreign nationals to reside and work in Malaysia permanently. It's a long-term residency visa that allows investors, entrepreneurs, and foreign nationals to live and work or study in Malaysia for up to 20 years.

It provides the holder with a long-term stay in Malaysia with almost the same privileges as a Malaysian citizen, such as the right to buy properties, access to healthcare and education, and the ability to travel in and out of the country without any restriction.

The Malaysia PR Visa is a pathway toward obtaining citizenship in Malaysia. This visa is issued to those who meet the eligibility criteria and are deemed valuable to the country's economy and society.

Malaysia PR visa is a long-term residency visa that enables investors, entrepreneurs, and foreign talents to live and work or study in Malaysia for up to 20 years.


Malaysian Permanent Residence Benefits

Malaysia is a thriving nation with a vibrant economy and a deep cultural history. Here are some benefits to consider if you're thinking about moving to Malaysia permanently:

  • Right to live and work in Malaysia: As a permanent resident, you are given the freedom to travel, live, and work anywhere in Malaysia.

  • Education opportunities: Malaysian universities and colleges offer scholarships and reduced tuition rates to permanent residents.

  • Healthcare benefits: You'll have access to Malaysia's public healthcare system, which offers high-quality medical services at affordable prices.

  • Investing opportunities: As a permanent resident, you can benefit from Malaysia's economic growth by investing in real estate and companies there.

  • Social Security: You will be entitled to receive retirement and disability benefits from social security as well as access to government-funded healthcare and education.


What Is The Eligibility For A Malaysia PR visa?

Permanent residency can be obtained in Malaysia in many ways, such as as an investor, expert, professional, or spouse of a Malaysian citizen.

Investor

  • A minimum USD 2 million fixed deposit in any Malaysian bank, which can only be withdrawn after five years, is needed if you are an investor.

  • Your spouse and minor children may also be eligible for permanent residency after five years of residence in Malaysia, but only if you have a Malaysian sponsor and meet other requirements.

Experts

  • Eligibility for a Malaysia PR visa under the Expert category requires exceptional skills and expertise recognized as "World Class" by any international organization.
  • Applicants need a recommendation from a relevant agency in Malaysia and a certificate of good conduct from their country of origin.
  • A Malaysian sponsor is required to support the applicant's application.

Professionals

  • If you're in any field with incredible skills, you'll qualify for this category.
  • You must have a reference from an authorized Malaysian agency
  • A certificate of good conduct from your home country to be eligible.
  • You must be qualified and have worked for at least three years in any government or private organization in Malaysia.
  • You'll need to have a Malaysian sponsor to support their application.

Spouse of Malaysian citizen

  • If you're given a long-term visit pass and stay continuously in Malaysia for five years
  • If you're married to a Malaysian citizen
  • A "Surat Akuan Perkahwinan" must also be submitted
  • Your spouse must act as your sponsor.
  • Malaysian citizens' parents are required to sponsor any children under the age of six.

Point System

All applicants are assessed through a point system based on seven criteria, including

  • Age,
  • Qualifications,
  • Duration of stay in Malaysia,
  • Familiarity with Malaysian institutes,
  • The value of investments,
  • Working experience in Malaysia,
  • Proficiency in Bahasa Malaysia.

If you score a minimum of 65 points are eligible to submit an application for an Entry Permit. You can use the Point System Calculator to calculate your score and determine whether you may be eligible to apply.

Finance Eligibility

  • Earn an offshore income of RM40,000.00 per month or RM480,000 annually.
  • Open a fixed deposit account of RM1,000,000 with a licensed bank in Malaysia.
  • To pay Participation Fees (RM200,000 for Principal and RM100,000 for Dependents).

What Are The Requirements for Malaysia PR Visa?

Are you planning to apply for a visa to Malaysia? If so, you'll need to prepare the following documents to ensure a smooth and hassle-free application process.

Here are the documents required for a Malaysia PR visa:

  • FORM 16: You'll have to fill in the application form.

  • Complete photocopy of your passport: Make sure to provide a complete photocopy of your passport, including all pages and covers.

  • Two passport-size pictures of yourself: Make sure the photos are recent and clear.

  • Two passport-size pictures of your sponsor: If you're being sponsored by someone in Malaysia, you'll need to provide their photos as well.

  • A personalized cover letter: This letter should explain the purpose of your visit to Malaysia and provide details about your itinerary, accommodation, and other relevant information.

  • Recommendation by the Relevant Agency in Malaysia: If you're applying for an Expert or Professional category visa, you'll need a recommendation from a relevant agency in Malaysia.

  • Marriage Decree Letter (Surat Akuan Perkahwinan): If you're married to a Malaysian citizen, you'll need to provide this letter.

  • Photocopies of Employment Pass: If you're currently employed in Malaysia, you'll need to provide photocopies of your Employment Pass.

  • Photocopies of marriage certificate: If you're married, you'll need to provide photocopies of your marriage certificate.

  • Photocopies of birth certificates for your children: If you're traveling with your children, you'll need to provide photocopies of their birth certificates.

  • Any additional documents that support your application: If you have any additional documents that can support your application, such as proof of funds, make sure to provide them as well.

By preparing these documents in advance, you can ensure a smooth and successful visa application process.


How To Apply For Malaysia PR Visa?

If you're considering applying for Permanent Residence (PR) in Malaysia, here's what you need to know:

Step 1: You must submit your application at the Immigration Department in Putrajaya. Unfortunately, you can't apply by mail or online.

Step 2: Once you've submitted your application, you'll need to attend an interview with the Immigration Department and undergo a background check by the police.

Step 3: If you're applying for Malaysia PR under the Professional or Expert categories, you'll need a recommendation from a Malaysian government agency in your field of expertise. Here's a quick list of the agencies you'll need to contact:

  • Health and Medicine: Ministry of Health
  • Industries, Services, and Manufacturing: Ministry of International Trade and Industries (MITI) or the Malaysian Industrial Development Authority (MIDA)
  • Agriculture: Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry
  • Transportation (air, land, maritime): Ministry of Transportation
  • Higher learning: Ministry of Higher Learning Science, technology, and ICT: Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation
  • Sports: Ministry of Youth and Sports or Malaysian Sports Council Banking and finance: Central Bank
  • Investment and capital: Security Commission
  • Information, communication, culture, and arts: Ministry Of Information, Communication, and Culture
A winding down road in the middle of the forest during daytime

Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H)

Another type of Malaysia residence permit is the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program.

What Is A Malaysia Second Home Program?

Malaysia The My Second Home (MM2H) Program is mainly a special program available by the Malaysian government to foreign nationals and expatriates from all over the world who want to apply for a 5 year (renewable) long-term pass in Malaysia.

The program is available to citizens of all countries that Malaysia recognizes, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or gender.

What Is Malaysia My Second Home Program Eligibility?

Following these guidelines and submitting all required documentation can increase your chances of a successful PR application in Malaysia.

Looking to make Malaysia your second home? Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program might just be what you're looking for! Here are the key details:

  • MM2H offers residence and free travel for you and your family for up to ten years.

  • You need to have enough independent financial funds to pay for your stay to be eligible.

  • You must have access to at least RM 1,500,000 in liquid assets, or RM 40,000 per month, from a non-Malaysian source if you are under 50 years old.

  • If you are over 50, you must have access to $3,000 per month in pension or other income or at least $95,000 in liquid assets.

  • You must also open a Malaysian bank account and deposit at least $40,000.

  • You can take out $13,000 for use in Malaysia after a year, but you must always keep $27,000 in the account.

What Are The Financial Requirements For The MM2H?

Following the successful submission of their MM2H application, applicants must satisfy the following financial requirements in order to be approved.

  • Age: 35+
  • Liquid assets: RM1,500,000 approx 27 775 506 Indian Rupee
  • Monthly Income: RM 40,000 approx 740 696 Indian Rupee

Take advantage of the MM2H program and make Malaysia your home away from home!

Woman selling fruits and eggs during daytime

All Done

In conclusion, those who want to live and work in Malaysia for an extended period can enjoy the benefits of the Malaysia permanent resident visa. Candidates have several choices with categories like Investor, Expert, Professional, and Spouse of Malaysian Citizen.

There is also the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program. Malaysia provides a warm and diverse climate overall, making it a popular travel destination for anyone looking for new opportunities and experiences. Good Luck!

Government sources:

This information was gathered from trusted government sources.

The information in this blog was written with AI assistance.

Written By: Mable Chidi
Fact Checked By: Nikhita Rathod

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does It Take To Get A Malaysia PR Visa?

The processing time for a Malaysia PR visa application can vary. Still, it typically takes 6 months to a year to receive a decision on the application.

Can I Apply For A Malaysia PR Visa While Living In Malaysia?

Yes, you can apply for a Malaysia PR visa while living in the country. However, if you're on a tourist visa, you may need to leave the country. In contrast, your PR visa application is being processed.

Can I Work In Malaysia With A PR Visa?

Yes, one of the main benefits of obtaining a Malaysia PR visa is the ability to work in the country without needing a separate work permit.

Can I Bring My Family With Me On A Malaysia PR Visa?

Yes, you can bring your immediate family members, such as your spouse and children, on a Malaysia PR visa.

Can I Apply For Citizenship With A Malaysia PR Visa?

Yes, after holding a Malaysia PR visa for a certain period and meeting other eligibility criteria, you may be able to apply for Malaysian citizenship.

How Long Is A Malaysia PR Visa Valid For?

A Malaysia PR visa is valid for 20 years, after which it can be renewed if the holder continues to meet the eligibility criteria.

More from Malaysia

Related Articles