Planning to move to Malaysia in 2026? Whether it’s the vibrant city life of Kuala Lumpur, the cultural mix of Penang, or the tropical beauty of Sabah, Malaysia continues to attract expats, digital nomads, students, and retirees from around the world.

Malaysia’s visa system offers flexible pathways for both short- and long-term stays, and 2026 brings several updated programs designed to make relocating smoother than ever. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate your move.

Visa requirements for short stays

Citizens from over 90 countries can enter Malaysia without a visa for short stays.

What this means

• Visa-free entry: Stay between 30 to 90 days, depending on nationality.

• Purpose: Tourism, short business visits, or family trips.

• Requirements: Valid passport (minimum 6 months beyond your stay) and proof of onward or return travel.

If your country isn’t visa-exempt, you can apply for a single-entry or multiple-entry visa at a Malaysian embassy or consulate before traveling.

Visa options for long-term stays

If you plan to stay in Malaysia for work, study, retirement, or business, you’ll need to apply for a long-term visa or residence program. Here are the main options available in 2026:

1. Employment Pass (Work Visa)

Who it’s for: Skilled professionals, managers, and technical workers employed by Malaysian companies.

Categories (based on salary and duration):

• Category I: Monthly salary above RM 10,000; valid for up to 5 years.

• Category II: Salary between RM 5,000–RM 9,999; valid for up to 2 years.

• Category III: Contract or short-term employees earning RM 3,000–RM 4,999; valid up to 1 year.

Requirements:

• Valid job offer from a registered Malaysian company.

• Employment contract.

• Academic or professional qualifications.

• Medical clearance and passport.

Process:

1. The employer applies for approval through the Expatriate Services Division (ESD).

2. Once approved, you apply for the Employment Pass at a Malaysian embassy or immigration office.

2. Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa (DE Rantau Program)

Who it’s for: Remote workers, freelancers, and digital entrepreneurs working for companies outside Malaysia.

Requirements (2026 updates):

• Minimum annual income of USD 24,000 (approx. RM 110,000).

• Proof of remote work contracts or freelance projects.

• Health insurance and proof of accommodation.

Duration:

• Valid for 12 months, renewable for another 12 months.

• Allows dependents (spouse and children) to join you.

Benefits:

• Tax incentives for digital professionals.

• Access to co-working hubs and digital ecosystems in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor.

3. Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Program

Who it’s for: Retirees or long-term residents seeking a stable base in Malaysia.

2026 requirements (based on the revised program):

• Minimum monthly offshore income of RM 40,000.

• Fixed deposit of RM 1 million in a Malaysian bank (partial withdrawal allowed after 1 year for property or education).

• Proof of medical insurance and clean criminal record.

Duration: Renewable 5-year residence visa.

Benefits:

• Multiple-entry, renewable long-term stay.

• Ability to purchase property and bring dependents.

• Exemption from some local taxes for offshore income.

Note: Requirements can vary slightly by region, as Sarawak and Sabah operate their own MM2H programs with more flexible criteria.

4. Student Visa

Who it’s for: Foreign students enrolled in accredited Malaysian universities, colleges, or language centers.

Requirements:

• Offer letter from an approved institution.

• Proof of financial means (minimum RM 30,000 per year).

• Health insurance and medical clearance.

• Valid passport.

Duration: Matches your study program, renewable yearly.

Bonus: Students can work part-time up to 20 hours per week during semester breaks and holidays.

5. Dependent Pass (Family Visa)

Who it’s for: Spouses and children of Employment Pass or MM2H holders.

Requirements:

• Marriage or birth certificates.

• Proof of sufficient financial means.

• Health insurance.

Duration: Matches the principal applicant’s visa validity.

6. Professional Visit Pass (Short-Term Work)

Who it’s for: Foreign professionals or experts working temporarily in Malaysia (consultants, technicians, trainers).

Requirements:

• Invitation letter from a Malaysian company.

• Proof of professional qualifications.

• Valid passport and health insurance.

Duration: Up to 12 months, non-renewable.

Required documentation for Malaysian visas

Most Malaysian visa applications include:

• Completed visa application form

• Valid passport (6+ months beyond stay)

• Passport-sized photos

• Proof of financial means (bank statements, income slips, etc.)

• Health insurance

• Police clearance (for long-term visas)

• Visa-specific documents (employment contract, offer letter, or university acceptance)

Visa costs in Malaysia (2026 estimates)

Note: Fees vary by nationality and visa duration. All are non-refundable.

Permanent residence and citizenship

• Permanent residence: Possible after 5–10 years of continuous residence in Malaysia (depending on visa type). Applicants must demonstrate steady income, good conduct, and integration.

• Citizenship: Granted through naturalization after 10 years of residence, though Malaysia does not allow dual citizenship, you must renounce your previous nationality.

Final notes on Malaysian visas

Malaysia will remain one of Southeast Asia’s most welcoming destinations for expats and professionals in 2026, offering tropical weather, modern infrastructure, and a relatively low cost of living.

Whether you’re launching a remote career, retiring comfortably, or studying in a top Asian university, Malaysia’s flexible visa programs make it easy to find your ideal path.

Start early, gather all your documents, and consult esd.imi.gov.my or your local Malaysian Immigration Department for the most current updates.

Your new life in Malaysia is waiting.