RELOCATING TO MALAYSIA
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Malaysia offers a golden visa through two main routes: Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) and the Premium Visa Programme (PVIP). Together, these two visa options position Malaysia as an attractive destination for families and investors seeking long-term residency and flexibility through its golden visa options.
Table of Contents
- Key Summary
- What is the Malaysia Premium Visa Programme (PVIP)?
- Who Should Apply for the Malaysia PVIP Visa?
- Do You Qualify? PVIP Eligibility Requirements Explained
- What Are the Tax Implications for PVIP Visa Holders in Malaysia?
- PVIP vs MM2H: Which Malaysia Long-Stay Visa is Right for You?
- How Do You Apply for the Malaysia PVIP Visa?
- Can You Withdraw Your PVIP Fixed Deposit Early?
Key Summary
- Malaysia's PVIP is a 20-year long-stay visa for high-net-worth individuals, renewable for another 20 years
- You can work, run a business, study, and travel freely, with no obligation to live in Malaysia full-time
- To qualify: RM1,000,000 fixed deposit + proof of offshore income of at least RM40,000/month
- Tax perks: offshore income is tax-exempt until 2030; no wealth, inheritance, or capital gains tax in Malaysia
- Malaysian-sourced income is taxable, and your home country tax obligations are still applicable
- Applications must go through an authorised agent, you cannot apply directly
- Process takes roughly 3–4 months from submission to approval
- Fixed deposit is locked for the first year; 50% can be withdrawn after that (for property, medical, or education expenses only)
- Dependents can be included for an additional RM100,000 per person
What is the Malaysia PVIP visa?
Malaysia's premium visa programme (PVIP) is a long-stay visa programme that enables applicants and their families to reside in Malaysia for 20 years, the visa is issued in 5-year tranches. PVIP applicants can be of any age and are allowed to work and/or run a business in Malaysia. They are not obligated to reside in Malaysia.
Who should apply for the Malaysia PVIP visa?
The Malaysia PVIP visa is designed for high-net-worth individuals who want a long-term base in Southeast Asia without giving up their global lifestyle. It's ideally suited for wealthy retirees, entrepreneurs, remote business owners, and investors looking for a tax-friendly residency with maximum flexibility. Unlike traditional work or retirement visas, the PVIP allows you to work, invest, and study in Malaysia under a single 20-year visa.
For expats looking to diversify their residency options, reduce tax exposure on offshore income, or simply secure a foothold in one of Asia's most liveable countries, the PVIP is one of the most compelling long-stay visa programmes in the region.
Do you qualify? PVIP Eligibility Requirements Explained
- Investment - principal applicants are required to place a fixed deposit of RM1,000,000 with no withdrawals allowed on the principal value for the first year. 50% of the withdrawal will be allowed after.
- Proof of Foreign Income - Principal applicants are required to provide proof of offshore income of at least RM40,000 a month or RM480,000 a year.
- Letter of Good Conduct - principal applicants are required to provide a letter of good conduct from the authorities of the country they are residing in
- Medical - All applicants and their dependents are required to submit a medical report from any private hospital or registered clinic in Malaysia, and proof of valid local medical coverage
source: MYPVIP
What are the Tax Implications for PVIP visa holders in Malaysia?
One of the biggest draws of the Malaysia PVIP visa is its tax-friendly structure, but it's important to understand exactly what is and isn't covered before you make the move.
Offshore Income is Tax-Exempt (Until 2030)
If your income is earned outside of Malaysia, whether from foreign investments, overseas businesses, or foreign employment, it is currently exempt from Malaysian income tax. This exemption has been extended until 2030, making Malaysia a highly attractive base for internationally mobile professionals and investors who earn the bulk of their income abroad.
Malaysian-Sourced Income is Taxable
If you work for a Malaysian employer, run a local business, or earn any income derived within Malaysia, that income is subject to Malaysian tax under the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN). Tax rates are progressive, ranging from 0% to 30% depending on your income level, so PVIP holders who choose to work or invest locally should factor this into their financial planning.
You May Still Owe Tax Back Home
Malaysia's tax exemption on offshore income only covers your obligations in Malaysia; it does not cancel out your tax responsibilities in your home country. Depending on your nationality and tax residency status, you may still be required to declare and pay tax on your global income elsewhere. It is strongly advisable to consult a tax professional familiar with both Malaysian and your home country's tax laws before applying.
No Wealth, Inheritance, or Capital Gains Tax
Malaysia does not impose wealth, inheritance, or capital gains tax (except for the Real Property Gains Tax on property disposals). For high-net-worth individuals, this makes Malaysia particularly attractive compared to many Western countries where these taxes can significantly erode long-term wealth.
Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Please seek advice from qualified professionals for your specific circumstances. We can also connect you with trusted partners if needed.
PVIP vs Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H): Which Malaysia Long-Stay Visa is Right for You?
To learn more about MM2H click here.
How Do You Apply for the Malaysia PVIP Visa?
Unlike many visa programmes, which allow you to apply directly, the Malaysia PVIP requires all applications to be submitted through an authorised agent. You cannot apply on your own. Here's how the process works from start to finish.
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility:
Before anything else, make sure you meet the core requirements. A minimum monthly offshore income of RM 40,000, a clean criminal record, and the financial capacity to place a RM 1,000,000 fixed deposit plus pay the participation fees. If you're bringing dependents, factor in the additional RM 100,000 fee per person.
Step 2: Engage an Authorised PVIP Agent:
Find and appoint a licensed PVIP agent approved by the Immigration Department of Malaysia. Your agent will guide you through the entire process, prepare your application, and liaise with the authorities on your behalf. Choosing an experienced, reputable agent is critical; mistakes at this stage can cause significant delays.
Step 3: Prepare Your Documents:
Work with your agent to compile the required documentation. This typically includes a valid passport, proof of offshore income, bank statements, police clearance certificates for the principal applicant, spouse, and any children over 18, and completed application forms.
Step 4: Submit Your Application:
Your authorised agent submits the application to Malaysia's Immigration Department on your behalf. Once submitted, the due diligence and background check process begins.
Step 5: Await Approval:
Processing typically takes 3 to 4 months, though timelines can vary. During this period, avoid making any major financial moves tied to the application until formal approval is granted.
Step 6: Open a Malaysian Bank Account and Place Your Fixed Deposit:
Once approved, you will need to travel to Malaysia to open a bank account with a licensed Malaysian bank and place the RM 1,000,000 fixed deposit. This must be completed within the timeframe given by the Immigration Department.
Step 7: Complete Your Medical Exam and Purchase Health Insurance:
A medical check-up is required for final approval. You will also need to obtain a valid health insurance policy that meets the programme's requirements.
Step 8: Receive Your PVIP Visa:
Once all conditions are met and verified, your PVIP visa will be issued, giving you 20 years of multiple-entry residency in Malaysia, with the option to renew for another 20 years.
Can you withdraw your PVIP fixed deposit early?
50% withdrawal is allowed after one year. Letter of approval to be granted by the Immigration department for property purchase, medical and educational expenses only.
Looking for a licensed PVIP agent? Email us at 📩 info@expatsclubkl.com
Welcome to Your Malaysian Adventure!
Thinking of relocating to Malaysia? Whether it's for retirement, a new career, family reasons, or just to explore, our website is here to guide you through every step, completely free of charge! Dive in and ask any questions you might have; we're here to help make your transition as smooth and exciting as possible. Everyone is welcomed, so let's start this journey together!
