Live & Invest in Malaysia
Your Money Works Harder Here. So Does Your Life
Malaysia has no capital gains tax, no inheritance tax, affordable world-class healthcare, and a cost of living that lets you live exceptionally well on income that would feel modest elsewhere. For investors and retirees who have earned the right to choose where they live, Malaysia makes a compelling argument.
What you get
Capital gains tax
None on most investments
Income tax on foreign income
Not taxable in Malaysia
Property ownership
Allowed
Healthcare quality
Top 10 globally
Cost of luxury living
60% lower than UK or Singapore
Climate
Tropical year-round — no winter
Minimum stay requirement
None
Visa renewal
Every 5 years, indefinitely
0%capital gains tax on most investments in Malaysia
60%lower cost of living vs Singapore, UK, or Australia
Top 10Malaysia's global ranking for healthcare quality
5 yearsMM2H visa duration, fully renewable
Why investors and retirees choose Malaysia
A higher quality of life for less. That is the honest pitch
Malaysia is not trying to be Singapore or Dubai. It is something different — a place where your money stretches, your lifestyle improves, and you never feel like a tourist who outstayed their welcome. Here is what keeps people here once they arrive.
Healthcare that rivals Europe — at a fraction of the cost
Malaysia's private hospitals are equipped with the latest technology and staffed with internationally trained specialists. A procedure that costs USD 50,000 in the US costs USD 5,000–12,000 in Malaysia — with no compromise in quality. Pantai, Gleneagles, and KPJ hospitals are internationally accredited and serve a large medical tourism population.
Property ownership open to foreigners
Unlike many Asian countries, Malaysia allows foreigners to purchase property — both residential and commercial — subject to state-level minimum thresholds. MM2H visa holders benefit from additional property rights and in some states are exempt from the Foreign Ownership Levy.
No capital gains tax
Malaysia does not impose capital gains tax on most asset classes including equities and most property transactions. Investment income and capital appreciation can compound without the tax drag that erodes returns in the UK, Australia, or the US.
Climate, culture and cuisine
Malaysia is 3 degrees from the equator meaning warm weather, no winter, and tropical greenery year-round. The country is a genuine multicultural society with Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences coexisting across food, festivals, architecture, and daily life. It is endlessly interesting to live in.
Superb connectivity
KLIA is one of Asia's major hub airports — with direct flights to London, Dubai, Tokyo, Sydney, Beijing, and every Southeast Asian city. Living in Malaysia does not mean being remote from the world.
An established international community
Malaysia has one of the largest expat communities in Asia — with active social networks, international clubs, sports associations, and community organisations across Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor. You will find your people quickly.
Lifestyle in numbers
What RM 10,000 a month looks like in Malaysia
Expense
Cost
Luxury condo (KLCC / Bangsar area)
RM 4,000 – 6,000
Full-time domestic helper
RM 1,200 – 1,800
Groceries & dining (upscale)
RM 1,500 – 2,500
Private health insurance
RM 500 – 1,200
Car (fuel + maintenance)
RM 800 – 1,500
Entertainment & travel
RM 1,000 – 2,000
Estimated monthly total
RM 9,000 – 15,000
What you can and cannot do
MM2H visa permissions
You can
Live in Malaysia for 5 years, fully renewable
Purchase property in Malaysia (above tier minimum)
Enrol children in international schools
Bring spouse and children as dependants
Travel in and out of Malaysia freely
Access private healthcare in Malaysia
Withdraw up to 50% of fixed deposit after 1 year (for approved purposes)
You cannot
Work for a Malaysian employer' 'Use Malaysian-sourced income to qualify
Apply without a MOTAC-licensed agent
Use the MM2H as a pathway to permanent residency
Place the fixed deposit before conditional approval is received
How it works
From decision to residency — your MM2H journey
Check your eligibility
The main requirements are offshore monthly income (RM 40,000 minimum) and liquid assets or fixed deposit capability (RM 1.5M minimum for Silver tier). Licensed agents assess your profile and recommend the most suitable tier.
Engage a licensed MM2H agent
All MM2H applications must go through a MOTAC-licensed agent — direct applications are not accepted. You are matched with a verified, English-speaking agent suited to your nationality and financial profile.
Prepare your documents and medical
Your agent provides a detailed document checklist and coordinates your medical examination at an approved Malaysian clinic. For most applicants this takes 3–6 weeks.
MOTAC reviews your application
The Ministry of Tourism reviews your full application. This is the longest stage — typically 3–6 months. Your agent handles all correspondence and any requests for additional documents.
Place your fixed deposit and receive approval
On conditional approval you open a Malaysian bank account and place your required fixed deposit. Final approval follows, and your 5-year MM2H visa is issued.
Frequently asked questions
Living and investing in Malaysia — common questions
Do I have to live in Malaysia full-time on the MM2H visa?
No. There is no minimum stay requirement on the MM2H. You can live in Malaysia part of the year and spend the rest of your time elsewhere. The visa functions as a long-stay multiple-entry pass rather than a residency obligation.
Can I buy property in Malaysia as an MM2H holder?
Yes. MM2H holders can purchase residential property in Malaysia above the tier minimum threshold (RM 600,000 for Silver, RM 1,000,000 for Gold). In many states, MM2H holders may receive additional benefits such as exemption from the Foreign Ownership Levy and priority foreign purchase consideration.
Is my investment income taxed in Malaysia?
Malaysia follows a territorial tax system, meaning income earned outside Malaysia is generally not taxed locally. Offshore investment income, dividends, and capital gains from foreign assets are typically not taxable in Malaysia. It is recommended to consult a tax advisor for your specific situation.
What is the difference between MM2H and permanent residency?
MM2H is a long-term social visit visa, not permanent residency. It can be renewed every 5 years but does not automatically lead to PR status. Permanent Residency in Malaysia is a separate and more restrictive process with no guaranteed pathway from MM2H.
Can I work in Malaysia on MM2H?
No. The MM2H visa does not allow employment with a Malaysian company or earning income from Malaysian sources. You can manage overseas businesses, receive offshore income, and invest in Malaysia, but you cannot take up local employment.
Check your eligibility
Could Malaysia be your second home? Find out with a free MM2H eligibility check.
The MM2H programme has three tiers — Silver, Gold, and Platinum — with different financial thresholds. Our licensed MM2H agents will assess your eligibility and guide you through the right tier and application process.