Can you move to Malaysia?

Naturalization requires 10 years' residence in Malaysia within a 12-year period, including the 12 months immediately preceding the application, being 21+ years old, of good character, with adequate Malay language proficiency, and intent to reside permanently. Malaysia does not accept dual citizenship, so applicants must renounce their prior nationality. Two citizen referees (21+, unrelated, not hired persons or the applicant's advocates/solicitors) must sponsor the application, alongside medical insurance, medical tests, and a police clearance certificate. Starting June 2026, automatic citizenship applies to overseas-born children of Malaysian mothers and foreign spouses — this reform is not retroactive and applies only from its effective date.

Malaysia offers the Digital Rantau Nomad Pass for eligible foreign remote professionals, who must provide evidence of qualifying income and health insurance, and must satisfy other financial and professional requirements.

Malaysia provides limited pathways to permanent residence for eligible foreign nationals under specific categories established by Malaysian immigration law. Permanent residence is granted only where applicants satisfy the applicable statutory requirements and receive approval from the competent authorities.

Processing times for Malaysian visas and residence programs vary depending on the immigration category, supporting documentation, and the authority responsible for assessing the application. Residence programs may involve additional verification before approval, and applicants should ensure all required documentation is complete before applying.

The documentation required for Malaysian visas and residence permits depends on the immigration category, purpose of stay and the applicant's personal circumstances. Immigration authorities may request additional documents to verify eligibility. Foreign-issued documents may require certified translation, legalization or an apostille where applicable before they are accepted by Malaysian authorities.

Malaysia offers long-term residence programmes for eligible financially independent foreign nationals, including the Malaysia Retirement Visa (MM2H) for retirees who satisfy the applicable financial and immigration requirements. Eligibility criteria vary depending on the programme and may change over time.

Malaysia offers multiple visa and residence pathways for foreign nationals, including employment passes, professional visit passes, long-term social visit passes, and residence programmes for financially independent individuals. Requirements depend on nationality and purpose of stay. Residence approvals are administered by Malaysian authorities.

Malaysia offers employment-based immigration pathways for foreign nationals who have secured employment with Malaysian employers. Most applicants require an approved Employment Pass or another appropriate work authorisation before commencing employment in Malaysia. Employers generally sponsor employment applications and are responsible for ensuring compliance with Malaysian immigration and labour regulations. Residence rights are linked to the approved employment and may be renewed where eligibility requirements continue to be met.