MM2H Programme:Your Path to Living in Malaysia

Malaysia’s My Second Home (MM2H) Programme

Your Path to Living in Malaysia

Monaliza Mohd Ali & Noor Zulaiha Mohd Zolekepilie, Global Mobility Services Team
22/08/2025
MM2H Programme:Your Path to Living in Malaysia

Dreaming of a tropical lifestyle with modern comforts, rich culture and strategic location?

Malaysia’s My Second Home (MM2H) Programme offers just that — a unique opportunity for global citizens to enjoy long-term residency in one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant nations.
Whether you're seeking a peaceful retirement, a base for regional travel, or a new chapter in life, MM2H opens the door to a welcoming and diverse community.

In an exciting development, the Malaysian government has introduced a special MM2H visa tailored for Special Economic Zones (SEZ) — with Forest City in Johor currently leading the way.

This initiative not only enhances the appeal of MM2H but also aligns with Malaysia’s vision of attracting international talent and investment into strategic growth areas.

Download the PDF Booklet

Requirements for MM2H Programme


Discover the programme requirements that may align with your qualifications:

Categories Platinum Gold Silver Special Economic Zone / Special Financial Zone
Minimum age for applicant (principal) 25 years 25 years 25 years 21 years
Minimum fixed deposit in a Malaysian financial institution USD1 million USD500,000 USD150,000

USD65,000 for applicant aged 21 to 49,

USD32,000 for applicant aged 50 and above

Fixed deposit withdrawal allowed after one (1) year

Maximum 50% withdrawal for the following purposes:

  • purchasing a residence 
  • education 
  • medical expenses
  • tourism activities within Malaysia
Other financial requirement  No offshore liquid income required
Participating fee for principal – one-off
(no participating fees for dependents)
RM200,000 RM3,000 RM1,000 RM1,000
Dependents

Principal is allowed to bring dependents as follows:

  • spouse (wife / husband)
  • biological children / stepchildren / adopted children below the age of 21, while those between the age of 21 to 34, must be unemployed and single while in Malaysia
  • medically certified children with disabilities (no age limit)
  • parents and / or parents in law.
  • foreign maid

Principal is allowed to bring dependents as follows:

  • spouse (wife / husband)
  • biological children / stepchildren / adopted children below the age of 21, while those between the age of 21 to 34, must be unemployed and single while in Malaysia
  • medically certified children with disabilities (no age limit)
  • parents and / or parents in law 
Education USD1 million Dependents (children) are allowed to pursue their education up to tertiary level (allowed to use the existing MM2H or be given a Student Pass)
MM2H term
(with multiple entry-visa)
20 years 15 years 5 years (renewable) 10 years (renewable)
Renewal terms Renewed for every 5 years after the maximum years of the programme have been completed
Medical check-up (after receiving the MM2H approval)  Compulsory for the principal and the dependents to undergo medical checkup in panel clinic / hospital appointed by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture
Compulsory purchase of residence in Malaysia

Minimum property price:

RM2 million

Minimum property price:

RM1 million

Minimum property price:

RM600,000

Minimum property price:

Subject to the relevant state property purchase policy

Selling of the residence is not allowed for 10 years (for Silver category, where the MM2H term is 5 years, the residence can be sold after the end of the MM2H term if the MM2H is not renewed)

However, the house can be upgraded (buying of a new residence) to a residence of higher value from the current property

Minimum duration of stay in Malaysia 
  • Be present / staying in Malaysia for 90 days (cumulative) in one (1) year
  • For principals below 50 years old, the length of stay in Malaysia can be fulfilled by the principal or his / her dependents
  • For principals aged 50 years and above, there is no requirement for a minimum duration of stay in Malaysia
Business / investment activities  Allowed Not Allowed
Career opportunities / Employment Allowed Not Allowed
Categories specialty Tax exemption on foreign funds or income, such as fixed deposit

MM2H Visa for SEZ


The Malaysian government has introduced a special MM2H visa tailored for Special Economic Zones (SEZs) — a strategic move to attract global talent and investment. Currently, the only designated SEZ is the Forest City Development in Johor, located adjacent to the Second Link Bridge connecting Johor and Singapore.

Forest City has been declared a Special Financial Zone, offering attractive tax incentives for both residents and businesses. This zone is part of a broader SEZ initiative that spans an area larger than Singapore and is designed to draw high-end industries and international investors. In a landmark collaboration, Malaysia and Singapore are working together to enhance connectivity, aiming to streamline the movement of goods and people — a critical factor in the SEZ’s long-term success.

Malaysia Lifestyle Benefits for MM2H Applicants


But beyond the economic appeal, Malaysia offers a lifestyle that’s hard to resist.

From the pristine beaches of Langkawi — Southeast Asia’s first UNESCO Geopark — to the crystal-clear waters of Tioman and Redang Islands, Malaysia is a paradise for beach lovers. Nature enthusiasts will find solace in its lush rainforests and rich biodiversity, perfect for eco-adventures and wildlife exploration.

Urban dwellers will be captivated by Kuala Lumpur’s iconic skyline, featuring architectural marvels like the Petronas Twin Towers and Merdeka 118. Meanwhile, history buffs can wander through the colonial streets of Melaka and George Town, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, where centuries-old buildings tell stories of Malaysia’s multicultural past.

Malaysia’s culinary scene is second to none. Thanks to its rich cultural tapestry, you’ll find a mouthwatering mix of Indian, Chinese, Peranakan and traditional Malay cuisine — from bustling street food stalls to world-class fine dining. International flavors, including Japanese, Korean and Middle Eastern, are also widely available.

Conclusion


Above all, what truly sets Malaysia apart is its warm hospitality. Malaysians are known for their friendliness and openness, making it easy for newcomers to feel at home.

If you’ve ever dreamed of living in a country that blends natural beauty, modern convenience, cultural richness and economic opportunity — Malaysia might just be your perfect second home.

Contact us today to learn how we can assist you with your MM2H application and help you take the first step towards a new life in Malaysia.

Note:
1. Requirements for the Sabah and Sarawak MM2H programs may differ from the above. You may need to specify the location of stay and take note on the relevant authorities for the submission of MM2H applications. Two (2) states in Malaysia i.e. Sabah and Sarawak have autonomous control over immigration and operate their own MM2H programmes, which differ in terms and regulations from those mentioned above. The chosen location of residence in Malaysia will determine the relevant authority and applicable terms and regulations.
2. The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) reserves the right to amend any terms and conditions on operational matters that do not go against the MM2H policy approved by the Government of Malaysia.

Reach out to us today

Contact us today to learn how we can assist you with your MM2H application and help you take the first step towards a new life in Malaysia.

Our expert

We help you to make smart decisions that have lasting value. Working with you, we will help you to successfully adapt and overcome challenges you may face, both today and in the future.
Monaliza Binti Mohd Ali
Monaliza Mohd Ali
Partner, Global MobilityKuala Lumpur