Source: Malaysian Ministry of Tourism — MM2H Programme (mm2h.gov.my) · General information only. Not immigration advice. Verify requirements before applying.
The MM2H programme was significantly overhauled in 2021 and again under the 2024 rules. Always verify current requirements at mm2h.gov.my before engaging an agent or making financial commitments.
The fixed deposit must be placed in a Malaysian bank (most applicants use Maybank or CIMB). After the first year, a portion can be withdrawn for specific approved purposes: medical expenses, children's education in Malaysia, and purchase of one residential property in Malaysia. The remainder must be maintained for the duration of the programme.
Previous MM2H versions required monthly passive income (MYR 10,000–40,000 depending on applicant age). The 2024 rules replaced this with asset-based thresholds only. This significantly widens accessibility for those with capital assets but lower regular income — such as those living off capital gains or property equity rather than pension/dividend income.
All MM2H applications must go through a Ministry-approved MM2H agent (list at mm2h.gov.my). The agent handles document preparation and submission. The Ministry of Tourism processes applications. Processing time typically 3–6 months. Fees: government processing fee plus agent commission — get multiple agent quotes. Conditional approval issued first; final approval granted after the fixed deposit is placed.
Malaysia's Digital Nomad Visa (DE Rantau) requires USD 24,000/year income from overseas sources. 1-year, renewable. Lower barrier than MM2H. Applied for through MDEC (Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation). Good for remote workers who do not yet meet MM2H financial thresholds.
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