MM2H Malaysia – What Are The Updated Requirements? – that will be the topic of today’s article.
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Introduction
As of Wednesday, September 1, 2021, the Malaysian government is prepared to re-examine the new criteria imposed on Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme. According to the minister Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin, the government will ensure the requirements favors new expat in 2021.
With the advent of the global pandemic, the new expat coming to the country has difficulty. I know some of you might even find it hard to know the meaning of MM2H Malaysia. Well, it is known as a visa initiative introduced by Malaysia as a positive place to live for potential residents from abroad.
Unlike other countries where you’ll have to visit the country and secure your resident permit, Malaysia is quite different in its ways. Also, the MM2H scheme provides a renewable multiple-entry visa for successful applicants from around the world. Not only that, but it is a scheme originally forwarded by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture.
However, now channeled through the Ministry of Home Affairs, the MM2H represents a flagship initiative designed to promote positive immigration to benefits both Malaysia and future expatriates in the country. Does that sound interesting? Of course, who wouldn’t be! So, how can you get started?
Well, this is why you need to read this article to the end. We have compiled it to explain the updated requirements about the MM2H Malaysia. Aside from this fact, we will walk you through the benefits of living in Malaysia, the cost of living, interesting facts about moving to this country, and more. Would you love to know what we’ve unleashed? Read further for more information!
Eligible Member for MM2H Malaysia (2021)
The MM2H, as said earlier, is designed to provide long-term visas for residents of those countries that are officially recognized by Malaysia, regardless of their gender, race, religion, or age. On the flip side, there are many things to consider before choosing the programme. Well, let’s quickly take a look at the criteria.
- Participants of the MM2H will be divided into two age categories: between 35 and 49 years; 50 years and above. This means you must meet this age requirements before applying for the programme.
- Participants in this category need to be in the country for at least a cumulative 90 days in a year to be eligible.
- You must have an offshore income of at least RM40,000 per month to be eligible for this programme
- It’s crucial to maintain a fixed deposit account of RM1 million, where a maximum withdrawal of 50 percent from a principal amount is allowed for purposes such as education, property purchase, and healthcare
- In addition, you must have an extra fund of RM50,000 per dependent required in your fixed deposit account
- Expat applying for the MM2H Malaysia must present proof of liquid assets worth a minimum of RM1.5 million
- Expats must be subject to a passing fee of RM500 a year and also subject to a processing fee of RM5,000 for the main applicant, with an additional RM2,500 per dependent
Along with the eligibility criteria mentioned above, expatriates for MM2H visas will be required to submit a range of supporting documents. While applications can be completed online or with the help of a registered agent, the following documents need to be taken into consideration.
- You need to submit a covering letter of application and a copy of your resume, including information of academic qualifications, work experience, skills, or experience required
- Expatriates must provide three copies of the IM.12 Form, one original copy, and two photocopied copies, and this must be done individually.
- Letter of good conduct, four passport photos, and a copy of travel document, including any page with an entrance or exit stamp, must be considered
- A completed self-declaration form stating any medical history or conditions must also be taken into consideration
- Additionally, you must provide a certified copy of your marriage certificate, a copy of your birth certificate, and a copy of your bank statement to ensure your proof of income
Updated Requirements about MM2H Malaysia as Of 2021
What led to the updated requirements about the MM2H was due to the coronavirus situation affecting the country and its residents. On August 11, the government said the MM2H would be reactivated with nine new conditions after the programme was suspended in August 2020 in view of the global Covid-19.
As we mentioned earlier in the requirements description above, expats must have a fixed deposit account of at least RM 1mil, with a 50 percent maximum withdrawal allowed for the purpose of buying property or spending on health and children’s education
Prior to the new development, there was no minimum stay requirement for participants who only needed to place RM300 000 in the fixed deposits, and for those expats above 50, the amount was RM150 000. Now, MM2H is scheduled to resume in October 2021, with applications to be reviewed.
On the flip side, these new requirements and conditions led to criticism that the cabinets were too restrictive and thus counterproductive to any economic recovery plan. Moreover, Sultan Ibrahim has urged the government to revise the new conditions before it begins operations in October.
Furthermore, the MM2H has to be considered to have a positive impact on several sectors of the Malaysian economy, including tourism and education, property developers, retailers, banks, and many others, to mention a few. As such, we hope the ministry will engage other stakeholders to favor the new expats.
Benefits of Applying for MM2H Malaysia Programme
Unlike similar programmes offered in other countries, the Malaysian government has attached a host of unique benefits and privileges to this visa. If you’re just hearing this program for the first time, or you’d love to know its benefits, we’ve got you covered. Without further ado, below are the benefits of MM2H.
10 Years Visa Package
This is one of the first things that come to people’s minds before applying for this visa. And this is because; successful applicants will receive a ten years visa which is much longer than those given by other countries in the world. In fact, at the end of the ten years, it is relatively easy to renew.
However, the initial visa is issued for the period the main applicant’s passport is valid. Not only that, but it usually expires a little before the passport expiration. So, once a new passport is obtained, it is easy to apply for a new visa for the balance of the ten year entitlement. On the other hand, it should be noted that this visa doesn’t lead to Permanent residency (PR) or citizenship.
Tax-Free Income (Expatriates)
Malaysia doesn’t tax overseas income, so any money transferred into the expat bank account will be tax-free. More so, there are regulations about reporting large transfers of money to ensure that you properly report it without being charged. Meanwhile, banks will help with this, but people arriving with large cash sums have found themselves in trouble and explaining things to the officers.
Buying of House
House purchase in Malaysia is quite restricted to some folks. However, participants with the MM2H Malaysia can buy a house in the country without restriction. Furthermore, foreigners can buy a house worth over RM1, 000,000 but as property is controlled at a state level, the price will depend on the place you live. While some states set lower standards, others have an MM2H visa to buy a house.
Surprisingly, you can apply for a bank loan in the country for the purpose of purchasing a property. And the bank will usually want to repay the loan before reaching the age of 65 or 70. On the other hand, property purchasers have to receive state approval, and this process can take up to six months to secure.
Government Supports
While there are many reasons to make Malaysia one of the best destinations to retire, the government fully supports the MM2H visa programme. And this is because; the MM2H is organized, initiated, and launched by the Malaysian government, and it’s thus one that the government will continuously seek to improve the package to ensure its success.
Education and Investment
The MM2H programme allows the participants to bring their children below 21 years old and not married as their dependents while relocating to Malaysia. On the other side, expatriates can own and actively run his/her own business, but terms and conditions apply. Moreover, any MM2H visa holder can therefore own their business as Directors without the requirement of any local Malaysians.
10 Interesting Facts about Living in Malaysia
Malaysia is a small country with a fast-growing economy, and there’s no reason for doubt. Located on a trade route in the South China Sea, the Southeast Asian country has an open, diversified, upper-middle-income economy that makes the locals boast the country. Let’s quickly take a look at these fun facts.
1. Food Capital of the World
As foodies, this should be one of your favorite reasons to live in Malaysia. Everywhere across this country, you’ll find hawker stalls selling a range of delicious freshly made foods like laksa, Indian-inspired roti canai, and many others, to mention a few. In fact, we can tell you that the entire country is a haven for foodies.
2. Jimmy Choo Was Born in Malaysia
Shoe designer Jimmy Choo, a famous celebrity, was born in this country. Jimmy Choo is highly regarded that he was made a Dato in the country. As well as in fashion, Malaysia punches above its weight when it comes to celebrities both in Hollywood movies and even in space. And Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor, who was the first Malaysian astronaut to go into space in 2007, made the country known.
3. Multicultural Countries in Southeast Asia
Undoubtedly, Malaysia is one of the countries in Southeast Asia, and it reminded us a lot about London and New York. This is due to the fact that; people of all races and ethnicities are getting along as one. This is perhaps why, despite the anti-gay laws in place, and expats feel more welcome and safe here.
Furthermore, Malaysia comprises mainly of four races: Malays, Chinese, Indians, and Africans. More so, the three main religions are Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism. Other religions practiced in this country include Christianity, and Sikhism but Muslims are the majority comprising around 67 percent of the population. This is why we felt a strong sense of multiculturalism in the country from inception.
4. Home to
This is another fun fact of living in Malaysia in today’s modern world. The famous and iconic Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur hold the Guinness World Record for the world’s tallest twin building. In addition, from 2004 onwards, a skyscraper boom took place worldwide, and taller buildings were built in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, USA, and China, knocking the Petronas Towers to 19th place for overall height.
5. Home to Elected Kings
Malaysia is a constitutional monarchy but has a very unique one which is why we choose to include the country as one of the most interesting facts about Malaysia. Also, there are 13 states within the country, of which 9 are ruled by Malay royal families, the head of each is usually called a sultan. Perhaps, the King of Malaysia is elected from these rulers by the group, and it serves a five-year term unless he abdicates early, which happened in 2019.
6. Home to Stinkiest Fruit in the World
We can tell you that Durain is the marmite of Asia, loved or hated by all and nicknamed The King of the Fruits. Aside from this fact, it’s also the most, er, potent of our interesting facts about the country. In Malaysia, durain fruit is one of the most popular fruits, and it’s serious business here, with many different types like D24, Musang king, and more. More so, you can use durain to make ice cream.
7. Major Exporter of tropical Fruits
If you’ve ever crave for tropical fruits, Malaysia is the best place to go. Also, it’s a country that’s rich in delicious fruit throughout the year, much of which is exported to other countries. Again, Malaysia is blessed with a vibrant tropical climate both on mainland Malaysia and on Borneo Island, which means lots of heat and plenty of rainfall all year round, making it ideal for growing tropical fruits.
8. Orangutans Are Native to Locals
Even as of today’s twenty-first century, Orangutans are native to the island of Borneo. These beautiful creatures had to make it to our list of fun facts about Malaysia. More so, we saw them up close at the Semenggoh Wildlife Center near Kuching and also in the wild at the Kinabatangan River. And this is among the reasons why living in Malaysia is quite good for foreigners.
9. Home to World’s Oldest Tropical Rainforest
As history made it known, Taman Negara is established to be more than 130 million years old, making it the world’s oldest tropical rainforest. In addition, the name Taman Negara simply means national park in the country. Moreover, to visit this park, you need special permission from the government, but you’ll understand that it’s worth considering if you have the time to visit.
10. Canning Is Official Punishment
It’s quite surprising in Malaysia that canning is their official punishment. Again, canning may be a court sentence for men, while women and boys under ten and people sentenced to death cannot be caned. Moreover, the maximum number of strokes can be given 24, but beating can also be ordered by Sharia Court, only for Muslims, both men, and women.
Some Places for Expats to Live in Malaysia
Not everyone likes to live in big cities to avoid being caught or disturbed by uniform officers. In general, if you want to be looking at places to reside in Malaysia, we have some notable places on our list. With that being said, let’s quickly walk you through the best places suitable for expats as of 2021.
Penang
Penang is a more rural location in Malaysia. If you like more of a traditional Southeast Asian vibe and you’d love to be close to water, and then we’ll advise you to look at Penang. Also, this rural area is basically the one majority Chinese part of Malaysia. Not only that, but it has numerous different ethnic groups.
Langkawi
If you’re an expat and you’d love to reside in a popular resort destination, this is the right place. It’s a duty-free island located in the Andaman Sea up very close to the Thai border. Aside from this fact, if you like buying cheap booze or cosmetics, you can buy everything duty-free and then bring it back to any chosen place of yours.
Malacca
Malacca is more of a wildcard because it’s a great weekend destination for expat. To know more about this wonderful environment, be aware that it’s a place where many expats might want to consider as a home base. More so, it’s a good place if you want a bit of a slower pace of life. And you’re not going to be far away from the KL airport.
Johor
Johor is known as the third-largest state in Peninsular Malaysia, with a population of 3.3 million. It is just across the causeway from Singapore, which is easily accessible via one of two bridges across the water. This city has seen a lot of development in recent years, and it has a mix of modern culture, urban settings, island life, and great biodiversity.
Ipoh
Ipoh is also another place for expats to reside in today’s 21st century. Ipoh is situated between Kuala Lumpur and Penang. Not only that, but it’s the third-largest city in Malaysia. Although there’s less entertainment here, it’s famous for its excellent local restaurants and its water quality coming from the limestone hills.
Kuala Lumpur
Interestingly, and surprisingly, Kuala Lumpur is home to the biggest expat community in Malaysia. According to a study conducted by the international suggests that Kuala Lumpur is the fourth most expat-friendly city in the world. Aside from this fact, it’s also ranked as the second most livable place in Southeast Asia.
Frequently Asked Questions about MM2H Malaysia
Can an MM2H Holder work in Malaysia?
MM2H Participant that is aged 50 years old and above can work for up to 20 hours a week without disturbance. Not only that, but this applies to visa holders who have specialized skills, and they prefer to work in a specific sector in the country. On the flip side, they can switch their visa to a work permit if they want to do this.
Can foreign workers enter Malaysia?
As of today, foreign workers can only be allowed to enter the country at the authorized entry points using the VDR issued by the Immigration Department and entry visa issued by the Malaysian Attaches Office in the country of origin. You can refer to this platform for more information relating to workers in Malaysia.
How can I benefit from the MM2H visa?
Just like we’ve mentioned above, the benefits of having or holding an MM2H package cannot be overemphasized. While you can check the previous point above the benefits of MM2H, be aware that some holders of this package have their income taxed at the source in the country where it is paid.
How often can I renew my MM2H?
The MM2H programme is valid for ten years. And you can as well renew the package after the years. On the other hand, you might not be able to switch your MM2H to a permanent visa in Malaysia. So, keep in mind that the MM2H is quite different from a permanent or residence visa.
How can expats live in Malaysia permanently?
As said earlier that the MM2H is quite different from the Malaysia permanent visa, it’s no doubt. However, the country offers a point-based system for permanent residency whereby participants must score at least a 65 out of a possible 120, and they must have a sponsor.
Conclusion
Thousands of settled expats who planned to live out their days in Malaysia will definitely need the MM2H. As disclosed by the Malaysian government recently, the updated version, as opposed to the cabinet, would be released soon. Until then, the information in this article is the latest update.
