Malaysia offers some of the most attractive visa and residency options in Southeast Asia, particularly for property investors. The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program is the centrepiece of these offerings, designed to provide long-term residency for individuals who meet specific financial and real estate investment criteria.

If you’re considering applying, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from understanding the program tiers to meeting the requirements, purchasing property, and finally, securing your visa.

What Is the MM2H Program?

The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program is a long-term residency visa designed for foreign nationals who wish to live, invest, or retire in Malaysia. It offers flexibility, a high quality of life, and an excellent opportunity for investors to diversify into one of Asia’s fastest-growing real estate markets.

The program has several tiers to accommodate different types of investors, but all require a combination of financial stability, property investment, and a commitment to Malaysia as your second home.

Step 1: Understand the MM2H Tiers

Before applying, it’s essential to choose the right tier that aligns with your goals and financial capacity. Here’s a breakdown of the main tiers:

1. Premium Tier (Platinum):
   • Best for: High-net-worth individuals looking for maximum flexibility.
   • Requirements: A fixed deposit of USD 1 million (MYR 4.5 million) and a property purchase of at least MYR 2 million.
   • Visa Duration: 20 years, renewable.
   • Additional Benefits: Permission to work or start a business in Malaysia.
2. Standard Tier (Gold):
   • Best for: Mid-tier investors and families.
   • Requirements: A fixed deposit of USD 500,000 (MYR 2.25 million) and property investment starting at MYR 1 million.
   • Visa Duration: 15 years, renewable.
   • Additional Benefits: Includes dependents and some flexibility for withdrawals.
3. Basic Tier (Silver):
   • Best for: Retirees or individuals seeking a lower financial commitment.
   • Requirements: A fixed deposit of USD 150,000 (MYR 675,000) and property investment of at least MYR 600,000.
   • Visa Duration: 10 years, renewable.
   • Restrictions: No work permissions.
4. Special Economic Zones (SEZ):
   • Best for: Investors focused on key development zones.
   • Requirements: Fixed deposit as low as USD 65,000 and property purchases from approved developers in SEZ areas.
   • Visa Duration: 5 years, renewable.

Step 2: Meet the Financial Requirements

Fixed Deposit

A fixed deposit in a Malaysian bank is a core requirement for all tiers. This deposit acts as proof of financial stability and ensures your ability to support yourself during your stay.

• Open a Malaysian bank account after arriving on a tourist visa.
• Deposit the required funds based on your tier.
• You can withdraw up to 50% after one year, but only for approved expenses (e.g., property purchases, education, medical bills).

Pro Tip: Choose a bank with good online banking facilities for easier fund management, especially if you plan to travel frequently.

Income Proof

You’ll need to demonstrate a stable income to meet the program’s requirements. Submit documents like:

• Salary slips for the past three months.
• Tax returns for the last two years.
• Bank statements showing consistent income deposits.

Step 3: Fulfill the Property Investment Requirement

Minimum Purchase Thresholds

Investing in Malaysian real estate is a mandatory step for MM2H participants. The minimum investment depends on your chosen tier:

• Platinum: MYR 2 million and above (£363,168 Est).
• Gold: MYR 1 million and above. (£181,584 Est)
• Silver: MYR 600,000 and above. (£108,950 Est)

Property Guidelines

The property must be:

1. Residential: You can choose from apartments, villas, or landed properties.
2. Freehold: Most properties in Malaysia are freehold, ensuring you own the property outright.
3. Developer-Approved: For SEZ participants, the property must come from approved developers.

Pro Tip: Focus on high-demand areas like Kuala Lumpur, Melaka, or Johor Bahru, which offer better rental yields and capital appreciation.

The Buying Process

1. Research: Engage a real estate agent familiar with MM2H requirements such as ourselves.
2. Check Financing Options: Foreigners can obtain loans from Malaysian banks, but most MM2H applicants pay in cash to simplify the process.
3. Sign the Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA): Once you’ve chosen your property, sign the SPA and pay the deposit (typically 10% of the property price).
4. Register Ownership: Work with a lawyer to register the property under your name. This process takes 3–6 months.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Once you’ve met the financial and property requirements, you’re ready to submit your MM2H application. Here’s how:

1. Hire an MM2H Agent:While not mandatory, working with an approved agent simplifies the process. They handle document submissions and liaise with government authorities on your behalf.
2. Gather Documents:Prepare the following:
   • Passport copies.
   • Proof of income and assets.
   • Medical report (from a registered clinic in Malaysia).
   • Police clearance certificate from your home country.
3. Pay the Participation Fee:Fees vary by tier but typically range from MYR 1,000 to MYR 200,000, depending on the program.
4. Submit Online or In Person:Applications can be submitted via the official MM2H portal or through your agent.

Step 5: Obtain Your Visa and Move In

Once your application is approved:

• Receive your MM2H visa, which will be stamped in your passport.
• Open a local bank account and deposit the required fixed funds.
• Complete any pending property purchase formalities.

Relocation Tips:

• Hire a relocation consultant to assist with moving logistics, school enrolment for dependents, and setting up utilities.
• Explore local neighbourhoods and amenities to make your transition smoother.