The Malaysia My Second Home programme (often abbreviated as MM2H) is a visa programme initiated by the Malaysian government to attract foreign nationals for long-term residency in the country. First introduced in 2002, this initiative remains one of the most appealing residency schemes in Southeast Asia.

Applicants are granted a renewable social visit pass and multiple-entry visa with a duration of 5 to 10 years. It enables participants to stay in Malaysia for extended periods, making it ideal for retirees, digital nomads, and investors.

Why Choose Malaysia as Your Second Home?

From tropical beaches to tech-forward cities like Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia offers a dynamic environment to suit all lifestyles. The low cost of living, English-friendly communities, and excellent medical facilities make Malaysia a favorite among expatriates.

Many MM2H participants choose Malaysia because it strikes a balance between affordability and quality of life. Whether you’re enjoying life in Penang or exploring the special economic zone regions, the country offers comfort, culture, and convenience.

What Are the New MM2H Requirements in 2024?

The new MM2H guidelines introduced in 2024 come with a three-tier structure designed to make the programme more inclusive and structured. Applicants must meet specific financial requirements that include a fixed deposit and proof of monthly income requirements. 

Here’s a general breakdown:

• Tier 1: RM1 million fixed deposit account + RM40,000 monthly income
• Tier 2: RM500,000 fixed deposit + RM30,000 monthly income
• Tier 3: RM350,000 fixed deposit + RM20,000 monthly income

These updates aim to diversify applicant profiles while ensuring financial sustainability.

How Does the MM2H Visa Work?

The MM2H visa is not a work visa but a visa that allows you to live in Malaysia on a long-term basis. The visa duration can go up to 10 years, with a renewable option. Participants can open an account in Malaysia, buy property, and in some cases, start a business.
While it doesn’t grant permanent residency, it functions similarly by giving you the freedom to come and go with ease under a multiple-entry visa.

This makes it an appealing option compared to other investment visa or golden visa programs globally. The national MM2H is more structured, but the existing MM2H also remains available for certain applicants. Although visa renewal is required after the initial term, the process is generally straightforward and supported by the immigration department.

What is the Sarawak MM2H (S-MM2H) Programme?

The Sarawak MM2H or S-MM2H is run independently by the state of Sarawak, offering more relaxed eligibility requirements. It’s especially attractive to retirees and those looking for a slower pace of life.

Unlike the national MM2H programme, the Sarawak version allows foreigners lower financial thresholds. However, visa holders must reside specifically within the state of Sarawak and not in Peninsular Malaysia unless otherwise permitted.

What Makes Malaysia’s MM2H Different from Other Golden Visa Programs?

Malaysia’s MM2H isn’t just another golden visa. Unlike many investment programs that require real estate purchases or large business investments, MM2H is relatively low-risk and straightforward.

It’s one of the few visa programs that welcomes foreign nationals to enjoy life in Malaysia without mandatory work commitments or property investments, although those are permitted.

Who Can Apply for the MM2H Program?

The MM2H program is open to all countries recognized by Malaysia. Applicants must be 30 years or older and demonstrate good health, a clean record, and stable finances. Families can also apply under one principal applicant.

Dependents, including spouses, unmarried children under 21, and even parents, may be included. This flexibility is one of the key draws for those looking to settle their entire household under a single visa programme.

What Are the Financial and Eligibility Requirements?

Applicants must show proof of liquid assets and meet specific monthly income thresholds, based on the tier they’re applying under. A fixed deposit is mandatory and must be placed in a Malaysian bank.

The immigration department also requires:

• Letter of good conduct
• Medical insurance (for some tiers)
• Clear criminal record
• Health screening at a local facility

Meeting these eligibility requirements ensures your application to the MM2H programme progresses smoothly.

How to Apply for the MM2H Visa in 2025?

You can either apply for the MM2H directly through the Immigration Department of Malaysia or use a licensed MM2H agent. Each method has its pros and cons. Agents are often helpful for handling document submissions and follow-ups.

Required documents include:

• Passport copies
• Proof of fixed deposit account and income
• Medical certificate
• Police clearance from your home country
• Letter of good conduct

Once approved, an approval letter will be issued. From there, the MM2H visa is stamped, and your residency in Malaysia begins.

What Are the Different Visa Options in Malaysia?

Besides MM2H, Malaysia also offers the PVIP visa (Premium Visa Programme) and digital nomad visa. The PVIP visa caters to ultra-high-net-worth individuals, while the digital nomad option suits remote workers.

Each visa option has its unique requirements, so it’s crucial to compare them based on your lifestyle, income, and long-term goals. The MM2H program, however, remains the most versatile for long-term residency.

Can MM2H Visa Holders Work or Start a Business?

Although the MM2H visa is a social visit pass, certain tiers in the new MM2H structure allow limited employment or business activity. However, this depends on immigration department approval.

Applicants looking to work in Malaysia may need to switch to a work visa or apply under a different investment program. MM2H is primarily for retirees and those with passive income.

What Is Life Like in Malaysia for MM2H Participants?

Life in Malaysia is relaxed, culturally rich, and well-connected. MM2H participants enjoy modern amenities, easy transport links, and vibrant expat communities.

Whether you’re enjoying street food in Kuala Lumpur or beach living in Penang, Malaysia offers something for everyone. Combined with its low cost of living, it’s no surprise many call Malaysia’s My Second Home their paradise.

Final Summary: Key Takeaways About the MM2H Programme

• Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) is a long-term visa program for foreign nationals.
• The 2024 MM2H introduces a tiered financial structure, starting from RM350,000.
• Both National MM2H and Sarawak MM2H (S-MM2H) options are available.
• Applicants can include dependents, such as spouses and children.
• Requires a fixed deposit, monthly income, and letter of good conduct.
• Apply via the Immigration Department of Malaysia or a licensed MM2H agent.
• Not a permanent residency, but offers many similar benefits.
• Ideal for retirees, digital nomads, and those seeking a second home program.
• Offers one of the most flexible visa programmes in Southeast Asia
• Consider other options like the PVIP visa or digital nomad visa if MM2H doesn’t fit.

Want to explore how to qualify for the MM2H Malaysia scheme or compare visa options? Let’s help you unlock the next chapter of your journey in Malaysia’s most welcoming residency initiative.