Digital Nomad Visa

Malaysia

2023-11-23 21:44 Middle East & Asia
< Back
Malaysia is embracing the future of work with open arms by introducing the Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa, a groundbreaking initiative designed to welcome and support remote workers seeking to explore the diverse and vibrant landscapes of this Southeast Asian nation.

Is there digital nomad visa in Malaysia?

Yes. In October 2022, Malaysia unveiled the DE Rantau Programme, a Digital Nomad Visa that enables remote workers to live in the country for a duration ranging from 3 to 12 months. This Multiple Entry visa can be renewed for an additional 12 months upon its expiry, providing an extended opportunity for digital nomads to experience Malaysia's diverse offerings.

How to get a digital nomad visa for Malaysia?

Eligibility for the Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa is contingent upon meeting the following criteria:

  1. Age Requirement: You must be over 18 years old.
  2. Professional Status: Qualifying individuals include digital freelancers, independent contractors, and remote workers engaged in flexible working arrangements with their employers.
  3. Professions Covered: Applicants should be professionals in fields such as digital marketing, digital creative content, digital content development, software development, UX, UI, cybersecurity, blockchain, AI, machine learning, data-related disciplines, and similar categories.
  4. Annual Income: Demonstrable evidence of a consistent annual income is necessary.
  5. Proof of Work: Submission of credible proof validating your professional engagement is a prerequisite for application approval.

Can I apply for digital nomad visa in Malaysia while in Malaysia?

To initiate your Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa application, follow these systematic steps:

  • Step 1: Document Compilation
  • Step 2: Online Application Submission
  • Step 3: Await Approval

Digital nomad visa in Malaysia: requirements

As an applicant for the Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa, you have the flexibility to apply either as a remote worker with a contract from a single company or as a freelance worker. For the initial three months of your stay, you are required to provide proof of ongoing employment by submitting your contract(s) along with a comprehensive set of supporting documents. It's noteworthy that if you choose to apply as a freelance worker, you have the option to fulfill this requirement using a combination of contracts from multiple companies.

Additionally, after your initial application, you have the opportunity to submit visa applications for close family members, including your spouse and dependent children, to join you in Malaysia. The visas can be initially issued for up to 12 months and may be extended for another 12 months upon request.

Documents needed for the digital nomad visa in Malaysia

Here is a comprehensive list of the documents required for your Malaysian digital nomad visa application:

  1. Passport Copy: Include copies of all pages of your passport.
  2. Curriculum Vitae (CV): Provide a detailed resume outlining your professional background.
  3. Bank Statements: Submit the most recent three months of your bank statements.
  4. Income Statements or Tax Returns: Include documentation for the last three months or your latest tax returns to validate your financial standing.
  5. Project or Employment Contract: Furnish a valid contract indicating your engagement for a duration of three months or more.
  6. Personal Bond: A commitment or assurance of personal responsibility.
  7. Letter of Good Conduct: Obtain a letter from a relevant authority in your home country or country of residence attesting to your good conduct.
  8. Education Certificate: Present the highest level of education certificate you have attained.
  9. Medical Insurance Proof: Show evidence of valid medical insurance coverage.
  10. Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia Tax Registration Slip: Include documentation indicating your registration with the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia for tax purposes.

Digital nomad visa in Malaysia: requirements for income

To be eligible for the Digital Nomad Visa in Malaysia, applicants must demonstrate a minimum annual income of at least $24,000 USD.

How to apply for digital nomad visa in Malaysia?

To apply for a Malaysia digital nomad visa, follow these key steps:

  1. Prepare Documents
  2. Register Online
  3. Occupation Selection
  4. Application Form
  5. Document Upload
  6. Pay Fees
  7. Confirmation and Wait

How much is the bond for digital nomad visa Malaysia?

The fees associated with the Malaysia digital nomad visa comprise:

  1. Application Fee: RM1,000, equivalent to approximately $225.
  2. Additional Dependent Fee: RM500, approximately $112 per accompanying dependent.

In the event of a visa application rejection, applicants are eligible for a 75% refund.

Digital nomad visa in Malaysia: tax

As a digital nomad in Malaysia, you are exempt from income tax on your earnings; however, if you are employed by a company or work with clients based in Malaysia, you become subject to income tax regulations.

For Malaysian citizens and residents, income tax rates are structured as follows:

  • 0% for the income band of 0 to 5,000 RM
  • 1% for 5,001 to 20,000 RM
  • 3% for 20,001 to 35,000 RM
  • 8% for 35,001 to 50,000 RM
  • 14% for 50,001 to 70,000 RM
  • 21% for 70,001 to 100,000 RM
  • 24% for 100,001 to 250,000 RM
  • 24.5% for 250,001 to 400,000 RM
  • 25% for 400,001 to 600,000 RM
  • 26% for 600,001 to 1,000,000 RM
  • 28% for 1,000,001 to 2,000,000 RM
  • 30% for income exceeding 2,000,001 RM

Other types of income are subject to a flat tax rate of 30%.

Digital nomad visa in Malaysia: express processing

The Malaysia digital nomad visa typically takes around four weeks to process. However, it's important to note that processing times may vary, and occasional delays can occur due to various reasons. Patience is advised during the waiting period for the completion of the visa processing.

What if I’m not eligible for Malaysia digital nomad visa as a digital nomad?

If you don't meet the eligibility criteria for the Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa, several alternative options are available for an extended stay in the country:

  1. Single Entry Visa: Ideal for a 30-day stay, this visa requires essential documents such as a valid passport, photographs, proof of accommodation, and a return flight document.
  2. Multiple Entry Visas: Designed for multiple visits, typically for tourism or family purposes, this visa allows a 90-day validity, with each stay lasting either 15 or 30 consecutive days. Application is made at a consulate or embassy, and documentation requirements are similar to the single entry visa.
  3. Tech Entrepreneur Program (Foreign Knowledge Entrepreneurs - FKE): Geared towards individuals with business ideas, this program has two subcategories—Start-ups and Matured Digital Entrepreneurs—catering to different stages of business development.

Malaysia digital nomad visa on Reddit

Olaf from Berlin says: "Choosing Malaysia as a destination is a viable option, but the process for obtaining the digital nomad visa can be unnecessarily complex and frustrating. Applicants often encounter additional requests for documentation beyond the stated requirements, leading to a prolonged and confusing application experience. Many find the extensive paperwork and complications not worth the effort, especially considering the limited benefits – restrictions on banking, employment, and overall flexibility. Some individuals opt for alternative strategies, such as the three-month visa-free stay option in Malaysia, coupled with short visits to neighboring countries like Bali or Thailand, which they find to be a more straightforward and practical approach. Despite success stories, including one where a friend obtained the visa in Bali, the overall sentiment is that the hassle associated with the Malaysia digital nomad visa outweighs its benefits, prompting some to explore simpler options in other countries."
< Back