Asia Pacific
Malaysia immigration and visa guide
Malaysia offers the DE Rantau Digital Nomad Pass for tech nomads, Employment Pass Category I/II/III via ESD, and Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H).
Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) & Immigration Department of Malaysia (JIM)
- Processing time
- 3 – 6 weeks
- Passport validity
- 6+ months
- Points-based system
- No
- Digital nomad friendly
- Yes
Visa options in Malaysia
Key requirements
- For DE Rantau Nomad Pass: proof of annual income of at least $24,000 USD in a tech or digital profession (software, UX, marketing, crypto)
- Remote foreign employment contract or active freelance client contracts (min 3 months validity remaining)
- Submission via MDEC DE Rantau online portal with police clearance
How to apply for a Malaysia visa: step by step
- 1
MDEC DE Rantau Portal Submission
Submit digital application on MDEC portal with tax returns, foreign contracts, and bank statements.
4 - 6 weeks
- 2
In-Principle Approval (IPA) Letter
Receive official IPA letter from MDEC / Immigration Department of Malaysia.
1 week
- 3
Passport Endorsement & Pass Sticker
Visit MDEC / MYXpats Centre in Cyberjaya or Kuala Lumpur to have the physical DE Rantau pass endorsed in passport.
1 - 2 business days
Official government links
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring my spouse and children on a DE Rantau Pass?
Yes! The DE Rantau Nomad Pass allows the main applicant to sponsor their legally married spouse and dependent children under 18 years old.
Find a licensed adviser
For advice on your own case, use a licensed immigration lawyer or adviser. Always check they are registered before you pay anyone. Imiatlas does not refer or review cases.
Look for a lawyer registered with the national bar association or law society in Malaysia. The official immigration website explains any rules on who may represent applicants.
Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) & Immigration Department of Malaysia (JIM)General information to help you research, not legal advice. Rules change often: always confirm with Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) & Immigration Department of Malaysia (JIM) on the official website before applying.