Malaysia My Second Home, better known as MM2H, is a government programme that allows eligible foreigners to live in Malaysia under a renewable Long-Term Social Visit Pass with a Multiple Entry Visa.

It can be an attractive option for retirees, families and individuals who want a long-term base in Malaysia. However, the programme has changed significantly, and many older articles still contain outdated income, deposit and age requirements.

This guide explains the current federal MM2H programme based on official information available in 2026. Sarawak and Sabah operate separate programmes with different rules.

Current MM2H categories

Federal MM2H has four categories: Silver, Gold, Platinum and Special Economic Zone/Special Financial Zone (SEZ/SFZ).

The official overview also lists a processing fee of RM5,000 for the principal and RM2,500 for each dependent. Professional service charges and other application expenses are separate.

Which category should you choose?

Silver is the most accessible nationwide category. Its renewable five-year pass may suit applicants who want Malaysia mainly as a retirement, family or lifestyle base.

Gold provides a longer 15-year term with higher deposit and property requirements. It may suit families seeking a secure long-term arrangement without employment privileges.

Platinum offers a renewable 20-year term and is the only category that permits career opportunities and business or investment activities under MM2H. Participants must still comply with all relevant laws and licensing requirements.

SEZ/SFZ offers lower fixed-deposit requirements and a 10-year pass. The qualifying property must meet the applicable Johor and designated-zone rules and be purchased directly from the developer.

Is offshore income still required?

No. MOTAC’s current FAQ confirms that the previous offshore-income requirement has been abolished for all federal MM2H categories.

Applicants should therefore be careful when reading older guides that still mention mandatory monthly offshore income.

Fixed deposit and property requirements

The fixed deposit must be placed with a licensed Malaysian financial institution. After approval, participants may withdraw up to 50% of the principal amount for approved expenses involving:

• Residential property
• Education
• Medical or healthcare costs
• Tourism activities in Malaysia

Purchasing a qualifying Malaysian residence is compulsory. The property generally cannot be sold during the first 10 years, although upgrading to another residence of a higher value may be allowed.

State property rules may also apply. The MM2H minimum does not automatically override a higher state threshold or restrictions on foreign property ownership.

Minimum stay in Malaysia

Participants below 50 must meet a cumulative stay requirement of 90 days per year. For applicants aged between 21 or 25 and 49, depending on the category, this may be fulfilled by the principal or registered dependents.

The official category overview states that participants aged 50 and above have no minimum annual stay requirement.

Who can be included as a dependent?

An MM2H principal may include:

• A spouse
• Biological, step or adopted children below 21
• Children aged 21 to 34 who are single and unemployed while in Malaysia
• Medically certified disabled children, with no age limit
• Parents and parents-in-law

A foreign domestic helper may be included only under Platinum.

Can MM2H participants work?

Only Platinum participants receive employment and business or investment privileges under MM2H.

Silver, Gold and SEZ/SFZ participants must obtain the appropriate separate pass or approval before working or conducting business in Malaysia.

Medical examination and insurance

After approval, the principal and dependents must undergo a medical examination at a panel clinic or hospital appointed by MOTAC. Health insurance and updated medical documents are also part of the current renewal requirements.

How to apply

Federal MM2H applications cannot be submitted independently. Applicants must use an MM2H tourism operating company licensed by MOTAC.

The general process is:

1. Choose a MOTAC-licensed MM2H operator.
2. Select the appropriate category.
3. Prepare the required personal, family and financial documents.
4. Submit the application through the licensed operator and OSC MM2H.
5. Complete the fixed deposit, medical examination, insurance and property requirements after conditional approval.
6. Obtain the MM2H pass and Multiple Entry Visa endorsement.

Final immigration approval remains under the Ministry of Home Affairs through the Immigration Department of Malaysia. Always verify an operator’s licence through MOTAC before making payment.

Does MM2H provide permanent residency?

No. MM2H does not lead automatically to Malaysian Permanent Resident status or citizenship. It is a renewable long-term social visit programme, and participants must continue meeting its conditions.

MM2H is also not a blanket tax exemption. Tax treatment can depend on residence status, income source and current Malaysian tax law. Applicants with pensions, investments or business income should seek professional tax advice.

Final thoughts

MM2H offers eligible foreigners an opportunity to enjoy Malaysia’s lifestyle, healthcare, infrastructure and cultural diversity over the long term. However, it also involves a substantial financial commitment.

Because policies may change, always verify the latest requirements before transferring funds, purchasing property or submitting an application.

Need guidance on your MM2H application? Bold Excel Services Sdn Bhd can help you understand the documentation and application process before you proceed.

This article is for general information only and does not constitute immigration, legal, property, financial or tax advice. Information reviewed on 28 August 2026.