Introduction
Malaysia, renowned for its rich cultural diversity, breathtaking landscapes, and affordable cost of living, has been a preferred destination for expatriates, retirees, and investors. The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program has been a successful initiative by the Malaysian government, enabling foreigners to reside in Malaysia on a long-term visa while enjoying a wealth of benefits.
In its recent revision, the MM2H program now offers three main tiers – Silver, Gold, and Platinum, as well as a specialized Special Economic Zone (SEZ) program, each with distinct eligibility criteria, benefits, and deposit requirements.
This comprehensive guide explores the key aspects of the program, including detailed requirements, financial commitments, benefits, and guidelines for applicants.
MM2H Tiers: Benefits and Eligibility Requirements
The MM2H program is designed to cater to different levels of financial capacity and goals. Below is a detailed table that breaks down each tier’s criteria and benefits, including the Special Economic Zone for the Johor-Singapore corridor.
| Category | Silver | Gold | Platinum | Special Economic Zone (SEZ) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scope of Application | West Malaysia | West Malaysia | West Malaysia | Johor-Singapore Economic Zone & Forest City Financial Zone |
| Main Applicant’s Age | 25 years and above | 25 years and above | 25 years and above | 21 years and above |
| Dependents | • Spouse, • Children (under 21) Stepchildren/Adopted Children (21-34 years unemployed or unmarried) • Children with disabilities (no age limit) • Parents and parents-in-law | |||
| Fixed Deposit Requirements | USD 150,000 | USD 500,000 | USD 1,000,000 | 21-49 years: USD 65,000 50 years and above: USD 32,000 |
| Fixed Deposit Withdrawal | Up to 50% (for property purchase, education, healthcare, domestic travel) | |||
| Visa Validity | 5 years | 15 years | 20 years | 10 years |
| Renewal Fee | RM1,500 | RM3,000 | RM5,000 | RM300 |
| Participation Fee | RM1,000 | RM3,000 | RM200,000 | RM1,000 |
| Agent Fee | RM40,000 | RM55,000 | RM70,000 | RM40,000 |
| Offshore Income | No requirement | |||
| Property Value Threshold | ≥RM600,000 | ≥RM1 million | ≥RM2 million | Subject to relevant state policies |
| Can not be sold within 10 years; After sold, you need to buy a higher value’s property | ||||
| Residency Requirement | Stay at least 90 days per year (can be accumulated by family members) | |||
| Work Opportunities | No | No | Yes | No |
| Business Opportunities | No | No | Yes | No |
| Bring Maid | Yes | |||
| Healthcare | Long-term treatment accepted | |||
| Health Examination | Required (after successful application); To be done at specific clinic/ hospital under panel list. | |||
| Tax Exemptions | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
Eligibility for Dependents
MM2H program participants can bring their family members under the following conditions:
Spouse
Children under 21 years old, or stepchildren/adopted children between 21-34 years who are unemployed or unmarried.
Children with disabilities, with no age limit (medical certification required).
Parents and parents-in-law.
Fixed Deposit Requirements and Withdrawal Guidelines
Fixed Deposit Requirements
Fixed deposits serve as proof of financial capability and security under the MM2H program. The required amounts vary based on the selected tier:
Silver: USD 150,000
Gold: USD 500,000
Platinum: USD 1,000,000
Special Economic Zone: USD 65,000 (21-49 years) or USD 32,000 (50+ years).
Withdrawal of Fixed Deposit
Once the MM2H visa is approved, participants can withdraw up to 50% of their fixed deposit for specific purposes:
Residential Property Purchase (Sales & Purchase Agreement & Proof of house payment)
Children’s Education Fees (proof of enrollment required)
Medical Expenses (receipts from hospitals/clinics/pharmacies)
Domestic Travel and Other Eligible Expenses
Other general requirements for application of withdrawal of fixed deposit are:
- Applicant or representative MM2H company must be present;
- Intention letter for individual/ agency representative letter for MM2H company;
- Copy of Passport (Particular Page and visa MM2H);
- Copy of Conditional Approval Letter;
- Copy of Fixed Deposit Certificate;
Note:
- MM2H participant are allowed to withdraw partial of the required Fixed Deposit starting from the second year onwards (effective from the date of MM2H Social Visit Pass endorsement in the passport) for approved expenses related to residential purchase, children’s education expenses, medical expenses as per below:
(a) RM50,000 for aged 50 years and above; and
(b) RM150,000 for aged below 50 years.
However, MM2H participant are required to maintain the balanced of Fixed Deposit until they terminate their participation from Programme as per below:
(a) RM 100,000 for aged 50 years and above; and
(b) RM 150,000 for aged below 50 years.
- Withdrawal of Fixed Deposit is on reimbursement basis and release of money will be made based on the amount requested.
- All application for withdrawal of fixed deposit is no longer permitted to be submitted by e-mail.
- Any incomplete documents will not be processed.
- Complete documents will be process within three (3) working days.
Property Ownership Under MM2H
Property purchase is mandatory for MM2H participants. The minimum property value differs across tiers:
| Tier | Property Value Limit |
| Silver | ≥RM600,000 |
| Gold | ≥RM1 million |
| Platinum | ≥RM2 million |
| Special Zone | Subject to State Policies |
Restrictions:
Properties cannot be sold within 10 years. If participants sell a property, they must purchase one of higher value to maintain eligibility.
Healthcare and Education Benefits
Healthcare
Participants can access Malaysia’s globally recognized healthcare facilities. Long-term medical treatment is accepted under the MM2H visa.
Education
Children of MM2H participants can attend international schools in Malaysia, ensuring a high standard of education.
Residency Requirement
Participants must reside in Malaysia for a minimum of 90 days per year, which can be accumulated by family members.
Why Choose Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H)?
Malaysia’s MM2H program stands out for its balance of affordability, flexibility, and lifestyle benefits:
Affordable Cost of Living: Housing, food, and healthcare are reasonably priced compared to other countries.
World-Class Infrastructure: Excellent healthcare, education, and transport facilities.
Warm Climate and Scenic Beauty: Malaysia’s tropical climate and natural beauty offer an unmatched living experience.
Cultural Diversity: A harmonious mix of cultures ensures an enriching environment.
Tax Benefits: Exemption on offshore income makes it attractive for retirees and investors.
How to Apply for the MM2H Program
Engage a Licensed MM2H Agent: Applications can only be submitted through government-approved agents.
Prepare the Necessary Documents:
Financial proof (fixed deposit requirements)
Passport copies
Conditional Approval Letter
Fixed Deposit Submission: Deposit funds in an approved Malaysian bank.
Receive Approval and Visa Endorsement: Upon meeting all conditions, your MM2H visa will be endorsed.
Conclusion
The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program offers a seamless opportunity for expatriates, retirees, and investors to experience a high quality of life in Malaysia. With its tiered approach, the program caters to various financial capacities while offering long-term benefits such as tax exemptions, affordable property ownership, and access to premium healthcare and education.
The application of MM2H can only be done with approved agents, and the charge seems high ranging RM40,000 to RM70,0000. Nevertheless, there are some new developers are offering free processing fee for buyers, example Skypark Kepler @Lido Waterfront Johor Bahru, which will be managed by Banyan Tree Group. The following are some of the hot selling projects in Malaysia.
- Skypark Kepler (Lido Johor)
🇲🇾 Skypark Kepler (Lido Johor) Skypark Kepler (previously known as “The Watermark) at Lido Waterfront Boulevard is a freehold, integrated mixed development, which will be built on 163 acres of reclaimed land, located along the - Aliva @ Mount Austin
🇲🇾 Aliva @ Mount Austin Aliva at Mount Austin, Johor Bahru’s premier freehold hotel-serviced condominium. Offering luxury, privacy, and five-star amenities in a vibrant neighborhood. Ideal for investors and homebuyers seeking premium accommodations and modern - King’s Park Genting (Commercial Park)
🇲🇾 King’s Park Genting (Commercial Park) The Perfect Investment Opportunity King’s Park Genting is a 24-acres integrated commercial hub spread over an area of approx 120 acres high-end mixed development located at Jln Jaya Permai, - SO Sofitel Residences at Oxley Towers KLCC
SO/ Sofitel Residences at OXLEY TOWERS KLCC An undiscovered oasis in the heart of KL City With Oxley Tower KLCC | At the confluence of modernity and original prestige of Jalan Ampang | An elite - Suasana Iskandar @JBCC
Suasana Iskandar JBCC Ready to move in! A perfect homes next to City Square JBCC Amenities Nearby 150m to JBCC Komtar 150m to Angry Birds Activity Park (Komtar) 250m to Johor Bahru City Square 250m - Forest City by Country Garden@Johor Iskandar Malaysia
Country Garden. Forest City A role model of future cities 碧桂园. 森林城市 未来城市榜样 WORKING WITH TOP INTERNATIONAL TEAMS : HUAWEI、SASAKI 、DELOITTE TO SHAPE THE WORLD’S UNIQUE CITY OF THE FUTURE Professional partner teams from all over - The Luxe / Colony by Infinitum KLCC
THE COLONY/ THE LUXE From renowned Singapore developers; Roxy Pacific Holdings Ltd and Macly Group Panoramic view of the Kuala Lumpur cityscape Located right beside the newest lifestyle destination in Kuala Lumpur — Quill City - [碧桂园金海湾] Country Garden Danga Bay
Country Garden Danga Bay 【碧桂园金海湾】 Worldwide Direct Developer Sales Team (Johor/ Shanghai/ Singapore) No Agent Fee! Ready to Move In! View Actual UnitLow Booking Fee If you’re genuine buyers, we will do our best to - [富力公主湾] R&F Princess Cove at Johor
R&F PRINCESS COVE @ JB Phase 3 – LaunchingPhase 2 – Limited Units!Phase 1 – Fully Sold * 外国人可购买 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐞𝐫 𝐄𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐮𝐲 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐑𝐌𝟓𝟎𝟎𝐤 *(R&F Princess Cove Phase 2 – Seine Region) *
“Hi, I’m CS Tee (MySgProp.com), CEA licensed real estate advisor in Singapore since 2012. On top of Buy/ Sell/ Rent for Singapore property, we’re also market new launches for developers in various countries, i.e Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, UK, Australia and Dubai. If you or your friends need assistance with housing, feel free to refer them to us. We offer a generous referral fee as a token of our appreciation!”