Malaysia remains a top destination for expatriates and retirees seeking long-term residency in Southeast Asia. With its affordable cost of living, excellent healthcare system, and cultural diversity, the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme continues to attract foreign nationals globally. In 2025, the Malaysian government introduced revised criteria for MM2H, along with enhancements and clarifications across various schemes to offer greater flexibility and clarity.
What Is MM2H?
MM2H is a long-term visa programme launched by the Malaysian government to allow foreigners to reside in Malaysia on a renewable multiple-entry visa. Depending on the scheme, applicants can stay for 5 to 10 years, with options to renew, bring dependents, and enjoy certain tax incentives.
Key MM2H Scheme Options in 2025
There are now three main MM2H schemes available in 2025:
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- Peninsular Malaysia MM2H (Standard Scheme)
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- Sarawak-MM2H (S-MM2H)
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- Sabah-MM2H (Sb-MM2H)
Each scheme is administered by its respective state or federal authority, with different requirements and benefits.
Peninsular Malaysia MM2H (Standard Scheme) – Updated 2025 Criteria
Administered by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), this is the main federal programme applicable to Peninsular Malaysia.
Key 2025 Requirements:
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- Age Limit: Open to individuals aged 30 and above.
- Property: Minimum to purchase of property from RM 600,000
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- Fixed Deposit (FD):
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- USD 150,000 in a Malaysian bank.
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- Withdrawals of up to 50% allowed after one year (for approved expenses such as property, education, healthcare).
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- Fixed Deposit (FD):
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- Stay Requirement: Minimum 90 cumulative days in Malaysia per year.
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- Visa Validity: 5 years, renewable.
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- Dependent Eligibility: Spouse, children below 35 and single, parents (subject to approval).
Notable Change in 2025: The government has slightly relaxed the income requirement for retirees, while placing more emphasis on actual stays in Malaysia.
Key Benefits of MM2H 2025
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- Multiple Visa Options to suit varying income levels
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- Tax Exemption on offshore income & FD profits
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- Family Friendly: Bring spouse, kids (under 35), parents, and in-laws
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- Flexible Residency: No compulsory stay for applicants aged 50+
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- Withdrawable Fixed Deposits for home, healthcare & education
Federal vs State MM2H – What’s the Difference?
While the federal MM2H programme is administered under the new tiered system, states like Sarawak and Sabah continue to offer their own MM2H schemes with lower thresholds and independent criteria.
Sarawak MM2H
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- Offshore income: RM 150,000 (single) / RM 300,000 (couple) or liquid asset of RM 50,000 (Single) / RM 100,000 (couple)
- FD: RM 150,000 (single) / RM 300,000 (couple)
- Visa: 10 years, renewable
- Property minimum purchase from RM 600,000 (kuching); other areas minimum from RM 500,000
- Lower entry, family-friendly, but limited to Sarawak
Sabah MM2H
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- Offsore Income: RM 10,000 (single) / RM 15,000 (family)
- FD: RM 150,000 (single) / RM 300,000 (family)
- Visa: 10 years, renewable
- Property minimum purchase from RM 600,000
- Best for nature lovers and retirees
Final Thoughts
Malaysia’s refreshed MM2H 2025 structure is designed to welcome global citizens—from elite investors to retirees—through a clearly defined tier system. Whether you’re looking for a second home, tax planning, or lifestyle relocation, there’s a pathway that suits your needs.
Need Assistance with Your MM2H Application?
Let our team at Singpore Trace Immigration guide you through:
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- Eligibility assessments
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- Document preparation
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- Property guidance
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- Full application support (Platinum, Gold, Silver, or SEZ)
Book a free consultation today to explore your best route into Malaysia under the new MM2H 2025 programme.
