Discover the Forest City MM2H Visa: Your Gateway to a Dream Life in Malaysia

Malaysia has always been a top destination for expats and retirees seeking a tropical paradise combined with modern amenities. Among the options available, the Forest City MM2H Visa program has emerged as a popular choice, offering a 10-year residency with a simplified process and affordable investment requirements. This article explores the Forest City MM2H program, including eligibility, benefits, costs, and the step-by-step journey from application to approval.

What Is Forest City?

Located on the southern coast of Malaysia in Johor, Forest City is a cutting-edge development that combines eco-friendly architecture with luxury living. This master-planned township offers everything from green spaces and sustainable urban design to top-tier facilities like international schools, shopping malls, and waterfront living. Forest City isn’t just a residential project—it’s a lifestyle destination.

For expats and retirees, Forest City is particularly appealing because it offers access to the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) visa program. The MM2H visa is designed for individuals looking to make Malaysia their long-term home, providing a 10-year renewable residency permit with attractive benefits.

The Forest City MM2H Visa Program: Key Highlights

The Forest City MM2H Visa program offers unique advantages over traditional MM2H options. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Property Purchase Requirement: Applicants need to purchase a property in Forest City starting at $85,000.
• Fixed Deposit Requirement:
  • Applicants under 50 need to place a fixed deposit of $65,000 in a Malaysian bank.
  • Applicants over 50 need to place $32,000, with the option to withdraw 50% after the first year.
• Validity: The visa is valid for 10 years and is renewable, offering long-term stability.

This program simplifies the residency process while providing access to world-class living in one of Malaysia’s most exciting developments.

Eligibility Criteria for Forest City MM2H Visa

1. Age-Based Requirements:

• Under 50: Fixed deposit of $65,000.
• Over 50: Fixed deposit of $32,000, with a 50% withdrawal option after one year.

2. Property Purchase:
Applicants must purchase a property in Forest City worth at least $85,000. This investment must be completed within one year of visa approval.

3. Other Financial Proofs:
While the primary focus is on the fixed deposit and property purchase, applicants should also demonstrate financial stability to ensure they can support their lifestyle in Malaysia.

4. Health Check and Insurance:

• A simple medical checkup is required at an approved Malaysian clinic.
• Health insurance is mandatory for applicants under 59. Those over 59 are exempt from this requirement.

Post-Approval Process: What to Do After Your Visa is Approved

Getting your Forest City MM2H Visa approved is just the beginning. After receiving the approval letter, you have three months to complete the following steps:

1. Medical Checkup:
   Arrange a medical examination at an approved clinic in Malaysia. This is a straightforward process to ensure there are no contagious diseases. Conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure are generally not an issue.
2. Health Insurance:
   For applicants under 59, securing local health insurance is mandatory. Those over 59 are exempt due to age-related waivers. This ensures peace of mind for medical needs during your stay.
3. Fixed Deposit Placement:
   Open a bank account in Malaysia and place the required fixed deposit. This step confirms your commitment to the program and unlocks benefits like the 50% withdrawal option after one year.

Costs Involved in the Forest City MM2H Visa

The Forest City MM2H Visa is designed to be affordable and transparent. Here’s a cost breakdown:

• Property Purchase: Minimum $85,000.
• Fixed Deposit: $65,000 for those under 50, $32,000 for those over 50.
• Application Fees: Approximately 50,000 Ringgit (~£9,000) for a family of four, including government processing fees, medical checkup costs, and health insurance.

One of the key advantages of this program is its transparency. Fees are fixed and include all necessary services, from application submission to final visa endorsement. There are no hidden charges, ensuring you know exactly what to expect.

Benefits of Living in Forest City with MM2H

Forest City is not just a place to live; it’s a lifestyle upgrade. Here are some of the key benefits:

1. Luxurious Coastal Living:
   Enjoy beautiful waterfront views, modern amenities, and eco-friendly living.
2. Affordable Cost of Living:
   Compared to Western countries, Malaysia offers a significantly lower cost of living without compromising on quality.
3. Tax Advantages:
   Malaysia provides tax exemptions on foreign income, making it an attractive option for retirees and remote workers.
4. Long-Term Residency Stability:
   The 10-year renewable visa ensures peace of mind and eliminates the need for frequent visa renewals.
5. Family-Friendly Environment:
   Forest City offers international schools, green spaces, and activities, making it ideal for families with children.

Alternative Visa Options in Malaysia

While the Forest City MM2H program is highly appealing, Malaysia offers several other residency options:

• Silver MM2H Visa:
  Requires a higher fixed deposit and investment amount but is suitable for those seeking additional flexibility.
• Employment Pass:
  Ideal for professionals who secure a job with a Malaysian company. The visa is initially valid for two years and can be extended based on employment continuity.
• Labuan Company Visa:
  Entrepreneurs can establish an offshore company in Labuan, enjoy low corporate tax rates (3%), and apply for an employment pass. This is an excellent option for remote workers and business owners.

Renewal Process and Long-Term Stability

The MM2H program, including Forest City’s variant, has been running successfully for over 20 years. Renewal is generally straightforward as long as applicants fulfill the basic requirements:

• Retaining ownership of the purchased property for at least 10 years.
• Maintaining the fixed deposit with the bank.

Applicants can feel confident about the program’s reliability, which is backed by Malaysia’s transparent regulatory framework.

FAQs About Forest City MM2H Visa

1. Can I withdraw my fixed deposit?
Yes, 50% of the fixed deposit can be withdrawn after one year for applicants over 50, provided all conditions are met.

2. How long does the approval process take?
The approval process typically takes 1 to 3 months, followed by a 3-month window to complete medical checks, insurance, and fixed deposit placement.

3. What happens if I sell my property?
You must retain ownership of the property for at least 10 years under the MM2H program.

4. Can I bring my family?
Yes, the program is family-friendly, allowing you to include your spouse and children in your application.

Conclusion: Start Your New Life in Malaysia

The Forest City MM2H Visa is a straightforward, affordable way to secure long-term residency in Malaysia while enjoying the luxurious lifestyle Forest City offers. Whether you’re looking to retire, relocate, or invest, this program opens the door to a new beginning.