MM2H Special Economic Zones Visa: Your Complete Guide to Living in Malaysia’s Special Economic Zones

Thinking about living in Malaysia? With the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program, you have a pathway! Today, we’re diving into the essential requirements for the SEZ category. Stay tuned to see if the beautiful landscapes of Peninsular Malaysia might just become your new home!”

Welcome to the Malaysia My Second Home, or MM2H, program—a government-backed initiative allowing foreign nationals to live The special economic zone in Malaysia offers unique opportunities for foreigners. In Peninsular Malaysia, MM2H offers four categories to choose from: SEZ, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Today, we’ll focus on the SEZ category and walk you through each requirement of the MM2H visa in simple terms so you can easily understand what’s needed to start your journey!

1. Age Requirement for MM2H Special Economic Zone

To join the SEZ category, you must be at least 21 years old.

2. Financial Requirements: Fixed Deposit

For SEZ, financial stability is a priority, and you’ll need to make a fixed deposit to participate:

• Ages 21 to 49: This age group is particularly encouraged to apply for the MM2H visa. This age group is particularly encouraged to apply for the MM2H visa. The fixed deposit requirement is USD 65,000.
• Age 50 and above: The requirement lowers to USD 32,000.

This deposit serves as a financial guarantee, giving you and Malaysia peace of mind regarding your financial ability to live comfortably.

3. Tax Exemptions on Pension and Offshore Income

A major advantage of MM2H SEZ is the tax exemption on pension or offshore income. Malaysia recognizes that you may have income sources outside the country, and through SEZ, any pension or offshore earnings you bring in are not subject to tax.

4. MM2H Fees and Residential Property Purchase

There are a couple of fees to keep in mind for SEZ:

• The MM2H participation fee: This one-time fee is applicable for all applicants of the MM2H visa. RM 1,000.
• To join SEZ, you’ll also need to purchase a residential property as a mandatory part of your commitment. The property price floor in Kuala Lumpur is subject to relevant state property acquisition policy, especially for foreigners. 

This investment is crucial, as it’s designed to ensure a stable living situation in Malaysia, particularly within the special economic zones.

5. Minimum Stay Requirement

Once you’ve joined MM2H, you’ll need to spend at least 90 days per year in Malaysia. This means you’ll enjoy three months annually in a country that boasts vibrant cities, lush rainforests, and warm coastal beaches.

6. Visa Validity and Renewal

The SEZ visa is valid for five years, but don’t worry—it’s renewable! After five years, you can extend your stay, with a renewal fee of RM 300.

7. Healthcare and Education Benefits

By joining SEZ, you also gain access to Malaysia’s quality healthcare and educational benefits. Malaysia is known for affordable yet high-quality medical care, especially in Forest City, so you can feel secure knowing these services are available to you and your family.

8. Family Dependents

The SEZ category allows certain family members to join you:

• Your spouse
• Parents
• Children

It’s a perfect solution if you’re planning to bring your close family members along.

9. Business and Work Opportunities

Malaysia’s MM2H program also offers you flexibility in how you spend your time. Under SEZ, you’re permitted to apply for a business license or even seek employment opportunities within Malaysia, should you wish to work or invest.

10. Withdrawal Limits for Your Fixed Deposit

A significant feature of the SEZ category is the maximum 50% withdrawal limit on your deposit. You have the option to withdraw a portion of your fixed deposit if needed, giving you some flexibility in your finances.

11. Tax Exemptions on Brought-in Income

The program also grants Foreigners can enjoy tax exemptions on income when residing in Malaysia under the MM2H visa. This is what you bring into Malaysia from abroad as a foreign applicant. So, any foreign income that you transfer into Malaysia is tax-free under SEZ, making it highly attractive if you have assets or earnings outside the country.

12. Health Examination

To ensure health and safety, a A health examination is a requirement for all MM2H visa applicants. is required to finalize your application. This quick process is designed to confirm that you’re in good health as you settle in Malaysia.

13. Property Rules and Restrictions

One last note on property: with SEZ, the house you buy initially cannot be sold within a specified period, especially for foreigners. 10 years. However, if you choose to upgrade to a different property, you’re free to do so, as long as the new property is of a The higher value of properties in the special economic zone can be a significant advantage for foreign investors. This investment is expected to yield higher value than the current one in 2024.

14. MM2H Program Benefits: Access Granted Upon Approval

After your SEZ application is approved, you’ll have access to a wide range of benefits in healthcare, education, property, and tourism. Malaysia is dedicated to making your experience both convenient and fulfilling.