The Complete Guide To MM2H

Understanding the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Visa

Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) visa, introduced in 2002, is a renewable long-term residency program for foreign nationals. It allows participants to live in Malaysia under the same conditions as their initial application. Open to citizens of countries recognized by Malaysia, this visa is designed for those seeking long-term residence, offering the option to bring along eligible family members.

Participants can include their spouse, biological or adopted children, and stepchildren who are unmarried, below 34 years old, and not employed in Malaysia. Additionally, disabled children (without an age limit), as well as parents and parents-in-law, are eligible. The updated MM2H visa, unveiled in December 2023, is particularly appealing to individuals aiming to make Malaysia their primary or sole home due to its long-term benefits. The program is overseen by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) and Immigration Malaysia.

The minimum age requirement for the MM2H visa varies based on the category: 21 for the SEZ, and 25 for Platinum, Gold, or Silver tiers. It is a popular choice for retirees and remote workers who appreciate Malaysia's lifestyle and wish to reside there.

Why Consider the MM2H Visa?

Tourists visiting Malaysia are typically granted a visa that allows a maximum stay of three months. While some travelers attempt to extend their stay through "visa runs" — leaving Malaysia briefly and re-entering to reset their tourist visa — this practice comes with risks. Although it’s technically legal to leave Malaysia after 50 days and return after 51 days, frequent visa runs can attract attention, lead to blacklisting, and become both costly and exhausting over time.

Moreover, tourists in Malaysia are not permitted to engage in long-term rental agreements, such as signing a one-year lease for a property. For those intending to stay in Malaysia for an extended period, the MM2H visa offers a more stable, legal, and hassle-free alternative. It allows for long-term residency without the challenges associated with short-term tourist visas.

Benefits of the New MM2H Visa

The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) visa is designed to offer participants the opportunity to reside in Malaysia long-term, with several key benefits:

Indefinite Stay: The visa enables participants to stay in Malaysia for as long as they meet the requirements.
Tax-Free Remittance: Funds brought into Malaysia by visa holders are not subject to taxation.
Transfer of Principle: If the main applicant passes away, the next-of-kin under its MM2H application can take over as the primary visa holder.
Renewable Every Five Years: Renewal is straightforward, requiring only passports, medical reports, and medical insurance (applicable to those under 60 years old). New requirements apply exclusively to new applicants.
Comprehensive Medical Insurance: Visa holders can opt for comprehensive medical insurance, ensuring access to quality healthcare.

These advantages make MM2H an appealing option for those looking to make Malaysia their primary or permanent residence. For detailed terms and regulations, refer to the official MOTAC website:

https://www.motac.gov.my/en/services/license-application/travel-agency/send/144-mm2h/784-terms-and-regulations-for-new-participants-under-the-malaysia-my-second-home-mm2h

What about the alternative of MM2H visa?

When it comes to long-term residency options in Malaysia, there are no alternatives. For individuals married to a Malaysian citizen, the spouse visa—commonly referred to as the "wife of a citizen" visa—provides a pathway to stay in the country. However, this visa comes with restrictions, as it is only valid while the marriage is intact and the spouse is alive. In cases of divorce or the passing of the Malaysian spouse, the visa is automatically revoked, leaving the foreign partner without residency rights.

Another option is the Sarawak MM2H visa, which is specific to the state of Sarawak. While it allows residency for up to ten years, it is not a permanent solution. Once the ten-year term ends, applicants must reapply as new participants and meet the latest requirements, which could be stricter or more challenging depending on the prevailing policies at the time.

Other visas, such as the Guardian Pass, student visa, or D’Rantau digital nomad visa, are tailored for specific purposes and have a short-term validity. Once their terms expire, these visas are cancelled, leaving no option for indefinite residency.

Deciding between these options largely depends on your goals and circumstances. If you are certain that your time in Malaysia will be temporary, short-term visas may suffice. However, if you are unsure or have a strong inclination to stay long-term, the MM2H visa is a better fit, providing stability and flexibility that other options lack.

Malaysia is a remarkable place to live, attracting many expatriates who initially arrive with plans to stay only for a few years. Over time, they often find themselves drawn to the country’s charm and decide to settle permanently. For those who are financially prepared and envision a long-term future in Malaysia, the MM2H visa is undoubtedly the most reliable and practical choice.

What About Other Countries?

From our two decades of experience, Malaysia doesn’t compete with other countries when it comes to attracting long-term residents. Regions like South and Central America, including Mexico, as well as parts of Europe such as Portugal, Spain, Malta, and Cyprus, are popular choices for individuals from OECD nations and other high-cost countries seeking a place to live, whether for retirement or remote work.

Each destination appeals to different lifestyles and preferences, making it essential to carefully evaluate which country aligns with your needs. For instance, in Southeast Asia, Malaysia and the Philippines stand out as the only countries where English is widely spoken and used, which can be a significant factor for those seeking ease of communication and integration.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to what fits your lifestyle, financial situation, and long-term goals. While many countries offer unique advantages, Malaysia’s combination of affordability, modern infrastructure, and English proficiency makes it a standout choice in the region.

What Else Should You Consider?

Drawing from over two decades of experience, we’ve identified some crucial yet often overlooked factors to keep in mind:

First, it’s important to recognize that as time passes, your mobility will naturally decline. The idea of hopping between countries on short-term visas may seem appealing now, but it often becomes impractical as you grow older. This is especially true for families with children, where stability is key. If you are financially secure, opting for the MM2H visa offers a sense of permanence and avoids the uncertainty of frequent relocations. Additionally, with the challenges facing many Western countries today, returning to your home country may not always be the best long-term option.

Language is another critical factor. Living in a country where you don’t speak the language can affect your ability to navigate legal documents, communicate in hospitals, and manage daily interactions. While learning a new language is possible, it can take years to master, impacting your quality of life in the meantime.

Lastly, the mindset of “I’ll stay here for a few years and then move on” often doesn’t align with reality. Many people who begin with this outlook eventually find themselves wanting to stay longer, but inflation, stricter requirements, and rising costs can make it more challenging to secure residency later. If you qualify for the MM2H visa now, it may be wise to apply sooner rather than risk facing tougher conditions in the future.

We don’t believe in pressuring anyone to apply, as it’s against our company values, but providing honest and thoughtful advice is part of our commitment to helping you make an informed decision.

Requirements for the MM2H visa

The new Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program was initially introduced on December 15, 2023, with detailed requirements revealed in June 2024. By September 2024, sponsors began processing applications, and the first approval was granted in December 2024. Below are the essential requirements for participation:

Property Purchase Requirement
Applicants must purchase a property as part of the program and hold it for at least 10 years. While upgrading to a higher-value property is allowed, downgrading is not. Selling the property before the 10-year period requires canceling the visa. The lock-in period begins when the Sales and Purchase Agreement is registered with the Ministry of Tourism.
Income Declaration
There is no specific minimum income requirement, but applicants must declare their income source, such as pensions or fund withdrawals.
Eligibility for Dependents
Dependents include spouses, biological or adopted children, stepchildren, parents, parents-in-law, and disabled children of any age. Children can remain dependents until they are 34 years old, provided they are unmarried and not employed in Malaysia. Siblings and grandchildren are not eligible.
Age Requirements
The minimum age for applying is 21 for SEZ categories and 25 for all other categories.
Minimum Stay Requirements
Applicants over 50 years old do not need to meet a minimum stay requirement.
Applicants under 50 years old must stay in Malaysia for a cumulative total of at least 90 days annually across all participants in the application. This requirement is pro-rated for the first year and must be met annually; it cannot be carried forward.
Fixed Deposit Withdrawal
50% of the fixed deposit can be withdrawn immediately after submitting the Sales and Purchase Agreement. However, this is only applicable if the property is purchased after the visa is issued.
Withdrawals for education or medical expenses (excluding insurance premiums) are allowed, provided the receipts are dated after the visa issuance.
Property Purchase Deadline
Applicants must purchase the required property within 12 months of the visa issuance. Proof of purchase must include a certified Sales and Purchase Agreement approved by the income tax department.
Passport Transactions
All transactions involving the applicant’s passport must be conducted at the MM2H Centre in Putrajaya and cannot be processed outside Malaysia.
Adding Dependents
Applicants can add dependents to their visa after the initial approval.

For a summarized overview of these requirements, you can download the table here:

https://www.penangmyhome.com/MM2H.pdf.

Four Versions of New MM2H Visa

The new MM2H programme offers four categories, each catering to different needs and financial capacities. Here’s an overview of each version:

Platinum MM2H
This is the most premium option, offering a 20-year visa (5+5+5+5), renewed every five years. Platinum visa holders can work, establish, or invest in a company in Malaysia. They are also allowed to bring in a maid from their home country. Financial requirements include a deposit of USD1,000,000 in a Malaysian bank and the purchase of a residential property worth at least RM2,000,000. Additionally, applicants must pay a government participation fee of RM200,000.

Gold MM2H
The Gold visa provides a 15-year residency (5+5+5), renewed every five years. Unlike Platinum, Gold visa holders cannot work, invest, or set up businesses in Malaysia, nor are they allowed to bring in a maid. Applicants must deposit USD500,000 in a Malaysian bank and purchase a residential property valued at RM1,000,000 or more. The participation fee is set at RM5,000.

Silver MM2H
This is a shorter-term option, offering a five-year visa with subsequent renewals every five years. Silver visa holders are not permitted to work, invest, or employ a maid. The financial requirements include a deposit of USD150,000 in a Malaysian bank and the purchase of a residential property worth at least RM600,000. The government charges a participation fee of RM1,000.

SEZ / SFZ MM2H
The SEZ (Special Economic Zone) or SFZ (Special Financial Zone) visa provides a 10-year residency (5+5), renewable every five years. Similar to the Silver visa, holders cannot work, invest, or bring in a maid. Financial requirements vary by age: applicants under 50 must deposit USD64,000, while those over 50 need only USD32,000 in a Malaysian bank. The minimum residential property purchase price is set by the state and it must be bought from developer. The participation fee for this category is RM1,000.

Each version of the MM2H visa caters to specific lifestyles and financial capabilities, allowing applicants to choose the most suitable option based on their long-term goals in Malaysia.

Why Does the Malaysian Government Require Property Purchase for MM2H?

The Malaysian government’s decision to make property purchase compulsory for MM2H participants stems from practicality and long-term commitment. If you plan to make Malaysia your primary residence, owning a home is more economical and stable than renting. This requirement reflects the program’s focus on attracting residents who genuinely intend to settle down and contribute to the local economy over the long term, rather than those seeking a temporary arrangement.

What Documents Are Required for an MM2H Application?

The MM2H application requires a few key documents, including:

Letter of No Criminal Record: All applicants aged 18 and above must provide this document to confirm their clean legal history.
Certified Kinship Documents: These documents, such as marriage certificates and birth certificates, must be certified by a Malaysian Embassy or High Commission. They are essential for proving relationships, such as linking children to the main applicant or participants to their parents.

Other documents, like passport photocopies, recent photographs, and standard application forms, are straightforward and easy to prepare. These requirements ensure that all applicants and their dependents meet the program's criteria.

Will MM2H Change and How Will It Affect Me?

Yes, the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme can undergo changes. However, since its launch in 2002, the programme has maintained a level of stability. Although some adjustments have been made over the years, renewals have traditionally followed the same criteria under which participants originally applied. This means that existing participants can typically continue under the same terms they initially signed up for, contrary to the common perception of frequent changes.

For a deeper dive into common misconceptions surrounding MM2H, read our detailed article here:

https://www.alterdomus.com.my/post/debunking-myths-that-have-been-swirling-around-mm2h

According to recent reports, changes to MM2H requirements will be rare. As quoted in The Star, "The Special Committee has clarified that the newly implemented MM2H framework and regulations will not be modified after changes to the political landscape or Cabinet reshuffles."

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/18/three-tier-mm2h-to-be-a-permanent-feature-says-tiong

Sequence of Processing for MM2H Application

The process of applying for the MM2H visa involves several steps and careful preparation:

Document Preparation
Start by gathering critical documents, including a letter of no criminal record, marriage and birth certificates (for accompanying parents or children), and passports with at least two years of validity. These documents must be certified by a Malaysian embassy, which may take a few weeks.
Document Submission
Once prepared, scan and email the documents to us, followed by couriering the original copies. We will provide you with a complete checklist of required documents.
Application Submission
After collecting a 20% deposit of the application cost, we will submit your documents to the relevant authorities for MM2H visa processing.
Approval Waiting Period
The processing time typically takes 2-3 months. Upon approval, an official letter will be issued. You will have 90 days to collect your visa, and we recommend doing so within the first two months. Extensions are granted only in exceptional cases.
Visa Collection Requirements
To collect your visa, you must:
- Open a bank account in Malaysia and deposit the MM2H Fixed Deposit (in USD or MYR).
- Complete a medical checkup (MFII Health Check).
- Obtain local medical insurance
- For children aged 21-34, a Statutory Declaration of single status and proof of unemployment in Malaysia are also required.
Fee Payment and Passport Endorsement
We collect disbursement fees, which cover visa fees, medical checkups, basic medical insurance, security bond, application, and processing costs. We will take your passport, medical documents, bank lien letter, and other required forms to the MM2H Centre in Putrajaya for the visa to be issued. The final professional fee is collected upon returning your passport.
Property Purchase Submission
After receiving your visa, you have 12 months to submit the Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA), receipts, and invoices for your residential property purchase to MOTAC. It can take 1-6 months (depending on the state) to finalize the SPA. Failure to purchase a property or submit the documents within 12 months will result in visa cancellation.
If you already own property, you can use it provided:

Your name (or joint name with your spouse registered as a dependent) is on the SPA.
The property’s value meets the minimum requirement (e.g., RM600,000 for Silver category).
You forfeit the ability to withdraw 50% of your Fixed Deposit.

For properties purchased after visa issuance, you can withdraw 50% of your Fixed Deposit once the SPA is lodged with the MM2H Centre in Putrajaya.

The 90-day annual stay in Malaysia begins on the date your visa is issued and will be checked during visa renewal every five years.

We strongly advise working with us throughout the process. Avoid making independent arrangements with bankers, insurance agents, or property sellers, as incorrect information can lead to costly mistakes. Our network of experienced professionals ensures a smooth and accurate process from start to finish.

Why Hire an Agent for MM2H Application?

At first glance, the MM2H application process may seem simple enough to handle independently. However, the need for agents stems from challenges faced since the program’s inception, particularly issues of fraud and efficiency.

Fraud Prevention
When MM2H first began, fraud and abuse were significant concerns, both from agents and participants. While the Malaysian government can take action against local agents involved in misconduct, foreign participants, being mobile, could simply disappear once their fraudulent actions were exposed. For instance, we’ve encountered cases where individuals with questionable intentions sought advice to bypass the system and apply on their own.

To address this, the government introduced stricter measures in the latest MM2H program. Agents are now required to be relicensed and provide a substantial RM200,000 bank guarantee as a safeguard. This ensures that licensed agents are accountable and adhere to strict guidelines, reducing the risk of fraud.

Efficiency and Expertise
The MM2H One-Stop Centre, which handles applications, can be overwhelming for individuals unfamiliar with the process. Information isn’t always easy to find online, and language barriers between counter staff and participants who don’t speak fluent English can create confusion. Processing applications or renewals often involves lengthy discussions, repeated clarifications, and significant effort.

Agents streamline the process by handling these complexities on your behalf. We have the expertise to navigate the system efficiently, preventing unnecessary delays and ensuring that applications are submitted correctly the first time. Without proper guidance, individuals often face frustration, misunderstandings, and even conflicts with counter staff, which can slow down the system for everyone.

By working with a licensed agent, you minimize these risks and benefit from a smooth, stress-free process, backed by a professional team equipped to manage every detail.

Who Is Alter Domus (MM2H) Sdn. Bhd.?

Alter Domus (MM2H) Sdn. Bhd., often referred to as AD, is a licensed MM2H sponsor company, regulated by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture (MOTAC). Based in Penang, Malaysia, AD has been actively assisting clients with MM2H applications since 2006. Its origins trace back to 2004 when it operated as Alter Domus Management and Services, even before licensing requirements were introduced.

AD was the first company to receive an MM2H license in 2006 (MM2H/0001) and was relicensed in 2024 with the number MM2H810, a testament to its legacy and leadership in the industry. Of the original 20 license holders, only nine remain, and just three are authorized to process new applications. This enduring presence demonstrates AD’s unwavering commitment to the MM2H program.

Despite challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, AD has remained resilient, continuing to assist clients with new applications, visa renewals, and transfers, ensuring a smooth relocation process. Beyond MM2H applications, AD supports clients with tasks like importing pets, converting driving licenses, and moving household effects to Malaysia.

Why Choose Alter Domus (MM2H) Sdn. Bhd.?

With over 80 licensed MM2H agencies operating in Malaysia as of January 2025, AD stands out for several reasons:

Unparalleled Experience: Operating since 2004, AD has unmatched knowledge and experience, with a client base built over two decades.
Professional Operations: AD is managed professionally and employs a large team capable of handling high application volumes.
Vision and Values: As the only MM2H agency with a clear vision, mission, and value statement, AD is focused on delivering exceptional service. Click here to read more: https://www.alterdomus.com.my/about-alter-domus
Strategic Growth: Headquartered in a spacious three-story office in Georgetown, Penang, AD is expanding to Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru, with branch openings pending approval.
Reputation and Reviews: AD boasts excellent Google reviews, reflecting its commitment to client satisfaction and trustworthiness.
Comprehensive Support: Beyond MM2H, AD offers advice on socioeconomics, taxation, and investment strategies, creating a holistic support system for clients.

What Makes Alter Domus Special?

AD is more than just a service provider—it’s a reliable partner for your relocation journey. Here’s why:

Problem Solvers: If AD can’t help, they’ll connect you with someone who can.
Ethical Practices: Everything AD does is legal, ensuring a secure and honest process.
Long-Term Relationships: Many clients become friends, with AD providing ongoing advice and support beyond the initial application.
Local Expertise: Navigating MM2H and life in Malaysia requires local knowledge, which AD offers through decades of experience.
Advisory Approach: AD doesn’t just follow instructions; they guide you to make informed decisions, ensuring you don’t overlook critical details.

Two Words to Describe Alter Domus: We deliver!

To see client testimonials, visit the Malaysia My Second Home Facebook Group or follow this link to read feedback about Alter Domus: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3151159434956470/search/?q=alter%20domus

What Are the Costs of Applying for the MM2H Visa?

To successfully apply for the MM2H visa, you should budget at least USD 250,000 to cover all associated expenses. The most significant costs include the purchase of a property, followed by the required fixed deposit and agency fees. For those planning to make Malaysia their primary residence, the majority of these costs are one-time investments.

The Malaysian government has regulated agency fees for MM2H applications. You can find the official rules and fee structures on the Attorney General’s Chambers website:

https://lom.agc.gov.my/act-view.php?type=pua&no=P.U.%20(A)%20185/2024&status=PRINCIPAL%20

Before making a decision, we encourage you to reach out to us for a conversation. Our Managing Director, CH’NG Toh Ghee (TG), has extensive expertise in areas like economics, global politics, and current trends. TG’s deep insights and critical thinking can help you better understand the MM2H program and how it aligns with your goals.
For inquiries, you can email TG directly at tohghee.chng@alterdomus.com.my for personalized guidance.

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