The Malaysia digital nomad visa offers remote workers an exciting opportunity to explore the rich culture and stunning landscapes of this Southeast Asian nation while maintaining their professional commitments.
Officially known as the DE Rantau Digital Nomad Pass, this visa allows digital nomads to live in Malaysia for one year, with the option to renew for an additional year.
Our quick guide covers the essential requirements and steps to securing a Malaysian digital nomad visa, making it easier for you to embark on your journey in this vibrant country.
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Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa
Visa Requirements & How to Apply
We aim to provide a quick but accurate synopsis of the Malaysia digital nomad visa requirements and steps. Please contact us and let us know if we need to make any corrections.
Country: | Malaysia |
Currency: | Malaysian Ringgit or MYR Important Note: We list all digital nomad visa costs and requirements below in US dollars or USD ($). |
Visa Category: | Digital Nomad Visa Malaysia (DE Rantau Digital Nomad Pass) |
Visa Length: | 3 to 12 months (1 year) |
Renewable Visa? | Yes. You can renew for an additional year. |
Visa Cost: | About $215 (1,000 MYR) for the main person and $108 (500 MYR) for dependents |
Income Requirements: | $24,000 annual income |
Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa Tax: | You are taxed on your income. (Check your tax obligations in your home country.) |
Dependents Allowed? | Yes. You can bring a dependent spouse and children. The application fee is about $105 (500 MYR) per dependent. |
Application Location Options: | Apply from your home country or from overseas. |
Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
Important Note: All documents must be officially translated into English.
- Passport with a minimum of 14 months validity left and six empty pages
- Certificate from your highest level of education
- Current resume (CV)
- A letter for good conduct from an authority body in your country of residence
- Proof of remote work (e.g., contract or letter from employer, for freelancers, contracts, emails, or other relevant documentation)
- Pay slips from the past three months for employees or contracts from the past three months if you’re self-employed or a freelancer
- Income statements from the previous three months or last year’s tax return
- Bank statements from the previous three months
- Registration tax slip from the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia
- Proof of medical insurance that covers you in Malaysia
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We use Genki nomad insurance. They have long-term and short-term travel insurance options.
4 Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa Application Steps
You must create an account, pay the application fee (which is 50% refundable), and apply through Malaysia’s online portal.
Submit all required documents online.
Wait for approval (about six to eight weeks). You can check the status of your visa on the Malaysia Digital portal.
Upon approval, hard copies of all documents submitted online must be delivered to the address below.
Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation Sdn Bhd
2360 Persiaran APEC
63000 Cyberjaya Selangor Darul Ehsan
For Issuance of Pass:
Expats Service Centre 2nd Floor,
Prima 8, Block 3508,
Jalan Teknokrat 6, Cyber 5,
63000 Cyberjaya, Selangor Malaysia
Operating hours are 8.30 a.m. until 1.00 p.m. on Monday to Thursday and 8.30 a.m. until 12.00 p.m. on Friday.
Pros and Cons of Being a Digital Nomad in Malaysia
If you’re considering working and living in Malaysia as a digital nomad, weigh the pros and the cons.
Benefits of Living in Malaysia
- Modern infrastructure
- English is widely spoken
- Reliable public transportation systems
- Co-working spaces
- Diverse culture
- Stunning natural landscapes
Disadvantages of Living in Malaysia
- Humid climate
- Poor air quality in urban areas
- Traffic congestion
- Prone to natural disasters such as floods
Average Monthly Costs of Living in Malaysia (USD)
1 Bedroom Apartment: | $300 to $650+ |
Food: | $200 to $300+ per adult |
Utilities: | $50 to $100+ |
Data Plan: | $8 to $20+ for a 10 GB data plan |
Single Fare Public Transport: | $0.65+ |
5 Top Cities in Malaysia for Digital Nomads
- Ipoh
- Johor Bahru
- Kuala Lumpur (capital city)
- Kuching
- Penang (George Town)
6 Top Things To Do in Malaysia
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- Borneo: Have a wildlife adventure in some of the world’s oldest rainforests, visit Sepilok Orangutan Rehab Centre, cruise along the Kinabatangan River, or see the Mulu National Park caves.
- Taman Negara: Go on guided jungle walks, canopy walks, and night safaris to spot various wildlife, such as tigers, elephants, and rhinoceroses.
- Cameron Highlands: Trek through tea plantations, visit strawberry farms, and enjoy splendid views of the lush rolling hills.
- Perhentian Islands: Snorkel, dive, or relax on the beach, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life.
- Malacca: Learn about history and culture at this UNESCO site known for beautiful colonial buildings, ancient temples, and colorful street art.
- Penang: Stroll along the charming streets of George Town and admire the well-preserved colonial architecture and eclectic mix of cultures.
We’ve curated seven affordable, high-quality Malaysia excursions that Viator offers. You can book ahead and cancel free of charge.
Digital Nomad Visa for Malaysia Summary
By following the outlined application process and meeting the requirements, remote workers can enjoy a unique lifestyle filled with cultural experiences and breathtaking natural beauty.
Whether you’re drawn to the bustling streets of Kuala Lumpur or the tranquil beaches of the Perhentian Islands, the Malaysia digital nomad visa serves as your gateway to an enriching adventure in one of the region’s most captivating destinations. If this one isn’t for you, explore other digital nomad visas.
Digital Nomad Visa Malaysia FAQs
These are the most frequently asked questions about this visa. There is also an official FAQ page for the digital nomad visa in Malaysia.
Does Malaysia have a digital nomad visa?
Yes. Malaysia offers a digital nomad visa called the DE Rantau Digital Nomad Pass.
What is the minimum income for a digital nomad visa in Malaysia?
The minimum income requirement for the Malaysia digital nomad visa is approximately $24,000 (USD) annually ($2,000 per month).
Do digital nomads pay taxes in Malaysia?
Yes. Digital nomads are required to pay taxes in Malaysia if they meet certain income thresholds.
Can I work remotely in Malaysia with a tourist visa?
No. You cannot work remotely in Malaysia with a tourist visa, as it does not permit employment.