Warm weather, great food, good healthcare and a lower cost of living. It’s easy to see why so many people dream of retiring or settling in Malaysia.
The most popular route for long stays is Malaysia My Second Home, better known as MM2H. Since its relaunch in 2024, though, the rules look very different from what you may have read a few years ago. This guide explains how the MM2H programme works today: the tiers, the money and property you’ll need, who you can bring with you and the steps to apply.
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What is the MM2H programme?
MM2H is a long-term social visit pass for foreigners who want to live in Malaysia. It’s run by MOTAC, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, together with the Immigration Department.
Unlike an employment pass, MM2H isn’t tied to a job. It’s designed for retirees, remote workers, investors and families who can show they have the financial means to support themselves here. In return, you get a renewable pass that lets you live in Malaysia for years at a time.
The 2024 relaunch brought three big changes: a tiered structure, fixed deposits set in US dollars, and a compulsory property purchase. Applications are also now made through MOTAC-licensed MM2H agents.
The tiers at a glance
There are three main tiers, plus a separate Special Economic Zone (SEZ) option for selected areas. The higher the tier, the larger the deposit and the longer the pass.
MM2H tiers (Peninsular Malaysia)
| Tier | Fixed deposit | Minimum property | Pass validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silver | USD 150,000 | RM600,000 | 5 years |
| Gold | USD 500,000 | RM1 million | 15 years |
| Platinum | USD 1 million | RM2 million | 20 years |
Figures as published for 2026. Passes are renewable. Property minimums can differ by state, and SEZ areas have their own lower requirements. Always confirm the latest figures with MOTAC before you plan your budget.
Most applicants start with Silver. Gold and Platinum suit people who want a much longer pass, and Platinum is generally the only tier that allows business and employment activities, with approval.
Other key requirements
Beyond the deposit and property, the main conditions are:
- Minimum age: 25 for Silver, Gold and Platinum (the SEZ option has a lower minimum age)
- Property purchase: a residential property at or above the minimum price for your tier and state, generally within a set period after approval
- Minimum stay: around 90 days a year in Malaysia, which may be counted across your household
- Fixed deposit withdrawals: part of the deposit can usually be withdrawn for approved purposes, such as your property purchase, medical costs or children’s education
- Medical check and insurance: required for you and your dependants
- Government fees: a participation fee that varies by tier, plus visa fees
If you’ve read older MM2H guides, ignore their figures. The deposits, income rules and property requirements have all changed since the programme was relaunched.
Bringing your family
One of the biggest draws of MM2H is that your family can come too. Dependants can usually include:
- Your spouse
- Unmarried children up to a set age limit, with no limit for children with disabilities
- Your parents and parents-in-law
Each dependant needs a medical check and insurance. Children who are studying here may also need a student pass, depending on their school. If you’re moving for work instead, a dependent pass under an employment pass may suit you better.
How to apply for the MM2H programme
Under the current rules, you apply through a MOTAC-licensed MM2H agent rather than on your own. The process usually runs like this:
1. Choose your tier
Compare the tiers against your budget, how long you want to stay and whether you need to work or invest.
2. Prepare and submit your application
Your licensed agent collects your forms, financial proof, medical reports and family documents, and submits them through the official MM2H system.
3. Receive conditional approval
If MOTAC approves your application, you’ll receive a conditional approval letter. This stage typically takes several months.
4. Place your fixed deposit and buy your property
Open an account with a Malaysian bank, place the fixed deposit in US dollars and complete your property purchase within the required time.
5. Get your pass endorsed
With the conditions met, you complete your medical check and insurance, pay the fees and have the MM2H pass endorsed in your passport.
Good to know: MOTAC publishes the list of licensed MM2H agents on its website. Check that any agent you speak to appears on that list before paying any fees.
Documents to prepare
Your agent will give you MOTAC’s latest checklist. Most applications include:
- Passport copies for you and each dependant
- Official application forms, including the visa and visit pass forms
- A resume in the required format
- Proof of income and financial assets
- Marriage and birth certificates for dependants
- Medical reports
- Passport-sized photos
Tips before you commit
- Budget for the full cost. Beyond the deposit and property, allow for government fees, SST, insurance, legal fees and agent fees.
- Choose the property carefully. You’ll be holding it for years, so think about resale value, not just the minimum price.
- Plan for the stay rule. Make sure you can spend enough time in Malaysia each year.
- Get figures in writing. Ask your agent to confirm every requirement against MOTAC’s latest guidelines.
Final thoughts
The relaunched MM2H asks for a bigger financial commitment than before, but it still offers one of the simplest ways to make Malaysia your long-term home, with your family alongside you.
The key is choosing the right tier, budgeting for the full cost and working with a licensed agent who keeps you up to date. Our MM2H agent team can walk you through the current requirements and help you decide whether the programme is right for you.
