Types of Residency in Malaysia
Malaysia offers various types of residency permits for foreigners based on their purpose of stay, employment status, and duration of stay. Here are some of the types of residency available in Malaysia:
1. Visit Pass
A visit pass is a temporary residency permit that allows foreign nationals to stay in Malaysia for tourism, business, or medical treatment purposes for a limited duration. A visit pass can be issued for up to 90 days or 180 days, depending on the purpose of the visit.
2. Employment Pass
An employment pass is a type of work permit issued to foreign nationals who are skilled professionals, managers, or executives. The employment pass is valid for a period of two years and can be renewed as long as the employment status remains the same.
3. Residence Pass-Talent (RP-T)
The Residence Pass-Talent is a long-term residency permit for foreign professionals with expertise in key economic sectors such as oil and gas, green technology, and healthcare. This permit is issued for up to five years and is renewable.
4. Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H)
Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) is a long-term social visit visa that is issued to foreigners who wish to stay in Malaysia on a long-term basis. The MM2H visa is valid for up to 10 years and is renewable.
5. Spouse Visa
Spouse visas are issued to foreign nationals who are married to Malaysian citizens or permanent residents. This type of visa allows the foreign spouse to live and work in Malaysia.
Process for Applying for Residency in Malaysia
The process for applying for residency in Malaysia varies depending on the type of visa that an expat is seeking. Here are the general steps for obtaining a residency permit in Malaysia:
Determine the type of visa that is suitable for your purpose of stay and eligibility.
Submit your application to the relevant authority or department. For example, employment pass applications are submitted to the Malaysia Expatriate Talent Service Center (MYXpats).
Once the application is approved, the expat will receive a letter of approval or an endorsement from the relevant department.
The expat will need to visit the Malaysian embassy in their home country to collect their visa.
Upon arrival in Malaysia, the expat must complete the registration process with the Immigration Department within 30 days.
Documents Required for Residency in Malaysia
The documents required for residency in Malaysia may vary depending on the type of visa that the expat is seeking. However, here are some of the documents that are commonly required:
- Valid passport
- Passport-sized photographs
- Health certificate
- Proof of financial means
- Educational and work experience certificates
- Job offer letter or employment contract (for work permits)
- Marriage certificate (for spouse visas)
Registration with Government Departments in Malaysia
Foreign nationals are required to register with the Immigration Department within 30 days of their arrival in Malaysia. They must also obtain a Malaysia ID card, also known as MyKad, if they intend to stay in Malaysia for an extended period.
Resources for Residency in Malaysia
The Malaysian government’s official website, myGovernment, provides up-to-date information on visas, work permits, and residency in Malaysia. The Malaysian Immigration Department website also provides information on residency and the required application procedures.
Other useful resources for expats include the website of the Malaysian Association of Expatriates and the Expatriate Lifestyle website. Both resources provide useful information on living, working, and investing in Malaysia.