Malaysia digital nomad visa (2026)

Who can apply

Open to all nationalities except Israel.

• Remote worker with a foreign employer, or freelancer with foreign clients
• Active contract longer than 3 months
• Annual income above USD 36,000 (tech) or USD 60,000 (listed non-tech roles)
• Any nationality except Israeli

Income requirement

You need to show at least USD 36,000 per year (tech); USD 60,000 per year (non-tech). From 1 December 2026 tech talent needs more than USD 36,000 a year (previously USD 24,000) and non-tech roles more than USD 60,000; the same threshold applies at renewal.

Documents you need

• Valid passport
• Active employment contract or up to 3 project contracts with foreign clients
• Proof of annual income
• Documents for dependants (spouse, children, parents of main holder)

How to apply, step by step

1. Register on the DE Rantau platform (you can apply from outside Malaysia)
2. Submit the application with contracts and income proof
3. Pay the pass fee after approval
4. Enter Malaysia and collect or activate the Professional Visit Pass

Cost and processing time

The fee is mYR 1,000 (main applicant); MYR 500 per dependant. Processing takes not published. Budget extra for translations, certified copies and health insurance.

Tax

MDEC's pages do not set a tax rule. Malaysian tax residency usually starts after 182 days in a year; check with the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN).

Good to know

• New applications paused 1–30 November 2026; renewals continue
• The pass does not lead to permanent residence
• Renewals can be filed up to 3 months before expiry

Visiting first?

165 passports can enter Malaysia visa-free for a short stay, a common way to try the country before applying. Check Malaysia visa requirements for your passport.

Official source

MDEC – DE Rantau Digital Nomad Pass

Not yet confirmed on an official source: processing time, documents, tax. Check these with the consulate before you apply.