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As global economic dynamics continue to evolve, Malaysia stands out as a top destination for international residents and investors seeking long-term residency. With its strategic location, high quality of life, and business-friendly environment, Malaysia remains a preferred choice for families, retirees, and entrepreneurs alike. On May 28, 2025, the Malaysian government announced the latest updates to the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program, introducing greater flexibility and diversified options tailored to the varying needs of applicants.

What Is the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Program?

 

 

The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program is a long-term residence initiative launched by the Malaysian government to attract foreign nationals to live, invest, and retire in Malaysia. Successful applicants and their families are granted multiple-entry visas and enjoy residency privileges, investment opportunities, and access to healthcare and education services.

As of January 31, 2024, the program has issued over 56,000 active passes (including primary applicants and dependents), with Chinese nationals accounting for approximately 44% of participants.

 

Six Key Reasons Why MM2H Is So Popular

 

 

• Affordable Living Costs with High-QualityInfrastructure
• Strategic Location in Southeast Asia
• Pleasant Tropical Climate
• Accessible Age Requirements
• Language and Cultural Advantages
• Long-Term, Renewable Visas

 

Key Highlights of the 2025 MM2H Policy Updates

 

Stricter Property Purchase Requirements

• Platinum/Gold/Silver Categories: Property purchase must be completed within one year of visa approval; otherwise, the visa becomes invalid;
• Economic/Financial Zones : Johor’s Forest City only;
• Time of purchase:Property must be purchased before visa approval;
• Source of purchase:Only properties purchased directly from developers in Forest City are eligible (third-party transactions are not allowed);
• Reporting requirements:All property details must be reported to the Invest Malaysia Facilitation Centre – Johor(IMFC-J).

 

More Flexible Fixed Deposit Withdrawal Rules

Up to 50% of the required fixed deposit can be withdrawn for property purchases, provided:

• Platinum/Gold/Silver: The property was purchased within two years before visa approval;
• Economic/Financial Zones: The property was purchased within six months before visa approval;
• Deposit Currency Recommendations:Deposits are encouraged to be made in Malaysian Ringgit (MYR), equivalent in value to the required USD amounts per category.

 

New Procedural Requirements

• Random Interviews: Selected applicants may be interviewed by the Royal Malaysia Police(PDRM) as part of the security vetting process;
• Housing Information Form: A new MM2H Housing Information Confirmation Form must be submitted to the One-Stop Centre (OSC MM2H);
• Conditional Approval Letters: Applicants needing to supplement documents (e.g., proof of income or family details) will receive a “conditional approval letter” alongside a “letter of intent.”

 

Redefined Economic/Financial Zones

• Unique Designated Purchase Area:Forest City in Johor
• Purchase and Visa Sequence:Applicants must complete the property purchase prior to visa application—indicating a strong policy direction towards structured investment.

 

 

Application Requirements and Process

 

Benefits and Eligibility

 

Application Process Overview

• Step 1: Submission of materials and documents:Submit required documents including valid passport, application forms, and financial proof via the MM2H online portal, and pay applicable fees.
• Step 2: Conditional Approval:The Immigration Department reviews the application and issues a conditional approval letter upon initial clearance. Additional documents (e.g., property ownership) must then be submitted.
• Step 3: Visa Issuance & Final Procedures:Apply for the entry visa and complete post-arrival procedures, such as medical screening.

 

Who Should Apply?

• Families seeking cost-effective relocation in Southeast Asia
• Parents aiming to provide international education for their children
• Retirees looking for high-quality, affordable lifestyles
• Entrepreneurs interested in expanding into the Southeast Asia market

 

Conclusion

The Malaysia My Second Home program offers more than just residency—it’s an invitation to a vibrant lifestyle marked by affordability, comfort, and opportunity. With the 2025 policy updates, MM2H is now more attractive and accessible than ever. SIG Global advises interested applicants to plan early, fully understand the policy details, and seize this rare opportunity for migration and investment to start a new chapter of your life in Malaysia.