Malaysia is a country that almost everyone knows. The place needs no introduction as it is one of the top tourist destinations filled with picturesque places and delicious food spots.
For the digital nomads, here’s some good news. Malaysia has recently launched the Digital Nomad Visa, and it’s actually beneficial for those who would like to work from Malaysia, take time and explore what the country has to offer.
Here’s everything you need to know about Malaysia’s new Digital Nomad Visa.
Wondering if you need a visa for Malaysia? Check on iVisa.
What Is The Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa?
The Digital Nomad Visa, otherwise known as the De Rantau Nomad Pass Program visa, now allows people to work and live in Malaysia for up to 12 months initially.
So basically, if you are an entrepreneur, a freelancer, self-employed, or a remote worker, you can move to Malaysia and work from there.
The Digital Nomad Visa was made a reality by the Malaysian government in expectation of permanent investors and expats in Malaysia, thus aiming to give a significant boost to the country’s GDP.
Launched in October 2022, the visa allows remote workers to stay in the country for 12 months.
To apply, you will have to fill out the application, with the support of a visa agent, before entering Malaysia and submit the required document for the De Rantau Nomad Pass Program visa.
Don’t worry; everything is explained in detail below.
Who Is Eligible To Apply For The Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa
For you to apply and get a successful response for the Digital Nomad Visa that Malaysia offers, you will have to meet the following criteria:
- Have an annual income of over USD 24,000 per year
- Have an IT-related career for example a software developer or UX designer.
Even if you meet all of the requirements above, you are not guaranteed to receive your visa.
Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa Application Process
Here’s an overview of the digital nomad visa application process.
Documents
The following documents are mandatory:
Financial Proof
This proof shows that you are financially independent. You are required to provide a bank statement to prove that you have an annual income of over USD 24,000.
Proof Of Work
In order to successfully enter the country on the Digital Nomad Visa, you will need to prove that you are employed with the ability to work remotely, or that you are self-employed and that your company is registered outside of Malaysia.
You will also need to prove that you are working in an IT related field. You can find the list of accepted job positions on their website.
Other Documents
- A passport valid for at least 12 months
- Medical Insurance
- 2 color passport photos
How Long Can You Stay In Malaysia With The Digital Nomad Visa
The Digital Nomad Visa lasts for 3 months up to 12 months. There is also an option to extend this further once this time is complete.
How To Apply For The Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa
The application process is straightforward and can be completed online on the DE Rantau website or on iVisa.
The processing of the visa can take approximately 4 weeks once the application is complete.
It is recommended that you give yourself about a month to wait for the visa.
The visa cost is USD 218 The fee is essential for the processing of the paperwork you have submitted. So, in case your application is rejected or results in a failure, you won’t be getting a refund.
If you want to apply again, you will have to pay USD 218 again.
And that’s detailed and crisp info on how to get your hands on your Digital Nomad Visa. Count at least 4 weeks to get your visa, and then keep this in your mind and plan the rest of your trip.
This way, even if it takes a month, you can comfortably pack for Malaysia without any stress.
Best Places To Live In Malaysia For Digital Nomads
Malaysia is an excellent country for digital nomads. It has a lot of beautiful places where you can work and live comfortably.
Here are some of the best places in Malaysia for Digital Nomads.
Kuala Lumpur
The bustling city of Kuala Lumpur tops the list of best cities to live in Malaysia for multiple reasons. Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia’s capital and combines all the usual western amenities with a rich southeast Asian community feel.
As a result, life in Kuala Lumpur can be very comfortable. You’ll enjoy top-class restaurants dishing up every type of cuisine you can think of, colossal shopping malls, and an extensive and efficient public transportation system.
The city is highly international with a large expat community. In fact, it was rated as the number one city for expats in the world by CNBC.
The international vibe makes Kuala Lumpur easy to get by when you don’t know the local dialect.
There are plenty of job and business opportunities for foreigners, including IT, education, and even hospitality.
Both high-level and entry jobs are available for expats in the city. Plus, in the district Ampang, there are all the foreign embassies.
The cost of living is very low in Kuala Lumpur, with the monthly rent on a one-bedroom apartment rarely more than $500.
Penang
Penang is a well-known island just off the coast of Malaysia, connected to the mainland via two bridges. Penang is extremely popular with expats and has Malaysia’s second largest foreign community, just behind Kuala Lumpur.
Penang is ideal for expats and remote workers who want to enjoy western comforts and luxury amenities but without the hustle and bustle of a big city.
The pace of life is considerably slower in Penang compared to Kuala Lumpur, and it is just as much of a gastronomic hub as the capital city.
Another pro of living in here is the abundant nature at your doorstep. There is a small national park, beautiful botanical gardens, beaches, and lots of great places to go backpacking in Penang.
Most expats in Penang live near the beaches, such as Tanjung Bungah or Batu Ferringhi. On the other hand, Georgetown has recently become a digital nomad hotspot with many new coworking spaces.
The economy in Penang is another thing that draws expats to this Malaysian island. It has the lowest unemployment rate in the country, and there are plenty of jobs for expats too.
Malacca
Malacca (also spelled Melaka) may be lesser known than Kuala Lumpur and Penang. However, it is still one of the best cities in Malaysia for expats.
The port city is about 2 hours south of Kuala Lumpur. It is home to around 850,000 people, giving it a reasonably small town feel.
The city’s landscape, such as the coastal location and the Malacca River that runs through it, gives Malacca a charming and picturesque look. It is also conveniently located halfway between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, offering some fab weekend city breaks.
There is an established expat community in Malacca, but it is much smaller than in Kuala Lumpur and Penang.
Still, you’ll find enough foreign-owned businesses to make you feel at home. Many buildings have a European look, too, mainly Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences.
The city also has rich Chinese influences with the 17th-century Chinese Cheng Hoon Teng temple and a bustling Chinatown.
While there are not as many job opportunities as in Kuala Lumpur, there are still several international companies, including IT, engineering, and hospitality.
There are also a handful of high-quality international schools. Rental prices typically range from $200 to $300 for a one-bedroom apartment.
Johor Bahru
Johor Bahru (or Johor for short) is located at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, right above Singapore. It is a popular tourist destination among Singaporeans and a shopping, dining, and entertainment hub.
As a result, this lively yet cheap area is one of the best Malaysian cities and an excellent alternative to the high costs in Singapore.
Johor Bahru has an active expat community, with most foreigners living in East Ledang, Puteri Harbor, and Horizon Hills districts.
Expats here enjoy the city’s vibrant modern side and the beautiful Asian architecture from the Chinese and Indian temples and Malay mosques.
There are sufficient job opportunities in Johor, such as finance, HR, manufacturing, and construction. Plus, housing is cheaper than in Kuala Lumpur; you can typically find a one-bedroom apartment for $200 to $300 a month.
Langkawi
Langkawi is undoubtedly one of the best places to live in Malaysia for anyone who wants to enjoy a laid-back beach lifestyle. Langkawi is a duty-free island located about 30 km from the coast in northwestern Malaysia, close to Thailand.
The reasonably remote island is popular with tourists who stop by for a few days to relax on the beach and buy cheap alcohol, cosmetics, or designer clothes.
However, as Langkawi has rapidly developed over the last few years, more and more expats living and working in Malaysia are choosing to base themselves here.
Because of the recent development, there are many new and super spacious sea view condos and villas available to rent to buy.
Thus, Langkawi is ideal for groups of digital nomads wanting to spend a few months by the sea and retirees looking to buy a luxurious property in paradise.
However, the downside to Langkawi is that there is less to do here compared to the big Malaysian cities. Langkawi has a village feel where life is slower.
Ipoh
Ipoh is another fast-growing Malaysian city that is incredibly popular with tourists and thus, is now becoming favored by expats too. There is much to discover here, from limestone hills to cave temples to intriguing street murals.
Expats are also increasingly choosing Ipoh because the city is immaculate, with very little traffic and the locals are very friendly to foreigners.
The old town is very walkable, too, so you can stroll around admiring the architecture while taking advantage of the vibrant street food scene here.
Ipoh is the fourth-largest city in Malaysia, so while it is possible to find jobs for expats, there are fewer opportunities than in the bigger cities.
Still, for remote workers and retirees who are looking for a green, clean and peaceful place to stay, Ipoh is delightful.
Cost Of Living In Malaysia
Living in Malaysia is comparable to other hot spots in Southeast Asia. You can live a great comfortable life in Malaysia without spending too much.
While you could easily live in Malaysia for about USD 300 per month if you live in a hostel, you can have your own place for about USD 500 per month. It depends on the destination chosen and your lifestyle.
Malaysia is the kind of place where you can live well without spending too much, but it can also be expensive if you’re tempted by expensive restaurants or bars.
Many expats living in Malaysia love it because you can live here on a tight budget or forget about the money factor and simply enjoy your life without overthinking too much.
You can find cheap monthly rent or stay in a hostel. It’s entirely up to you!
Same regarding the food, you could either cook your own food or eat local food to save money – or you could also appreciate great meals in one of those Western restaurants.
Final Thoughts On Digital Nomads in Malaysia
Malaysia is a great country for digital nomads. It has a lot to offer in terms of infrastructure, food, and culture.
And it’s much cheaper to live here than in other Southeast Asian countries.
If you’re thinking of becoming a digital nomad, Malaysia is definitely a place you should consider.
Not sure if Malaysia is the right destination for you? Read one of the following guides:
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