Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa – How to Apply For Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa

Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa - How to Apply For Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa

Do you want to work remotely from a tropical but affordable destination? With Malaysia’s DE Rantau Nomad Pass, you can live legally in one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant countries while working as a freelancer, remote worker, or contract worker.

The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) created this visa in order to attract digital professionals from around the world and grow Malaysia’s digital ecosystem. You can live and work in Malaysia as a freelancer, remote employee, or digital consultant with the DE Rantau Nomad Pass for up to 12 months, with the option to renew.

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Eligibility Criteria of Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa

DE Rantau Nomad Pass applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • You must be at least 18 years old
  • Non-Malaysian passport holder
  • Have international freelance clients or work remotely for a foreign company
  • Maintain a monthly income of USD 2,000 or an annual income of USD 24,000
  • Show proof of employment, projects, or client contracts (minimum 3 months)
  • Work in a recognized field of digital technology
  • Be able to prove that you have valid health insurance in Malaysia
  • A police clearance or a letter of good conduct must be provided

How to Apply for DE Rantau Nomad Pass

You can apply online by following these steps:

  • Become a member of “MDEC DE Rantau” by registering and creating an account
  • Fill out the application form
  • Please upload all documents required
  • Pay application fees:
  • For the main applicant, RM 1,000 is required
  • Each dependent will be charged RM 500
  • Wait for processing: Approximately four to eight weeks
  • Get your letter of approval
  • Your digital nomad visa can be collected at the Expats Service Centre once you enter Malaysia

What is DE Rantau Nomad Pass?

DE Rantau Nomad Pass is Malaysia’s official digital nomad visa for location-independent workers who wish to experience the culture, lifestyle, and tech-friendly environment of Malaysia without breaking immigration rules.

Malaysian visa allows applicants to stay in the country for up to one year, bring their dependents, access digital nomad hubs, and enjoy the country’s relatively low cost of living, as well as excellent internet and infrastructure.

Who Can Apply for Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa

Non-Malaysian citizens who work remotely in digital-related fields are eligible for the DE Rantau Nomad Pass. The following applicants are eligible:

  • A freelancer or self-employed individual who offers digital services (e.g., a designer or marketer)
  • Employees working remotely for foreign companies
  • Providing global consulting services as an independent contractor

Accepted Industries:

  • It is essential that you work in one of the following sectors of the digital economy:
  • Information Technology (cybersecurity, Software development, cloud services)
  • SEO & Digital Marketing
  • Data Analytics, Blockchain and AI
  • UX/UI & Graphic Design
  • Digital Media, Project Management, Virtual Assistance

Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa By Video Guide

Required Documents for DE Rantau Visa

The following information must be gathered in order to apply:

  • Passport valid for at least 14 months
  • Passport photo
  • CV or resume that has been updated
  • Contract for freelance work or employment letter (minimum 3 months)
  • Bank statements or payslips (last 3 months, showing USD 2,000 per month)
  • Good conduct letter or police clearance letter
  • Malaysian health insurance policy
  • A copy of the education certificate (if available)
  • Personal bond form (downloadable from the MDEC portal)

The following information is for dependents:

  • Copies of passports
  • Marriage/Birth certificates
  • Relationship proof
  • Insurance

Cost of Living in Malaysia for Digital Nomads

For a modest budget, Malaysia offers an exceptional lifestyle. The average monthly costs for a solo nomad in the following cities: Kuala LumpurUSD 1,500–1,800PenangUSD 950–1,200LangkawiUSD 1,000–1,300Kota KinabaluUSD 900–1,100 Coworking spaces start at just USD 70/month and include reliable Wi-Fi, affordable meals, and public transportation.

Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa Duration & Renewal

  • The initial validity period is 12 months
  • Renewal: Another 12 months (based on updated proof of employment and income)
  • Maximum stay of 2 years

Malaysian Tax Implications for Digital Nomads

In Malaysia, foreign-sourced income is not taxed under the DE Rantau Nomad Pass.

  • If you meet the following criteria, you will not have to pay income tax in Malaysia:
  • Clients/employers outside Malaysia generate your income
  • Taxes may apply if you:
  • Provide services to Malaysian companies or clients

Make sure you are in compliance with the tax laws by consulting a local tax advisor.

Benefits of Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa

Malaysia is now the preferred destination for thousands of remote workers:

BenefitsDescription
Legal long-term stayStay in Malaysia for up to 12 months, which can be renewed
Family-friendlyYou can bring your spouse and children (under 18)
Modern infrastructureWi-Fi, coworking spaces, and transportation in cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang
Tax-free incomeIf you earn from non-Malaysian clients, there is no Malaysian income tax to pay
Affordable lifestyleIf you earn from non-Malaysian clients, there is no Malaysian income tax to pay
DE Rantau hubsAccess curated nomad-friendly spaces and networking opportunities

FAQs About Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa

Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) offers the digital nomad visa Malaysia, which is officially called the DE Rantau program1. Digital nomad passes for Malaysia were launched in October 2022, and they allow foreigners to work remotely or as freelancers in Malaysia for 3 to 12 months.

For both tech and non-tech remote workers, a minimum income of $24,000 USD is required. For foreign location-independent workers in the digital sphere, this visa is also referred to as the DE Rantau Nomad Pass. Initially, the visa allows for a stay of up to 12 months, which can be renewed.

There are two categories of digital nomads in Malaysia: Tax Residents and Non-Tax Residents. Tax Residents spend 182 days in Malaysia during the tax year. Based on their earnings, residents pay taxes ranging from 1% to 30%.

You must be at least 18 years old. You must prove your income on a monthly basis. Depending on the country, it can range from two to three times the minimum wage. Even basic living expenses may not be covered by it.

Remote workers can stay in Malaysia for an extended period of time and work remotely with the digital nomad visa. A valid work visa is required to live in Malaysia and living without one can result in imprisonment or deportation.

Conclusion

Malaysia DE Rantau Nomad Pass lets remote workers live and work legally in a modern, affordable, and vibrant country. It’s easy to apply, tax-friendly, and great for solo workers or families perfect for a digital nomad lifestyle.

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