Digital Nomad Visa in Malaysia
Updated on Tuesday 09th August 2022
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Just like many other countries, Malaysia has recently implemented the digital nomad visa. This type of visa allows relocation to Malaysia for remote work for citizens around the world. Find out in this article what are the formalities for obtaining a Malaysian digital nomad visa with the help of our team of immigration lawyers in Malaysia. We can also assist you if you want to make investments in this country, and need to know the formalities.
Formalities for Malaysian digital nomad visa
Single-entry, multiple-entry, and E-visa are the types of visas that a foreign citizen can obtain in order to access the nomadic digital program. The same type of visa is required for those who want to enter Malaysia for a certain period of time. However, there are countries whose citizens can immigrate to Malaysia without a visa and live for 90 or 30 days. Let's review other formalities for digital nomad visas in Malaysia:
- A valid passport is required.
- Proof of sufficient funds for the entire stay in Malaysia is required. USD 1,000 needs to be deposited in a bank account.
- Application form 47 must be completed.
- Two passport photos are required.
- A visa fee payment is required.
- The return ticket of the applicant is also needed.
These are just some of the goal-setting shareware that you can use. In order not to run into problems, we invite you to talk to our lawyer in Malaysia. He/she can prepare your documents and other formalities. Also, if you want to start a business in Malaysia, do not hesitate to ask for our support. You can solicit information about Malaysian freelance visa if interested in this topic, and about immigration to Malaysia.
Best destinations in Malaysia for digital nomads
The current social context allows remote work, including running a business, from other countries. If Malaysia is on your relocation list, then you should find out what digital nomads' favorite places to work are:
- Kuala Lumpur - The capital of Malaysia is among the favorite places of foreign citizens interested in Malaysian digital nomad visa. Many coworking spaces offer top facilities, including high-speed internet, private offices, etc.
- Langkawi - Located 30 kilometers off the west coast of Malaysia, Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 islands. It is known for its lack of customs duties.
- Malacca - It is a cultural city very visited by foreigners. Monthly costs do not exceed USD 1,000, and coworking spaces benefit from all facilities.
- Johor Bahru - Known as a good environment for business administration, the city is among the preferences of those interested in remote work and business. Cultural experience is also a plus.
- Penang - Considered the culinary capital of Malaysia, Penang is a true business center with top facilities for foreign investors. Those applying for digital nomad visas for Malaysia can put Penang on the list.
So, these are some of the top destinations for foreigners interested in Malaysian digital nomad visas. Our immigration lawyers in Malaysia can help you with the formalities related to this type of visa. Contact us if you need information about a freelance visa in Malaysia.
Freelancing in Malaysia
With over 4 million freelancers already active in Malaysia, the country offers great conditions for those who want to develop as self-employed. Although there is no dedicated program through which to obtain a Malaysian freelance visa, there is still the possibility of developing yourself in this form. Here are some formalities that you should take into account if you are interested in a freelance visa in Malaysia:
- You must register with the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia to obtain an income tax reference number. This number proves that you are a taxpayer in Malaysia.
- You must apply for an employment pass in Malaysia or have a permanent residence permit.
- A full CV and a freelance portfolio are also required.
- You must present a valid passport and the identity document from the country you come from.
These are among the most important formalities related to the Malaysian freelance visa, but all the details can be provided by one of our experts. They can offer complete details about immigration to Malaysia.
Types of freelancers in Malaysia
There are 3 types of freelancers in Malaysia, and you can opt for the most beneficial option. Let's review these freelance categories in Malaysia:
- Independent full-time freelancer - you can contract different jobs and negotiate budgets.
- Freelance management company - a company in Malaysia can hire the services you offer as a freelancer and a contract can be concluded in this regard. And in this situation, you can negotiate costs and budgets.
- Freelancers with working contracts – People who already have a work contract in Malaysia can also work as freelancers if the respective company accepts this. You can find out more about the Malaysian freelance visa from our local agents.
Types of freelance jobs you can develop in Malaysia
As a digital nomad in Malaysia, you can work on your own in most areas of interest, as long as they are not restricted in this country. Here are some examples in this sense:
- Content writer.
- Graphic designer.
- Web developer.
- Web designer.
- IT specialist.
- Marketing specialist.
- Financial consultant.
- Translator.
It is important to have a solid, professional portfolio and to demonstrate your skills in order to create a reputation. There are platforms that you can easily access if you want to work remotely with a digital nomad visa in Malaysia. Also, you can use social media channels to be able to promote your work and contract various people interested in the services you offer in Malaysia. More about freelance visa in Malaysia can be discussed with our local specialists.
Advantages of freelancers in Malaysia
Although there is no freelance visa in Malaysia, you can apply for a digital nomad visa in Malaysia, respecting the conditions related to the work permit and personal finances. Among the advantages offered to freelancers in Malaysia is the freedom to work because you are the one who decides on collaborations. In addition, because working as a freelancer in Malaysia means using the internet, you can benefit from attractive packages, at advantageous costs and services.
Also, there are many companies that prefer the services of freelancers due to the speed of work, experience, and affordable costs. So, if you want to be self-employed in Malaysia, you have every chance of development in this country.
Cost of living in Malaysia - What to consider
If Malaysia is on your list of digital nomadic destinations, then you need to know a little about the costs in this country:
- Wi-Fi internet access does not exceed USD 15 per month.
- One-bedroom apartments can be rented from USD 460 per month.
- The monthly costs for a person living in Kuala Lumpur can reach USD 480, while a family of 4 needs around USD 1,735.
- About USD 23 is the monthly cost for public transportation in Malaysia.
Therefore, if you are interested in a Malaysian digital nomad visa, please contact our law firm in Malaysia. We can handle formalities and work with immigration offices in Malaysia.