Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa
Malaysia's DE Rantau Nomad Pass lets remote workers and freelancers earning from $24,000/year (digital roles), or $60,000/year for other professionals, live in Malaysia for up to two years, with foreign income exempt from tax through 2026.
Run by MDEC for Peninsular Malaysia and Labuan (a separate DE Rantau Sarawak pass covers Sarawak state). Open to most nationalities except Israel, with the income tier set by your role. Foreign-sourced income is currently tax-exempt under a relief scheduled to end on 31 December 2026. [Source: Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) ↗]
Updated: Eligibility broadened to non-tech professionals in 2024 and the maximum stay rose to 24 months in 2025; the foreign-income tax exemption is set to expire end-2026.
Key requirements
- Income from $24,000/year (digital/IT roles) or $60,000/year (other professionals), from non-Malaysian sources
- Active employment or project contract of 3+ months with a foreign employer or clients
- Health insurance valid in Malaysia for you and any dependents
- No working for Malaysian companies; open to most nationalities (not Israel)
Before you apply
Malaysia requires private health insurance for the application. A nomad policy (like SafetyWing or Genki) meets the requirement and covers you abroad.
Compare nomad insurance →Malaysia nomad visa FAQ
How much income do you need for the Malaysia digital nomad visa?
You need about From $24,000/year (~$2,000/month); $60,000/year for non-tech roles, shown from income earned outside Malaysia.
Who can apply for the Malaysia nomad visa?
All nationalities except Israel. It's for people working remotely (employed, freelance, business) for clients or employers outside Malaysia. Family can be included (Spouse, children and parents can join on dependent passes (extra fee each)).
How long is the Malaysia nomad visa valid?
It's granted for 12 months, renewable up to 2 years total. Processing typically takes ~6–8 weeks.
Do you pay tax in Malaysia as a digital nomad?
Staying 182+ days makes you a Malaysian tax resident. Foreign-sourced income is exempt under a relief in effect through 31 December 2026, so confirm the current status before relying on it.
Do you need health insurance for the Malaysia nomad visa?
Yes. Malaysia requires private health insurance covering your stay. Nomad policies like SafetyWing or Genki are built for this.
Compare other countries
Visa rules and income thresholds change and can vary by consulate. Confirm the current requirements with Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) before applying. This page is general information, not legal advice.