Malaysia

Asia's gem with a low cost of living

CapitalKuala Lumpur

Population33M

LanguageMalay (Bahasa Malaysia), English widely spoken

Average salary3,000–6,000 MYR/mo

About Malaysia

Malaysia attracts expats with affordable prices, a warm climate, developed infrastructure, and a multicultural society. The MM2H (Malaysia My Second Home) programme is one of the most popular long-stay schemes in the world, and the DE Rantau pass gives digital nomads a fast, low-cost entry route.

Visa routes

Financial Independence

🏡 MM2H (My Second Home)

Long-term residence for financially independent foreigners who want Malaysia as a stable base.

5 years (Silver), 15 years (Gold), 20 years (Platinum) · 3–6 months

Employment

👔 Employment Pass

Work residence pass for skilled employees hired by a Malaysian company.

1–2 years · 1–2 months

Remote Work

💻 DE Rantau (Digital Nomad)

Digital nomad pass for remote professionals, freelancers, and IT specialists working for foreign clients.

1 year, renewable · 2–4 weeks

Education

🎓 Student Pass

For international students admitted to Malaysian universities and approved institutions.

Duration of study · 4–6 weeks

Check which visa fits your profile →

Cost of living

🏡 Housing1,800 MYR

🍔 Food950 MYR

🚇 Transport250 MYR

💡 Utilities150 MYR

📡 Internet130 MYR

🎬 Entertainment600 MYR

🏥 Healthcare300 MYR

Estimated monthly total4,180 MYR

Open the full Cost of Living Calculator →

Advantages

Cost of living 60–70% lower than Europe
English widely spoken in business
World-class infrastructure in Kuala Lumpur
DE Rantau: fast, low-cost digital nomad entry

Disadvantages

MM2H primary tier requires a significant fixed deposit
No citizenship path from MM2H or DE Rantau
Hot and humid year-round
Seasonal haze from regional agricultural fires

Plan your move to Malaysia

Budget CalculatorPlan salary & expenses Cost of LivingEstimate monthly costs Relocation CostOne-time moving costs Visa EligibilityCheck which visas fit