FAQ

The Malaysia Premium Visa Programme (PVIP) is a long-term residency visa utilising the “Residency Through Investment” concept that allows foreigners to live, work, study, invest and reside in Malaysia for up to 20 years, with an option to extend for another 20 years thereafter.

Our FAQ brings you the most up-to-date guide and detailed answers from our team of experts; with an overview of the various aspects of the PVIP scheme, and step by step tutorials to help you navigate through the complete application processes, ensuring you have all the information that you need at an instance to take that first step to apply, relocate and finally reside in Malaysia. We help you learn more about your eligibility, criteria matching and assist you in the application processes and procedures.

Do feel free to contact us if you have more questions, or seek additional information or assistance. We are here to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Malaysia Premium Visa Programme (PVIP)

PVIP Malaysia is a long-term residency visa that enables investors, entrepreneurs, and foreign talents to live and work or study in Malaysia for up to 20 years, and with an option to extend for another 20 years.

What are the benefits of PVIP?

No age limits;
Up to 20 years Multiple Entry Visa (MEV)
Exemption of the minimum staying requirement;
Participants are also allowed to work and carry out legal business activities in accordance with the laws of the country;
Permission to study;
Permission to purchase real estate for residential, commercial or industrial purposes;
Conduct active investments in permitted fields; and
Participants can be accompanied by spouses, children, parents and foreign domestic helpers.

What are the application requirements?

Earn an offshore / onshore income of RM 40,000 monthly or RM 480,000 annually;
Open a Fixed Deposit account of RM 1 million with a licensed bank in Malaysia;
To pay Participation Fees (RM 200,000 for Principal and RM 50,000 or RM 100,000 for each dependent); and
All applications are required to be made through an authorised agency appointed by the Immigration Department of Malaysia (IDM)

What happens when my children (dependants) reach 25 years old?

They could top up the RM 100,000 participation fee, and meets all the income requirements to become a new Principal if they wished to continue using the PVIP visa.

If my application is rejected, can I appeal? Will my deposit be refunded?

Yes, we will appeal on our client's behalf and determine the reason for the rejection. Unfortunately, the deposit of the 1% Principal Participation Fee is non-refundable.

Can I purchase any type of property under my PVIP, or are there limits on the type of property, value and approvals?

Yes, PVIP holders are free to purchase any type of property in Malaysia, including residential, commercial, and industrial, under PVIP. The only thing to note is that each state has its own property regulations, which may include minimum purchase values or special approval requirements for foreign buyers.

What are the differences in property purchase rules between PVIP and MM2H?

You are free to purchase any type of property in Malaysia under PVIP. In contrast, MM2H holders are generally limited to purchasing residential properties only. Both PVIP and MM2H holders must comply with each state’s property regulations.

Can I rent out the property I purchase, or is it only for my own stay under my PVIP?

Yes, you're allowed to rent out the property you purchase. It has no restriction under PVIP, as you're allowed to do investments under PVIP.

Do I need to reapply for my PVIP visa after 20 years, or can it simply be renewed?

Yes, the PVIP visa is renewable after 20 years. At present, the renewal process involves paying 50% of the government participation fee. However, this policy may be revised in the future. Kindly keep in contact with us to stay updated once the authorities provide further confirmation.

What happens if I pass away—can my family continue to stay under my PVIP Dependent visa?

Unfortunately, the visa is not transferable to next-of-kin under the current PVIP conditions. This means your family members will not be able to continue staying in Malaysia under your PVIP status.

How do I transfer my PVIP visa to the newly issued passport if I lose my passport?

You may contact us for assistance with the transfer process. It is straightforward to provide a police report of the loss along with your new passport, and the PVIP visa will be reissued without affecting your visa status.

Can PVIP holders get access to public healthcare?

PVIP holders can access both public and private healthcare services in Malaysia. Private healthcare has the advantage of shorter waiting times and a wider range of services, but you are free to use either option.

Do PVIP holders need medical insurance in Malaysia?

Yes, Malaysia medical insurance coverage is mandatory for PVIP holders who are below 60 years old. You are exempt from this requirement once you are over 60 years old.

Does my PVIP visa give me Permanent Residence (PR) status in Malaysia?

No, the PVIP visa doesn't automatically grant Permanent Residence status. It is a 20-year renewable long-term visa, which offers similar benefits to residents, such as the ability to access public healthcare, no minimum residency requirement, working and business rights, without the need for a PR.

What are the financial criteria?

To provide financial statement(s) proof of monthly income of RM 40,000 or RM 480,000 annually;
To place a Fixed Deposit of RM 1 million, and be eligible to withdraw up to 50% after the first 6 months from the date of first PVIP endorsement.
To pay the Participation Fees for RM 200,000 (Principal Applicant) and RM 50,000 or RM 100,000 for each Dependent, upon application approval.

Can I withdraw the fixed deposit after ONE (1) year from the date of the first PVIP endorsement?

Up to 50% of the principal amount withdrawal is permitted, after 6 months from the date of first PVIP endorsement for property purchase, medical, and educational expenses only in Malaysia.

Can I use the RM 1 million investment to purchase property instead of pledging it as a fixed deposit with a bank?

Unfortunately, it is not allowed. The RM 1 million must be placed as a fixed deposit in the bank with no withdrawal allowed for the first year. However, you can withdraw up to RM 500,000 after 6 months for the purpose of medical, education expenses and purchasing property purposes. Interests earned from the Fixed Deposit are allowed to withdraw for daily use.

Do I own the RM1,000,000 Fixed Deposit under the PVIP, or is it placed under Malaysia Immigration?

Yes, the Fixed Deposit is fully placed under the applicant’s personal name in any Malaysian licensed Bank. Malaysia Immigration has no authority to withdraw or use the funds.

Can I withdraw my Fixed Deposit once I have cancelled my PVIP or after my visa has expired?

Yes, you are allowed to withdraw the Fixed Deposit in full after the necessary process. Malaysia Immigration will issue a release letter to the bank once your visa has officially terminated for the Fixed Deposit Withdrawal purpose.

Do I receive the Fixed Deposit interest under my PVIP?

Yes, you will receive yearly interest from the Fixed Deposit.

Can I use the Fixed Deposit Interest under my PVIP?

Yes, it can be used freely. You may confirm with the banker at the time of placing the Fixed Deposit whether the interest will be rolled over into the Fixed Deposit or credited directly to your personal account.

Can I place the Fixed Deposit in a joint name account?

Yes, you can place the Fixed Deposit in a joint name account with your legal spouse, if he or she has been included as a PVIP Dependent.

If my financial situation changes after I receive my PVIP approval, will it impact my visa status?

No, it will not affect your visa status. The only exception to this is if you used Rental Income as the primary source of income on the initial application. If you are no longer receiving rental income, you will need to provide another source of income on every 5-year renewal.

Do I need to provide pension income or my savings to continue the PVIP visa if I retired within the 20 years after my PVIP approval?

No, you are not required to provide any income proof or savings after the approval. You will be granted a full 20-year period once your PVIP is approved. However, if you are using Rental Income as a primary source of income, then yes, you will need to provide the source of income for every 5-year renewal.

Do I need to fulfil the offshore income proof requirement when doing the 20-year renewal after my initial 20-year?

The official 20-year renewal requirement has not been announced by Immigration Malaysia. Applicants may need to meet certain requirements in place at that time, which could include some financial documents. We will keep all PVIP holders updated once the renewal process is confirmed.

In the event of the PVIP principal's death, will the Fixed Deposit and assets be passed on to the heir?

Yes. In the event of death, the Fixed Deposit and other assets can be inherited by the legal heir(s) according to Malaysian inheritance law as stated in the principal’s will. Immigration has no ownership or claim over the funds.

Do I need to prepare a will in Malaysia?

It is not compulsory, but we highly recommend preparing a will in Malaysia to ensure your assets are distributed smoothly according to your wishes and prevent delays or complications in the inheritance process for your heir(s).

Do my heir(s) need to pay inheritance tax in Malaysia?

No, your heir(s) can inherit your Malaysian assets without paying inheritance tax, as Malaysia doesn't impose inheritance tax. However, heir(s) might need to bear certain costs related to the legal process of the distribution, such as probate, letter of administration and other administrative fees.

How do I submit my application?

All applications MUST go through an appointed PVIP agent registered with the Malaysia Immigration Department.

Must I contact a PVIP agent?

Yes. Applications can only be processed by an appointed PVIP agent who is registered with the Malaysia Immigration Department.

If I have dual citizenship, do I have to provide a letter of good conduct for both countries?

It depends. You may provide a letter of good conduct from the country where you are currently residing or the country of origin. If you are using a Caribbean country's citizenship to apply for PVIP, you must provide a letter of good conduct from your country of origin.

Will I lose my current citizenship when applying for PVIP?

No. You won't lose your citizenship, as this is a long-term visa instead of a citizenship application.

Can I use a joint account with my spouse for financial proof?

Yes, you may use it. However, only the principal applicant’s income reflected in the account will be considered as valid proof of offshore income.

Do my dependents need to provide financial proof for the PVIP?

No. The financial requirements apply only to the principal applicant.

Will I qualify if I provide property, shareholdings, cash, or overall net worth as proof of offshore income?

No, the requirement must be met through sustainable income such as salary, dividends, commissions, rental, pensions, investment realised income, fixed deposit, and others. Please contact us for further consultation.

What happens if my bank issues the statement electronically without a physical stamp?

You may get the bank statement notarised by a notary public or certified with a CTC stamp by a lawyer.

Do I need to be physically in Malaysia during submission, or can my agent submit on my behalf?

No, you are not required to be physically present in Malaysia for the submission. As your appointed agent, we will handle the entire process on your behalf—from submission to visa collection. Applicants will be required to visit Kuala Lumpur for the PVIP visa collection after the approval.

Do I have to inform the authorities if my situation changes during processing, for example, relocation, change of marital status or nationality?

Yes, you must inform us immediately of any changes to your personal or professional circumstances during processing, as they may affect your application outcome.

Do I have the option to withdraw my ongoing application and initiate a new submission later on?

Yes, you may withdraw your application and reapply at a later stage when you are ready. Please note that all supporting documents - such as bank statements and the Letter of Good Conduct must be updated before resubmission.

What is the definition of Dependant(s)?

Dependant(s) are as follows, and the pass is issued to the person who has an immediate relationship with the Principal Applicant:
Legal Spouse(s) of Principal Applicant;
Child(ren) below 25 years old (biological / stepchild / legally adopted) of the Principal Applicant;
Disabled Child(ren) regardless of age (provision of a letter of confirmation from a medical specialist / general practitioner);
Parent(s) and in-law(s) of the Principal Applicant.

Can I bring my foreign domestic helper?

Principal PVIP pass holders are allowed to bring in one domestic helper from the country of origin, subject to existing foreign domestic helper regulations.

If I get divorced, does my spouse lose the dependent visa immediately?

In the event of divorce, the principal holder needs to notify the PVIP Department or your appointed PVIP agency, so the dependent visa status can be updated accordingly. Please note that updated proof of relationship with dependents (Birth Certificate / Marriage Certificate) is required at every 5-year renewal.

What happens if my child turns 25 years old while on the dependent visa?

Your children will not be entitled to the PVIP dependent visa; he/she will need to apply and become the principal of PVIP or convert to another visa in Malaysia.

Is there a maximum number of dependents I can include under one main applicant?

No, there is no maximum number of dependents you can include as long as the dependents are your spouse, parents, parents-in-law, and children under 25 years old.

Do I have the option for my dependent to become the principal applicant in the future?

Yes, this is possible. Your dependent or spouse must meet all PVIP requirements, including proof of offshore income, placing a new Fixed Deposit, and topping up the balance of participation fees to qualify as a separate new PVIP Principal Applicant.
Please note that PVIP is not permitted to be transferred to the next of kin.

Can I sponsor my stepchildren if I don’t have full custody?

No, stepchildren are not eligible to be included as dependents under your application. However, their biological parent may include them as dependents, and you may also be eligible to be included as a dependent under your son or daughter’s application.

Can I include siblings as dependents if I am financially responsible for them?

No, siblings are not eligible as dependents.

If I am widowed or divorced, can I still apply with my children only as dependents?

Yes, you can, as long as it is your biological children.

If my parent is already on MM2H, can they be switched into my PVIP dependent?

Yes, they can switch into PVIP dependents by submitting all the relationship proof with the principal, and pay the relevant PVIP fees.

What if my dependent parent requires long-term medical treatment—will this affect approval?

No, this will not affect approval unless your dependent has a communicable disease. Please contact us for the full checklist of the medical check-up.

If I die without a will, how will my dependents handle the deposit and status?

Your assets will be distributed according to Malaysian inheritance law. This means the court will appoint an administrator to manage your estate and distribute the assets to the legal heirs as defined by law. Your dependents’ PVIP status will not automatically transfer, and your dependents will need to apply as an independent application and meet the program’s requirements if they wish to continue the visa status.

Can I become the director of the company?

Yes. Visa holders are allowed to hire themselves as company director instead of hiring a local director.

Can I open and run a business in Malaysia?

Yes, you are allowed to operate businesses by complying with local regulations and license requirements.

Do I need a separate work pass under my own company through my PVIP status?

No, the PVIP itself allows you to work; no additional working permission is needed.

Can I be employed or take up a salaried position under my PVIP status?

Yes, you are permitted to be employed or take up a salaried position in Malaysia.

Does my PVIP status tie me to the company I operate or work for?

No, your PVIP status is independent and not tied to any specific company. You are free to establish or take up any employment with another company without affecting your PVIP status. The rights are similar to those of Malaysian citizens.

How do I recognise myself as a Malaysian tax resident?

You are considered as local tax resident if you stay in Malaysia for more than 182 days per calander year.

What is the tax rate if I am non-tax resident?

Non-tax resident will be taxed a flat 30% flat rate on income derived in Malaysia.

Do I have an obligation in Malaysia if I invested in businesses or be employed by a company?

Yes, any income derived from Malaysia is taxable based on the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (LHDN) regulations.

Do I need to pay tax for my offshore income?

No, offshore income is not taxable in Malaysia, and this exemption has extended until year 2036. However, you may still subject to tax in your home country or other jurisdictions under global tax rules.

What is the company income tax rate?

For resident companies, the standard tax rate is in between 24% - 17%.
For non-resident companies, the standard tax rate is a flat 24%

How does a company qualify as a resident company in Malaysia?

A company qualifies as resident company if its management and control are carried out in Malaysia.