Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias
Malaysia, with its rich culture, delicious cuisine, and dynamic economy, attracts many expatriates from around the world. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you successfully settle in this fascinating country.
Discover other articles to succeed in your Malaysian expatriation:
Malaysia has become a top destination for many expatriates seeking an enjoyable lifestyle at a lower cost. Blending modernity with [...]
Malaysia, with its rich and diverse culture, dynamic economy, and affordable cost of living, attracts many expatriates. Whether you’re looking [...]
Malaysia has become a top destination for many expatriates, drawn by its quality of life, economic dynamism, and cultural richness. [...]
Malaysia, with its fascinating blend of modernity and tradition, offers a diverse and efficient public transportation network. Whether you’re a [...]
Malaysia, a country of a thousand facets, offers an enchanting blend of cultures, landscapes, and unique experiences. From the futuristic [...]
Homesickness can be challenging to manage, especially when you find yourself in a country as exotic and different as Malaysia. [...]
Moving to Malaysia is an exciting adventure, but it’s natural to want to stay in touch with family and friends [...]
Malaysia, a true cultural crossroads in Southeast Asia, offers a unique and enriching expatriate experience. However, to integrate harmoniously into [...]
Malaysia, Southeast Asia’s true cultural crossroads, offers a unique culinary experience that reflects its rich ethnic diversity and fascinating history. [...]
Relocating to Malaysia presents an exciting opportunity to discover a new culture and immerse yourself in a rich linguistic environment. [...]
Relocating to Malaysia presents a tremendous opportunity for professional and personal development. However, to fully succeed in integrating and advancing [...]
Real estate investment in Malaysia represents an attractive opportunity for expatriates seeking to diversify their assets and benefit from the [...]
Relocating to Malaysia offers a unique experience, but adapting to the tropical climate can be challenging for many expatriates. This [...]
Malaysia has established itself as a top destination for international students seeking quality education at affordable prices. With its thriving [...]
Relocating to Malaysia presents an exciting opportunity but requires careful financial planning. This article will guide you through the essential [...]
Malaysia, Southeast Asia’s cultural crossroads, offers a rich and diverse religious landscape that fascinates as much as it may perplex [...]
Malaysia is an attractive destination for expatriate entrepreneurs looking to establish their business abroad. With its dynamic economy, strategic position [...]
Malaysia, a multifaceted country located at the heart of Southeast Asia, possesses a rich and complex history that has shaped [...]
Malaysia is a Southeast Asian country distinguished by its unique geography, straddling the Malay Peninsula and the northern part of [...]
Prepare for the Big Leap: Essential Steps Before Departure
Before packing your bags for Malaysia, it’s crucial to prepare properly. Here are some essential steps:
- Conduct thorough research on Malaysian culture and customs
- Learn some basics of Bahasa Melayu, the national language
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your planned arrival
- Get recommended vaccines and a complete health check-up
- Prepare copies of all your important documents (passport, diplomas, etc.)
- Inform your bank and mobile operator about your move
Don’t forget to subscribe to international health insurance covering Malaysia before your departure.
First Steps on Malaysian Soil: Essential Procedures
Once you arrive in Malaysia, several administrative procedures await you:
- Register with the French embassy or consulate
- Open a local bank account
- Get a Malaysian phone number
- Register with local authorities
- Begin procedures to obtain your residence permit
Good to Know:
Most Malaysian banks offer special accounts for expatriates with services in English.
Immerse Yourself in Local Culture: Keys to Successful Integration
Integrating into the local community is essential to fully enjoy your expatriation. Here are some tips:
- Participate in local cultural events
- Join expatriate groups to meet others in your situation
- Try local cuisine at night markets
- Learn cultural codes, like removing shoes before entering someone’s home
- Respect different ethnic communities and their religious practices
Be open-minded and curious – Malaysians generally appreciate foreigners who show genuine interest in their culture.
Your Key to Malaysia: Visa Breakdown
Getting the right visa is crucial for your stay in Malaysia. Here are the main types of visas for expatriates:
- Employment Pass: for skilled workers with an employment contract
- Professional Visit Pass: for short-term professional assignments
- Dependant Pass: for spouses and children of an Employment Pass holder
- Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H): for retirees or investors
The visa application process can be complex. Don’t hesitate to consult an immigration lawyer to guide you.
Good to Know:
The MM2H visa was suspended in 2020 but is expected to be relaunched with new conditions in 2024.
Finding Your Cozy Nest: Secrets to Finding the Ideal Home
House hunting in Malaysia can be exciting. Here are some tips to find your home:
- Determine your budget and criteria (proximity to work, schools, etc.)
- Explore different neighborhoods before deciding
- Use websites like PropertyGuru or iProperty
- Consult a local real estate agent for more options
- Carefully check the property condition and included amenities before signing
Condominiums are very popular among expatriates, often offering amenities like pools and gyms.
Stay on Track: Renewing Your Residence Permit
Renewing your residence permit is an important step. Here are the key points to remember:
- Start the process at least 3 months before your current permit expires
- Gather all necessary documents (employment contract, bank statements, etc.)
- Your employer usually needs to initiate the renewal application
- Prepare for a medical check-up
- Be patient – the process can take several weeks
Good to Know:
Some companies use specialized agencies to handle visa renewals for their expatriate employees.
Stay Compliant: Administrative Procedures Not to Overlook
Several administrative procedures are mandatory for expatriates in Malaysia:
- Obtain a Malaysian driver’s license if staying more than 3 months
- Declare your income and pay taxes in Malaysia
- Renew your consular registration annually
- Update your address with authorities if you move
- Subscribe to Malaysian social security if working locally
Keep an organized file of all your administrative documents – this will make your life much easier.
Know Your Rights and Duties: Essential Laws for Expatriates
As a foreigner in Malaysia, it’s crucial to know certain laws and regulations:
- Property purchases by foreigners are subject to restrictions
- Working without a valid permit is strictly prohibited and severely punished
- Drug possession and trafficking are punishable by death
- Religious proselytizing toward Muslims is prohibited
- Homosexual relations are illegal in Malaysia
Always respect local laws and be sensitive to cultural and religious differences.
Good to Know:
Malaysia is a predominantly Muslim country but practices a moderate form of Islam. Alcohol consumption is permitted for non-Muslims.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. We encourage you to consult qualified experts before making any investment, real estate, or expatriation decisions. Although we strive to maintain up-to-date and accurate information, we do not guarantee the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the proposed content. As investment and expatriation involve risks, we disclaim any liability for potential losses or damages arising from the use of this site. Your use of this site confirms your acceptance of these terms and your understanding of the associated risks.
Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.
On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.
Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.
