KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) has introduced the Investor Pass, a new golden visa that allows international businesspeople to reside in Malaysia for up to one year, aiming to attract global investors and entrepreneurs to the country’s growing economy.
The pass offers a streamlined application process with approval in just five business days, MIDA said. It significantly extends the stay limit compared to Malaysia’s Social Visit Pass, which is valid for only three months.
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Applicants must qualify as new investors entering Malaysia’s market, existing partners of local firms, or individuals in active discussions with the government. While there is no minimum investment requirement, applicants must be “senior decision-makers” in sectors such as manufacturing, education, or hospitality. Each application requires proof of employment, investment plans, and a fee of RM 1,296 (approximately $307), excluding immigration charges.
“The Investor Pass itself is deliberately short, which creates a built-in compliance checkpoint,” said Laura Madrid of Global Citizens Solutions, adding that extensions will depend on proof of real investment activity.
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The new scheme complements Malaysia’s Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program, recently updated to attract digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and retirees with multi-tier residency options lasting up to 20 years. The lowest tier requires a $150,000 bank deposit and a home purchase of at least RM 600,000 ($142,940), while the platinum tier demands a $1 million deposit and a RM 2 million ($473,490) property.
Similar golden visa initiatives have been launched across Southeast Asia, including Indonesia’s 10-year investor visa and Thailand’s 20-year Privilege Residence Program.
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Despite EU concerns about the potential misuse of residence-by-investment schemes, their popularity continues to rise. “Americans are seeking not only financial or lifestyle benefits, but also the assurance that comes with having an additional legal pathway abroad,” Madrid said.