More than 12,000 people have relocated to Malaysia through the Malaysia My Second Home Program, according to its website. This government-sanctioned program allows foreigners and their families to stay in Malaysia on renewable social visit passes that are originally validated for 10 years. Applicants must prove they have health insurance and are financially stable. For people younger than 50 years, this means they must have liquid assets worth a minimum of 500,000 ringgits (approximately $150,000 as of June 2010) and a monthly offshore income of 10,000 ringgits (approximately $3,000 as of June 2010). People older than 50 must comply with the same standards, but retirees can show they are receiving a monthly government pension of 10,000 ringgits rather than a salary. Immigrants who are accepted to this program are given assistance in such matters as purchasing homes and cars and finding schools.
Obtaining a long-term social visit pass is an immigration option for individuals who are married to Malaysian citizens. Applicants for this pass must plan to stay in the country for longer than six months and must apply in person at an immigration office with a marriage certificate and the appropriate forms. This pass typically is awarded for a five-year period, according to the Immigration Department of Malaysia.
Immigrants who want to work in Malaysia may apply for an expatriate employment pass if they are hired by a local company. Applicants must give the immigration office the following documents: an authority letter that explains the applicant's job; a cover letter explaining the company's activities and justification for the hire; registration documents; a trade license; and a recommendation from a government monitoring agency. Also, applicants must provide a resume that includes their academic qualifications and, if initially approved, must show their employment contract and passport.
Malaysian officials strictly enforce their laws, including immigration rules, and violators may face strict penalties, according to the U.S. Department of State. As stated on the immigration department's website, foreigners who enter the country illegally or overstay their allotted time could face fines of up to 10,000 ringgits (approximately $3,000) or imprisonment for up to five years, or both.
