Malaysia's long-term stay visa "Malaysia My 2nd Home (MM2H)" is the most popular program for Japanese people considering retirement or moving abroad.
Following the significant increase in requirements in 2024, we will summarize the latest conditions as of 2026.
What is MM2H?
MM2H is a long-term stay visa for up to 10 years issued by the Malaysian government. Although they are not allowed to work, they can freely enter and exit Malaysia, purchase real estate, and open bank accounts.
Main benefits of MM2H
- ●🏠 You can purchase real estate in Malaysia
- ●🏦 Opening a Malaysian bank account
- ●🚗 Vehicle purchase in Malaysia (no tax exemption)
- ●📚 Enroll your child in an international school
- ●✈️ Free entry and exit (required to stay)
- ●💼 People over 50 years old can work part-time up to 20 hours a week.
Application conditions for 2026
Comparison of requirements by category
| Requirements | Silver (new) | Gold | Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Validity period | 5 years | 15 years | 20 years |
| Monthly income proof | RM5,000 | RM10,000 | RM40,000 |
| Certificate of current assets | RM150,000 | RM500,000 | RM1,000,000 |
| Fixed deposit (FD) | RM100,000 | RM250,000 | RM500,000 |
| Real estate purchase minimum limit | RM500,000 | RM500,000 | RM1,000,000 |
| Annual stay obligation | 60 days | 60 days | 60 days |
| Spouse/children accompanying | ○ | ○ | ○ |
| Housekeeper accompanying | × | ○ | ○ |
Note: The above amounts are as of February 2026. Please check the MM2H official website or authorized agent for the latest information.
Benefits of Silver category (newly established in 2025)
The conventional Gold/Platinum was criticized as being too difficult for the average Japanese retiree. The new Silver category in 2025 is:
- ●💰 Significant reduction in fixed deposits to RM100,000 (approximately 3.5 million yen)
- ●📊 Monthly income requirement is RM5,000 (approximately 175,000 yen)—possible even for pensioners
- ●⏳ Validity period is 5 years (renewable)
You can now apply with Japanese pension + small amount of savings. The hurdles for retirement migration have been significantly lowered.
Application procedure flow
Step 1: Preparation of necessary documents (1 to 2 months)
- ●Passport (valid for 12 months or more)
- ●Income certificate (pension certificate, pay slip, etc.)
- ●Bank balance certificate (English)
- ●No-crime certificate (police certificate)
- ●Health certificate (designated hospital in Malaysia)
- ●ID photo
Step 2: Apply through an agent (recommended)
- ●Apply via Malaysian government certified MM2H agent
- ●Application fee: RM500~1,000
- ●Agent fee: RM5,000 to 15,000
Step 3: Conditional approval (3-6 months)
- ●Examination by the Immigration Department
- ●Additional documents may be requested
Step 4: Procedures in Malaysia (within 90 days after approval)
- ●Opening a term deposit
- ●Medical insurance enrollment
- ●Visa issuance
Advice for Japanese applicants
1. Choose your agent carefully
- ●Always choose an agent that is Malaysian government certified
- ●There are multiple agents who can speak Japanese.
- ●Be careful where the fees are too low
2. Consider exchange timing
- ●Fixed deposits are denominated in RM. It is disadvantageous to send money when the yen is weak.
- ●It is also a strategy to send money in multiple installments
3. Pension overseas remittance procedure
- ●Submit an overseas transfer notification to the Japan Pension Service
- ●Direct transfer to Malaysian bank account
- ●Double taxation on pensions can be avoided due to the Japan-Japan Tax Treaty
4. Be careful when purchasing real estate
- ●Not recommended to purchase immediately after obtaining MM2H
- ●First, live in a rental house and assess the area/property.
- ●The minimum amount for foreigners to purchase real estate is RM500,000~
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I work at MM2H?
A: In principle, this is not possible, but people over the age of 50 are allowed to work part-time for up to 20 hours a week.
Q: Can my spouse work too?
A: Spouses are not allowed to work.
Q: Up to what age can children accompany me?
A: Unmarried children under the age of 21 can accompany you.
Q: What happens if I don't meet the 60-day stay requirement?
A: You may be disadvantaged at the time of renewal, but there are cases where you may be exempted if there is a valid reason (medical, family circumstances, etc.).
Summary
| Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Recommended categories | Silver (retirees) or Gold (those with assets) |
| Required period | From preparation to acquisition 6 months to 1 year |
| Total cost | RM10,000~20,000 (including miscellaneous fees) |
| Can you apply with Japanese pension? Silver: Possible (Pension of 175,000 yen or more per month) |
MM2H is a visa that gives you the right to live in Malaysia. Take your time to prepare and don't rush to apply.
