Why Chinese Nationals Are Migrating to Malaysia

Many Chinese nationals are attracted to Malaysia’s affordable housing, investment opportunities, and education system, this is why Chinese nationals are migrating to Malaysia. According to the Malaysian government, a total of 26,162 Chinese nationals have settled in Malaysia in 2024 via the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) visa program.

In this Pacific Prime article, we look into what Malaysia has to offer for foreigners, how the MM2H visa program works, and what requirements are needed for Chinese nationals to migrate to Malaysia.

What is the “Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Visa Program”?

Introduced in 2002, the MM2H visa program is an initiative to allow foreigners to settle in Malaysia on a long-term basis. The program caters to retirees, expats, and investors. Applicants must meet certain criteria to be eligible for the program.

The program has four categories: Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Special Economic/Financial Zones (SEZ/SFZ), and each category has specific requirements and visa terms. Below is a breakdown of the different criteria for the four categories:

How Do You Apply for the MM2H Visa Program?

The application process for the MM2H program requires you to submit necessary documents to the Immigration Department of Malaysia through a licensed MM2H agent. While each category has specific requirements and visa terms, every application needs to submit the following documents:

• Valid passport with at least 18 months validity
• Proof of financial stability (bank statements for fixed deposit)
• Medical report and insurance policy
• Letter of intent
• Other supporting documents that the Malaysian government may require

Any incomplete documents will not be processed, so make sure to have all documents ready before submission to avoid delays. The processing time usually takes around three working days before approval.

Once the application is approved, you will receive a renewable Social Visit Pass (Multiple Entry Visa) to Malaysia. The minimum stay for applicants aged 25 to 49 is 90 cumulative days per year, while those aged 50 and above have no minimum stay requirement.

Those who are under the platinum and gold categories are allowed to hire domestic helpers and conduct business or work in Malaysia. If you are considering migrating to Malaysia through the MM2H program, make sure to check whether the visa category you are applying for allows employment or not.

Getting International Health Insurance for MM2H Visa Application

One of the requirements for the MM2H visa application is securing a valid health insurance plan that’s applicable in Malaysia and issued by a recognized provider. You can get either a local insurance plan or opt for a more comprehensive international insurance plan for more coverage.

Once you secure an insurance plan, you must submit a certified true copy of the insurance policy together with your MM2H application to the Immigration Department of Malaysia. Make sure to also include a medical report to support your application.

For those who are unable to get an insurance policy due to age or health reasons, exemptions may be given subject to special approval by the Malaysian government.

Difference Between Local and International Insurance

Local health insurance typically only covers medical services in Malaysia, while international health insurance has global coverage. It’s important to understand the difference between both insurances and choose the right plan that meets your needs.

In general, Malaysia’s public healthcare is accessible to all Malaysian citizens, as well as expats with valid work visas. However, under the MM2H visa program, securing medical insurance is an important requirement, as this serves as proof of your ability to cover your medical expenses during your stay in Malaysia.

Below is a summary of the main differences between local and international health insurance in Malaysia:

You need to secure a health insurance plan before applying for the MM2H visa program in Malaysia. Also, be reminded that the coverage must be valid within Malaysia. If you need assistance in finding the right insurance plan, seek help from an insurance intermediary, like Pacific Prime, to guide you.

Why Are Chinese Nationals Migrating to Malaysia?

Affordable housing, retirement, and a more relaxed lifestyle are some reasons why Chinese nationals are migrating to Malaysia. With affordable living and a high standard of life, Malaysia has a lot to offer. Here are some reasons why Chinese nationals are migrating to Malaysia:

Low Cost of Living

While the cost of living will vary depending on where you choose to live in Malaysia, the country is relatively affordable to live in. Most expats living in Malaysia have noticed that they pay less for rent, food, utilities, and transportation compared to their home countries.

Affordable Housing

Compared to other countries where foreigners can’t buy property, Malaysia makes it easy and possible for expats to buy property in the country with its low cost of living. This makes Malaysia an attractive option for retirement.

Comprehensive Healthcare System

Malaysia has a dual healthcare system, with both public and private sectors that cover local residents, as well as expats. In most countries, the public sector only caters to residents, but Malaysia offers its expats with additional options in both sectors.

Long-Term Visa Terms

Malaysia is the only country in Asia that offers long-term stay visas, with options to stay in the country between five to 20 years. Furthermore, you can renew your visa and extend your stay. Many expats choose to renew their visas and stay in Malaysia for retirement.

Secure your international health insurance with us!

Ready to start your relocation journey to Malaysia? Let Pacific Prime help you with your international health insurance needs for your MM2H visa application.

Pacific Prime is an insurance intermediary with 20+ years of experience. We work with numerous reputable insurance companies that offer a variety of plan options that fit your budget and needs.

Contact us today and we’ll help you secure the right plan for you!

Disclaimer: Pacific Prime solely represents, operates, and manages locally regulated insurance products and services in the territory of PR China. Any references to Pacific Prime Global Company or Group, the international services, insurance products, or otherwise stated, written or verbally, are for introduction purposes about our overseas network only as each entity is fully independent.