Malaysia’s New Investor Pass: Enhancing Opportunities for Foreign Investors

In April 2025, Malaysia introduced the Investor Pass to attract long-term foreign investors, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals. Unlike traditional employment visas, the Investor Pass offers flexibility, allowing holders to manage investments across sectors such as advanced manufacturing, the digital economy, green industries, and services.

T

he initiative reflects Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening its foreign direct investment (FDI) ecosystem, complementing national strategies like the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 and the National Investment Aspirations aimed at driving sustainable economic growth.

Application requirements for Malaysia’s Investor Pass

Foreign investors seeking the Investor Pass must meet specific eligibility criteria, demonstrating a credible commitment to Malaysia’s economic development.

Applicants are required to submit:

• Proof of Investment Intent or Activity:
  Evidence such as a company incorporation certificate, investment project proposals, or contractual agreements indicating the applicant’s commitment to investing in Malaysia.
• Financial Capability:
  Documentation proving sufficient financial resources, including:
  • Audited company financial statements (for business owners),
  • Recent bank statements reflecting strong financial standing,
  • Personal net worth declarations (for individual investors).
• Clear Legal Record:
  A police clearance certificate or a criminal background check issued by the applicant’s home country authorities.
• Comprehensive Business Proposal:
  A business plan that outlines:
  • The nature of the investment,
  • Projected value and timeline,
  • Estimated employment creation,
  • Sector involvement and economic contribution.

Additional documents, such as valid passports, detailed CVs, and corporate profiles (if applicable), must also be provided.

Note on minimum investment amounts

As of April 2025, Malaysia’s Investor Pass does not impose a fixed minimum investment threshold.

Eligibility is assessed based on the credibility of the applicant’s investment plans and their potential contribution to Malaysia’s economy.

Applicants must provide strong supporting documentation demonstrating business viability and financial strength. (For context, Malaysia’s Premium Visa Program (PVIP) requires a MYR 1 million deposit, but this is a different initiative.)

This approach allows Malaysia to prioritize high-quality, strategic investments over merely financial contributions.

Step-by-step application process

Step 1: Prepare investment documents and financial evidence

Applicants begin by gathering all necessary documentation, including proof of investment plans, audited financial statements or bank records, police clearance certificates, and a comprehensive business proposal.

Step 2: Submit endorsement request to MIDA

The complete application is submitted to the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA). MIDA evaluates the investment’s credibility, strategic alignment with Malaysia’s economic goals, and overall contribution potential.

Step 3: Receive endorsement letter from MIDA

If the investment meets the required criteria, MIDA issues an Endorsement Letter, confirming the applicant’s eligibility to proceed to the immigration stage.

Step 4: Submit immigration application

With the MIDA endorsement, the applicant submits a formal application to the Immigration Department of Malaysia, along with additional supporting documents for immigration clearance.

Step 5: Immigration review and approval

The Immigration Department reviews the application, conducts background and security checks, and verifies the applicant’s compliance with immigration laws.

Step 6: Issuance of Investor Pass

Upon final approval, the Investor Pass is issued, allowing the investor and eligible dependents to reside in Malaysia and manage investment activities under the long-term residency program.

Strategic benefits for foreign investors

The Investor Pass unlocks a wide range of advantages for foreign investors looking to establish a long-term presence in Southeast Asia. Beyond providing seamless access to Malaysia’s dynamic economy, it positions investors within the broader ASEAN market, creating pathways for regional expansion. Holders of the Pass can also tap into Malaysia’s suite of investment incentives, including tax exemptions and grants designed to encourage business growth and innovation.

The flexibility of the Investor Pass, which allows for the management of multiple ventures across different sectors, offers significant advantages over traditional employment-tied visas.

Practical considerations for applicants

While the Investor Pass offers considerable advantages, foreign investors must be mindful of Malaysia’s regulatory landscape. Certain sectors like telecommunications, energy, and financial services may have additional licensing or ownership restrictions. Careful due diligence is essential to comply with legal requirements and maximize the available incentives and protections.

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