Malaysia has become a favorite second home for many Indians, thanks to two simple residency programs: MM2H (Malaysia My Second Home) and PVIP (Premium Visa Programme). These are not complicated visas they let retirees relax, families settle, and business owners expand, all in a tropical spot with low costs.
What is MM2H? Your Easy Second Home Option
MM2H (Malaysia My Second Home) is a long-term visa that allows foreigners to live in Malaysia comfortably. The program has different tiers:
- Silver Tier: A 5-year renewable visa, fixed deposit of USD 150,000 and must buy a property worth at least RM600,000 in West Malaysia.
- Gold Tier: A 15-year renewable visa, USD 500,000 fixed deposit and a property purchase of at least RM1 million.
- Platinum Tier: A 20-year renewable visa. You need a USD 1 million fixed deposit and must buy property worth RM2 million.
- SEZ Option: A lower-cost option. Fixed deposits start at USD 65,000 for ages 21–49, or USD 32,000 for those aged 50 and above. Property must be bought from approved developers.
Terms and conditions are subject to change at the discretion of the approving authority
What is PVIP? Freedom for Busy Professionals
PVIP is premium 20-year visa (renewable another 20 years), no age limit, no stay requirement. Place RM 1 million fixed deposit (half out after year one), prove RM 40,000 monthly income from abroad (like business or rent), pay RM 200,000 fee (RM 100,000 per family member). Get full rights: work any job, start 100% foreign companies (no local director), study at university, buy any property like a local, open bank accounts. Perfect if you travel a lot but want Malaysia as a base.
Family Rules and Daily Life Perks
Under both options you can bring your spouse, unmarried kids up to 34 (not working in Malaysia for MM2H; no limit for disabled kids), parents, and parents-in-law. Kids attend school up to university. MM2H needs medical exam and insurance (under 60); PVIP too, done in Malaysia. Malaysia taxes only local money your Indian income stays safe. Great schools, JCI hospitals, cheap living (40-50% less than Singapore), and direct flights home.
Documents You Need
Before Approval (translate to English, certify at Malaysian Embassy Delhi/Mumbai):
- Passports (valid 2+ years, copies of biodata/signature).
- Police clearance/good conduct (age 18+; apostilled).
- Marriage/birth certificates (for family ties).
- Income proofs (PVIP: bank statements/tax returns).
After Approval (in Malaysia):
- Approval letter.
- Deposit certificate + bank letter.
- Medical report (panel clinic).
- Insurance policy.
For Indians: CA certifies LRS remittances (USD 250K limit/year). Attest docs via MEA then Malaysian Embassy.
MM2H vs PVIP: Quick Pick Guide
MM2H suits relaxed living cheaper start, property focus, 90-day stay, limited work (Platinum only). PVIP for business higher fees/income proof, but full work freedom, no stay, longer visa. Both family-friendly with tax wins.
Conclusion
MM2H and PVIP make Malaysia an easy, smart choice for Indians, as they offer different tiers MM2H/SEZ for families and PVIP for business flexibility along with low hassle and major lifestyle benefits such as beaches, schools, and healthcare.
How India Law Offices (ILO) Can Assist
India Law Offices guides NRI clients through MM2H and PVIP applications with end-to-end support. We help with documentation, FEMA/LRS CA certifications, and manage full applications process. Our team also advises on tax implications, property due diligence under Malaysian state laws, and business setup for PVIP holders leveraging our expertise in cross-border compliance for seamless transitions.
Thank you for getting in touch! 
