Friendly for Chinese remote earners, with 3-12 months and one renewal path.
Route overview
Remote work or freelancing
Typical timeline / duration: 3-12 months; renewable for up to 12 more months (24 months total)
Important notes
Apply as a digital freelancer, independent contractor, or remote employee whose work can be performed remotely from Malaysia.
Provide an active project or employment contract lasting more than three months; freelancers may use multiple contracts and remote employees must work for a non-Malaysian employer.
Show annual income above USD 24,000 and provide the required proof of work, passport, good-conduct evidence, and supporting documents requested by MDEC.
Apply for the Professional Visit Pass through the MDEC process, with the applicable fee, passport validity, insurance, and bond or personal-bond requirements checked for the applicant's nationality.
The Digital Nomad Pass allows a stay from three to twelve months and can be renewed for up to another twelve months; dependants may be included under the published conditions.
The programme covers both tech and non-tech digital professionals, but it is a remote-work pass rather than a general Malaysian employment permit; working for a Malaysian employer requires a different route.