Digital Nomad Visa - DE Rantau
Work remotely from Malaysia for up to 12 months with the DE Rantau Digital Nomad Pass
Validity
3-12 months
Renewable for another year
Min. Income
$24,000/year
USD per annum required
Processing
Up to 4 weeks
Application review time
Dependents
Yes
Spouse & children allowed
What is the DE Rantau Digital Nomad Pass?
The DE Rantau programme aims to establish Malaysia as the preferred digital nomad hub in ASEAN. The Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa (DE Rantau Nomad Pass) allows foreign location-independent workers in the digital sphere to stay in Malaysia for up to 12 months, with the option to renew for another year.
Created by MDEC (Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation), this program provides access to a vibrant ecosystem including nomad-ready hubs, coworking facilities, and specially curated services to support your digital nomad lifestyle.
Work Remotely
Continue your remote work while exploring Malaysia
Bring Your Family
Spouse and children under 18 can accompany you
Tax Benefits
Income earned outside Malaysia is not taxed
Program Benefits
Coworking Access
Access to DE Rantau certified hubs
Fast Internet
Reliable high-speed connectivity
Explore Malaysia
Travel freely across the country
Community Support
Join vibrant nomad networks
Who Can Apply?
The DE Rantau Digital Nomad Pass is open to qualified professionals worldwide who work in the digital sphere
Eligibility Requirements
Digital Professionals
Work in IT, digital marketing, content creation, software development, cyber security, or digital currencies
Remote Workers
Have an active employment contract with local or foreign companies
Freelancers
Digital freelancers with active contracts from clients
Independent Contractors
Active contracts with duration of more than 3 months
Minimum Income
Earn at least USD $24,000 per year from digital work
All Nationalities
Open to citizens from all countries worldwide
Professional Fields
The visa is designed for digital professionals working in fields including:
Required Documents
Prepare these documents for your DE Rantau Nomad Pass application
Passport Copy
Copy of all pages of your passport with minimum 6 empty pages
Passport Photo
Recent passport-size photograph for online application
Employment Contract
Active contract showing projects with duration of 3+ months
Proof of Income
Pay slips or statements proving USD $24,000+ annual income
Bank Statements
Last 3 months statements and yearly income statement
Resume/CV
Latest resume highlighting digital expertise and experience
Good Conduct Letter
Letter of good conduct or criminal background check
Personal Bond Form
Download, complete, and upload signed personal bond form
Health Insurance
Valid health insurance certificate covering Malaysia
For Dependents
If bringing your spouse or children, also provide:
- ✓Marriage certificate for spouse
- ✓Birth certificates for children
- ✓Additional health insurance for each dependent
- ✓Passport copies for all dependents
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for your DE Rantau Digital Nomad Pass
Create Account
Register on the MDEC portal with your email address
Choose Profession
Select your profession type (freelancer, remote worker, etc.)
Upload Documents
Submit all required documents in English
Pay Fee
Pay RM 1,000 (~$221) + RM 500 per dependent
Wait for Approval
Receive approval within up to 4 weeks via email
Application Fees
Main Applicant
RM 1,000
Approximately USD $221
Each Dependent
RM 500
Approximately USD $110 per person
Payment Methods
Credit cards and PayPal accepted
Important Notes
- Apply through official MDEC portal only at malaysiadigital.mdec.my
- All documents must be in English or officially translated
- Processing may take up to 4 weeks, so apply well in advance
- Include dependents in your initial application
- Approval notification will be sent to your registered email
Living as a Digital Nomad in Malaysia
Experience the perfect blend of modern infrastructure, cultural richness, and natural beauty
Affordable Cost of Living
Malaysia offers excellent value compared to Western countries
Kuala Lumpur: $1,612/month average
Penang: $981/month average
Accommodation: From $200/month
Excellent Infrastructure
Modern amenities and reliable connectivity
✓ High-speed internet nationwide
✓ Growing number of coworking spaces
✓ Modern healthcare facilities
✓ Excellent public transportation
Diverse Destinations
Choose from vibrant cities to peaceful towns
✓ Kuala Lumpur - Modern metropolis
✓ Penang - Food capital & heritage
✓ Malacca - Historical charm
✓ Langkawi - Beach paradise
Why Choose Malaysia?
Tropical Climate
Warm weather year-round with beautiful beaches and islands
Cultural Diversity
Melting pot of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous cultures
Amazing Food Scene
World-renowned cuisine with diverse flavors and affordable prices
Strategic Location
Perfect base to explore Southeast Asia with great flight connections
English Widely Spoken
Easy to communicate and navigate daily life
Work-Life Balance
Endless activities from hiking to beach relaxation
Tax Information
Understanding your tax obligations as a digital nomad in Malaysia
Tax Benefits
Foreign Income Not Taxed
Income earned from clients or companies outside Malaysia is generally not subject to Malaysian income tax
Favorable Tax Treatment
The DE Rantau Pass is designed to attract digital talent without heavy tax burdens
Tax Considerations
Malaysian-Based Clients
If you work for Malaysian-based companies or have Malaysian clients, you may be subject to Malaysian income tax
Consult Tax Professional
It's recommended to consult with a tax advisor familiar with Malaysian tax law for your specific situation
Home Country Taxes
Remember to check your tax obligations in your home country as well
Ready to Start Your Digital Nomad Journey?
Ready to work remotely from Malaysia? The DE Rantau Pass offers digital nomads and remote workers the perfect opportunity to experience Malaysia while maintaining their international career.