Malaysia is a South-East Asian country, divided into two main landmasses: Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo. The capital city, Kuala Lumpur, is a modern, bustling metropolis that offers a mix of contemporary architecture, diverse culture, and delicious cuisine. This article will cover practical aspects of moving to Malaysia, such as visas, banking, healthcare, and taxes, to help you settle in this vibrant country.
Visas and Residency
If you're planning to move to Malaysia, you will need to apply for a visa. The most common types of visas are:
- Social Visit Pass: A single-entry visa, valid for up to 3 months, issued to tourists and social visitors.
- Work Permit: Issued to foreigners who have obtained a job offer from a Malaysian employer. The permit is usually valid for 1-5 years, depending on the terms of the employment contract.
- Professional Visit Pass: A short-term visa, valid for up to 12 months, for foreign professionals who wish to enter Malaysia for business meetings, seminars, or conferences.
- Long-Term Social Visit Pass: Issued to expatriates who wish to stay in Malaysia for extended periods, such as retirees, dependent family members, or students. This pass is typically valid for up to 10 years.
For the latest information on visas and residency requirements, visit the official immigration website (https://www.imi.gov.my/index.php/en/).
Banking and Currency
The official currency of Malaysia is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). Banking hours are generally from 9:30 am to 4 pm, from Monday to Friday, and from 9:30 am to 11:30 am on Saturdays. However, some banks may have different opening hours, so it's essential to check in advance.
To open a bank account in Malaysia, you will need to provide the following:
- Passport
- Residence permit or student/employment visa
- Proof of address, such as a tenancy agreement or utility bill
- Minimum initial deposit (varies by bank)
Some of the most popular banks in Malaysia are:
- Maybank (https://www.maybank2u.com.my/)
- CIMB Bank (https://www.cimb.com.my/)
- Public Bank (https://www.pbebank.com.my/)
- HSBC Bank (https://www.hsbc.com.my/)
Healthcare System
Malaysia's healthcare system is a mix of public and private healthcare services. Public hospitals and clinics offer affordable treatment, while private healthcare facilities provide high-quality care, often at a higher cost.
Foreigners can access Malaysia's public healthcare services by:
- Paying for treatment out-of-pocket
- Obtaining private health insurance that covers medical care in Malaysia
- Applying for the Malaysian Healthcare Travel Card (https://mhtc.com.my/), which offers discounts on medical treatments in private hospitals
Taxation
In Malaysia, tax residents are subject to income tax on their worldwide income. A tax resident is defined as an individual who has been living in Malaysia for at least 182 days in a calendar year. Non-residents are taxed only on their Malaysian-sourced income.
The income tax rates for tax residents in Malaysia are:
| Income Band (MYR) | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| 0-50,000 | 0% |
| 50,001-70,000 | 5% (1,000 + 10% of the excess over 50,000) |
| 70,001-100,000 | 2,500 + 15% of the excess over 70,000 |
| 100,001-350,000 | 10,500 + 20% of the excess over 100,000 |
| 350,001 and above | 67,500 + 25% of the excess over 350,000 |
For the latest taxation information, visit the official Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia website (https://www.hasil.gov.my/en/home).
What flights LON to KUL actually cost
Prices below are live fares from Aviasales. We may earn a commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Cheapest dates to fly
| Departure | Price | Airline | Stops | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Sept 2026 | ā¬474 | CA | 1 stop | Check |
| 4 Nov 2026 | ā¬489 | CZ | 1 stop | Check |
| 8 Oct 2026 | ā¬496 | VF | 1 stop | Check |
| 28 Oct 2026 | ā¬527 | CZ | 1 stop | Check |
| 29 Oct 2026 | ā¬527 | CZ | 1 stop | Check |
Live fares, checked 16 Aug 2026. Prices change daily.
Booking in Kuala Lumpur: where to look
We may earn a commission from the links below, at no extra cost to you. We only list services we would use ourselves.
- Airalo ā eSIM data the moment you land, no SIM swap
- Saily ā Travel eSIM with per-country plans
- Yesim ā eSIM covering multiple countries on one plan
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Malaysia varies depending on the location and lifestyle. Here are some average costs for various goods and services:
- One-bedroom apartment in the city centre: MYR 1,500-3,000 per month
- One-bedroom apartment outside the city centre: MYR 1,000-2,000 per month
- Utilities (electricity, water, and garbage): MYR 150-300 per month
- Monthly public transport pass: MYR 50-150
- Meal at a mid-range restaurant: MYR 30-50 per person
- One-way public transport ticket: MYR 1.50-5.00
These prices are approximate and may vary depending on location, provider, and personal preferences.
Moving to Malaysia can be an exciting and enriching experience. By understanding the practical aspects of living in Malaysia, such as visas, banking, healthcare, and taxation, you can ensure a smooth transition to your new life in this vibrant and dynamic country.
