SharifStudy Best way to Study in Malaysia
Malaysia introduced the Premium Visa Programme (PVIP) on September 1, 2022, marking a new chapter in attracting global investors and high-net-worth individuals. Known as a “residence through investment” program, PVIP allows affluent individuals to establish Malaysia as a second base for living and business without many of the usual restrictions. As part of the broader Malaysia visa framework, this article brings together everything you need to know to decide on and apply for this 20-year visa.
What Is the Malaysia Premium Visa (PVIP)?
The Malaysia Premium Visa Programme (PVIP) is a long-term, renewable 20-year residence permit designed to attract foreign investors, entrepreneurs, and top global talent. The visa is issued and renewed in five-year blocks and allows holders to live, work, study, and invest in Malaysia. Unlike many other visa programs, PVIP has no age restriction and grants holders economic rights similar to Malaysian citizens from the outset.
Why Choose the Premium Visa?
Choosing PVIP is not simply about obtaining a residence permit; it is about unlocking opportunities in one of Southeast Asia’s most stable economies. The main reasons this visa stands out include:
Long-term stability: A 20-year residence permit, renewable for another 20 years, provides long-range security for personal and business planning.
No minimum stay requirement: Unlike many comparable programs, PVIP does not impose a minimum annual stay; holders may enter and exit Malaysia freely.
Right to work and do business: Visa holders may act as company directors, employees, or business owners without separate work permits.
Family inclusion: Spouses, children under 21, parents, parents-in-law, and even domestic helpers can be included as dependents.
Key Differences Between PVIP and (MM2H)
Many users search for comparisons between these two programs. Although both are considered “golden visas,” they serve different purposes:
Nature of activity: MM2H focuses more on lifestyle and retirement and does not grant work rights at certain levels, while PVIP is designed for economically active individuals.
Age requirement: MM2H typically has a minimum age requirement, whereas PVIP has none.
Stay requirement: New MM2H tiers require a minimum annual stay, while PVIP does not.
Pros and Cons: A Balanced Look at the Premium Visa
A smart decision requires evaluating both advantages and limitations.
Advantages
Financial flexibility: After one year, up to 50% of the fixed deposit may be withdrawn for property purchase, medical expenses, or children’s education in Malaysia.
Social and financial credibility: PVIP holders are recognized as premium residents, which can ease interactions with banks and local institutions.
Fast processing: The entire process typically takes around 60–90 working days, which is relatively fast compared to other migration programs.
Disadvantages
High cost: The government participation fee is MYR 200,000 for the main applicant and MYR 100,000 per dependent, and it is non-refundable.
No direct citizenship path: PVIP does not automatically lead to permanent residence or Malaysian citizenship; it remains a long-term residence visa.
Financial Requirements and Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the PVIP program, applicants must demonstrate strong financial capacity:
- Overseas income: Proof of minimum monthly income of MYR 40,000 or annual income of MYR 480,000 generated outside Malaysia.
- Fixed deposit: Opening a fixed deposit account of MYR 1 million with a licensed Malaysian bank.
- Fee payment: Payment of MYR 200,000 for the main applicant and MYR 100,000 for each dependent.
Required Documents for PVIP Application
Careful preparation of documentation is essential. Key documents include:
- Copies of all pages of a valid passport.
- Police clearance certificate from the applicant’s home country.
- Proof of overseas income, such as salary slips or bank statements.
- Medical examination report from an approved medical center in Malaysia (after conditional approval).
- Valid medical insurance coverage in Malaysia.
Step-by-Step PVIP Application Process
Applications must be submitted through an authorized agent or licensed facilitator. The process typically follows these steps:
- Initial assessment: Financial profile and documents are reviewed to confirm eligibility.
- Application submission: Documents are submitted to Malaysian Immigration for security and background checks.
- Conditional approval: A conditional approval letter is issued after approximately 60–90 days.
- Travel to Malaysia: The applicant travels to Malaysia to open a bank account, complete medical checks, and purchase insurance.
- Visa issuance: Once all requirements are met, the 20-year visa endorsement is placed in the passport.
Permitted Activities and Tax Considerations
PVIP holders enjoy broad flexibility in Malaysia. They may invest in approved sectors, purchase residential, commercial, or industrial property, and enroll their children in Malaysia’s high-quality international schools.
From a tax perspective, individuals staying more than 182 days per year may be considered Malaysian tax residents and taxed on Malaysian-sourced income under a progressive tax system. Foreign-sourced income is generally subject to specific exemptions under current regulations until the end of 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can the MYR 1 million fixed deposit be withdrawn?
- Purchasing real estate in Malaysia
- Medical expenses in Malaysia
- Education expenses in Malaysia
The remaining balance must be maintained in the fixed deposit for as long as your PVIP remains valid. In some cases, an approval letter may be required before withdrawal. :contentReference
Which nationalities are not eligible for PVIP?
Uglobal
Are children over 21 considered dependents under PVIP?
kensington-trust.com
What is Visa Premium Malaysia (PVIP)?
InsightPlus
What is a premium visa?
How to get a premium visa in Malaysia (PVIP)?
- Meet the financial eligibility criteria (income + fixed deposit)
- Prepare required documents (passport copies, income proof, background/police clearance, etc.)
- Submit the application through the accepted process (often via an authorized channel/representative)
- Complete post-approval steps in Malaysia (commonly banking, medical check, and insurance requirements)
Exact steps can vary by updates and applicant profile, so it’s best to confirm the latest PVIP checklist before submission.
What is the fastest visa for Malaysia?
Final Summary
The Malaysia Premium Visa Programme (PVIP) can be seen as a “multi-purpose golden key”—a reliable pathway to live, work, and invest in Malaysia while maintaining long-term residence without strict stay requirements. It also allows you to bring your family through the Malaysia Dependent Visa, ensuring stability and peace of mind for your loved ones.
Because PVIP is a highly specialized visa, even small mistakes in financial assessment or documentation can lead to delays and unnecessary costs. Professional guidance helps make the process faster, simpler, and significantly lower-risk.
Why Choose Sharif Study for Your Malaysia Visa?
With hands-on experience in Malaysia visa cases, Sharif Study helps you:
- Choose the most suitable Malaysia visa, especially PVIP, based on your real financial profile
- Prepare compliant financial and legal documents with minimal risk
- Avoid common mistakes that cause delays or refusals
- Move forward with clarity, confidence, and long-term planning in mind
👉 Contact Sharif Study today for a free consultation and start your Malaysia residence and investment journey with confidence.
