Moving to Malaysia

Moving Guide

Visa & Residence

Navigating the visa and residence landscape in Malaysia depends significantly on your nationality. Citizens from certain regions, like the European Union, may enjoy visa-free entry for tourism for a limited period, but this does not permit long-term stay or employment. For those from other countries, a visa may be required even for short visits.

Typical routes for long-term residence include:

• Work Permits: Sponsored by a Malaysian employer, these are common for skilled professionals and expatriates. The type of permit (e.g., Employment Pass, Professional Visit Pass) depends on the nature of employment and duration.
• Family Visas: Available for spouses and dependents of Malaysian citizens or those holding long-term work permits.
• Study Visas: For individuals enrolled in accredited educational institutions in Malaysia.
• Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Programme: A long-term social visit pass for eligible foreigners who meet specific financial and other criteria, allowing them to reside in Malaysia for an extended period.

It is crucial to verify the latest requirements, application procedures, and necessary documentation with the official Malaysian immigration department or the Malaysian embassy/high commission in your home country. Regulations can change, and official sources provide the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Housing & Rental

Finding housing in Malaysia can be a straightforward process, with options ranging from modern high-rise condominiums to landed properties like terrace houses and bungalows. Key areas for expatriates often include Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru, each offering a distinct lifestyle and property market.

Here's how to approach housing and rental:

• Online Portals & Real Estate Agents: Most people begin their search on popular Malaysian property websites. Engaging a reputable real estate agent can be highly beneficial, especially if you are unfamiliar with the local market. Agents can help you identify suitable properties, arrange viewings, and negotiate terms.
• Temporary vs. Long-Term: For initial arrival, consider short-term serviced apartments or Airbnb rentals. This allows you time to explore different neighborhoods and find a long-term rental that fits your needs without immediate pressure.
• Typical Rental Process: Once you find a suitable property, you'll usually sign a Tenancy Agreement. This legally binding document outlines the terms and conditions of your rental, including rent amount, duration, and responsibilities of both landlord and tenant.
• Deposits: It's standard practice to pay a security deposit (typically two to three months' rent) and a utility deposit (often half a month's rent). These are usually refundable at the end of your tenancy, provided the property is returned in good condition and all utility bills are settled. Some landlords may also request a one-month advance rent payment.
• Furnishing: Properties are commonly offered fully furnished, partially furnished (with white goods like fridge and washing machine), or unfurnished. Fully furnished options are popular for expatriates as they reduce initial setup costs.

What Affects the Cost of Your Move

The total cost of your relocation to Malaysia is influenced by several key factors. Understanding these can help you budget effectively:

• Volume of Goods: This is often the primary cost driver. The more items you move, the larger the container or shipment space required, leading to higher costs. Consider what truly needs to come with you versus what can be purchased new or sold.
• Distance: The geographical distance between your current location and Malaysia directly impacts transportation costs. Longer distances generally mean higher shipping fees.
• Seasonality: Moving during peak seasons (e.g., summer months in many Western countries, or specific holiday periods) can sometimes lead to higher demand and potentially higher prices for shipping and related services.
• Access at Origin and Destination: Ease of access for removal vehicles at both your current home and your new Malaysian residence can affect costs. Properties with difficult access, multiple flights of stairs, or long carries may incur additional charges.
• Extra Services: Opting for additional services will add to the overall cost. These can include professional packing and unpacking, specialized handling for fragile or valuable items, storage solutions, and insurance coverage for your belongings during transit.

For an accurate and personalized estimate of your moving costs, it is always best to request a free quote based on your specific requirements.

Timeline & Packing Tips

A well-organized timeline is essential for a smooth relocation. Here's a checklist-style guide, typically spanning 4-8 weeks:

8 Weeks Before Moving

• Declutter and Downsize: Start going through your belongings. Decide what to keep, sell, donate, or discard. This significantly reduces moving volume and cost.
• Research & Budget: Finalize your budget for the move and research potential neighborhoods and housing options in Malaysia.
• Documents: Begin gathering and organizing all essential documents: passports, visas, birth certificates, marriage certificates, academic records, medical records, financial statements, and driver's licenses. Make multiple copies, both physical and digital, and keep them in a secure, accessible place.

6 Weeks Before Moving

• Notify Utilities & Services: Contact your current utility providers (electricity, gas, water, internet, phone) to arrange for disconnection or transfer.
• Medical & Dental Check-ups: Schedule any necessary medical or dental appointments for yourself and your family. Obtain prescriptions and medical records.
• Pet Relocation: If you're moving with pets, research Malaysia's import regulations and start the necessary veterinary procedures and documentation.

4 Weeks Before Moving

• Change of Address: Notify banks, credit card companies, insurance providers, and subscription services of your upcoming change of address.
• Start Packing Non-Essentials: Begin packing items you don't use daily, such as books, seasonal clothing, and decorative items. Label boxes clearly with contents and the room they belong to.
• Arrange for Mail Forwarding: Set up mail forwarding with your local postal service.

2 Weeks Before Moving

• Confirm Travel Arrangements: Finalize flights and temporary accommodation in Malaysia.
• Pack Essentials Bag: Prepare a separate bag with essentials for your first few days in Malaysia: important documents, medications, toiletries, a change of clothes, chargers, and any comfort items.
• Return Borrowed Items & Collect Loaned Items: Ensure all borrowed items are returned and anything you've loaned out is collected.
• Defrost Freezer: If moving appliances, defrost your freezer and clean out the refrigerator.

1 Week Before Moving

• Confirm Services: Reconfirm all moving arrangements, utility disconnections, and final appointments.
• Clean Your Current Home: Arrange for professional cleaning or start cleaning your home yourself.
• Final Packing: Pack remaining items, leaving out only what you need for the last day.

Moving Day

• Supervise Movers: Be present to answer any questions and ensure everything is loaded correctly.
• Final Walk-Through: Do a final check of your home to ensure nothing is left behind and all windows and doors are secured.

For a tailored moving plan and a free, no-obligation quote, visit relocation123.com today.

Visas, immigration & documents

Moving to this country often involves visas, residence permits, document translation/legalization and customs paperwork. Our verified partners handle the move itself; for visa or immigration help, send the request below and we'll point you the right way.

• Residence permit / visa (work, study, family)
• Document translation & apostille
• Customs clearance for personal effects
• Travel & goods insurance

Get help with your move →

Customs & Import Rules

Moving to Malaysia: Your Essential Customs & Import Guide

Relocating to Malaysia? Navigating customs and import regulations can seem daunting, but with the right information, you can ensure a smooth transition for your belongings. This guide provides a clear overview of what to expect when bringing your personal items into Malaysia.

If you're relocating as a new resident

Bringing your used personal and household goods into Malaysia is generally duty-free. This applies if you are the owner of the goods and they have been in your possession and use for a minimum of six months. Be prepared for the possibility of a full customs examination of your belongings.

What you'll need

• Copy of your Airway Bill or Original Bill of Lading (express release preferred)
• Copy of your detailed packing list
• Copy of your passport, including the photograph page
• Copy of your work permit or letter of employment confirming your job in Malaysia

Good to know

• The owner of the goods must be the shipper.
• Goods must have been in your use and possession for at least 6 months.
• A 6% Service Tax will be applied to logistics services in Malaysia from April 1, 2024.
• You do not need to be present when your goods arrive.
• Ensure your packing list accurately reflects all packed items.
• All necessary documents, including your contact address and shipment type (D/D or D/P), should be sent in advance to avoid delays.
• Consign your goods to yourself, care of your destination agent.

Returning Malaysian residents

If you are a Malaysian citizen returning home, your used personal and household goods can also enter duty-free under similar conditions as new residents.

What you'll need

• Copy of your Airway Bill or Original Bill of Lading (express release preferred)
• Copy of your detailed packing list
• Copy of your passport, including the photograph page
• Copy of your Malaysian Identity Card (IC), front and back
• Copy of your work permit or letter of employment from your origin country

Good to know

• The owner of the goods must be the shipper.
• Goods must have been in your use and possession for at least 6 months.
• A 6% Service Tax will be applied to logistics services in Malaysia from April 1, 2024.
• You do not need to be present when your goods arrive.
• Ensure your packing list accurately reflects all packed items.
• All necessary documents, including your contact address and shipment type (D/D or D/P), should be sent in advance to avoid delays.
• Consign your goods to yourself, care of your destination agent.

Diplomatic moves

Diplomats and embassy personnel benefit from duty-free entry for their used personal and household goods.

What you'll need

• Malaysian Customs form N°1 (8 copies)
• Letter of authority
• Original Bill of Lading
• Packing list

Good to know

• Only authorized embassy personnel can sign documents.
• Documents must be endorsed by the Embassy and then approved by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before goods can be cleared. This process can take 2-3 weeks.

Bringing new items

New furniture, personal items, and household goods are generally subject to customs duty.

What you'll need

• Original invoice clearly stating the value of the items
• Malaysian Customs form N°1
• Letter of authority
• Original Bill of Lading

Good to know

• Inform your destination agent if any items are new to prevent potential delays during clearance.

Bringing special items

Antiques

Importing antiques requires a special permit from the National Museum, which must be applied for by the owner directly.

Precious metal objects

These items are subject to customs duty. The specific type of object needs to be declared.

Presents & Souvenirs

Whether gifts and souvenirs are subject to customs duty is at the discretion of Malaysian customs authorities.

Vehicles

Motor cars, motorcycles, and other vehicles are subject to significant import duties and taxes, typically ranging from 150% to 300% depending on the engine capacity.

What you'll need

• Original registration card/certificates of the vehicle
• Original insurance certificate
• Original invoice (for new vehicles)
• Original import permit
• Original Bill of Lading

Good to know

• The owner must obtain an import permit from the Malaysian Ministry of International Trade before the vehicle can be imported.

Machines, appliances and equipment

These items are subject to customs duty, especially if they are less than 6 months old. An import permit may be required depending on the type of machine or equipment.

What you'll need

• Original invoice with value stated for items less than 6 months old. It's advisable to keep this document for customs authorities.
• Malaysian Customs form N°1
• Letter of authority
• Original Bill of Lading

Good to know

• Malaysia uses 220-240 volt electricity.
• Be prepared to provide details about the type of machine/appliance/equipment, as an import permit might be necessary.

Telecommunications equipment

An import permit from Telecom Malaysia is required before importing any telecommunications equipment, including fax machines, cordless phones, cellular phones, modems, and answering machines.

What you'll need

• To apply for the permit, you'll need to provide details such as the model/type, serial number, country of origin, and reasons for importing the equipment.

Alcohol

Alcohol is subject to very high duties and taxes in Malaysia, estimated between 150% to 250% of the value, or approximately US$30-US$50 per litre, depending on alcohol content. There is no tax-free allowance for alcohol in unaccompanied shipments.

Good to know

• If you wish to import alcohol, a separate, detailed inventory is required for each bottle (brand, country of origin, alcohol content, and container size).
• This inventory must be submitted to your destination agent to apply for an import permit.
• The permit application process can take several weeks and is not always approved.
• It is strongly recommended not to include alcohol in your shipments due to the high costs and complexities.
• The same process and restrictions apply to diplomats.

Firearms, dangerous weapons, imitation firearms, fireworks, explosives, foodstuffs

Importation of these items is prohibited unless special authorization is obtained. Illegal possession of firearms carries a mandatory death sentence.

Good to know

• Swords require an import permit, which must be applied for by the owner.

Plants

Plants are subject to customs duty and require approval from the Ministry of Agriculture. They must be sent as a separate shipment.

What you'll need

• Airway Bill
• Original import permit
• Original health certificate

Pets

Importing pets into Malaysia requires careful planning and permits. Allow at least three working weeks for the government veterinary doctor to process permit approvals.

What you'll need

• Health certificate or veterinarian certificate from the origin country.
• Details to apply for an import permit: pet's name, breed, sex, colour, age, and a copy of the health certificate.
• Owner's name and local contact information.
• Pet's arrival date.
• Confirmation of whether the pet will travel as cargo or with the owner.
• For special permit breeds: proof of microchip, owner's local address (available for veterinary inspection), and a letter from the owner confirming the dog is a family pet, not for breeding or sale, will be kept in the compound, and will be muzzled and leashed outside.
• Two copies of the pet's latest picture.

Good to know

• Prohibited breeds: Dogo Argentina, Fila Brazilziro, Japanese Tosa, Pit Bull Terrier, American Pit Bull.
• Breeds allowed under special permit: German Shepherd, Dobermann, Rottweiler, Belgian Shepherd, East European Shepherd, Bull Mastiff, Bull Terrier, Canary Dog.
• Pets must be at least six months old at the time of import for special permit breeds.
• Quarantine at a government station upon arrival for 7 days is mandatory.
• House quarantine may be approved by the veterinary at the quarantine station, applied by the owner during a visit to the pet.
• Book kennel/quarantine space well in advance.

Video tapes

All videotapes and CDs are subject to censorship by the Government Film Censor Board. They will be viewed before release, a process that can take two to three weeks, with no guarantee of return if not approved for viewing in Malaysia. A fee of US$3.00 per tape will be charged for this service. While instances of non-release are rare, shippers should be aware of this possibility.

What you'll need

• Titles and story of tapes/CDs
• Duration
• Actor names
• Genre

Solid wood packing material (WPM)

As of October 2009, all solid wood packing materials (pallets, crating, etc.) must comply with ISPM No. 15 standards. Overseas suppliers must ensure the wood is properly treated by accredited companies registered under the Malaysian Fumigation Accreditation Scheme (MAFAS).

Good to know

• All WPM must be marked to certify approved treatment.
• Markings must be permanent, in any colour except red and orange, and stickers are not allowed.
• Inform your suppliers to ensure WPM is treated before importation.

Frequently asked questions

What items are strictly prohibited from entering Malaysia?
Narcotics and drugs (including opium, heroin, morphine, marijuana), goods of Israeli origin, obscene and pornographic materials, daggers, and flick-knives are strictly prohibited. Possession of drugs carries a mandatory death sentence, regardless of whether they are considered "hard" or "soft" drugs.

Are there any taxes on logistics services for my move?
Yes, a 6% Service Tax became applicable to companies offering logistics services in Malaysia starting April 1, 2024.

Do I need to be present when my household goods arrive for customs clearance?
No, you do not need to be present when your goods arrive in Malaysia.

What should I do if I'm importing new items along with my used household goods?
You must declare new items with an original invoice stating their value. These items will be subject to customs duty. Inform your destination agent in advance to avoid delays.

How long does it take for diplomatic shipments to clear customs?
Documents for diplomatic shipments must be endorsed by the Embassy and approved by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which can take 2-3 weeks before goods can be cleared.

What are the requirements for importing telecommunications equipment?
An import permit from Telecom Malaysia is mandatory. You'll need to provide details like model, serial number, country of origin, and reason for import to apply for the permit.

For personalized assistance with your move to Malaysia, please contact relocation123.com.

Get help with your move →