How to Get PR in Malaysia: Requirements and Process

If you’re looking to build a long-term future in Malaysia, earning Permanent Residency (PR) status is a major milestone. 

Malaysia is known for its multicultural society, affordable living, and strategic location in Southeast Asia, making it a popular destination for expats, professionals, and retirees.

But how do you actually get PR in Malaysia? This guide walks you through the requirements, process, and all things to know about permanent residency in Malaysia.

What Is Permanent Residency in Malaysia?

Permanent Residency (PR) in Malaysia is a legal status that allows foreign nationals to live in the country without needing to renew their visa. 

PR in Malaysia holders enjoy many of the same privileges as Malaysian citizens, such as easier access to jobs, property ownership, and local services, but there are still important differences between PR and citizenship.

PR in Malaysia vs. Citizenship: What’s the Difference?

Understanding the difference between Permanent Residency and citizenship is important before applying:

Who Can Apply for PR in Malaysia?

There are five main categories under which a person may apply for PR status:

1. Investor

• Must place a minimum of USD 2 million in a fixed deposit in a Malaysian bank.

• Funds must be maintained for at least five years.

2. Expert

• Highly skilled professionals recognized by a Malaysian government agency (e.g. Ministry of Home Affairs).

• Must have exceptional expertise in areas like medicine, technology, engineering, or research.

3. Professional

• Foreigners with long-term employment in Malaysia (usually 5+ years).

• Must hold a valid Employment Pass.

4. Spouse of a Malaysian Citizen
   
   

• Must be married for at least 5 years and have lived in Malaysia continuously.

• A long-term social visit pass (with the right to work) is required beforehand.

5. Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Holders

• Long-term residents under the MM2H program may apply after a certain number of years.

General Requirements for PR in Malaysia

While each category has specific rules, general eligibility usually includes:

• A valid passport from your home country

• Minimum 5 years’ continuous residence in Malaysia (depending on category)

• Stable financial status

• Clean criminal record

• Good health record

• Proof of integration into Malaysian society (employment, property ownership, etc.)

How to Apply for PR in Malaysia: Step-by-Step

Here’s how the process typically works:

1. Determine your eligibility based on the five PR categories.

2. Gather the required documents (see list below).

3. Submit your application to the Immigration Department of Malaysia.

4. Attend an interview.

5. Wait for processing — it can take several months or even years.

6. Once approved, receive your Red MyPR card, which is your proof of permanent residency.

Documents You’ll Need to Apply for PR in Malaysia

The documents vary slightly depending on the category, but mostly include:

• Copies of your passport (all pages)

• Copy of valid long-term visa or Employment Pass

• Letter of recommendation (if applicable)

• Police clearance from your home country and Malaysia

• Medical report

• Financial statements or proof of income

• Marriage certificate (for spouses of citizens)

• Proof of residency duration (utility bills, tenancy agreements)

You can only apply for Permanent Residency (PR) in Malaysia in person. 

There is no online application. The process depends on your category (spouse, long-term pass holder, investor, etc.), but generally, applications are submitted through the Immigration Department of Malaysia (Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia – JIM).

Where to Apply for PR in Malaysia

1. Immigration Department Headquarters – Putrajaya

• Most PR applications, especially for skilled professionals, long-term pass holders, and investors, are handled here:

Address:
Immigration Department of Malaysia
Headquarters, No. 15, Persiaran Perdana, Precinct 2,
62550 Putrajaya, Malaysia.

This is the main hub for PR processing.

2. State Immigration Offices

• Some PR applications (especially for spouses of Malaysians, or for those residing in specific states) can be submitted at the state immigration offices (Pejabat Imigresen Negeri).

Example: If you live in Penang, you would go to the Penang Immigration Office.

3. National Registration Department (JPN)

• After approval, you must go to Jabatan Pendaftaran Negara (JPN) to register and obtain your MyPR card (the red identity card for PR holders)

✅ Note: Applications usually require appointments (via the Immigration online system – STO (Sistem Temujanji Online). Walk-ins are often not accepted.

How Long Does It Take to Get PR in Malaysia?

The timeline can vary depending on your background and category:

• Investor/Expert applications may take 6 months to 1 year.
• Spouse and long-term resident applications may take 1 to 3 years.

Benefits of Having PR in Malaysia

• No need to renew a visa or leave the country frequently

• Easier to own property

• Greater employment flexibility

• Eligibility for some local education benefits

• More freedom in financial matters (e.g., loans and insurance)

Can You Lose Your PR Status in Malaysia?

Yes. PR status in Malaysia can be revoked if:

• You commit a serious crime

• You stay outside Malaysia for too long (usually 5 years without returning)

• You provide false documents or misrepresent facts during your application

• You fail to maintain your financial commitments (for investors)

Tips for a Successful PR Application

• Stay legally in Malaysia for the required number of years

• Keep consistent employment or income

• Maintain a clean legal record

• Build connections in Malaysia (community involvement, work, etc.)

• Ensure your documents are complete and accurate

• Seek help from an immigration consultant or legal advisor if needed