Malaysia startup visa: the Malaysia Tech Entrepreneur Programme

Applicants must be at least 18 and be technical founders or co-founders of a digital or technology venture; artificial intelligence is a stated priority. Non-technical founders are considered at the panel's discretion. A New Entrepreneur needs a product at least at beta stage and a plan to incorporate in Malaysia within a year; an Established Entrepreneur needs at least three years of track record and the accounts for the latest two years (or one audited year). Up to two founders per New and three per Established application can apply. Israeli citizens are excluded.

All applicants must show a personal balance of at least RM50,000 held for three consecutive months in current, savings or checking accounts; shares, bonds, gold, cryptocurrency and fixed deposits are not accepted, and the bank does not have to be Malaysian. New Entrepreneurs are sponsored by a recognised Malaysia Digital Hub, which signs a stamped personal bond, and must subscribe to at least a one-year hot desk. Established Entrepreneurs need a Malaysian citizen aged 21 or over as sponsor.

A non-refundable fee of RM540 is paid on submission. After approval, New Entrepreneurs pay a RM2,160 processing fee and a RM360 immigration pass fee. Established Entrepreneurs pay RM4,860 for the principal or spouse, RM2,160 per child under 18, RM1,080 per year for other dependants on social visit passes and a RM500 pass fee. Multiple entry visa charges depend on nationality.

Applications are filed online in English; foreign-language documents need a certified translation. A business analyst is assigned within three working days, the MTEP panel decides within about four weeks and the Immigration Department issues the pass within about two weeks. A certificate of good conduct is compulsory. The approval letter is valid for six months, and decisions are final with no formal appeal. Hard copies for pass issuance go to the Expats Service Centre in Cyberjaya.

Renewal opens two months before expiry and should be filed at least six weeks ahead. New Entrepreneurs renew with the hub rental agreement, bond, the RM50,000 bank statement, product milestones and the company incorporation form; after two years with achievements they may apply as Established Entrepreneurs. Established Entrepreneurs also show tax deduction records, EPF statements, audited accounts and health insurance. Team members can be hired on Employment Passes once the company is set up.