I-Passport Index
Asia-Pacific

Malaysia

Baseline rank
#4 / 116
Baseline score
71.7
Factor scores

How Malaysia performs

Tax

83.5
Very strong

Lighter than most. Taxes here are below average: Malaysia is 43rd of 123. Most people keep a good share of their income and business profit. Personal income tax 1-30%, corporate tax 15-24%, VAT 8% or 10%.

Source: Heritage Foundation, Index of Economic Freedom (Tax Burden sub-score)

Safety

69.7
Strong

Very safe. Malaysia is one of the most peaceful and stable countries in the index, 11th of 117.

Source: Institute for Economics and Peace, Global Peace Index

Cost of Living

86.5
Very strong

Affordable. Everyday life costs less here than in most countries we cover: Malaysia is 31st of 118.

Source: Numbeo Cost of Living Index

Education

47.1
Limited

Good education. Education here is stronger than in most countries we cover: Malaysia is 40th of 120.

Source: UNDP & MBRF, Global Knowledge Index

Every figure is published by the institution named against it. We do not adjust, model or estimate the underlying values. See the formulas.

Tax and citizenship

The detail behind the scores

Taxation

Corporate income tax 15-24% Applicable tax rate varies based on the amount of income earned and paid up capital
Personal income tax 1-30% Applicable tax rate varies based on amount of income earned
Standard VAT 8% or 10% Sales Tax - 10% Service Tax - 8%

Rates change without notice. Confirm with the relevant tax authority before acting.

Naturalization Requirements and Immigration Pathway

Residence for naturalization
12 years
Language requirement
Yes
Proficiency in Malay language
Investment Immigration Pathways
Malaysia MM2H Program
Malaysia Premium Visa Program (PVIP)
Official language
Malay (Bahasa Malaysia)
Dual citizenship
Allows with conditions
Pathways

2 immigration pathways

Malaysia MM2H Program
Minimum investment: USD 150,000 + Property
Program details
Malaysia Premium Visa Program (PVIP)
Minimum investment: RM 480,000/yearProcessing time: 3-4 Months
Program details

Program terms change. Always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before acting. This page is informational and is not legal or tax advice.

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