🇲🇾 Ready to start a new adventure across the Channel? If you’re planning a move to Malaysia, this guide will give you all the practical steps, updated costs, and streamlined advice you need for a smooth transition.
What should I know about living in Malaysia at a glance?
• Flag: 🇲🇾
• Population: ~34.2 million (national, 2025)
• Currency: Malaysian Ringgit (MYR, RM) — Prices are usually compared internationally in USD.
• Average salary: around RM 48,000 per year (~USD 11,000)
• Live MYR ←→ Dollar: Use dynamic currency converters for the latest exchange rates (Department of Statistics Malaysia, 2025; IMF, 2025 ; Bank Negara Malaysia; XE, 2025)
Reviewed by Department of Statistics Malaysia, June 2025; Bank Negara Malaysia, last updated July 2025; XE Financial Data Team, last updated July 2025.
How much does it cost to move door-to-door to Malaysia?
The cost of moving to Malaysia depends on shipment size and transport method. Typical market rates as of mid-2025 are:
| Move Type | Time | Cost (EUR or USD) |
| 20 ft container (FCL)⁺ | ~4–7 weeks | USD 1,850–2,330 (≈ EUR 1,700–2,100) for a 20-ft FCL from Europe/USA to Malaysia BR LOGISTICS |
| 40 ft container (FCL)⁺ | ~4–7 weeks | USD 2,500–5,500 (≈ EUR 2,300–5,000) depending on origin & route BR LOGISTICS+1 |
| Air freight (~1 m³ / ~200 kg, door-to-door) | ~5-10 days | Typically significantly more expensive; often several thousand USD depending on urgency & distance (not enough public data for a stable benchmark) |
| Customs & duties fees | — | Malaysia import duty rates vary by goods category: 0–60% on ad valorem basis; there is also SST (Sales & Service Tax) of around 5–10% applied on import value including duty & shipping costs. DHL+1 |
Reviewed by Freight & Logistics market sources & Malaysian customs/tax guides, last updated mid-2025.
Use a real-time moving cost calculator for tailored quotes with ReloAdvisor.
Real-life case: “I moved to Kuala Lumpur in April 2025 with about 25 cubic meters of personal belongings using a 40ft container from Los Angeles. The total cost—including door-to-door pick-up, sea freight, and delivery to my apartment in central Kuala Lumpur—was around USD 5,200. The relocation company in Malaysia handled customs clearance at Port Klang and arranged final delivery despite traffic congestion and narrow access roads in the city.” — Amira Z., moved in April 2025
Importantly, many people moving to Malaysia choose to relocate to one of the five most popular cities, including Kuala Lumpur, George Town (Penang), Johor Bahru, Ipoh, and Kota Kinabalu. These cities combine strong infrastructure, diverse job markets, and vibrant expat communities.
What are the customs and duty rules when moving belongings?
If you’re relocating to Malaysia, you may qualify for duty-free import of used household goods under Malaysian Customs rules. To be eligible:
- Items must have been owned and used for at least 6 months.
- Goods must arrive within 6 months after your move.
At customs, present:
- Inventory list of goods
- Passport and valid visa/residence permit
- Proof of residency abroad
⚠️ New items, vehicles, alcohol, tobacco, or high-value goods may be subject to Malaysia’s import duties (0–60% depending on category) plus Sales & Service Tax (SST) of 5–10% applied on the customs value including freight and insurance.
Reviewed by the Royal Malaysian Customs Department, last updated in mid-2025
What do I need to know about Malaysia visas and residency?
Most foreigners require a visa or residence permit to live in Malaysia. Options include: Employment Pass, Professional Visit Pass, Student Pass, Dependant Pass, MM2H (Malaysia My Second Home) long-term visa, and the Permanent Residence option after long-term stay.
- Visa categories and eligibility check: https://www.imi.gov.my
- Visa/residence permit application portal (for appointments and documents): https://www.imi.gov.my/index.php/en/
Reviewed by the Immigration Department of Malaysia, last updated in June 2025
What’s required to import a car or swap a driving licence?
Vehicles must comply with Malaysian emissions and safety standards. Import duties, excise tax, sales tax (SST), and registration fees apply.
Driver’s licences from certain countries (e.g., Singapore, Germany, Switzerland) can be converted directly. Others (e.g., USA, UK, India, China) generally require a driving test (theory + practical) before a Malaysian licence is issued.
Reviewed by Road Transport Department of Malaysia (JPJ) & Royal Malaysian Customs, last updated in July 2025
How can I bring pets with me to Malaysia?
Pets must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and accompanied by an import permit from the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services (MAQIS). A valid rabies antibody blood test may be required if coming from non-approved countries. Import requirements vary by species. Entry is only permitted through designated entry points such as Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and Penang International Airport.
Reviewed by Department of Veterinary Services Malaysia (DVS) & MAQIS, last updated in March 2025
How do I open a bank account and get Malaysia’s identity card (MyKad)?
To open a Malaysian bank account, you’ll need:
- Passport and valid visa/residence pass
- Proof of address (rental contract/utility bill)
- Sometimes proof of employment/student enrollment
The MyKad is Malaysia’s national identity card, required for tax, social security, healthcare, and banking. It is issued by the National Registration Department (JPN) after registering your residence in Malaysia.
Reviewed by the National Registration Department of Malaysia (JPN), last updated in November 2024
How to Navigate the Housing Market as a Newcomer to Malaysia?
In Malaysia, renting usually requires a security deposit (normally 2–3 months’ rent plus half a month for utilities) and proof of stable income. Utilities are often not included in rent.
To rent, you’ll need:
- Passport and valid visa/residence pass
- Proof of income or job/study contract
- Local contact details (sometimes required by landlords/agents)
To buy property in Malaysia, budget an extra 3–7% for legal fees, stamp duty, and transaction costs. Top areas for newcomers:
- Kuala Lumpur (capital, financial hub, many expats)
- Penang / George Town (heritage city, tech and medical hub)
- Johor Bahru (close to Singapore, growing opportunities)
- Ipoh (affordable, cultural and historic charm)
- Kota Kinabalu (gateway to Borneo, nature and lifestyle appeal)
Reviewed by National Property Information Centre (NAPIC) & Malaysian Institute of Estate Agents, last updated in March 2025
How to Understand Your Tax and Pension Obligations in Malaysia?
If you’re a tax resident in Malaysia (living more than 182 days per year), you’re generally taxed on Malaysia-sourced income only. Contributions to social insurance and pension schemes are mandatory for employees under local contracts.
| Tax Component | Description | Notes |
| Income Tax | Progressive rates: 0%–30% depending on income | No capital gains tax (except for property gains), foreign-sourced income is exempt for most residents |
| Social Contributions | Covers pension (EPF), healthcare (SOCSO), employment insurance | Employee share ~11% EPF; employer share ~12–13% |
| Double Tax Treaties | Avoid double taxation | Malaysia has agreements with 70+ countries |
Reviewed by the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (LHDN), last updated in 2025
Where can I find tools and more resources before moving?
For further guidance, make use of the volume calculator, book a video survey, or explore comprehensive guides for New Zealand and Australia with ReloAdvisor.
