MM2H- Is there another way to stay

[Serendipity2]

Originally Posted by aubella

By taking more from you, Malaysia Government will give back something to you....

As per the new guideline, you now can:

1) Work part-time for up to 20 hours a week, in a job approved by the government.
2) Invest and manage your own business, as long as you form a private limited company.
3) Even if you do not buy a house, if you have invested in a unspeculative business, you could withdraw the MYR 50,000 or MYR 150,000(for anyone below 50 years old) after one year of MM2H.

So rather than looking at the additional MYR 40,000 that has been taken out from your retirement nest, you could look at the other side of the coin of which you could generate more income in Malaysia to support your retirement life. Life of just lying in the beach all days will be very boring after a few months. Even if you do not need the income, the choice of able to turn a hobby into a income generating activities can be quite satisfying.

If one is below 50 years old, the requirement has now changed to maintaining MYR 150,000 after one year, which means that only MYR 150,000 are allowed to be withdrawn.

Hi aubella,


Hmmm, pay for the privilege of working - so long as the government approves of what I do? I'm not sure that's a plus. How about if what you know or want to do isn't allowed? That sounds very one-sided having to pay to work - and only up to 20 hours.

I would hope anywhere one went we could invest and 'manage' our affairs - but they want to regulate even that by require that one form a private limited company? More bureaucratic interferrence, red tape and expense so that the government can tax us? Not trying to be argumentative but again, not a very big plus to leave an extra $US11,500 in a government approved bank. Why not just go there, live on a regular 'Social" visa and every 90 days take a side trip. Annoying and a bit of a hassle but it sure gives you a lot more money that you get to keep. When people reach 65 being "allowed" to work but "only" up to 20 hours isn't really very attractive. I'm reminded of the quote - "That government is best that governs least". Nations do far better when they leave their citizens [and those who chose to legally live there] unfettered by an over-reaching government. That was what made nations great and the over-regulating is what destroys them. It made America great and now it's destroying it by over-reaching, unnecessary government bureaucrats insinuating themselves into every nook and cranny of our lives. Same is true of Italy - it's greatest days were the glory years of the Renaissance but look at that great nation now. A pox on a government that regulates for their own benefit. Anyway, thanks for your response but their MM2H program, which sounded so attractive, isn't attractive anymore given those extra burdens.

Serendipity2

[aubella]

Originally Posted by Serendipity2

Hi aubella,


Hmmm, pay for the privilege of working - so long as the government approves of what I do? I'm not sure that's a plus. How about if what you know or want to do isn't allowed? That sounds very one-sided having to pay to work - and only up to 20 hours.

I would hope anywhere one went we could invest and 'manage' our affairs - but they want to regulate even that by require that one form a private limited company? More bureaucratic interferrence, red tape and expense so that the government can tax us? Not trying to be argumentative but again, not a very big plus to leave an extra $US11,500 in a government approved bank. Why not just go there, live on a regular 'Social" visa and every 90 days take a side trip. Annoying and a bit of a hassle but it sure gives you a lot more money that you get to keep. When people reach 65 being "allowed" to work but "only" up to 20 hours isn't really very attractive. I'm reminded of the quote - "That government is best that governs least". Nations do far better when they leave their citizens [and those who chose to legally live there] unfettered by an over-reaching government. That was what made nations great and the over-regulating is what destroys them. It made America great and now it's destroying it by over-reaching, unnecessary government bureaucrats insinuating themselves into every nook and cranny of our lives. Same is true of Italy - it's greatest days were the glory years of the Renaissance but look at that great nation now. A pox on a government that regulates for their own benefit. Anyway, thanks for your response but their MM2H program, which sounded so attractive, isn't attractive anymore given those extra burdens.

Serendipity2

One can of course live in Malaysia for a certain period under a normal tourist visa, but it would be very difficult to live "forever" here under the 90 days tourist visa. I have American clients who were eventually "politely" informed by the immigration officer when she tried to enter Malaysia to get another 90days after staying for 2 years, that if she intend to stay for long term she has to get a long term visa or else she may be rejected from entry the next time she comes in.

After all, Malaysia is the attraction. MM2H is just a program that facilitates for that. I presume everyone is coming here because of what Malaysia can offer, or ain't I correct?

Thank you for sharing your feedback.

Regards,

Aubella.com

[Serendipity2]

Originally Posted by aubella

One can of course live in Malaysia for a certain period under a normal tourist visa, but it would be very difficult to live "forever" here under the 90 days tourist visa. I have American clients who were eventually "politely" informed by the immigration officer when she tried to enter Malaysia to get another 90days after staying for 2 years, that if she intend to stay for long term she has to get a long term visa or else she may be rejected from entry the next time she comes in.

After all, Malaysia is the attraction. MM2H is just a program that facilitates for that. I presume everyone is coming here because of what Malaysia can offer, or ain't I correct?

Thank you for sharing your feedback.

Regards,

Aubella.com

Hi aubella,

I agree that Malaysia has much to offer and it should be on everyone's list of places to retire to but those who are retiring should not have to pay for the privilege of living there in the form of a rather substantial amount deposited into a bank nor is the ability to work a great incentive. While I think most would like to engage in some activity to augment their income that's their business and not the government's. What retirees DO bring to a country is their lifetime of experience and knowledge which they share, the money they spend to make the economy even stronger and the simple fact that they are usually good citizens and not involved in nefarious activities. So, for retirees, I disagree with the MM2H visa program - expat retirees only bring benefits to the host country and shouldn't have to 'bribe' their way in. In a different way those still working also bring their knowledge, their energy and their money to Malaysia and all benefit for them doing so. Again, the government that governs least governs best.

Also, keep in mind that what the government grants it can also take away so that 10 year visa could be taken very easily should you offend someone in the government and then struggle mightily to get your money out of that bank. While Malaysia is high on my list of destinations they really need to rethink their policies to be more open and inviting to expats. Right now the only thing that differentiates Malaysia from a dozen other Asian countries is the ability to buy and own your own home - but most allow ownership of a condo [since no land is involved] so that single difference isn't enough to make Malaysia stand out all that much from a host of others. Just my humble opinion but I would never, under those guidelines, consider a MM2H visa. Thanks for your informative post even though we disagree!

Serendipity2

[Gloucesterguy]

Originally Posted by aubella

The process of getting into MM2H is pretty simple actually:

1) You need to prove that you have MYR 350,000 as cash asset
2) You have sufficient income (either pension or even rental income, investment income etc) to support yourself, if you are single and over 50 years old, usually it means an income of over MYR 7,000 and close to MYR 10,000 per month

once you have shown documentary proof of the above, we can get an approval from the government, of which then the MYR 150,000 fixed deposit requirement applies.

The MYR 150,000 fixed deposit requirement only apply to applicant over 50 years old. For applicant below 50 years old, MYR 300,000 fixed deposit is required initially, and will be allowed to withdraw MYR 150,000 subject to certain conditions.

AuBella,
OK it seems simple, BUT does the MYR350,000 have to be literally CASH or can it be a house with a cash equity value of at least that amount.
Surely I would not have to sell my UK property just to get that amount of liquidity in a UK bank? If so, the the Malaysian government is expecting too much in my case

So, now it seems from your posts that, because I am 65 years old, the whole of the MYR150,000 has to remain on deposit in a Malaysian bank until I decide to leave the country. Previously it appeared that 50% would be returned after 12 months. Then a new ruling reduced that to 33%. Which is correct?

I find that Lloyds TSB (My Bank) has a branch in Malaysia and so I could, it appears possible, open a seamless overseas account for my needs in both Malysia and the UK. Am wondering if the Lloyds TSB in Malaysia qualifies for the MYR 150,000 deposit. Do you know?

As far as the income requirements are concerned, I qualify, so long as I combine pension and rental incomes.

As far as the MYR 150,000 deposit is concerned, that too appears possible for me to comply following other enquiries.

Once the MYR350,000 cash assett requirement is clear, then I will know if the MM2H is suitable for me or not.

You input is greatly appreciated

[Gloucesterguy]

Originally Posted by Serendipity2

Hi aubella,


Hmmm, pay for the privilege of working - so long as the government approves of what I do? I'm not sure that's a plus. How about if what you know or want to do isn't allowed? That sounds very one-sided having to pay to work - and only up to 20 hours.

I would hope anywhere one went we could invest and 'manage' our affairs - but they want to regulate even that by require that one form a private limited company? More bureaucratic interferrence, red tape and expense so that the government can tax us? Not trying to be argumentative but again, not a very big plus to leave an extra $US11,500 in a government approved bank. Why not just go there, live on a regular 'Social" visa and every 90 days take a side trip. Annoying and a bit of a hassle but it sure gives you a lot more money that you get to keep. When people reach 65 being "allowed" to work but "only" up to 20 hours isn't really very attractive. I'm reminded of the quote - "That government is best that governs least". Nations do far better when they leave their citizens [and those who chose to legally live there] unfettered by an over-reaching government. That was what made nations great and the over-regulating is what destroys them. It made America great and now it's destroying it by over-reaching, unnecessary government bureaucrats insinuating themselves into every nook and cranny of our lives. Same is true of Italy - it's greatest days were the glory years of the Renaissance but look at that great nation now. A pox on a government that regulates for their own benefit. Anyway, thanks for your response but their MM2H program, which sounded so attractive, isn't attractive anymore given those extra burdens.

Serendipity2

Hi Serendipity,
I was womdering about the deposit money. Presumably, there will be interest paid if the correct account is chosen. Noticed a retiree deposit account might pay almost 4%pa- book marked that somewhere! Thought that might sweeten the bitter pill a little. Dont know if it is pssible to get higher than that without taking risks!
Quite liked the idea of setting up a small ltd company - Custom Dessmaking and Suits etc., employing my Filipina friend who is an expert at this. Would be very happy to work the 20hrs per week in this little venture. Think she probably works 90hrs per week now, just to scrape up a living wage in the Philipines. Maybe there is a rule preventing me from doing this!- Oh my god. Better that than trying to bring her in as a maid which is not possible under the rules it seems.

[Serendipity2]

Originally Posted by Gloucesterguy

AuBella,
OK it seems simple, BUT does the MYR350,000 have to be literally CASH or can it be a house with a cash equity value of at least that amount.
Surely I would not have to sell my UK property just to get that amount of liquidity in a UK bank? If so, the the Malaysian government is expecting too much in my case

So, now it seems from your posts that, because I am 65 years old, the whole of the MYR150,000 has to remain on deposit in a Malaysian bank until I decide to leave the country. Previously it appeared that 50% would be returned after 12 months. Then a new ruling reduced that to 33%. Which is correct?

I find that Lloyds TSB (My Bank) has a branch in Malaysia and so I could, it appears possible, open a seamless overseas account for my needs in both Malysia and the UK. Am wondering if the Lloyds TSB in Malaysia qualifies for the MYR 150,000 deposit. Do you know?

As far as the income requirements are concerned, I qualify, so long as I combine pension and rental incomes.

As far as the MYR 150,000 deposit is concerned, that too appears possible for me to comply following other enquiries.

Once the MYR350,000 cash assett requirement is clear, then I will know if the MM2H is suitable for me or not.

You input is greatly appreciated

gloucesterguy,

"So, now it seems from your posts that, because I am 65 years old, the whole of the MYR150,000 has to remain on deposit in a Malaysian bank until I decide to leave the country. Previously it appeared that 50% would be returned after 12 months. Then a new ruling reduced that to 33%. Which is correct?"

I'd best let aubella clarify [but you can too by Googling MM2H visa as posted by Malaysian government - it's all there. Of the MYR 150,000 for your MM2H retirement visa you use to be required to leave MYR 60,000 on deposit until you left Malaysia. That's been increased to MYR 100,000 - or an extra MYR 40,000. The same fools that run my government here must run the Malaysian MM2H visa program, ie "We're not happy until you're not happy". :|

The bank IS paying over 3% interest but who knows if they end up reducing that to holders of MM2H visas. There isn't any reason they couldn't. Governments that keep changing the 'rules' make me nervous - not a very good or stable sign in my opinion.

Serendipity2

[tumbleweeds]

Oh, sorry, I just read this thread for the first time - I'm getting lazy! Anyway, here's some information about the MM2H and living long-term in Malaysia on a tourist visa that hasn't been discussed in this thread. I'll also try to address some misinformation.

First of all, regardless of technicalities, many people have lived for many years by just getting what is called a "Social Visit Pass," which is what you get when you go through customs (by air or land) and is good for 90 days for UK and US nationals. This is not the same as a visa. You just get your passport stamped when passing through customs - no application or costs required. I lived for over 2 years in Malaysia this way, leaving for the most part for only a few hours before returning. Never had a problem. As long as you look relatively clean-cut, I've never heard of anyone having a problem this way.

The MM2H is a "Social Visit Pass" and a "Visa." It is good, initially, for a few months short of your passport expiration date and up to ten years (which is NOT the same as a ten year visa!). However, it's called a "perpetual visa" as it is renewable - again, for a period of UP TO ten years. There have been several changes made to the MM2H since February, 2009. First of all, unfortunately, the deposit requirements have increased. If you are under the age of 50, you need to show proof of having liquid assets of at least 500,000 RM and must open a fixed deposit account of at least 300,000 RM. Half of that can be withdrawn after one year for a home purchase, education or medical expenses. The remainder must be held in a Malaysian bank for the duration of your stay under the MM2H program. You also need to show proof that you have a monthly income of at least 10,000 RM.

If you are over the age of 50, you need to show proof of having liquid assets of at least 350,000 and make a fixed deposit of at least 150,000 RM. After one year, you can withdraw 50,000 RM of that for home purchase, education or medical expenses. The remainder must be held in a fixed deposit account in a Malaysian bank. Alternately, you can show proof of receiving a pension of 10,000 RM per month. This bypasses the requirement for a fixed deposit. But you must be over 50 to qualify for this.

You do earn interest on the fixed deposit and it is exempt from Malaysian taxes.

It is possible to work or own a business under the MM2H. However, if you want to own a business, you must have two directors and a secretary (the secretary can also serve as a director). BOTH directors must be ordinary Malaysian citizens! If working, you can work up to 20 hours a week in a critical field (there are many fields that fall in this category, which is basically anything where it would be difficult or impossible to find a Malaysian to fill the position.) I have not found any information from the government that says that part of the fixed deposit can be withdrawn to open a business in Malaysia. With either working under the MM2H or opening a business, there's a lot of red tape to go through - if you want to do this, be sure to read up on what is required.

You can buy a home in Malaysia with or without the MM2H. However, the property (which must be residential, not commercial) must cost at least 250,000 RM (300,000 RM if it's in Kuching, Miri or Sibu in the state of Sarawak.) If you're there under the MM2H, you can get financing for up to 80% of the purchase price. If you are not under the MM2H, you can get up to 60% of the purchase price financed. You can own more than one residential property and you can rent them out. If you eventually sell the house, there are no capital gains taxes to pay. However, there are annual property taxes assessed which you have to pay - same as any Malaysian homeowner.

No income that you earn offshore is taxable under the MM2H program. Pensions, dividends, interest, etc. is tax-free. Interest from fixed deposits in Malaysian banks (up to a certain amount - I forget, but it's quite high) is also tax-free. You can also purchase a Malaysian-made vehicle under the MM2H with no duty or sales taxes (that's a one-time deal) or you can import your vehicle duty and tax-free (also a one-time deal).

An agent is not required, but there is enough red tape in getting the MM2H where I'd recommend having an agent. Fees range from around 1500 RM up to 10,000 RM and more.

The government website is Malaysia My Second Home and it's got all the details and more.

OK, I'm monitoring this thread now! Tumbleweeds :-)

[Serendipity2]

Originally Posted by tumbleweeds

Oh, sorry, I just read this thread for the first time - I'm getting lazy! Anyway, here's some information about the MM2H and living long-term in Malaysia on a tourist visa that hasn't been discussed in this thread. I'll also try to address some misinformation.

First of all, regardless of technicalities, many people have lived for many years by just getting what is called a "Social Visit Pass," which is what you get when you go through customs (by air or land) and is good for 90 days for UK and US nationals. This is not the same as a visa. You just get your passport stamped when passing through customs - no application or costs required. I lived for over 2 years in Malaysia this way, leaving for the most part for only a few hours before returning. Never had a problem. As long as you look relatively clean-cut, I've never heard of anyone having a problem this way.

The MM2H is a "Social Visit Pass" and a "Visa." It is good, initially, for a few months short of your passport expiration date and up to ten years (which is NOT the same as a ten year visa!). However, it's called a "perpetual visa" as it is renewable - again, for a period of UP TO ten years. There have been several changes made to the MM2H since February, 2009. First of all, unfortunately, the deposit requirements have increased. If you are under the age of 50, you need to show proof of having liquid assets of at least 500,000 RM and must open a fixed deposit account of at least 300,000 RM. Half of that can be withdrawn after one year for a home purchase, education or medical expenses. The remainder must be held in a Malaysian bank for the duration of your stay under the MM2H program. You also need to show proof that you have a monthly income of at least 10,000 RM.

If you are over the age of 50, you need to show proof of having liquid assets of at least 350,000 and make a fixed deposit of at least 150,000 RM. After one year, you can withdraw 50,000 RM of that for home purchase, education or medical expenses. The remainder must be held in a fixed deposit account in a Malaysian bank. Alternately, you can show proof of receiving a pension of 10,000 RM per month. This bypasses the requirement for a fixed deposit. But you must be over 50 to qualify for this.

You do earn interest on the fixed deposit and it is exempt from Malaysian taxes.

It is possible to work or own a business under the MM2H. However, if you want to own a business, you must have two directors and a secretary (the secretary can also serve as a director). BOTH directors must be ordinary Malaysian citizens! If working, you can work up to 20 hours a week in a critical field (there are many fields that fall in this category, which is basically anything where it would be difficult or impossible to find a Malaysian to fill the position.) I have not found any information from the government that says that part of the fixed deposit can be withdrawn to open a business in Malaysia. With either working under the MM2H or opening a business, there's a lot of red tape to go through - if you want to do this, be sure to read up on what is required.

You can buy a home in Malaysia with or without the MM2H. However, the property (which must be residential, not commercial) must cost at least 250,000 RM (300,000 RM if it's in Kuching, Miri or Sibu in the state of Sarawak.) If you're there under the MM2H, you can get financing for up to 80% of the purchase price. If you are not under the MM2H, you can get up to 60% of the purchase price financed. You can own more than one residential property and you can rent them out. If you eventually sell the house, there are no capital gains taxes to pay. However, there are annual property taxes assessed which you have to pay - same as any Malaysian homeowner.

No income that you earn offshore is taxable under the MM2H program. Pensions, dividends, interest, etc. is tax-free. Interest from fixed deposits in Malaysian banks (up to a certain amount - I forget, but it's quite high) is also tax-free. You can also purchase a Malaysian-made vehicle under the MM2H with no duty or sales taxes (that's a one-time deal) or you can import your vehicle duty and tax-free (also a one-time deal).

An agent is not required, but there is enough red tape in getting the MM2H where I'd recommend having an agent. Fees range from around 1500 RM up to 10,000 RM and more.

The government website is Malaysia My Second Home and it's got all the details and more.

OK, I'm monitoring this thread now! Tumbleweeds :-)

tumbleweeds.

Thanks for a great explanation of the MM2H visa and the alternative!

Serendipity2

[Gloucesterguy]

Originally Posted by tumbleweeds

Oh, sorry, I just read this thread for the first time - I'm getting lazy! Anyway, here's some information about the MM2H and living long-term in Malaysia on a tourist visa that hasn't been discussed in this thread. I'll also try to address some misinformation.

First of all, regardless of technicalities, many people have lived for many years by just getting what is called a "Social Visit Pass," which is what you get when you go through customs (by air or land) and is good for 90 days for UK and US nationals. This is not the same as a visa. You just get your passport stamped when passing through customs - no application or costs required. I lived for over 2 years in Malaysia this way, leaving for the most part for only a few hours before returning. Never had a problem. As long as you look relatively clean-cut, I've never heard of anyone having a problem this way.

The MM2H is a "Social Visit Pass" and a "Visa." It is good, initially, for a few months short of your passport expiration date and up to ten years (which is NOT the same as a ten year visa!). However, it's called a "perpetual visa" as it is renewable - again, for a period of UP TO ten years. There have been several changes made to the MM2H since February, 2009. First of all, unfortunately, the deposit requirements have increased. If you are under the age of 50, you need to show proof of having liquid assets of at least 500,000 RM and must open a fixed deposit account of at least 300,000 RM. Half of that can be withdrawn after one year for a home purchase, education or medical expenses. The remainder must be held in a Malaysian bank for the duration of your stay under the MM2H program. You also need to show proof that you have a monthly income of at least 10,000 RM.

If you are over the age of 50, you need to show proof of having liquid assets of at least 350,000 and make a fixed deposit of at least 150,000 RM. After one year, you can withdraw 50,000 RM of that for home purchase, education or medical expenses. The remainder must be held in a fixed deposit account in a Malaysian bank. Alternately, you can show proof of receiving a pension of 10,000 RM per month. This bypasses the requirement for a fixed deposit. But you must be over 50 to qualify for this.

You do earn interest on the fixed deposit and it is exempt from Malaysian taxes.

It is possible to work or own a business under the MM2H. However, if you want to own a business, you must have two directors and a secretary (the secretary can also serve as a director). BOTH directors must be ordinary Malaysian citizens! If working, you can work up to 20 hours a week in a critical field (there are many fields that fall in this category, which is basically anything where it would be difficult or impossible to find a Malaysian to fill the position.) I have not found any information from the government that says that part of the fixed deposit can be withdrawn to open a business in Malaysia. With either working under the MM2H or opening a business, there's a lot of red tape to go through - if you want to do this, be sure to read up on what is required.

You can buy a home in Malaysia with or without the MM2H. However, the property (which must be residential, not commercial) must cost at least 250,000 RM (300,000 RM if it's in Kuching, Miri or Sibu in the state of Sarawak.) If you're there under the MM2H, you can get financing for up to 80% of the purchase price. If you are not under the MM2H, you can get up to 60% of the purchase price financed. You can own more than one residential property and you can rent them out. If you eventually sell the house, there are no capital gains taxes to pay. However, there are annual property taxes assessed which you have to pay - same as any Malaysian homeowner.

No income that you earn offshore is taxable under the MM2H program. Pensions, dividends, interest, etc. is tax-free. Interest from fixed deposits in Malaysian banks (up to a certain amount - I forget, but it's quite high) is also tax-free. You can also purchase a Malaysian-made vehicle under the MM2H with no duty or sales taxes (that's a one-time deal) or you can import your vehicle duty and tax-free (also a one-time deal).

An agent is not required, but there is enough red tape in getting the MM2H where I'd recommend having an agent. Fees range from around 1500 RM up to 10,000 RM and more.

The government website is Malaysia My Second Home and it's got all the details and more.

OK, I'm monitoring this thread now! Tumbleweeds :-)

I'm gettng vey confused with OVERS and UNDERS. I am 65years old - love the under 50's but it would be so nice to cut out the double talk and focus on just one age group at a time.

I gave up bothering with MM2H after all the money grabbing requirements came to light and found plenty of lovely coutries who are not out to suck on foreign pensioners of above aveage pension income.

BUT THEN Tumbleweed made an interesting post. This little extract caught my attention as follows:
If you are over the age of 50, you need to show proof of having liquid assets of at least 350,000 and make a fixed deposit of at least 150,000 RM. After one year, you can withdraw 50,000 RM of that for home purchase, education or medical expenses. The remainder must be held in a fixed deposit account in a Malaysian bank. Alternately, you can show proof of receiving a pension of 10,000 RM per month. This bypasses the requirement for a fixed deposit. But you must be over 50 to qualify for this.

So can I forget the fixed deposit or NOT?? - How can such a simple subject apper to become so compex!!!!!!!!!!

Anyway AuBella was emphatic- the massive cash reserves, fixed deposits and fat cat pension is a must for Malaysia.

Surely Malaysia is a lovely country, but then there are equally lovely places, more welcoming to pensioners. Maybe Malaysia can cream off a few thousand over a long period of time while other might make a killing by being rather more helpful.

Why do I waste my time - Must be an optimist

[Serendipity2]

Originally Posted by Gloucesterguy

I'm gettng vey confused with OVERS and UNDERS. I am 65years old - love the under 50's but it would be so nice to cut out the double talk and focus on just one age group at a time.

I gave up bothering with MM2H after all the money grabbing requirements came to light and found plenty of lovely coutries who are not out to suck on foreign pensioners of above aveage pension income.

BUT THEN Tumbleweed made an interesting post. This little extract caught my attention as follows:
If you are over the age of 50, you need to show proof of having liquid assets of at least 350,000 and make a fixed deposit of at least 150,000 RM. After one year, you can withdraw 50,000 RM of that for home purchase, education or medical expenses. The remainder must be held in a fixed deposit account in a Malaysian bank. Alternately, you can show proof of receiving a pension of 10,000 RM per month. This bypasses the requirement for a fixed deposit. But you must be over 50 to qualify for this.

So can I forget the fixed deposit or NOT?? - How can such a simple subject apper to become so compex!!!!!!!!!!

Anyway AuBella was emphatic- the massive cash reserves, fixed deposits and fat cat pension is a must for Malaysia.

Surely Malaysia is a lovely country, but then there are equally lovely places, more welcoming to pensioners. Maybe Malaysia can cream off a few thousand over a long period of time while other might make a killing by being rather more helpful.

Why do I waste my time - Must be an optimist

gloucesterguy,

Surely you can handle two different scenarios. One is under fifty and the other is over fifty. Since you're 65 that makes you "over fifty". Simply ignore the former and concentrate on the latter. I agree with you that Malaysia has suddenly changed the rules and the amount required in liquid assets for someone "over fifty" [that's you and me] is way too high. So is leaving MYR 100,000 on deposit so long as you remain there on an MM2H visa. I will not be donating my money to fat cat bankers to sit on - and I always wonder and worry just how difficult getting it back will be.

That said, you've mentioned there are many other lovely nations who are as good or better. You have my undivided attention. Care to name one or two? Keep in mind Tumbleweeds also mentioned you can live there on a 'social' visa of 90 days and not participate in the MM2H visa. That makes a LOT more sense to me. The day I don't feel welcome it's an easy commute to the nearest border, taking my monthly expenditures into the Malay economy with me. So, about those alternatives, mate!

Serendipity2