Malaysia Resident Pass – Talent (RP-T)

Nadia Dardón

Immigration Content Writer

Last update 28 January, 2026

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Overall 4.0

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Ease of Obtaining Visa 4.0

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Quick Visa Facts

Visa length Up to 10 years, subject to passport validity.

Possible to extend? Yes, renewable if eligibility criteria continue to be met.

Who can apply? Highly skilled foreign professionals already working in Malaysia under a valid employment pass, with proven professional experience and contributions to the Malaysian workforce.

Minimum Income Requirements Approximately MYR 50,000 (~USD 10,500) in liquid savings, plus a stable income source.

Time for visa applications Typically 6–12 weeks.

Want to know if you can apply?

Complete a visa quiz and see if you qualify!

Malaysia has become one of Southeast Asia’s most attractive destinations for global professionals, thanks to its strong economy, high quality of life, and business-friendly environment. For highly skilled foreign talent looking to build a long-term future in the country, the Malaysia Resident Pass – Talent (RP-T) offers a unique pathway to live and work in Malaysia with greater flexibility and stability.

Introduced by the Malaysian government, the RP-T is designed for established professionals who have already contributed to the Malaysian workforce and wish to continue their careers without the limitations of traditional employment passes. Unlike standard work visas, the Resident Pass – Talent allows holders to stay in Malaysia long term, change employers more easily, and enjoy benefits closer to those of permanent residents.

In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about the Malaysia Resident Pass – Talent (RP-T), including who is eligible, its key benefits, application requirements, and how the process works.

Malaysia Resident Pass – Talent (RP-T) Overview

The Malaysia Resident Pass – Talent (RP-T) is a long-term residence pass introduced by the Malaysian Government in 2011 to attract and retain highly skilled foreign professionals who have already made meaningful contributions to the Malaysian economy. Administered by Talent Corporation Malaysia (TalentCorp) in collaboration with the Immigration Department of Malaysia, the RP-T is designed to provide greater stability and flexibility compared to standard employment-based visas.

Unlike traditional work passes that are tied to a single employer, the RP-T allows eligible foreign talent to live and work in Malaysia on a long-term basis with fewer restrictions. It is particularly suited for experienced professionals who wish to continue their careers in Malaysia, explore new professional opportunities, or establish deeper personal and economic ties with the country.

The RP-T is typically granted with a validity of up to 10 years (subject to passport validity) and is renewable, making it one of the most attractive long-term visa options available for foreign talent in Malaysia.

Who Is It For?

The Malaysia Resident Pass – Talent is intended for highly skilled expatriates and professionals who are already employed in Malaysia and meet specific eligibility criteria set by the Malaysian authorities. This includes individuals with proven work experience, strong professional credentials, and a history of lawful employment in Malaysia.

The pass is especially suitable for foreign professionals who wish to remain in Malaysia long-term without being tied to a single employer or industry.

What Does It Allow You to Do?

Holders of the Malaysia Resident Pass – Talent are allowed to live and work in Malaysia on a long-term basis with greater flexibility than standard work passes. The RP-T enables holders to change employers without needing to reapply for a new work visa, provided they notify the relevant authorities.

In addition, RP-T holders may bring eligible dependents, reside in Malaysia continuously for the duration of the pass, and enjoy a level of professional freedom that supports career growth, business continuity, and long-term settlement in Malaysia.

Visa Requirements for the Malaysia Resident Pass – Talent (RP-T)

Applicants for the Malaysia Resident Pass – Talent (RP-T) must submit a complete set of documents to demonstrate their eligibility, professional background, and ability to reside in Malaysia long-term. All documents must be valid, accurate, and submitted in accordance with the guidelines issued by the relevant Malaysian authorities.

The following documents are generally required for an RP-T application:

Completed Resident Pass – Talent application form
Valid passport (with sufficient remaining validity)
Recent passport-sized photographs (meeting Malaysian immigration specifications)
Current Malaysian employment pass (e.g. Employment Pass)
Employment verification letter from current or previous employer(s) in Malaysia
Curriculum Vitae (CV) or professional resume
Academic and professional qualification certificates
Marriage certificate and birth certificates (if applying with dependants)
Letter of good conduct or background declaration (if required)
Any additional supporting documents requested by TalentCorp or the Immigration Department

Proof of Financial Self-Sufficiency

Applicants must demonstrate that they are financially capable of supporting themselves and any accompanying dependents while residing in Malaysia. As a general benchmark, applicants are expected to show liquid savings of at least MYR 50,000, which is approximately USD 10,500, in addition to having a stable income source. This amount is used as an indicative threshold to assess financial stability and may vary depending on individual circumstances, family size, and overall financial profile.

Financial self-sufficiency is typically assessed through recent bank statements, salary records, and other financial documentation that confirms the applicant can maintain a reasonable standard of living in Malaysia without financial risk.

Employment and Professional Track Record

The Resident Pass – Talent is intended for established foreign professionals who have already contributed to the Malaysian workforce. Applicants are expected to demonstrate a credible employment history in Malaysia, including lawful employment under a valid work pass, relevant professional experience, and qualifications aligned with their field of expertise. This requirement supports the programme’s objective of retaining high-value talent within the Malaysian economy.

Private Health Insurance Coverage

Applicants must hold valid private medical or health insurance covering their stay in Malaysia. The insurance policy should provide adequate medical coverage and be valid for use within Malaysia. This requirement ensures that RP-T holders have access to healthcare services throughout their stay and reduces dependency on public healthcare facilities.

Travel insurance is not accepted; it must be long-term residency health insurance. You can find our recommendations for the best health insurance plans for digital nomads here.

Passport Validity and Immigration Compliance

The validity of the Resident Pass – Talent is tied to the validity of the applicant’s passport. Applicants must ensure their passport remains valid for an appropriate duration, as the pass cannot extend beyond passport expiry. In addition, applicants must have a clean immigration record and demonstrate full compliance with Malaysian immigration laws and regulations.

How to Apply for the Malaysia Resident Pass – Talent (RP-T): Step-by-Step Instructions

Applying for the Malaysia Resident Pass – Talent (RP-T) is a structured process managed by Talent Corporation Malaysia (TalentCorp) in collaboration with the Immigration Department of Malaysia. Applicants must already be residing and working in Malaysia under a valid work pass at the time of application.

Below is a step-by-step overview of how the RP-T application process works.

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

Before starting an application, applicants should ensure they meet the core eligibility criteria for the RP-T. This includes holding a valid Malaysian work pass, meeting minimum employment and income requirements, and having a proven professional track record in Malaysia. Applying without meeting these criteria may result in delays or rejection.

Step 2: Prepare All Required Documents

Applicants must gather all required documentation, including personal identification documents, employment records, academic qualifications, financial evidence, and health insurance coverage. All documents should be clear, complete, and up to date, as incomplete submissions may delay processing.

Step 3: Submit the Online Application

Applications for the Malaysia Resident Pass – Talent are submitted online through the official TalentCorp RP-T portal. Applicants must complete the application form accurately and upload all supporting documents as instructed. It is important to ensure that all information provided is consistent across documents.

Step 4: Application Review and Assessment

Once submitted, the application undergoes an assessment by TalentCorp to evaluate eligibility, professional background, and compliance with programme requirements. During this stage, applicants may be contacted for additional information or clarification if needed.

Step 5: Approval-in-Principle

If the application is successful, the applicant will receive an Approval-in-Principle notification. This indicates that the applicant has met the assessment requirements, subject to final immigration formalities.

Step 6: Endorsement by the Immigration Department of Malaysia

Following approval-in-principle, the applicant must complete the endorsement process with the Immigration Department of Malaysia. This includes passport endorsement and issuance of the Resident Pass – Talent, subject to applicable fees and final checks.

Step 7: Receive the Resident Pass – Talent

Once endorsed, the Malaysia Resident Pass – Talent is issued and becomes valid according to the approved duration, which may be up to 10 years, depending on passport validity. The applicant may then continue living and working in Malaysia under the RP-T conditions.

Stay Requirements for the Malaysia Resident Pass – Talent (RP-T)

Holders of the Malaysia Resident Pass – Talent are expected to maintain an ongoing connection to Malaysia throughout the validity of their pass. While the RP-T offers significantly more flexibility than standard employment passes, it is intended for individuals who genuinely reside in Malaysia and continue to contribute professionally or economically to the country.

RP-T holders are generally expected to spend a substantial portion of their time in Malaysia each year, although the pass does not impose the same strict physical presence requirements as permanent residency. An extended or continuous absence from Malaysia without a valid reason may raise compliance concerns during renewal or future immigration assessments.

In addition, RP-T holders must continue to comply with Malaysian immigration laws and regulations at all times. This includes maintaining a valid passport, holding appropriate health insurance coverage, and ensuring that any changes in employment status, personal circumstances, or contact details are properly declared to the relevant authorities when required.

Failure to meet stay expectations or immigration compliance requirements may affect the validity of the pass or eligibility for renewal. As such, RP-T holders are encouraged to maintain clear records of their residence, employment, and lawful status in Malaysia throughout the duration of their stay.

How Much Does the Malaysia Resident Pass – Talent (RP-T) Cost?

The cost of applying for the Malaysia Resident Pass – Talent (RP-T) consists of government processing fees payable to the relevant Malaysian authorities. These fees are subject to change and must be paid after the application has been approved in principle.

As a general reference, applicants should expect the following costs:

Principal applicant fee: approximately MYR 5,000 (around USD 1,050)
Dependant fee (per dependant): approximately MYR 2,000 (around USD 420)
Immigration endorsement and pass issuance fees: may apply depending on passport validity and immigration requirements

The principal applicant fee covers the issuance of the Resident Pass – Talent, which may be granted for a duration of up to 10 years, subject to passport validity. Dependant fees apply separately for each eligible family member included in the application.

Additional costs may arise from document preparation, translations, medical insurance, or other supporting requirements. Applicants are advised to confirm the latest fee structure through official channels before proceeding, as fees are determined by the Malaysian authorities and may be updated without prior notice.

Taxes for People With a Malaysia Resident Pass – Talent (RP-T)

Holding a Malaysia Resident Pass – Talent (RP-T) does not automatically determine your tax status in Malaysia. Tax obligations are assessed separately by the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (LHDN) and are primarily based on tax residency, income source, and duration of physical presence in the country.

In general, individuals who are physically present in Malaysia for 183 days or more within a calendar year may be considered tax residents for that year. Tax residents are typically subject to Malaysian income tax on income derived from Malaysia, and in certain cases, foreign-sourced income may also be relevant depending on prevailing tax regulations and exemptions. Individuals who do not meet the tax residency threshold are usually taxed as non-residents, often at different rates and under different rules.

RP-T holders who are employed in Malaysia are generally required to pay Malaysian income tax on employment income earned in the country, regardless of nationality. This includes salaries, bonuses, allowances, and other employment-related benefits. Employers may be required to withhold monthly tax deductions, and individuals are responsible for filing annual tax returns if applicable.

Malaysia operates a territorial tax system, meaning income earned outside Malaysia may not be taxable if it is not remitted or if specific exemptions apply. However, tax treatment can change over time, and foreign-sourced income rules are subject to government policy updates. Because of this, RP-T holders with overseas income, investments, or business interests should carefully assess their individual tax exposure.

Tax obligations can vary significantly depending on personal circumstances, length of stay, employment structure, and income sources. RP-T holders are strongly encouraged to register with the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia where required, and to seek professional tax advice to ensure full compliance with Malaysian tax laws.

Living in Malaysia with the Resident Pass – Talent (RP-T)

Living in Malaysia with the Resident Pass – Talent (RP-T) offers foreign professionals the opportunity to enjoy a high quality of life while benefiting from long-term stability and flexibility. Malaysia is known for its modern infrastructure, affordable cost of living, excellent healthcare system, and multicultural society. RP-T holders can reside in the country long term without being tied to a single employer, making it easier to pursue career growth, explore new opportunities, or establish deeper personal and professional roots in Malaysia.

Beyond work, RP-T holders can fully integrate into daily life in Malaysia, from securing long-term housing to enrolling children in international or local schools and accessing private healthcare services. The pass supports a balanced lifestyle, with easy access to major regional travel hubs, diverse culinary experiences, and a wide range of urban and natural environments. For many professionals, the RP-T provides a practical pathway to building a stable, long-term life in Malaysia while maintaining career flexibility and international mobility.

Best Cities to Live in Malaysia with the Resident Pass – Talent (RP-T)

Malaysia offers a variety of cities that cater to different lifestyles, career opportunities, and cultural experiences. For RP-T holders, the following three cities stand out as the most attractive for long-term living:

Kuala Lumpur

As Malaysia’s bustling capital, Kuala Lumpur is the country’s financial and business hub. It offers a cosmopolitan lifestyle with modern amenities, world-class shopping, vibrant nightlife, and a diverse culinary scene. The city is home to multinational corporations, top universities, and major healthcare facilities, making it ideal for professionals seeking career growth and an urban lifestyle.

Penang

Known as the “Pearl of the Orient,” Penang combines rich cultural heritage with modern conveniences. Its capital, George Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its historic architecture, street art, and food culture. Penang offers a slower pace of life than Kuala Lumpur while still providing excellent healthcare, international schools, and a growing tech and business sector, making it a top choice for families and professionals alike.

Johor Bahru

Located just across the border from Singapore, Johor Bahru has rapidly developed into a dynamic city with strong economic opportunities and affordable living costs. It is attractive to professionals who work in cross-border industries or seek lower housing expenses while staying close to Singapore’s business ecosystem. Johor Bahru also offers expanding infrastructure, leisure options, and access to Malaysia’s southern coast, making it a strategic and convenient base for RP-T holders.

Cost of Living

The official currency of Malaysia is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). 1 MYR ≈ 0.24 USD.

The average net monthly salary in Malaysia is around RM 3,650–3,652 per month, which equates to approximately $860–$870 USD per month.

Here’s a rundown of what you should expect to pay in different cities:

Kuala Lumpur

Rent (1 bedroom in city center): ~$325–$760 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center): ~$565–$900 per month
Basic Utilities: ~$48–$76 per month
Wi‑Fi: ~$19–$43 per month
Public Transport: ~$10–$26 monthly pass
Groceries (2 people): ~$130–$260 per month

Penang

Rent (1 bedroom in city center): ~$215–$390 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center): ~$405–$790 per month
Basic Utilities: ~$48–$76 per month
Wi‑Fi: ~$19–$43 per month
Public Transport: ~$10–$22 monthly pass
Groceries (2 people): ~$130–$225 per month

Johor Bahru

Rent (1 bedroom in city center): ~$335–$650 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center): ~$585–$875 per month
Basic Utilities: ~$39–$69 per month
Wi‑Fi: ~$19–$43 per month
Public Transport: ~$10–$22 monthly pass
Groceries (2 people): ~$135–$205 per month

FAQs

Who is eligible to apply for the RP-T?

The Malaysia Resident Pass – Talent is designed for highly skilled foreign professionals who are already working in Malaysia under a valid employment pass. Applicants must demonstrate professional experience, financial stability, and contributions to the Malaysian workforce. Eligibility criteria may vary depending on industry, role, and years of experience.

Can I change employers while holding the RP-T?

Yes. One of the key advantages of the RP-T is the flexibility to change employers without needing to reapply for a new work visa. However, applicants must notify TalentCorp and the Immigration Department of any changes in employment to remain compliant with regulations.

Can my family accompany me on the RP-T?

Yes. Eligible dependants, including a spouse and children, can be included in your RP-T application. Dependants must meet specific requirements, such as proof of relationship and valid identification, and separate fees may apply for each dependant.

How long is the RP-T valid, and can it be renewed?

The RP-T can be granted for up to 10 years, subject to the validity of your passport. It is renewable, provided the holder continues to meet the eligibility criteria, including employment, financial stability, and compliance with Malaysian immigration laws.

Do RP-T holders have to pay taxes in Malaysia?

RP-T holders may be subject to Malaysian income tax depending on their residency status and income source. Generally, individuals who reside in Malaysia for 183 days or more in a year are considered tax residents and must pay income tax on Malaysian-sourced income. Non-residents may be taxed at different rates. Professional tax advice is recommended for specific cases.

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