What Is It

Malaysian citizenship can be acquired through various means: by birth, registration, naturalization, or through the pathway from Permanent Resident to citizen. Article 14-19 of the Federal Constitution outlines the provisions for acquiring Malaysian citizenship.

Who Is Eligible

  • Citizenship by Birth: Automatically granted to individuals born in Malaysia to Malaysian parents or born outside Malaysia to Malaysian parents (certain conditions apply).
  • Citizenship by Registration: Applies to children born overseas to Malaysian parents and wives of Malaysian men.
  • Citizenship by Naturalization: Long-term residents who have lived in Malaysia for at least 10 out of the past 12 years can apply.
  • Permanent Resident (PR) to Citizen Pathway: Permanent Residents who meet specific criteria can apply for citizenship.

    • Required Documents

    The documents required vary depending on the category of application but generally include:
  • Birth Certificate
  • Passport
  • Marriage Certificate (for spouses of Malaysian citizens)
  • Proof of Residence
  • Income Tax Returns
  • Police Certificate

    • Step-by-Step Procedure

    1. Determine the Category of Application: Determine the category of application. 2. Gather All Required Documents: Gather all required documents. 3. Fill Out the Application Form: Fill out the application form (available on the Jabatan Pendaftaran Negara or JPN website). 4. Submit the Application and Supporting Documents: Submit the application and supporting documents to the nearest JPN office. 5. Pay the Application Fee: Pay the application fee of around MYR 100 to MYR 300. 6. Wait for the Application to be Processed: Wait for the application to be processed.

    Cost & Processing Time

  • Application fees vary by category but are generally around MYR 100 to MYR 300.
  • Processing time can range from 6 months to several years, depending on the complexity of the application and the category.

    • Where to Apply

    Applications can be submitted at any Jabatan Pendaftaran Negara (JPN) office nationwide.

    Important Notes

    Applicants must pass a test on the Malaysian Constitution, the National Language (Malay), and the country's customs and way of life as part of the naturalization process. Additionally, applicants are required to take an oath of allegiance to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and the country.