# Digital Nomad Visa (DE Rantau Pass)

What Is It

The DE Rantau Nomad Pass is a digital nomad visa introduced by the Malaysian Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) and the Immigration Department. It enables foreign remote workers, freelancers, independent contractors, and software developers to live and work remotely in Malaysia for up to 24 months.

Who Is Eligible

  • Foreign IT/digital professionals (e.g. software engineers, UX designers, digital marketers, content creators).
  • Freelancers with active client contracts, or full-time remote employees of non-Malaysian companies.
  • Must prove an annual income of at least USD24,000 (or equivalent) for IT professionals.

    • Required Documents

  • Valid Passport (minimum 14 months validity).
  • CV/Resume.
  • Employment Contract (showing remote work approval) or active freelance contracts (minimum 3 months duration).
  • Bank statements (latest 3 months) and tax returns proving income threshold.
  • Certificate of Good Conduct.
  • Health insurance policy valid in Malaysia.

    • Step-by-Step Procedure

    1. Access MDEC Portal: Register an account on the DE Rantau MDEC portal. 2. Submit Application: Complete the online form and upload CV, contracts, passport, and bank statements. 3. Pay Application Fee: Pay the RM1,000 processing fee online. 4. MDEC Review: MDEC validates eligibility and forwards the application to immigration (takes 4 to 8 weeks). 5. Approval Letter: Download the DE Rantau Approval Letter. 6. Visa Endorsement: Enter Malaysia and present the approval letter at the MDEC office or Immigration counter to stamp the Nomad Pass onto your passport.

    Cost & Processing Time

  • Cost:
    • - Principal Applicant: RM1,000 processing fee. - Dependents: RM500 per dependent. - Visa Pass Fee: RM90 per year.
  • Processing Time: 6 to 8 weeks.

    • Where to Apply

  • Online: [MDEC DE Rantau Hub](https://derantau.mdec.my)

    • Important Notes

  • The pass is valid for 3 to 12 months, renewable once for an additional 12 months (maximum 24 months total).
  • Holders of the DE Rantau Pass are tax-exempt on income earned from foreign sources outside Malaysia.