Get Prepared for Moving to Malaysia From the US With Our Expat’s Guide

If you are wondering is Malaysia a good place to move to, or even “Can I just move to Malaysia,” you’re in the right place. There are certain things you should know if you plan on moving to Malaysia from the US and becoming one of the many expats there. This beautiful multicultural destination is much more than just its capital and largest city, Kuala Lumpur. Let’s see is it easy to migrate to Malaysia and what important facts you must know if you plan on relocating across the world to the Land Below the Wind.

The First Thing About Moving to Malaysia Is a Visa

Any US citizen that acquired their documents needed to travel abroad to this beautiful country can be here visa-free for up to 90 days. A short-stay visa is easy to get upon arrival, but if you plan on living overseas, you’ll have to obtain government approval for legal residency. Just like in any other country, your type of visa will depend on the purpose of your visit. Contact the Malaysian Representative Office and apply for approval from the Department of Immigration.

If You’re Moving to Malaysia for Work, You’ll Get an Employment Pass

Foreigners coming for approved work roles can get an employment pass that will grant them up to 60 months of living and working here. For that, you’re required to have a working contract as proof, and it will only be valid for the company that hired you. If you decide to change your employer, another pass will be required. Before you head to the Immigration Department, acquire the following documents:

• A valid passport and photocopies,
• Passport photos,
• Invitation letter,
• Working contract,
• Documents that show that the company is doing business legally.

What About Permanent Residency?

The Land Below the Wind doesn’t ask you to give up your birth citizenship if you apply to make this place your permanent residence. To get to that point, you’ll have to live here for at least five years continuously under legal documentation such as an employment pass, renewed long-stay visa, and alike. You just have to complete the permanent residence form, have a passport that covers the previous five years you’ve spent here, passport photos, and sponsorship from another permanent resident in this country.

Keep in mind that the amount of time you’ve spent here isn’t always enough to qualify you for citizenship. Sometimes, you can even get it in less time. For example, people who open a bank account and deposit at least $2 million can have citizenship immediately.

Which Places Do Expats Choose for Residing?

A part of learning how to live in another country is knowing what it has to offer. Luckily, Malaysian cities and towns have got you covered. You can find suburban communities in nature, as well as metropolitan areas that will offer you the same as if you were relocating to Toronto. After all, the place you choose for living will only depend on the lifestyle you plan to have here. Learn the geography of the area and pick your favorite part.

The Cost of Living Here Is Very Affordable

Before you make your checklist for relocating abroad, you’ll have to learn how much money do you need to live comfortably in Malaysia. According to Numbeo, a website that provides data on the cost of living across the world, a family of four needs around $1,600 per month, not counting the rent. If you’re learning how to keep in touch with friends because you’re planning on relocating solo, you’ll need only $450 for a month, also without the rent.

An Amazing Pro of the Low Cost of Living Are Cheap Rents and Real Estate

Cheap home rents are among the top reasons why this place is among expats’ favorite ones. If you rent a one-bedroom apartment in the city center, you’ll pay $330. The same-sized home outside of a city costs $200 per month. Amazing, right? If you require a bigger place for living, you can find a three-bedroom apartment downtown for $600, while you can pay only $400 if you rent a bit further from the center. When it comes to buying real estate, you can find an apartment in the city center for $180 per square feet, and for $100 outside of the center. These amazing numbers make it so easy to thrive, even with a low budget.

Health Care Here Is One of the Top-Rated in the World

What Americans might like the most is the fact that the healthcare here is funded through taxes, and patients pay a small fee for doctor’s visits. The healthcare system is rated as 49th in the world by the World Health Organization, and it offers high-quality services. It’s even one of the destinations for medical tourism, especially for cardiology and dentistry.

Legal residents can choose between public and private healthcare, while tourists and expats must purchase private medical insurance. Private care is more expensive than public one, but it’s still way more affordable than in the US. The great thing about getting medical treatments here is that almost all doctors speak very good English, so there won’t be any problems with breaking the language barrier.

Educational Opportunities Are Plentiful and Highly Recommended

Are you relocating with kids, or you want to learn how to move overseas because you want to study in Malaysia? You’ll be happy to know that Malaysian schools are highly rated and offer a great education. There are many international students, so learning English is mandatory in every school. There are primary schools, international schools, and excellent universities. Keep in mind that the enrollments can last longer than expected, so make sure you finish the procedure on time. In the following video, you can see the experience from an expat family, as well as how the educational system works here.

You’ll Become a Part of a Multicultural Society

The first thing you’ll notice once you arrive is the melting pot of cultures and languages around you. It would be beneficial to catch all the tips for learning a new language, even though the majority of residents speak fluent English. That can actually help you a lot when learning their language abroad.

Malaysian people have a very rich history and culture, and they gladly share their traditions with newcomers. The two most represented religions here are Muslim and Buddhist, so the majority of customs, holidays, and traditions are based on them. This is one of the friendliest countries in the world, but if you wish to learn how to live abroad and not offend anyone, pay attention to the following:

• Be gentle, discrete, and reserved,
• Keep your body language modest,
• Respect older people,
• Don’t shake hands with Muslim women,
• Don’t show too much intimacy in public,
• Don’t drink alcohol,
• Don’t keep your shoes on in the house.

Finding a Good Place to Eat Will Never Be a Problem If You Live Here

Multicultural communities all over the world have one thing in common – incredibly tasty food. Various cultures bring different recipes, spices, and ways of preparing dishes, so eating well in this country is guaranteed. It’s one of the things that will soothe the inevitable culture shock you’re about to experience. If you’re a foodie, this can easily be one of the best places to live abroad for you.

Tropical Weather Is Another Factor That Attracts Expats

If a tropical, humid climate with temperatures that range from 68 to 86 degrees year-round sounds ideal to you, then you’ll love the weather here. There are monsoon seasons when you can expect rain, but that doesn’t last longer than four to five months. Also, the rainfall largely depends on the location. For example, in Kuala Lumpur, you can expect rain from March to April and September to November. Other than the humidity, the temperature is pleasant almost during the whole year, making it very enjoyable for living.

You’ll Have So Many Unique Things to Do

When it comes to activities, fun things to do, and places to explore, you’ll easily realize as soon as you come that this is one of the best countries to live in and that you’ll never be bored:

• If you love nature, watching wildlife, and being on paradise beaches with perfect white sand and turquoise water, you’re in the right place.
• If you enjoy visiting colorful and vibrant markets, tasting exotic street food, and eating fresh, you’re in the right place.
• If you want to be able to use all the commodities of a big city while having an option to escape in the wilderness whenever you want, you’ve guessed it – you’re in the right place.

All in all, your options will be endless, and your quality of life will significantly increase. Once you let go of all of that relocation stress that accumulated, make sure you visit the following locations:

• The city of Malacca,
• The Cameron Highlands,
• Mount Kinabalu,
• Perhentian Islands,
• Batu Caves,
• Taman Negara,
• Langkawi archipelago,
• Gunung Mulu National Park.

Find a Professional International Moving Company to Help You Relocate

Your preparation for relocation day won’t be just about making a list of what to pack when relocating abroad but also thinking of the logistics of moving overseas. International moving can be tricky, and it is highly recommended to have someone help you plan your overseas shipping. Hiring a professional overseas moving company means that you can get all the services you need, including international moving by air as well as overseas vehicle shipping. Movers can provide you with efficient packing services and a storage unit if you require it. Custom crating is available if you’re moving abroad something delicate and valuable. Contact an overseas shipping company, schedule a free home estimate and find out how much can moving internationally cost you, so that you can plan your budget and begin your life in this beautiful destination.