Quick answer: A person working remotely in Malaysia for a foreign employer that is not registered in Malaysia can apply for MDEC's DE Rantau Pass. They need a signed employment contract that started at least three months earlier, three months of payslips and bank statements, and an annual income of at least USD24,000 for tech roles or USD60,000 for non-tech roles. A tourist pass cannot be converted to the DE Rantau Pass. For tax, MDEC's FAQ says a remote worker staying 60 days or fewer is not taxed in Malaysia, while a stay of 61 days or more may be.
- The employer must be foreign and not registered in Malaysia.
- Employment must have started at least three months before applying.
- Income minimum USD24,000 (tech) or USD60,000 (non-tech).
- A tourist pass cannot be converted to the DE Rantau Pass.
- Tax exposure can start at 61 days, so get advice.
Who Qualifies as a Remote Worker
| Test | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Employer | Foreign-based and not registered in Malaysia, with no tie to a physical office in Malaysia |
| Employment start | At least three months before application |
| Contract | Signed, covering remote work, job title and duties, duration (ideally six months from application) and salary in USD or equivalent |
| Income proof | Last three months of payslips and bank statements, with matching deposits |
Mandatory Documents
- Passport, all pages, six blank pages and at least 14 months' validity.
- Current CV.
- Signed employment contract.
- Last three months of payslips.
- Last three months of bank statements.
- Latest three-month income statement or latest tax return.
- Letter of good conduct.
- Employer confirmation letter (optional but recommended).
- Personal Bond Form.
- Highest education certificate.
- Medical insurance valid in Malaysia (may follow approval).
- LHDN tax registration slip.
Tax Days
| Stay | MDEC's summary |
|---|---|
| 60 days or fewer | No Malaysian tax for remote workers |
| 61 days or more | May be taxable under Section 4(b) and 13(2) of the Income Tax Act 1967 and the applicable tax treaty |
What You Cannot Do
| Action | Position |
|---|---|
| Convert a tourist pass to the DE Rantau Pass | Not permitted |
| Work for a Malaysian employer | Not covered. That needs an Employment Pass |
| Spouse working | Spouses cannot work under the pass |
Need a pass sorted out? WhatsApp us. We will check your case before you apply.
Mistakes
Working remotely on a tourist stamp
Use an appropriate pass.
Employer registered in Malaysia
The remote worker route needs a foreign employer.
Ignoring tax days
Track your days in Malaysia.
How We Help
What we handle for you
Before you apply
- Check that your company meets the requirements and that the post and salary fit the right category.
- Prepare your business plan and financial plan from your company idea or business model, where the application needs one.
Application
- Prepare and submit the pass application and respond to Immigration's queries.
Why companies choose us
End-to-end under one roof
- We handle company incorporation, accounting and payroll as well as expatriate pass applications, so your structure, payroll and hiring plan stay aligned.
- The company is set up correctly from day one.
We check before you invest
- We confirm eligibility, including whether you can hire the expatriates you need, before a foreign investor decides to incorporate in Malaysia.
- Neutral Consulting PLT is a Kuala Lumpur firm led by a Managing Partner who is a member of the Malaysian Institute of Accountants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers.
Can I work remotely in Malaysia for an overseas employer?
Yes, through MDEC's DE Rantau Pass, if you meet its conditions.
What income is required?
At least USD24,000 a year for tech roles and USD60,000 for non-tech roles.
Can my employer be registered in Malaysia?
No. The employer must be foreign and not registered in Malaysia for the remote worker route.
How long must I have been employed?
At least three months before applying.
Can I use a tourist visa?
A tourist pass cannot be converted to the DE Rantau Pass.
Will I pay Malaysian tax?
MDEC says a stay of 60 days or fewer is not taxed, and 61 days or more may be taxable.
What documents do I need?
Passport, contract, payslips, bank statements, tax return or income statement, good conduct letter and more.
Do I need health insurance?
Yes, valid in Malaysia for at least three months.
How long does the pass last?
3 to 12 months, renewable once for 12 months.
Can my family come?
Spouse or common-law partner, children, a disabled child and parents may apply as dependants.
Where do I apply?
Through MDEC's DE Rantau page.
Can you advise on the right route?
Yes. We check whether the remote worker route or a work pass fits.
Sources
Official sources
This page is general information, not legal advice. Agencies change their requirements, so confirm the current rules with the Immigration Department (ESD) and MIDA, or with us, before you act. Checked November 2026.
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Hiring or relocating an expatriate? We will check your case first. All consultations are by video call.