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Sohaib Ikram
Sohaib Ikram serves as the Director of Emerhub in Malaysia.
Are you planning to buy property in Malaysia? With relatively relaxed foreign ownership laws compared to other Southeast Asian countries and diverse real estate options, it has become an attractive destination for foreigners looking to buy property for investment, vacation home, or long term residence.
This guide walks you through the essentials of buying a property in Malaysia as a foreigner, covering legal requirements and process.
Can Foreigners Buy Property in Malaysia?
Yes, foreigners in Malaysia can own various types of properties including:
- High-rise residential units (condominiums and apartments)
- Landed properties such as bungalows or semi-detached houses
- Commercial properties
However, they must secure approval from relevant state authorities and comply with minimum purchase price requirements (RM 1 Million in most states).
Note that there are additional restrictions on purchasing properties on Malay Reserved land, low and medium-cost residential units, and properties allocated for Bumiputera (Malaysian natives) interests.
Our local experts will guide you through these regulations and help you find properties that meet your requirements.
Buying Property in Malaysia Under MM2H Program
The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program is a residency-by-investment initiative that allows foreigners to live in Malaysia on a long-term basis.
If you are looking to buy property in Malaysia worth RM600,000 or more, you are eligible to apply for this program and can secure an up to 20 years renewable residency visa.
While participating in the MM2H program isn’t mandatory for foreigners who want to buy property in Malaysia, many use it for its long-term visa benefits, providing greater flexibility to stay or invest in the country.
Emerhub’s local experts will help you find a suitable property and handle the MM2H application submission on your behalf.
Minimum Property Price for Foreigners in Malaysia 2025
The minimum purchase price for foreigners varies by state and is subject to change according to local regulations. While you can purchase a property in Malaysia without the MM2H programs, it offers lower minimum purchase prices compared to the standard foreign ownership requirements.
Here’s an overview of minimum property prices for foreigners with and without MM2H participation:
| State | Minimum Threshold for Foreign Residential Property Purchase | Purchase with MM2H |
| Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Terengganu, Pahang, and Negeri Sembilan | RM 1 million | RM 1 million |
| Selangor Zone 1- Districts of Petaling, Gombak, Hulu Langat, Sepang, and Klang. Zone 2- Districts of Kuala Lumpur & Kuala Langat Zone 3- Districts of Hulu Selangor and Sabak Bernam | Zones 1 and 2: RM 2 million Zones 3: RM 1 million | Zones 1 and 2: RM 2 million Zone 3: RM 1 million |
| Johor | RM 2 million (landed property in international zones) RM 1 million (strata title and landed properties within non-international zones except for Medini) | RM 1 million |
| Penang Island | RM 1.8 million (landed), RM 800,000 (strata-title) | RM 350,000 |
| Penang Mainland | RM 750,000 (landed), RM 400,000 (strata-title) | RM 350,000 |
| Sarawak | RM 500,000 | RM 500, 000 – RM 600, 000(depending on regional divisions) |
| Sabah | RM 1 million (landed), RM 600,000 (strata-title) | RM 500,000 |
| Malacca | RM 1 million (landed), RM 500,000 (strata-title) | Same as without MM2H |
| Kedah | RM 600,000 (in-state), RM 1 million (Langkawi) | No minimum |
| Perak | RM 1 million | RM 350,000 |
| Perlis | RM 1 million | RM 1 million |
| Kelantan | RM 1 million | RM 500,000 |
*Strata titles in Malaysia are associated with properties where multiple units are built as part of a shared development such as apartment buildings or condos.
Remember that these thresholds are subject to change based on state policies and the country’s economic conditions. It’s highly advisable for you to consult with local real estate experts from Emerhub who can provide you with the most up-to-date information for property ownership in specific regions in Malaysia.
How to Buy a Property in Malaysia as a Foreigner
Considering how important it is to carry out market research and official due diligence before making your purchase, it is highly advisable for foreign buyers to have qualified experts such as Emerhub to review all documents and contracts. This helps to ensure no potential issues related to the property and all documents stay in compliance with local Malaysian laws.
Our experts can provide end-to-end assistance in securing your property ownership in Malaysia through:
- Finding a suitable property in Malaysia that suits your needs and preferences.
- Conducting necessary KYC checks and license verifications to ensure legal compliances.
- Creating the Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA) for your property ownership in Malaysia.
- Obtaining approval from the State Authority for your property ownership.
- Finalizing and coordinating payments according to the terms outlined in the SPA. This also includes necessary taxes and fees for stamp duty, legal fees, and real estate agent fees where applicable.
- Registering your change of ownership or property transfer at the Land Office registry.
From initial property search, to final ownership registration, our experts will assist you through the Malaysian property market and ensure a compliant investment process.
Ready to buy a property in Malaysia? Fill out the form below and we will put you in touch with one of our experts.
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