S-MM2H VS MM2H: A Definitive Guide
If you’re wondering how Sarawak-Malaysia My Second Home (S-MM2H) requirements compare to the original MM2H, we hope our comparison of the visas below gives you clarity.
Here’s how we’ve broken it down:
- a brief explanation of Sarawak’s relationship to Malaysia
- a high level outline of how the programmes differ
- key similarities and differences
If you’re still undecided by the end or have more questions, do get in touch 🙂
Let’s begin.
NOTE: For the benefit of an international audience, we’ve converted figures to USD at the current exchange rate, so values may vary slightly based on when you read this.
Sarawak in relation to Malaysia
If you’re familiar with Malaysian geography, click to skip ahead!
But if this is your first time hearing about Malaysia and Sarawak, the short explanation is Malaysia is a country and Sarawak is her largest state.
The full explanation is Malaysia has 13 states separated into the West and East.
The West (also known as the Peninsular) has 11 states and the East two: Sabah and Sarawak.
These two parts are separated by the South China Sea and there is a significant difference between them in terms of modernisation.
In general, the West is more urban and its capital city Kuala Lumpur is as metropolitan as any, while the East is less developed and has a higher chance of sea turtle encounters 🙂.
MM2H holders may live in any of West Malaysia’s 11 states and visit East Malaysia for up to 30 days.
S-MM2H holders can only stay in Sarawak and visit any other state for up to 30 days.
High level outline of S-MM2H vs MM2H
To properly compare specific differences between the visas, bear in mind that as of 2025, there are four options for MM2H Passes:
All four carry the same types of requirements, but the Platinum tier has the highest and Silver / SEZ the lowest specific figures.
In exchange, Platinum passes confer the most benefits.
Meanwhile, the S-MM2H programme only offers a single take-it-or-leave it option.
This means MM2H is significantly more flexible, and the lowest MM2H tier is cheaper than S-MM2H but more restrictive, while the highest MM2H tier offers more freedom than S-MM2H but at a higher cost.
Key similarities
- Fixed Deposit: Both require a minimum Fixed Deposit in a local bank which can be partially withdrawn to fund home purchase, education, travel and medical care in Malaysia.
- Minimum Stay: Both require staying a minimum of 30 days per year in Malaysia.
- Renewal Period: Both need the principal holder to renew their pass every five years.
- Dependents: Both allow principal applicants to bring dependents.
- Medical Requirements: Both require a medical inspection and health insurance if above 60.
- Medical Benefits: Both permit long-term medical treatment.
- Education Benefits: Dependent children automatically receive a Student Pass and can pursue primary to tertiary education in private institutions.
- Tax Exemption: MM2H and S-MM2H holders get full tax exemption on incoming funds.
Key differences
Remember MM2H has four categories, so the ranges we provide account for that!
| Feature | S-MM2H (Sarawak) | MM2H (Peninsular Malaysia) |
| Duration | 10 years | 5 – 20 years |
| Application Fees | – USD2,824 for Principal- USD471 / Dependent- USD1,178 Processing Fee | USD237 – USD47,300 for Principal No charge for dependents |
| Financial Requirements | Fixed Deposit + Proof of Income / Pension OR Offshore Savings | Fixed Deposit + Mandatory Property Purchase |
| Fixed Deposit Amount | USD118,000 | USD32,000 – USD1 million |
| Income / Pension Requirement | USD2,400/month (Individual) USD3,500/month (With Dependents) | None |
| Offshore Savings Requirement | USD24,000 (Individual) USD48,000 (With Dependents) | None |
| Where to Live | Only Sarawak | Anywhere in West Malaysia |
| Parents-In-Law as Dependents | Not allowed | Allowed |
| Property Purchase | Optional | Mandatory (USD141,000 – USD470,000) Must hold for at least 10 years |
| Work Rights | Part-time in select industries | Unlimited (Platinum Pass holders only) |
| Business Ownership | Allowed as a minority shareholder in joint ventures with Sarawakians | Unlimited (Platinum Pass holders only) |
| Transferable Upon Death | No | Yes, to next-of-kin among registered dependents |
| Agent Requirement | Optional (but common for convenience) | Mandatory |
We’ll add that although property purchase under S-MM2H is optional, if you do choose to buy a home, there’s a minimum value of USD141,000.
And that’s all we have to share–good luck deciding!
We’re always here if you need help.
Let MISHU help with your MM2H application
Not all MM2H and S-MM2H agents are created equal – some leave you more confused! Let us connect you to one who will make the process as straightforward and hassle-free as possible.