Short answers to the questions I hear most from buyers outside Malaysia. Tap a question to open it; each answer links to the full article.
Can foreigners buy property in Malaysia?
Yes, with conditions set by each state: a minimum price, state consent, and restrictions on some types of property such as Malay reserve land and Bumiputera lots. Full guide
What is the minimum price for foreigners in Johor?
Usually RM1 million for residential property. New units from the developer in the Medini zone have been an exception. Each project also has a foreign quota. Read more
How much stamp duty do foreigners pay?
A flat 8% of the price on residential property from 1 January 2026, plus 0.5% on the loan agreement if you borrow. Malaysian permanent residents pay the normal scale. Buying costs
Is there a state levy on top?
Most states charge a fee for approving a foreign purchase. In Johor it is 3% of the price or RM30,000, whichever is higher, since 1 July 2025.
Can I get a Malaysian home loan as a foreigner?
Often yes, from a shortlist of banks, usually for 60–70% of the price, with more paperwork than for locals. Some countries restrict their residents from borrowing abroad, so check your home rules too. What is different
Does owning property let me live in Malaysia?
No. Property ownership does not come with a visa. To live here long term you need a pass such as MM2H. MM2H in 2026
Can I buy through a company to avoid the foreigner rules?
Not if the company is foreign-owned. A Malaysian company with 50% or more of its voting shares held by non-citizens is treated as a foreign company. Read more
How is rental income taxed?
Non-residents pay a flat 30% on net rental income, and must declare it themselves. Rental tax
What tax do I pay when I sell?
Real property gains tax (RPGT) on the profit: 30% if you sell within five years as a foreigner, and 10% from the sixth year. RPGT table
Can my children inherit my Malaysian property if they are not Malaysian?
Yes, but a non-citizen beneficiary usually needs state consent before the title can go into their name. Plan for it in your will. Read more
Is there inheritance tax in Malaysia?
No. Malaysia abolished estate duty in 1991. The cost of passing on property is mainly legal process and time. Read more
More terms explained in the glossary. Singaporean? Start with JB property for Singaporean buyers.
General information, not legal, tax or immigration advice. By Jason Lim (REN 84424, IQI Realty Sdn. Bhd. E (1) 1584/6).