Moving to Malaysia as an Expat - Your 2019 Guide
There are a growing number of travellers putting Malaysia on their maps as they hear about the sheer beauty of the local landscape. While the country offers stunning destinations at budget-friendly prices, it also holds an allure for workers looking further afield for Asian job opportunities. The combination of Malaysia’s affordable way of life and privileged location in South-East Asia make it the ideal country for expats seeking personal and professional expansion by moving to Malaysia.
English-speaking expats may find it easier to adapt to their unfamiliar surroundings because English is widely spoken across the country. There are so many exciting opportunities to look forward to when relocating to Malaysia. Before you start planning your first trip, here is your 2019 guide when moving to Malaysia.
Getting Started: Visas
Depending on your nationality, you may require a visa to enter Malaysia even as a tourist, which is decided by the Immigration Department of Malaysia. To meet the level of entry requirements, most foreigners will require a visa to be allowed to work in Malaysia or to remain in the country for more than three months. Please keep in mind that having a visa for Peninsular Malaysia does not mean you are automatically allowed to visit Eastern Malaysia. Always check with the relevant authorities before travelling.
Weather
If you are used to a colder climate, you might have a hard time adjusting to the hot and humid temperatures. The average temperature is 27 degrees Celsius throughout the year. Although January tends to be the coolest month, the temperatures do not vary much between seasons. When relocating to a hotter climate, avoid relying too heavily on your air conditioning because you’ll settle in more easily if you try to adjust to the heat. Staying well hydrated and indoors during the hottest part of the day are the best ways to avoid constant discomfort.
Cost of Living
It will all come down to your reasons for moving to Malaysia. If you are moving for work, you will probably be based in Kuala Lumpur. This is a busy city and the cost of living is significantly higher than in the regional constituencies. If you are retiring in Malaysia, you will have a large array of affordable options all over the country. However, if you are planning on making the most of living in and around KL, many expats enjoy relocating to Mont Kiara, Damansara Heights, Bangsar, Ampang Hilir, Valencia, Seputeh and Ukay Heights.
Driving
If you live in Kuala Lumpur, you can use taxis or bus routes easily. However, if you are far from a main city or if you have children, you might want to buy a car. Beware that Malaysians tend to be flexible when it comes to road rules and it can be quite a shock for Western expats. Local driving, as in many Asian countries, takes some getting used to before you become confident on the busy local roads.
Festivals
Malaysia is a multicultural country and therefore holds many festivals throughout the year. This is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in Malayan culture and learn about your adoptive country. Keep in mind that fireworks and music are often part of the celebrations so these events can be quite noisy.
Once your documents are ready and you have a date in mind, get in touch with Allied to organise your move to Malaysia. We offer comprehensive services to make your international move as straightforward as possible.