What investment, capital, income, revenue, funding or viability evidence is central to this pathway?
All applicants must demonstrate the RM50,000 personal demand-deposit balance for 3 consecutive months; this is no longer stated only for renewal in the current FAQ. The non-refundable submission fee is RM540 per applicant. The 2026 table lists RM4,860 principal/spouse processing, RM2,160 for dependants under 18, RM1,080 per year for other SVP dependants, and RM500 Immigration pass fee. Nationality-based multiple-entry visa charges may be extra. Payment is online to MDEC. The 2026 table says 8% SST included, whereas the 2025 table said 6%; these source claims do not determine retrospective invoices or general tax law.
See recorded sources
Limits of the record- The current-linked2026 FAQ and still-accessible2025 FAQ differ in material boundaries; route-level doubt preserves the exact unresolved transition and scope questions.
- What is Malaysia Tech
MTEP FAQ
We are excited to see that the Malaysia Tech Entrepreneur Programme has
sparked your interest. You can find some of the most frequently asked question
answered here:
No. Question Answer
The Malaysia Tech Entrepreneur Programme is a government
What is Malaysia Tech
initiative aimed at attracting talented tech entrepreneurs
1 Entrepreneur (MTE)
(including founders and co-founders) from across the globe.
Programme?
It provides support and resources to assist them in
establishing and growing their startups in Malaysia.
1) New Entrepreneur
A non-Malaysian individual who may be a self-employed
person with an innovative business idea in the digital
field/platform and have a strong digital proposition. To
qualify, a New Entrepreneur is required to participate by
signing up with one of our Malaysia Digital Hubs.
2 Who can apply?
2) Established Entrepreneur
A non-Malaysian individual who may be a self-employed
person that have a strong digital proposition and proven
track record (more than 3 years established with the
latest 2-year financial records)
1) New Entrepreneur: Professional Visit Pass (PVP-MTE) valid
for 1 year (renewable for another 1 year).
What are the type of
3
passes and the duration? *Once you completed 2 years New Entrepreneur with
achievement, you may apply for Established Entrepreneur
2) Established Entrepreneur: Residence Pass (RP-MTE) up to
5 years (renewable for another 5 years)
Do I need to be in
4 No, you are not required to be in Malaysia to apply.
Malaysia to apply?
Is this open to all The pass is open for application for citizens of all nationalities
5
nationalities? except Israel.
Can I submit my
6 application in my own Applications and supporting documents MUST be in English
language?
MTEP FAQ Version 3.0 (January 27, 2025)
- Fees of RM540.00
Fees of RM540.00 per applicant is to be paid upon submission
of application for all categories and are non-refundable.
Once the application is approved, fees are required to be
paid upon submission of passport for issuance of pass are as
follows:
For New Entrepreneurs
11 What is the fee structure?
Processing Fee per applicant PVP-
RM 2,160.00
MTE applicant*
Immigration Pass Fee per applicant RM 360.00
Multiple Entry Visa Charges (if Charges vary
applicable)** across countries
For Established Entrepreneurs
RP-MTE applicant/spouse (if any) RM 4,860.00
*Dependents below 18 years of age RM 2,160.00
(if any)*
Other dependents (SVP) per year* RM 1,080.00
Immigration Pass Fee per applicant RM 500.00
Multiple Entry Visa Charges vary
Charges(if applicable)** across countries
*Include 6% SST. All payment is payable to Malaysia
Digital Economy Corporation Sdn Bhd via online
payment.
A sponsor is an organisation or an individual who will be
able to vouch for your presence in Malaysia and be
responsible for your stay, maintenance, and repatriation
while you reside in Malaysia.
For New Entrepreneur: A recognised sponsoring
organization is required as your sponsor. The sponsoring
organization shall sign a personal bond document. The
What is a sponsor and who
12 sponsoring organization must be one MDEC’s recognised
can be a sponsor?
Malaysia Digital Hub (https://mdec.my/malaysia-
digital-hub) or MRANTI.
For Established Entrepreneur: A Malaysian individual above
the age of 21 years old is required as your sponsor. The
sponsor shall sign a Declaration Form.
1. Personal bond document for New Entrepreneur or
Declaration Form for Established entrepreneur
What are the documents
14
required for the sponsor?
2. Front and back copy of the sponsor’s identification card
(NRIC) for Established entrepreneur
MTEP FAQ Version 3.0 (January 27, 2025)
- Established Entrepreneur
1.
Established Entrepreneur
1. Copy all pages of passport with minimum 6 empty
pages.
2. Malaysian Sponsor Form
3. Company Incorporation Form (eSSM)
4. IRB Monthly Deduction Document (latest month) CP 39
document
5. EPF Statement (Form A) or copy of employees’ contract
of employment
6. Latest certified true copy of company’s past financial
audited report / management account (year to date)
7. Payment for processing according to your pass ((refer to
8. Latest 3 months PERSONAL bank statement with
minimum of RM50,000 monthly bank balance for 3
consecutive months (cash deposit only).
9. Product/Project Milestone for year previous and current
year including Product/Project validation.
10. Proof of in-force/active health insurance policy for
applicant and dependents.
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q1
Q1 What is the Malaysia Tech The Malaysia Tech Entrepreneur Programme (MTEP) is a government initiative
Entrepreneur (MTE) managed by the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) under the
Programme? Ministry of Digital Malaysia. It is designed to attract foreign technology
entrepreneurs — including founders and co-founders — to establish and grow
innovative digital businesses in Malaysia.
Eligible applicants may apply under two categories: New Entrepreneur or
Established Entrepreneur, subject to programme requirements.
For more information visit: mdec.my/mtep
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q2
Q2 Who can apply?
New Entrepreneur
A non-Malaysian individual with an innovative business idea in the
digital/technology space and a strong digital proposition. Applicants must
subscribe to a recognised Malaysia Digital Hub (MD Hub) as their sponsor.
Established Entrepreneur
A non-Malaysian individual with a proven track record — minimum 3 years
established — supported by the latest 2-year financial records (or 1 year
audited).
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q3
Q3 What types of passes are
New Entrepreneur
available and what is their
duration? Professional Visit Pass (PVP-MTE) — valid for 1 year, renewable once for an
additional 1 year. After completing 2 years with achievement, you may apply
for the Established Entrepreneur category.
Established Entrepreneur
Residence Pass (RP-MTE) — valid for up to 5 years, renewable once for a
further 5 years.
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q4
Q4 Do I need to be in Malaysia No. You are not required to be physically present in Malaysia to submit your
to apply? application. All processes are conducted online.
ℹ Note: For New Applicants: Both the principal applicant and any dependents
must be outside Malaysia during the application process. If you are currently in
Malaysia, you must exit and re-enter only after your approval is issued
ℹ Note: For Renewals: Must remain in Malaysia throughout the renewal process
while maintaining a valid pass to be in Malaysia - may seek advise from the
assigned Business Analyst.
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q5
Q5 Is this open to all Applications for PVP-MTE and RP-MTE are open to foreign applicants of all
nationalities? eligible nationalities, subject to Malaysian Government immigration
regulations and approval.
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q6
Q6 Can I submit my application No. All application forms and supporting documents must be submitted in
in my own language? English. Documents in another language must be:
• Translated into English by a certified translator / agency
• Certified as a true copy by the nearest Malaysian consulate.
MTEP FAQ 2026 2
✅ ELIGIBILITY
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q7
Q7 Is MTEP open only to tech Yes. MTEP is specifically intended for technology entrepreneurs — technical
entrepreneurs? founders and co-founders — of digital and technology-driven ventures.
ℹ Note: Non-technical founders may apply, but eligibility is subject to approval
by the MTEP Panel Meeting
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q8
Q8 Can multiple members of a Yes, multiple founders may apply, subject to the following category limits:
founding team apply? • New Entrepreneur: maximum 2 founders per application
• Established Entrepreneur: maximum 3 founders per application
All applicants must demonstrate their shareholding in the company. Proof of
shareholding is required for renewal applications.
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q9
Q9 What is the minimum age Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
requirement?
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q10
Q10 Should I already have a No. Company incorporation is not required at the point of application.
company established in
New Entrepreneur
Malaysia before applying?
Your product must be at least at the beta stage, and you must provide a clear
plan to incorporate a company in Malaysia within 1 year.
Established Entrepreneur
If bringing an existing product into Malaysia, it must demonstrate
enhancement features for the Malaysian market. If introducing a new product,
it must be at least at the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) stage.
ℹ Note: Individuals who already have an established Sendirian Berhad (Sdn. Bhd
/Private Limited) and wish to apply as an employee (not founder) it is encouraged
to explore the Employment Pass pathway (refer to Q21)
MTEP FAQ 2026 3
👨👩👧 FAMILY & DEPENDENTS
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q11
Q11 Can I bring my family?
Only immediate family members of Established Entrepreneur are eligible
to apply for RP- Dependent:
• Husband / Wife;
• Child, adopted child or stepchild under the age of 18 years old;
• Disabled child (no age limit) verified by experts;
and
• Biological children of 'Common Law Marriage' (different gender)
who have a relationship with the principal pass holder under the
age of 18years old.
The following family members of Established Entrepreneur can be
considered for RP – SVP (Social Visit Pass) (i.e. 12 months and renewable):
• Parents (father/mother);
• Parents-in-laws (father/mother);
• Child, adopted child or stepchild between the age of 18 to 25 years
old must submit a sworn statement certified by Commissioner of
Oaths confirming that the applicant is still unmarried, unemployed
and still dependent (during each submission/extension);
• Biological children of ‘Common Law Marriage’ (different gender) who
have a relationship with previous partner under the age of 7 years
old;
• Common Law Marriage’ (different gender). New Entrepreneur are
not eligible to bring the family members.
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q12
Q12 Can my spouse work in Spouses holding a Dependent Pass under MTEP are NOT automatically
Malaysia under the permitted to work in Malaysia. If the spouse intends to seek employment, they
dependent pass? must obtain the appropriate work authorisation or Employment Pass from the
relevant authorities, subject to prevailing immigration regulations.
ℹ Note: Please consult the Immigration Department or a qualified immigration
agent for the latest requirements on work authorisation for dependents.
MTEP FAQ 2026 4
💳 FEES & PAYMENTS
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q13
Q13 What is the fee structure? A non-refundable application fee of RM540.00 per applicant is payable upon
submission (all categories). Upon approval, the following fees are payable
upon passport submission for pass issuance:
New Entrepreneur (PVP-MTE)
• Processing Fee: RM2,160
• Immigration Pass Fee: RM360.00
• Multiple Entry Visa (if applicable): Charges vary by country
Established Entrepreneur (RP-MTE)
• Processing Fee — Principal/Spouse: RM4,860
• Processing Fee — Dependents under 18: RM2,160
• Processing Fee — Other dependents (SVP) per year: RM1,080
• Immigration Pass Fee: RM500
• Multiple Entry Visa (if applicable): Charges vary by country
ℹ Note: All fees include 8% SST and are payable to Malaysia Digital Economy
Corporation Sdn Bhd via online payment only.
🤝 SPONSOR REQUIREMENTS
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q14
Q14 What is a sponsor and who A sponsor is an approved entity or individual who supports the applicant's stay
can be a sponsor? in Malaysia in accordance with programme and immigration requirements.
New Entrepreneur
Must be a recognised Malaysia Digital Hub (MD Hub). The hub must complete
the sponsorship/personal bond document (with stamp duty). Applicants must
subscribe to hub services with a minimum hot desk arrangement for 1 year.
Find a recognised MD Hub: mdec.my/md-location-recognition/md-hub
Established Entrepreneur
Must be a Malaysian citizen aged 21 years and above. The sponsor signs a
Declaration Form and provides a front and back copy of their NRIC.
📋 APPLICATION PROCESS
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q15
Q15 How long does the • Business Analyst assignment: within 3 working days after complete
application process take? submission as confirmed by the assigned business analyst
• Application processing: within 4 weeks from date of complete
submission (incl. documentation and payment) - subject to MTEP Panel
Meeting date as per Immigration Department of Malaysia’s availability
• After approval by MTEP Approval Committee, pass issuance by
Immigration Department of Malaysia: within 2 weeks (subject to
Immigration Department of Malaysia discretion)
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q16
Q16 What is the validity of the The MTEP approval letter is valid for 6 months from the date of issuance and
approval letter? is non-extendable. Immigration endorsement procedures must be completed
within this period.
MTEP FAQ 2026 5
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q17
Q17 What happens if my All application decisions are final. There is no formal appeal process once a
application is rejected? decision has been made.
If your application is unsuccessful, you may explore other work permit
pathways via MDEC Expat Services: www.mdec.my/expats
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q18
Q18 What is a Letter of Good A Certificate/Letter of Good Conduct verifies that the individual has no criminal
Conduct? or misdemeanor record. It must be issued by an authorised authority in the
applicant's country of origin or current residence.
ℹ Note: This is a compulsory requirement for new applicants. MDEC may issue
an Acknowledgement Letter to assist applicants in obtaining this document from
the relevant authority.
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q19
Q19 Where do I submit Initial applications must be submitted online through the official MTEP
documents and hard copy Application system. No physical submission is required for the initial
materials? application.
Upon receiving the official approval letter, hard copy documents (passport,
payment) for pass issuance must be submitted to:
Expats Service Centre
2nd Floor, Prima 8, Block 3508, Jalan Teknokrat 6, Cyber 5, 63000 Cyberjaya,
Selangor, Malaysia (Google Map)
Service Hours
• Monday to Friday: 8.00am – 4.30pm
• Lunch Break (Mon–Thu): 1.00pm – 2.00pm
• Lunch Break (Fri): 12.00pm – 2.45pm
🏢 COMPANY SETUP & BUSINESS SUPPORT
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q20
Q20 Can my company be set up
New Entrepreneur
anywhere in Malaysia?
Must be located at a recognised Malaysia Digital Hub. A minimum hot desk
subscription for 1 year is typically required.
Established Entrepreneur
Can set up a company anywhere in Malaysia. There is no mandatory
requirement to be at a Malaysia Digital Hub.
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q21
Q21 How can I bring in my team Once your company is set up in Malaysia, you may apply for an Employment
from abroad? Pass for your foreign team members.
Malaysia Digital status companies:
mdec.my/expats/pre-application-process-for-msc
Non-MSC/non-MD status companies:
mdec.my/expats/pre-application-process-for-non-msc
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q22
Q22 How can MDEC support my MDEC offers soft-landing support to assist entrepreneurs in establishing
business venture? businesses in Malaysia through its ecosystem network of partners and
various programmes.
Explore MDEC programmes: mdec.my
MTEP FAQ 2026 6
🔄 RENEWAL
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q23
Q23 What happens after my pass • New Entrepreneurs: 1-year pass renewable once for 1 year. After
expires? completing 2 years with demonstrated achievement, you may apply for
Established Entrepreneur status.
• Established Entrepreneurs: 5-year pass renewable once for a further 5
years.
ℹ Important: Renewal submissions open 2 months before pass expiry.
Submit at least 6 weeks before expiry to ensure compliance with
Immigration Department of Malaysia timelines.
Alternatively, you may apply for an Employment Pass to continue business
activities in Malaysia. (refer to Q21)
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q24
Q24 How long does the renewal Please refer to Q15
process take?
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q25
Q25 What documents are
New Entrepreneur
required for renewal?
• Copy of all passport pages (minimum 6 empty pages)
• 1-year tenancy agreement from a Malaysia Digital Hub
• Personal/security bond document with stamp duty endorsed by IRB
• Processing fee payment (refer to Q13)
• Latest 3 months personal bank statement — minimum RM50,000
balance for 3 consecutive months (Demand Deposit only - current,
savings & checking account)
• Product/Project Milestone for previous and current year, including
validation
• Company Incorporation Form (eSSM)
Established Entrepreneur
• Copy of all passport pages (minimum 6 empty pages)
• Malaysian Sponsor Form (template available in MTEP system)
• Company Incorporation Form (eSSM)
• IRB Monthly Deduction Document — latest month (CP39)
• EPF Statement (Form A) or copy of employees' employment contract
• Latest certified true copy of audited financial report
• Processing fee payment (refer to Q13)
• Latest 3 months personal bank statement — minimum RM50,000
balance, 3 consecutive months (Demand Deposit only - current, savings
& checking account)
• Product/Project Milestone for previous and current year, including
validation
• Proof of in-force/active health insurance for applicant and all
dependents
ℹ Note: A survey will be sent 3 months before pass expiry. You must respond as
part of the renewal assessment process.
MTEP FAQ 2026 7
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q26
Q26 How do I collect my pass Submit your passport and payment to the Expats Service Centre (see Q19).
after approval? Your pass will be processed and ready within 14 working days.
💰 TAX & FINANCIAL
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q27
Q27 Do MTE pass holders need to Yes. MTEP pass holders are subject to Malaysian tax laws and regulations and
file tax in Malaysia? must comply with applicable tax filing obligations.
ℹ Note: For guidance, consult the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (IRB) or a
qualified and licensed tax agent.
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q28
Q28 Are there tax exemptions, No. MTEP does not provide specific tax exemptions, vehicle purchase
car or house purchase exemptions, house purchase incentives, or similar financial benefits as part of
exemptions, or other special the programme.
benefits? If you are seeking tax incentives for your technology business, consider
establishing a company with Malaysia Digital status — a separate national
initiative.
Learn more: mdec.my/malaysiadigital
- MTEP FAQ2026 Q29
Q29 What is the minimum bank All applicants — both New and Established Entrepreneur — must demonstrate
balance requirement? a minimum personal bank balance of RM50,000 maintained consistently for 3
consecutive months. This must be in the form of demand deposit - current,
savings & checking accounts.
ℹ Note: The following asset forms are NOT accepted: shares, bonds, gold,
cryptocurrency, fixed deposits, or other investment instruments.
MTEP FAQ 2026 8