Is this for a founder, startup entrepreneur, self-employed person, freelancer, company owner or another business profile?
The New Entrepreneur PVP-MTE category is for non-Malaysian technology founders or co-founders with an innovative digital proposition, a product at least at beta stage and a plan to incorporate in Malaysia within 1 year. The 2026 FAQ limits the category to 2 founders per application; non-technical founders require panel approval. The currently linked 2026 FAQ requires age 18 or above, a strong technology proposition and RM50,000 in personal current, savings or checking deposits for 3 consecutive months. Shares, bonds, gold, cryptocurrency, fixed deposits and other investments do not satisfy that balance rule.
See recorded sources
- 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)
- How long is the process
The application will be processed within 4 weeks upon receipt of the completed submission. How long is the process 25 for renewal application? The issuance of pass will be completed within 2 weeks (subjected to the Immigration Department’s discretion) You must submit your passport and payment to Expats How do I collect the pass 26 Services Centre where we will process your pass within 2 after I get the approval? weeks. Do individuals holding MTE 27 relevant passes have to Yes file tax in Malaysia? Are there any other benefits for MTE Programme like tax 28 No exemption, exemptions on car purchase or house purchase, etc.? No, you do not need an established company in Malaysia to apply for PVP-MTE & RP-MTE Pass. Should a person applying for MTE relevant passes already have a Individuals with an established “Sdn Bhd” company may company established in apply for employment pass. 29 Malaysia, or not? (If a person has already For Malaysia Digital (MD) Status company, you may apply established a Sdn Bhd at: https://mdec.my/expats/pre-application-process-for-msc company, are they disqualified?) For company without MD status, you may apply employment pass here (non-MSC): https://mdec.my/expats/pre-application-process-for-non- msc . Yes, multiple members of a founding team may apply for Can multiple members of the MTE relevant passes. a founding team apply 30 for this? Do non-technical Non-technical founders may apply however it is founders apply? subjected to the Approval Committee.
- 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
