Minimum Rental Periods
The minimum rental agreement period is typically 2 years.
Required Documents for Signing a Lease
Typical documents required to sign a lease are a valid passport and proof of employment.
Standard Security Deposit
The security deposit is equivalent to 2 months’ rent. A utility deposit equaling half a month’s rent is also required.
Local Norm for Returning the Security Deposit
It typically takes 1 to 2 months to return both the security and utility deposit if there are no damages or issues which need addressing, or upon satisfactory completion of the required rectifications, and with the provision of full settlement of any outstanding utility bills
Rental Commission
Should you utilize the services of a real estate agent to help you in your search, agencies usually collect rental commission equal to 1 months’ rent.
Payment of Rental Commission
The agent’s rental commission is typically paid by the landlord.
Accepted Method of Payment
Wire transfer, check, and cash are acceptable methods of payment.
School Fees
Typically schools charge a non-refundable application fee which varies by school.
Accepted Method of Payment
Wire transfer, check, and cash are acceptable methods of payment.
Requirements
Typical documentation required to obtain a driver’s license include:
• Original and copy of a valid driver’s license from your home country with 1-year validity remaining
• Passport photo
• Completed JPJ L1 form
Additional Notes
Foreigners are able to drive in Malaysia, provided they have a valid international driver’s license/permit. If using a driver’s license from a home country, it can be used to drive provided it’s valid, and in English. If the domestic (home country) license is not in English, it must be translated to English, and attested by the embassy.
Required Documents
In order to open a bank account, you may be asked for:
• Valid passport with work permit endorsed
• Employment contract (original and copy)
• A document that shows your tax number (to show that you pay tax in your country – this is not always required but recommended to have available)
• Proof of residential address – if not available, use your temporary address such as a hotel, and update the information once permanent address is known.
• Letter from your company with starting salary and position addressed to the bank officer. (Ensure this is on the company’s official letterhead with original signature).
• Utility bills from home country with home country address
• Local mobile contact number
• Deposit of MYR 1,000 to open account if it is a checking account. An introducer holding a checking account with the relevant bank is also required in order to open a checking account.
• Deposit of MYR 50 to MYR 500 to open a savings account (varies depending on the bank).
• Optional – Credit cards can be opened, processing time is a minimum of 2 weeks
Time Required
Typically, opening a bank account can be completed same day, as long as all required documentation is provided.
Additional Notes
Each bank may have its own, individual interpretation on processes.