MM2H for a UK Couple

Concerned about the ever-rising cost of living in the UK? You're not alone. But you should know that it need not be this way. Courtesy of the various Golden Visas available around the world now. The Malaysia My Second Home visa (or MM2H) is one of the more appealing Golden Visas out there, because it doesn't just target high net worth inviduals. In fact, MM2H offers a unique and exciting opportunity for middle-class UK citizens looking to retire early and enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle under the sun.

Let's take a hypothetical example. For a London couple, both teachers, in their mid-40s, without children, a bit of savings and a paid-off home, MM2H could be a suitable pathway to transition to early retirement in Malaysia, followed by living a luxurious lifestyle in this sun-kissed country. The combination of Malaysia's much lower cost of living and the excellent Pound-to-Ringgit exchange rate means their income will go much, much further than in the UK. And that's just the start.

Passive Income
Now, by renting out their London property, they can generate a stable income stream that—given above—will finance a more than just decent lifestyle in Malaysia. In addition, MM2H provides various other financial benefits, such as tax exemptions on foreign income. Indeed, this includes income from property rental, as well as other sources of foreign cashflow. Basically, for holders of the MM2H visa, all funds remitted to Malaysia from overseas are tax-free. An undeniable windfall.

Add the currency multiplier between the Pound and the Malaysia Ringgit, which currently sits at a factor of around 5, and it's clear that UK MM2H-holders' purchasing power takes quite a leap the moment they set foot in Malaysia. In practical terms, pretty much by just converting their Pounds to Ringit alone, our couple can leapfrong into quite a comfortable, indeed expatriate lifestyle. This includes a lovely home, private club membership and plenty of leisure travel, just to name a few of the draws that are now within reach.

Speaking of a lovely home, one of the main attractions of Malaysia is its very affordable real estate market. Whilst property prices in London have soared to levels no longer feasible for the common man, Malaysia offers a much more budget-friendly alternative, even in major cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Johor Bahru. With their savings and rental income, our couple can purchase a second home in Malaysia, such as a spacious, modern condo, with access to all the facilities and conveniences that these offer. Expat living indeed.

Quality of Life
But beyond the financial advantages, Malaysia offers a quality of life that's hard to match. The comfortable climate, stunning beaches, breathtaking landscapes and diverse cuisine provide a daily reminder of the good life. MM2H-holders are be able to spend their days exploring the country's many attractions, from hiking in the Cameron Highlands to diving around Tioman Island and visiting authentic Malay villages. In Malaysia, the wonderful outdoors beckons every day.

In fact, for those looking to maintain an non-sedentary lifestyle, Malaysia has endless possibilities, including numerous golf courses, yacht clubs, nature excursions and shopping malls galore. Plenty of options to stay active and enjoy your free time.

Health Care in Malaysia
Another factor that makes MM2H so appealing is the excellent healthcare system in Malaysia. As a matter of fact, Malaysia has a reputation for providing high-quality medical care at a fraction of the cost compared to the UK and other western countries.

Private hospitals, particularly in cities like Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru, are equipped with modern facilities and highly qualified medical professionals. It's undoubtedly one of the reasons Malaysia has a large expat community; the peace of mind provided by the country's top-tier, yet affordable healthcare industry is hard to beat.

But the MM2H visa also fosters a welcoming and supportive community. That's not too surprising; after all, it's no secret that Malaysia has long been a popular destination for retirees from around the world, including from the UK. So in addition to immersing in the local culture, our couple will also have plenty of opportunity for building relationships with fellow expats.

Incidentally, English is widely spoken in Malaysia, particularly in the urban centres. Not only does this create scope for day-to-day interactions at a social level, but also facilitates administrative processes and formalities. However, that's not to say that learning a bit of Bahasa Melayu can't be a lot of fun too, of course.

All told, MM2H offers UK citizens keen to retire early and explore beyond their horizon the perfect blend of financial benefits and a high standard of living, basically, an altogether rather enviable lifestyle. With MM2H, some passive income and a bit of savings, you can truly make the most of the rest of your life. In a tropical paradise, no less.

Go to MM2H UK if you're interested to read more about this visa.