Malaysia citizenship for indian

For Indian citizens looking to establish a life in Malaysia, two primary options exist: Permanent Residency (PR) and Malaysian citizenship. While both offer a path to living in the country long-term, they come with distinct advantages and limitations.

Let us dig into the key differences:

Malaysian citizenship grants you the full spectrum of rights. You can vote in elections, hold public office, and enjoy unrestricted employment opportunities. Additionally, you will be eligible for scholarships and government benefits that are only available to citizens.

Obtaining Malaysian citizenship is a more complex and lengthy process. It typically involves residing in Malaysia for several years on a valid Long-Term Social Visit Pass (LTSV) or PR, followed by an application for citizenship by registration or marriage.

On the other hand, a Permanent Residency offers most of the same benefits as citizenship when it comes to living and working in Malaysia. You can freely reside, work, and own property. However, you will be ineligible to vote, hold political office, or access certain government benefits.

Applying for PR is generally considered easier. Various programs are catering to professionals, investors, and those with family ties to Malaysian citizens.

The ideal choice depends on your long-term goals. If you envision a deep integration into Malaysian society with full political participation, citizenship is the ultimate aim. However, if your primary objective is to live and work in Malaysia with more flexibility regarding your Indian citizenship, PR might be a suitable starting point.

Also Read: Malaysia Work Visa for Indian

Obtaining Malaysian citizenship as an Indian national is a significant step, and understanding the eligibility criteria is crucial.

Here are some of the key requirements that you must keep in mind:

Age: You must be at least 21 years old at the time of application.

Residency: This is the most significant requirement. You will need to have resided in Malaysia for a minimum of ten years on a valid Long-Term Social Visit Pass (LTSV) or Permanent Resident (PR) status. This ten-year period should be continuous and legal, with minimal absences from the country.

Good Character: You must be of good moral standing and have no criminal record in Malaysia or your home country. Police clearance certificates from both countries will be required.

Language Proficiency: It is essential to demonstrate proficiency in Bahasa Malaysia, the national language. This usually involves passing a designated language test administered by the Malaysian government.

Financial Stability: While there is no minimum income requirement, you will need to show sufficient financial resources to support yourself and any dependents in Malaysia. This can be demonstrated through employment income, business ownership, or other means.

Dual Citizenship: Malaysia generally does not recognise dual citizenship. Upon becoming a Malaysian citizen, you may be required to renounce your Indian citizenship.

There are several paths to Malaysian citizenship for Indian citizens, each with its own set of requirements and application procedures.

Naturalization:

• This is the standard route for foreigners who have resided in Malaysia for a significant period. Key requirements include:

• The applicant should have 10 years of continuous and legal residence in Malaysia on a valid Long-Term Social Visit Pass (LTSV) or 12 years of Permanent Resident (PR) status.

• They Should be at least 21 years old.

• Good character with no criminal record is mandatory.

• Proficiency in the Malay language is also very important.

• Evidence of financial stability and integration into Malaysian society is one of the necessities for becoming a citizen of Malaysia by naturalization.

Malaysia Citizenship By Marriage:

• Being married to a Malaysian citizen for at least five years can expedite the citizenship process. However, you will still need to meet some basic requirements like good character, residency duration, and language proficiency.

By Registration:

• If a person is born either in Malaysia or abroad to Malaysian parents, they are entitled to Malaysian nationality by default, provided they undergo fundamental registration.

• Citizenship by registration is also applicable to individuals born inside or outside Malaysia with at least one Malaysian parent. To qualify for citizenship through registration, the individual must be a minor or under 21 years old and possess basic proficiency in the Malay language.

• Malaysia citizenship by investment is not possible. However, there is a visa program that lets foreigners live and move freely in Malaysia for 10 years. The details of the same are given below:

Malaysia My Second Home Program:

• Through the “Malaysia - My Second Home Program”, foreign nationals and their dependents can secure a 10-year multiple-entry visa by either making a fixed deposit in a Malaysian bank or investing in real estate. As long as the necessary criteria are maintained, this visa can be renewed before its expiration.

• Targeting retirees and individuals seeking Malaysian residency and seeking financial independence, this program prohibits visa holders from engaging in employment within the country, with few exceptions. Additionally, it does not grant eligibility for permanent residency or citizenship.

The process for non-citizens (foreign nationals) applying to acquire Malaysian citizenship through registration (under Articles 15, 15A, and 16 of the Federal Constitution) or naturalization (under Article 19 of the Federal Constitution) involves several distinct steps, outlined as follows:

**Application for Citizenship Status Under Article 15(1) of the Federal Constitution Wife to Citizen

• Application by a married woman whose husband is a citizen necessitates adherence to the following criteria:

• The marriage must remain valid and ongoing at the time of application.

• The husband must have been a resident of the Federation for two years before the application date and must demonstrate an intention to reside permanently.

• The applicant must exhibit good behaviour, indicating compliance with legal and societal norms.

• The marriage between the applicant and her husband must have been formally registered in accordance with the prevailing laws of the Federation, ensuring its legal recognition.

Application Process

• Applicants and their husbands are obliged to visit the nearest JPN Citizenship Division counter and bring both original documents and their photocopies.

Documents Required

• Applicant Documents:

• Identification Card

• Birth Certificate or Latest Birth Certificate Extract (if applicable)

• Marriage Documents registered according to written Law in Malaysia

• Entry Permit or Extract Details from the Applicant's Identity Card Register

• Passport or other travel documents (if applicable)

• Three (3) recent passport-size photographs with a blue background.

• Husband's Documents:

• Identification Card

• Birth Certificate or Latest Birth Certificate Extract (if available)

• Certificate of Citizenship (if applicable)

• Passport or other travel documents (if applicable)

• One recent passport-size photograph with a blue background.

• Documents of Parents & Siblings (Copy):

• Identification Card (if available)

• Children's Documents (Copy):

• Birth Certificate (if available)

• Identification Card (if available)

Note: All photocopies of supporting documents must be made on A4-size paper.

**Application for Citizenship Status Under Article 15(2) of the Federal Constitution of Children Under 21 Years of Age to Citizens:

• Application for Malaysian citizenship by an individual under the age of twenty-one is eligible if at least one of their parents (or at the time of their death) is a Malaysian citizen.

• There are certain requirements that the applicants need to fulfil:

• Applicants and registered individuals are required to appear before the Registrar of Citizens during the application process.

• The registered individual must be under 21 years old at the time of application submission.

• At least one parent must hold Malaysian citizenship.

• The application must be submitted by the parent or legal guardian.

• Complete Form B thoroughly and provide copies of the necessary documents.

• Fill out Appendix A.15(2), the Declaration of Consent, alongside the citizenship application Article 15(2) of the Federal Constitution, which should be processed at the Foreign Consulate Office within one year from the date of birth.

Application Procedure:

• Applicants and registered individuals must visit the Citizenship Division Counter at either the NRD Putrajaya Headquarters or their respective State NRD Headquarters/Branch, bringing both original documents and photocopies.

Documents Required:

• Registered Person's Documents:

• Identity card (if available)

• Birth Certificate or Latest Birth Certificate Extract or Adoption Certificate (If the child was born abroad, a translation of the birth certificate into Malaysian or English by the Court/Consulate Office/public translator is required)

• Entry Permit, passport, or other travel documents (if applicable)

• Three (3) recent passport-size photographs with a blue background

• Proof of schooling (if currently attending school)

• Applicant or Guardian's Documents:

• Identification card (original and copy)

• Documents of Parents & Siblings:

• Birth Certificate or Latest Birth Certificate Extract

• Identification card

• Certificate of Citizenship (if applicable)

• Marriage Document

• Identity card (if available)

Note: All photocopies of supporting documents must be on A4-size paper.

**Application for Citizenship Status Under Article 19 of the Federal Constitution Aged 21 or Over

• To apply for citizenship status under Article 19 of the Federal Constitution through naturalization, specific conditions must be fulfilled:

• The applicant is required to appear before the Registrar of Citizens during the application process.

• Applicants must be 21 years of age or older at the time of application submission.

• The applicant must have resided in the Federation for a minimum of 10 years within the past 12 years, including the preceding 12 months from the application date.

• The applicant must express an intention to establish permanent residency in the Federation.

• Applicants must exhibit good behaviour.

• Applicants should possess sufficient knowledge of the Malay language.

• The applicant must be endorsed by two sponsors who are citizens, aged 21 years and above, not related, not employed by the applicant, and not legal representatives of the applicant.

• Complete Form C comprehensively and include copies of the required documents for submission.

Application Procedure:

• Applicants must visit the Citizenship Division Counter at either the Putrajaya NRD Headquarters or their respective State NRD Headquarters/Branch, bringing both original documents and photocopies.

Documents Required:

• Applicant Documents (Original and Copy):

• Identification card

• Entry Permit or Extract Details from the Identity Card Register

• Passport or other travel documents (if any)

• Birth Certificate or Extract of the latest birth certificate or Adopted Child Certificate (if applicable)

• Three recent passport-size photographs with a blue background

• Supporting Documents (Copy):

• Identification card

• Birth Certificate or Extract of the latest birth certificate (if available)

• Certificate of citizenship (if applicable)

• Documents of Husband, Wife & Children (Copy):

• Identity Card (if any)

• Birth Certificate or Extract of the latest birth certificate (if available)

• Citizenship Certificate (if any)

• Documents of Parents and Siblings (Copy):

• Identification Card (if any)

Note: All photocopies of supporting documents must be on A4-size paper.

The exact documents required for immigration to Malaysia from India can vary depending on the purpose of immigration, as outlined above. Nonetheless, there is a core set of documents typically necessary, irrespective of the immigration motive:

Foreigner's Identity Card: This is the identification card issued to foreign nationals residing in Malaysia.

Form C Application: Form C is the official application form required for various immigration processes.

Birth Certificate: A document that proves the individual's date and place of birth.

Proof of Permanent Residence (PR): Documentation confirming the individual's permanent resident status in Malaysia.

Entry Permit: An official authorisation allowing entry into Malaysia for foreign nationals.

Identity Cards of Two Recommenders who are Malaysian Citizens: These are the identification cards of two Malaysian citizens who serve as recommenders for the immigration process, providing support and endorsement for the applicant.

[Note: While the aforementioned list provides a foundational guide, the specific requirements for immigration to Malaysia may be subject to change. Therefore, prospective immigrants should regularly check the Malaysian My Government portal for the latest updates and details regarding required documentation and procedures.]

Obtaining Malaysian citizenship unlocks a plethora of advantages, allowing you to integrate fully into this vibrant Southeast Asian nation.

Here are some key benefits to consider:

Comprehensive Healthcare Access: Malaysian citizens enjoy access to excellent healthcare facilities, including free healthcare services provided in government hospitals.

Global Mobility with Strong Passport: Possession of Malaysian citizenship grants access to the 12th strongest passport globally, facilitating visa-free travel to over 160 countries and offering unparalleled mobility for citizens.

Quality Education Opportunities: Malaysia provides top-tier education opportunities for primary and secondary schooling at reasonable fees, ensuring citizens' access to quality education.

Full Rights and Freedom: Malaysian citizenship affords individuals all rights, including the freedom to live, study, work, and travel throughout the country without restrictions, fostering a sense of belonging and inclusivity.

Affordable Cost of Living: The cost of living in Malaysia, including food, travel, and other basic necessities, is notably affordable, enhancing the quality of life for citizens and contributing to a comfortable lifestyle.

The applicant needs to stay in Malaysia uninterrupted for at least 10 years before applying for citizenship. The application may take a few months to a year to get processed.

The fees are given as follows:

[Note: The fee amounts are dynamic. Check the government website for the latest information.]

You can check the status of your Malaysian citizenship application on the Immigration Department of Malaysia’s official website here. You will just need to input your 12-digit Identification Card number, and the screen will show the application status in front of you.

Applying for Malaysian citizenship as an Indian national is exciting, but navigating the process can be tricky.

Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Incomplete Documentation: Ensure all required documents are present, accurate, and translated if necessary. Missing documents can significantly delay your application.

Rushing the Process: Patience is key. Applications take time, so plan well and submit everything well in advance. Don't wait until the last minute.

Neglecting Eligibility Criteria: Carefully review the requirements for your chosen path (Naturalization, Registration, etc.) and ensure you meet them all before applying.

Underestimating Language Requirements: Take Bahasa Malaysia proficiency seriously. Passing the required language test is crucial for your application's success.

Overlooking Financial Stability: Demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support yourself in Malaysia. This strengthens your application.

Forgetting Integration: Show evidence of integrating into Malaysian society. This could involve cultural activities, local dialect fluency, or ties to Malaysian citizens.

Dual Citizenship Complications: Research Malaysia's dual citizenship stance. You might need to renounce your Indian citizenship upon becoming Malaysian.

Neglecting Follow-Up: Stay informed! Regularly check the application status with the Immigration Department or your representative.

Here are some additional tips to strengthen your application for Malaysian citizenship:

Build a Strong Residency History: Maintain a consistent and legal residency record in Malaysia throughout the qualifying period. Avoid frequent absences from the country.

Develop Local Ties: Actively participate in Malaysian life. Get involved in community activities, learn a local dialect, or showcase friendships with Malaysian citizens.

Maintain a Clean Criminal Record: Police clearance certificates from both Malaysia and India are mandatory. Ensure a spotless record in both countries.

Seek Professional Help: Consider consulting a reputable immigration lawyer or migration agent specialising in Indian citizen applications. Their guidance can be invaluable throughout the process.

Malaysia is a Southeast Asian gem packed with surprises! Here are some interesting tidbits to spark your interest:

Rainforest Riches: Malaysia boasts some of the world's oldest rainforests, teeming with diverse wildlife like orangutans and Rafflesia flowers, the world's largest bloom!

Cave Craze: Explore the world's biggest cave chamber, the Sarawak Cave Chamber, hidden within the depths of Borneo.

Twin Tower Triumph: For a while, Malaysia held the title for the world's tallest building with the iconic Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur.

Rubber Powerhouse: Malaysia is a world leader in natural rubber production, and you might even be wearing Malaysian rubber gloves right now!

Island Paradise: Malaysia is not just the mainland! Explore stunning beaches and rainforests scattered across numerous islands, including part of Borneo, the third-largest island globally.

Cultural Tapestry: A unique blend of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European influences creates a rich cultural tapestry in Malaysia, evident in food, festivals, and traditions.

To ensure a smooth and respectful experience in Malaysia, here is a quick guide to navigating the do's and don'ts of Malaysian etiquette:

Do’s:

• While Malaysia is modern, opt for clothing that covers shoulders and knees, especially in religious sites and rural areas.

• Eating, receiving gifts, and shaking hands are typically done with the right hand.

• Malaysia offers a delicious blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cuisine. Be adventurous and embrace new flavours!

• A few key phrases go a long way in showing respect for the local culture.

Don'ts:

• Never point with your finger. Use a thumb or an open palm to gesture instead.

• Never speak loudly in public. Malaysians value tranquillity. Keep your voice down in restaurants and public spaces.

• Public displays of affection are a no-no. Even though it is not strictly forbidden, avoid excessive PDA, as it can be seen as disrespectful.

• Do not disrespect religious beliefs. Dress modestly at religious sites and avoid criticising local customs.

• Never litter. Malaysians take pride in their clean environment. Dispose of trash responsibly in designated bins.

A Tata AIG overseas travel insurance plan can offer invaluable peace of mind and comprehensive coverage for a short trip from India to Malaysia. With its range of benefits, including medical coverage, trip cancellation protection, and emergency assistance, travellers can explore Malaysia with confidence.

Medical coverage ensures access to quality healthcare in case of unexpected illnesses or accidents, relieving travellers of financial burdens. Additionally, trip cancellation protection safeguards against unforeseen events that may disrupt travel plans, providing reimbursement for non-refundable expenses.

Our travel insurance policy also offers emergency assistance services, including travel and medical assistance, ensuring travellers receive timely support and guidance in unfamiliar situations.

Moreover, Tata AIG travel insurance can cover other travel-related risks, such as loss of baggage or passports, providing additional security throughout the journey. With Tata AIG's reliable and comprehensive coverage, one can enjoy their short trip to Malaysia worry-free, focusing on creating unforgettable memories without concerns about unexpected setbacks or expenses.

Malaysian citizenship unlocks a world of possibilities for Indian nationals seeking a permanent home in Southeast Asia. From unrestricted work opportunities to a deeper cultural connection, the benefits are undeniable.

However, the path to citizenship requires careful planning and adherence to specific requirements. Understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and potential pitfalls can increase your chances of success.

So, embrace the challenge, be well-prepared, and embark on your Malaysian citizenship journey!