Can a foreigner buy a residential property in Malaysia?

Yes, foreigners can own any type of property (residential unit – both landed and highrise, commercial property and land, industrial property and land).

As Malaysia is governed under a federal system, land matters lie within the state government’s jurisdiction. The rules in the states of Peninsula Malaysia differ from those of Sabah and Sarawak.

Each state has implemented different regulations governing foreign property acquisition i.e. types of property and application procedures. However, there are three types of properties that foreigners are not eligible to purchase:

1. Properties built on Malay Reserved land

2. Low-cost or medium-cost affordable residential units as defined by the state authorities

3. Properties allocated to Bumiputera groups as part of a development project

Foreigners are also not allowed to purchase agricultural land. Nevertheless, in respect of building land or agricultural land gazetted for development, they may do so after receiving consent from the relevant state authority.