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How to Apply for DE Rantau from the US (2026 Step-by-Step Guide)

By Anchor Nomad · Updated October 2026

TL;DR: US remote workers, freelancers and professionals can apply for DE Rantau online from the US. You need a passport valid for 14+ months, remote income of at least USD 24,000 a year (tech/digital) or USD 60,000 (other roles) from outside Malaysia, and health insurance. The fee is about RM1,080 and approval usually takes 4 to 8 weeks. You then travel to Malaysia to collect the pass.

Step 1: Check you qualify

• You are 18+ and work remotely for an employer or clients outside Malaysia.
• You are paid in USD, so there is no currency conversion: show at least USD 24,000 a year (tech/digital roles) or USD 60,000 (other remote roles).
• Your passport has at least 14 months left.
• Almost every nationality is eligible; only Israeli nationals are excluded.

Step 2: Gather your documents

• Passport scan (valid 14+ months) and a white-background passport photo
• Updated CV showing your digital or professional background
• Last 3 months of payslips or invoices
• W-2 payslips, or 1099 forms and invoices if you are a contractor, matching your US bank statements
• Employment letter confirming you may work remotely from Malaysia, or active client contracts
• Degree or diploma certificates
• Signed personal bond
• Health insurance that covers you in Malaysia

Step 3: Submit online through MDEC

Create your account on the official DE Rantau portal, upload your documents and pay the fee (RM1,000 + 8% SST, about RM1,080; RM500 + SST per dependent). Fees are non-refundable, so check everything before submitting.

Step 4: Wait for approval (4 to 8 weeks)

Your approval letter is valid for six months, giving you time to plan your move.

Step 5: Travel and collect your pass

Enter Malaysia and collect your pass in person. If you are already in Malaysia on a visitor entry when approved, you may need to exit and re-enter to activate it.

Tips for applicants from the US

• Get written approval from your US employer to work from Malaysia; many companies have policies on working abroad.
• US citizens are generally taxed on worldwide income wherever they live. Speak to a US tax adviser about your filing obligations and the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion before you move.
• US domestic health plans often don’t cover you overseas, so arrange international health insurance that covers Malaysia.
• If you freelance through an LLC, keep your contracts, invoices and bank deposits consistent so the income trail is easy to follow.

Quick reference

Get your application right the first time

Anchor Nomad is an independent consultancy that helps remote workers and freelancers apply for Malaysia’s DE Rantau digital nomad visa. Our 30-minute consultation costs USD 49 and covers your eligibility, a document checklist review, and a clear timeline and cost breakdown. Book a call.

Facts in this article reflect MDEC guidance as of October 2026. Rules and fees change, so always confirm on the official MDEC DE Rantau portal before you apply.