MTEP / Tech Entrepreneur Pass
Launch and scale your digital startup from Malaysia. Secure a 1-year or 5-year pass under the Malaysia Tech Entrepreneur Programme (MTEP) by MDEC with 100% foreign company ownership.
Pass Duration
1-Year (New) or 5-Year (Established)
Proof of Funds
Min. RM 50,000 (~1,500,000 BDT) for 3 mos
100% Equity
Full foreign ownership in tech startups
ASEAN Gateway
Direct access to 680M+ SEA market
Choose Your Entrepreneur Track
MTEP categorizes foreign founders based on operational track record and business maturity. Select your track to inspect specific criteria:
New Tech Entrepreneur (NTE)
1-Year Professional Visit Pass (PVP)Ideal for aspiring founders, innovators, and prototype creators with a strong digital business proposition and pitch deck, but without 3+ years of operating history.
Established Tech Entrepreneur (ETE)
Up to 5-Year Residence PassTailored for experienced founders & executives who possess at least 3 years of verifiable business operations and audited/historical financial statements.
New Tech Entrepreneur (1-Year Pass)
Key Requirements
- Financial Proof: Minimum RM 50,000 (~1,500,000 BDT) personal bank balance held for 3 consecutive months in savings or current account.
- Digital Hub Tenancy: Tenancy agreement signed with an MDEC-approved Malaysia Digital Hub (e.g., Common Ground, WORQ) or MRANTI.
- Personal Bond: Personal bond endorsed by the accredited Malaysia Digital Hub or certified partner.
- Pitch Deck & Roadmap: Comprehensive pitch deck articulating digital product, problem-solution fit, market size, and roadmap.
- Official MDEC & Pass Fees: RM 540 (~16,200 BDT) application fee + RM 2,520 (~75,600 BDT) pass & processing fee upon approval (incl. 8% SST).
Pass Privileges & Terms
- Live and build your business in Malaysia for 1 year with full legal status.
- Seamless access to Malaysia Digital Hub co-working networks, mentors, and events.
- Option to renew for a 2nd year upon demonstrating commercial progress.
- Dependents Note: Family sponsorship is not allowed during the initial 1-year PVP stage.
What Type of Startups Qualify?
MDEC targets high-impact digital ventures that drive technology innovation and economic value:
Artificial Intelligence & ML
Predictive analytics, computer vision, LLMs & autonomous tech
FinTech & Digital Payments
Insurtech, wealthtech, open banking & digital payment gateways
SaaS & Enterprise Cloud
B2B productivity, ERP, workflow automation & cloud solutions
E-Commerce & LogiTech
Cross-border retail, supply chain optimization & fulfillment tech
HealthTech & BioTech
Telemedicine, diagnostic software & healthcare management systems
Cybersecurity & IoT
Smart infrastructure, device telemetry & end-to-end security suite
Critical Rule: RM 50,000 Liquid Funds Proof
MDEC enforces strict compliance regarding proof of funds. Applicants must demonstrate a minimum of RM 50,000 (or foreign currency equivalent) maintained consistently for at least 3 consecutive months prior to application submission.
Accepted Account Types
- - Personal Savings Account
- - Personal Current / Cheque Account
- - Official Demand Deposit bank statements with bank stamp
Strictly NOT Accepted
- - Fixed Deposit / Term Deposit Certificates
- - Shareholdings, Stocks, Mutual Funds
- - Cryptocurrency wallets or Gold accounts
How to Apply with Next Path Global
We guide you end-to-end from initial business pitch structuring to your physical pass endorsement in Kuala Lumpur:
Profile Pre-Screening
Our consultants evaluate your pitch deck, tech concept, academic credentials, and 3-month bank statements to ensure 100% compliance.
Hub or Sponsor Match
We connect you with accredited Malaysia Digital Hubs (for NTE) to execute tenancy and personal bond, or arrange corporate sponsor documentation (for ETE).
MDEC Submission
Formal filing via the MDEC MTEP portal. The approval committee reviews the startup value proposition (processing window ~4 to 6 weeks).
Pass Endorsement
Upon approval letter issuance, we coordinate with the Immigration Department of Malaysia (JIM) for official visa sticker endorsement.
Required Documents for Submission
Ensure you have the following documents ready before submitting your application:
Full Passport Copy
All pages scanned (including blank pages), minimum 14 months validity and at least 6 empty pages.
3 Months Official Bank Statements
Demonstrating minimum RM 50,000 liquid balance for the latest 3 consecutive months with official bank certification.
Startup Pitch Deck
Executive presentation covering business model, problem statement, technical stack, target market, milestones, and financial projections.
Certificate of Good Conduct (CGC)
Official police clearance certificate issued by the competent authority in your home country or country of residence.
Curriculum Vitae & Academic Certificates
Detailed resume showing tech industry experience, past projects, along with highest educational degree copies.
Hub Agreement (NTE) or 3-Year Proof (ETE)
Tenancy agreement and signed bond with an approved Malaysia Digital Hub, or company incorporation and financial audits for established track.
DE Rantau vs. MTEP: Which Is Right for You?
Both programs are launched by MDEC, but cater to completely different professional objectives:
DE Rantau Nomad Pass
Remote Workers- - Work remotely for overseas employers or clients
- - Cannot register a local business or hire local staff
- - Income requirement: USD 24,000 / year
- - Duration: 3 to 12 months (renewable up to 2 years)
MTEP Startup Pass
Founders & Owners- - Establish and operate a registered tech company in Malaysia
- - Hire domestic and expatriate talent freely
- - Bank balance requirement: RM 50,000 for 3 months
- - Duration: 1 to 5 years (renewable)
Frequently Asked Questions
Common queries about the Malaysia Tech Entrepreneur Programme:
Ready to Launch Your Tech Venture in Malaysia?
Next Path Global handles your complete application docket, Malaysia Digital Hub matchmaking, and immigration facilitation. Speak directly with our advisors: