Digital Nomad Visa Comparison: Namibia vs. Malaysia
A comparison of remote work visas for Namibia and Malaysia.
Digital Nomad Visa Requirements of Namibia and Malaysia
Are you a digital nomad looking for your next adventure? Namibia and Malaysia are two countries that offer enticing visa programs for digital nomads. Let's take a closer look at their requirements.
Namibia
Namibia is known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife. Its digital nomad visa program presents an opportunity to explore these wonders while being able to work remotely.
Digital Nomad Visa Program
| Application Fee | Around US$62 or NA$1100 upon arrival |
|---|---|
| Monthly Income Requirement | • For individual only: US$2,000 monthly • Accompanied with spouse: additional US$1000 monthly • Accompanied with child: additional US$500 per child monthly |
| Can Digital Nomads Work in Local Markets? | No |
| Documents Required |
• Duly filled application form • Valid health or travel insurance • Clearance certificate from the country of origin • Marriage certificate if accompanied with spouse • Bank statement of the past 6 months • Motivation letter issued from Employer • Copies of qualification • Police clearance (original) from the country of origin, translated in English |
| Length of Stay | Up to 6 months; with an option to extend to an additional 6 months |
Malaysia
Malaysia is a popular destination for digital nomads due to its affordability, modern infrastructure, and cultural diversity. Its DE Rantau Nomad Pass under DE Rantau Program offers a unique opportunity for digital nomads.
Digital Nomad Visa Program
| Application Fee | - For individual: MYR1,060 (including SST of 6%) - For dependents: MYR530 per additional dependent (including SST of 6%) • Immigration Pass Fee for each applicant: - For 3 months: RM90 - For 1 year: RM360 - Multiple entry Visa Fee: Varies country by country |
|---|---|
| Monthly Income Requirement | • For foreign Digital Nomads: above US$24,000 annually • For Local Digital Nomads: above RM36,000 annually |
| Double Taxation Agreement | Yes, unless it can be exempted under the Double Taxation Agreement subject to meeting the required conditions. |
| Police Clearance Certificate | Yes, a copy of Certificate of Good Conduct (COGC) is required for submission of foreign digital nomad application. |
| Length of Stay | 3 to 12 months; with an option to extend to an additional 12 months, i.e., a total of 24 months of stay. The holder of this Pass will also enjoy multiple entry rights for the validity duration of the Pass. |
| Documents Required |
• Duly filled application form • Proof of an active employment with a company outside Malaysia is required stating the monthly or annual salary, which should be more than US$24,000 annually for a foreigner or MYR36,000 annually for a Malaysian. • For Digital Freelancer, contracts or invoices and orders and clients mentioning the duration and value of the contract will be required. In case there is no specific contract, the applicant would be required to prove that income generated is more than US$24,000 annually for a foreigner or MYR36,000 annually for Malaysian. • A passport valid for more than 14 months is required. • Certificate of Good Conduct • Immediate family members of the applicant are also eligible to apply |
| Career Requirements |
The applicant is required to have a career in domains related to: • Information Technology • Digital Content Creation and Development • Digital Marketing If a foreign digital nomad is applying for the DE Rantau Nomad Pass as a remote worker, then his employment should be with a Foreign/Non-Malaysian Company. Local digital nomads as remote workers may either be with local or foreign companies. Digital Freelancers and Independent Contractors can work with either foreign or local companies. |
Final Thoughts
The digital nomad visa requirements of Namibia and Malaysia both offer exciting opportunities for digital nomads to work and explore new cultures. However, they have different requirements that you should consider before choosing your destination. Namibia's program requires a lower income but prohibits work in local markets, while Malaysia's program has a higher income requirement but allows for more flexibility in work. Ultimately, the decision should depend on your personal preferences and needs.