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Malaysia vs Philippines: the digital nomad visas compared

Low confidence Last verified June 15, 2026 Reviewed by Henry van de Vorming
Side-by-side comparison of the Malaysia DE Rantau and the Philippines DNV.
Criteria Malaysia DE Rantau Philippines DNV
Minimum income / month €1,725 No fixed threshold
Income basis Mixed (salary, freelance or savings) Savings accepted
Initial duration 1 year 1 year
Renewable Yes Yes
Maximum total stay 2 years No fixed limit
Path to permanent residence No No
Path to citizenship No No
Family inclusion Yes (better) No
Working for local clients Allowed Not allowed
Tax treatment Territorial taxation Territorial taxation
Health insurance Required (explicit) Required (explicit)
Insurance duration required Not specified Full visa period
Application fee ≈ €202
Where to apply Online Embassy / consulate, Online
Processing time 6–8 weeks

Green values mark the objectively better number in that row.

Full guide

Malaysia DE Rantau →

Requirements, application steps, insurance and sources.

Full guide

Philippines DNV →

Requirements, application steps, insurance and sources.

Don't forget insurance

Both programs have their own health-insurance rules — we match plans against each one's published requirement, with the evidence shown.

Sources