How Long Does It Take to Obtain Malaysian Citizenship?

The process of obtaining Malaysian citizenship can vary significantly based on the applicant's circumstances. Generally, it involves several pathways, each with its distinct requirements and timelines. This article will explore the main pathways and provide a comprehensive overview of the process and its duration.

Naturalization

For foreign nationals, the typical process of naturalization requires a minimum of 10 years of residency in Malaysia. After meeting this residency requirement, the application process can take an additional 6 months to several years. Factors such as the applicant's background, the completeness of the application, and the efficiency of the processing can significantly influence the timeline. The total duration from the initial application to approval can range from 1 to 5 years or more, depending on individual circumstances.

Marriage to a Malaysian Citizen

Foreign spouses of Malaysian citizens can apply for citizenship after residing in Malaysia for a minimum of 2 years. The processing time can vary, taking anywhere from several months to a few years.

Special Cases

Certain individuals may qualify for expedited processes, such as those with exceptional skills or contributions to Malaysia. The timelines for these cases can vary widely, but these individuals typically need to provide evidence of their significant contributions or expertise.

Eligibility Criteria for Applying for Malaysian Citizenship

For naturalization, the eligibility criteria include:

Being over 21 years of age at the time of applying for citizenship. Having lived for more than 10 years in the recent 12 years leading up to your filing of the application for citizenship. Possessing an adequate knowledge of the Malay language.

Malay and English are the two official languages in Malaysia. While there are various dialects of Malay spoken in the country, the official dialect is Bahasa Melayu.

Where to Apply for Malaysian Citizenship

Applicants for Malaysian citizenship must apply at any of the offices of the National Registration Department (NRD).

Documents Required for Malaysian Citizenship

To apply for Malaysian citizenship, you must provide the following documents:

Birth certificate Entry permit Identity card Application Form C Identity cards of 2 Malaysian references Other documents from spouse or children if applicable

Is It Easy to Get Malaysian Citizenship?

No, it is not easy to obtain Malaysian citizenship. Many expats have reported long periods of waiting without any outcome from their application for citizenship. One major reason for the refusal of applications is that the requirements are vague and not clearly specified. For instance, a 'knowledge of the Malay language' can mean different things to different people, making it difficult to determine the proficiency level required.

In conclusion, while the residency requirement is a significant factor, the entire process from application to approval can take anywhere from 1 to 5 years or more, depending on individual circumstances and the specific path taken. The application process is complex and requires thorough documentation and understanding of the criteria.