Do Malaysian citizens need a TB test for a UK visa?

Yes. Malaysia is on the Home Office list requiring TB screening. Get tested at an IOM-approved clinic in Kuala Lumpur.

Do Malaysian citizens need an English language test?

Yes. Despite English being widely spoken in Malaysia, it is not on the Home Office list of majority English-speaking countries. You must pass an approved SELT test.

Are Malaysian citizens eligible for the Ancestry visa?

Malaysia is a Commonwealth country, so Malaysian citizens with a UK-born grandparent may be eligible for the Ancestry visa. This is less common but worth checking.

How much does it cost to move to the UK from Malaysia?

Budget approximately MYR 20,000 to 50,000 for the visa process including visa fee, IHS, English test, and TB test.

Moving to the UK from Malaysia: Guide 2026

Malaysia has a well-established community in the UK, particularly among students and professionals. As a Commonwealth country, Malaysian nationals have some additional options. This guide covers the main visa routes and practical requirements.

Visa Routes for Malaysian Citizens

Student visa. One of the most popular routes. UK universities are highly popular among Malaysian students. See the student visa guide.
Skilled Worker visa. Requires a licensed sponsor at the minimum salary.
Family visa. See the spouse visa guide.
Graduate route. 2 years after a UK degree. See the Graduate route guide.
Ancestry visa. If you have a UK-born grandparent.

Document Requirements

Valid Malaysian passport.
TB test. Required. Available in Kuala Lumpur.
English language test. Required. IELTS widely available across Malaysia.
Police certificate. Apply for a Certificate of Good Conduct from the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM). Processing takes approximately 3 to 5 working days.

Costs in Malaysian Ringgit

Skilled Worker visa fee: £719 to £1,420 (approximately MYR 4,200 to 8,700)
IHS (per year): £1,035 (approximately MYR 6,000)
English test: approximately MYR 800 to 1,000
TB test: approximately MYR 300 to 500

See our UK visa fees guide.

The Malaysian Community in the UK

The Malaysian community in the UK numbers approximately 70,000 to 90,000, concentrated in London, Manchester, Sheffield, and other university cities. Malaysian student societies are active at most UK universities. Malaysian food, shops, and cultural events are well established in London.

After Arrival

Collect your BRP within 10 days
Apply for a National Insurance number
Register with a GP
Open a UK bank account

Path to Settlement

After 5 years, apply for ILR. After 12 months with ILR, apply for British citizenship. Note: Malaysian citizenship law is complex regarding dual citizenship — seek advice.

Next Steps

For official information, visit the British High Commission Kuala Lumpur and the GOV.UK Skilled Worker visa page.