If the temptation to migrate to JB has been growing, you’re not alone. We’re sure the many offhand remarks about Singapore’s cost of living have been gnawing at your brain for a while. Your weekend trips to JB aren’t helping either—it’s becoming increasingly difficult to justify staying in Singapore and paying a premium price for everything.
So, for those who want to enjoy the financial freedom of staying in JB, here’s a breakdown of how you can go about renting a property in JB, and how feasible it would be to live there.
While Singaporeans are allowed to legally rent in JB, there are multiple things you need to take note of before you decide to commit to the decision. We’ve outlined a comprehensive checklist of every document, visa, and rule you need to know below.
Visa requirements for Singaporeans planning to live in JB
Singaporeans can enter Malaysia visa-free for social visits up to 30 days. However, if you’re planning to stay in JB long term, you will need to apply for an appropriate long-term visa option. One option is the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) visa, which is a renewable social visit pass.
This programme grants a renewable 10-year visa with multiple entries, primarily meant for retirees and expats who want to make Malaysia their second home. The MM2H programme offers a compelling package for participants, with the ability to come and go freely from Malaysia without needing additional approval.
Participants also enjoy lower minimum purchase prices and additional benefits when buying property. Here’s what you’ll need to qualify:
- Proof of a minimum monthly income of RM10,000 per month, as well the maintenance of a fixed deposit in a Malaysian bank. After a year, select amounts of the deposit can be withdrawn on a case-by-base basis. However, the balance cannot dip below a minimum amount.
- Pass a medical exam.
- Valid health insurance throughout your stay.
Tax implications for Singaporeans renting in JB
Tax laws can be complex and situation-dependent, so it won’t be easy to determine how much tax you need to pay and where you need to pay it. If your income is sourced in Singapore, you’ll still be subject to Singapore Income Tax, though you may still need to register with Malaysian tax authorities.
Singapore and Malaysia have a double taxation agreement, which may help prevent paying taxes twice on the same income. However, it would be wise to seek professional tax advice to ensure you aren’t breaching any legal grey areas.
What you need to know before committing to rental in JB
Image credit: TheSmartLocal
First and foremost: always view the property in person before committing, so you won’t be catfished by the pictures. If everything’s in good enough condition, snap some photos of the condition the place is in before moving in so you can’t get blamed for any defects.
Image credit: TheSmartLocal
When looking through the rental clauses, make sure to take note of the rental amount and due date, as well as the terms and conditions surrounding termination.
We also recommend sourcing a property agent who is reputable for renting to Singaporeans, so you can rest assured that you won’t be taken advantage of. Finally, make sure you thoroughly understand your rights and responsibilities as a tenant under Malaysian law.
What legal documents are required for Singaporeans renting in JB?
Image credit: TheSmartLocal
Legal documentation is another hugely important aspect of renting in JB. Here are some must-haves for prospective JB tenants:
- A valid passport that has at least 6 months to 1 year of validity.
- Additional identification such as your IC or driver’s licence.
- While not mandatory, bring over proof of your income as well. Your landlord may request this to ensure you can meet rental obligations.
- A signed hard copy of your rental agreement before you pay any deposit, and keep all the documentation of any type of deposit you do pay.
Having ample documentation is a good way to protect yourself from unforeseen circumstances, like opportunistic landlords keen on taking advantage of a foreigner.
Things to note about renting in JB
Image credit: TheSmartLocal
Landlords will normally request around 2 months of rent upfront as a security deposit, and then another 1 month of rent paid upfront before moving in. Additional costs include utility deposits for some properties, as well as agent fees if you enlisted a property agent to help.
Payment is normally made in MYR, and transactions can be made through bank transfer, cheque, or cash, though this depends on the specific landlord. If you do end up paying through cash, ensure you get a receipt for every single transaction.
Image adapted from: Propertyguru
You can expect room rentals in JB start from RM350 (~S$100), and full flats around RM550 (~S$158). Consider browsing propertyguru and similar websites to find your ideal rental.
Is it worth renting a property in JB as a Singaporean?
If you’re considering renting a property in JB, the financial considerations are likely the driving forces behind your decision. For one, the cost of living is significantly lower, which in combination with our stronger currency means that Singaporeans tend to spend like kings in JB.
Some cons about JB living
While it is definitely true that you’d be saving a lot of money by renting a property in JB, there is an undeniable difference between the lifestyle in JB in comparison to Singapore. Here’s a list of some cons about JB living before you take the plunge and start packing your bags.
- JB’s public transportation isn’t as extensive as Singapore’s. Depending on your location, you might need a car or rely on taxis.
- If you don’t have the option of working remotely, you’d have to wake up extra early to beat traffic on the causeway, especially during peak hours.
- Consider the ongoing travel commitment, as well as the time you’d have to spend travelling back and forth.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your priorities. If saving money is paramount and you can adjust to a different lifestyle, JB could be a great choice. But if convenience is important to you, staying put in Singapore might be the better fit.
Read about our JB shopping finds here:
- 22 best furniture shops in JB
- 4 third-party courier services from JB to Singapore
- Glasshouse plant nursery with plants starting from $1
Cover image adapted from: Shyan Yi via Airbnb, Lionel Lim via Flickr
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