🇲🇾 Malaysia vs 🇵🇭 Philippines
Complete Tax Residency Comparison for Digital Nomads & Entrepreneurs
Quick Comparison
| Factor | 🇲🇾 Malaysia | 🇵🇭 Philippines |
|---|---|---|
| Tax System | Territorial | Territorial (residents) |
| Income Tax (Foreign) | 0% (foreign income) | 0-35% |
| Capital Gains Tax | 0% | 6-15% |
| Corporate Tax | 24% | 25% |
| Residency Requirement | MM2H (complex) | SRRV ($50k deposit) |
| Minimum Stay | None for tax benefits | None required |
| Cost of Living | Low ($1,500-2,500/mo) | Very Low ($1,000-2,000/mo) |
🇲🇾 Malaysia
Highlights
- ✅Zero tax on foreign income
- ✅English widely spoken
- ✅Modern infrastructure
- ✅Multicultural society
- ✅Great food
Considerations
- ⚠️MM2H requirements tightened
- ⚠️Hot and humid climate
- ⚠️Some restrictions on activities
Best For
- 👤Families
- 👤Retirees
- 👤Asia-based professionals
🇵🇭 Philippines
Highlights
- ✅English widely spoken
- ✅Very low cost of living
- ✅Beautiful islands
- ✅Friendly people
- ✅Easy residency
Considerations
- ⚠️Infrastructure varies
- ⚠️Typhoon season
- ⚠️Bureaucracy
Best For
- 👤Retirees
- 👤Budget nomads
- 👤English-speaking Asia
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Malaysia if: You prioritize zero tax on foreign income and english widely spoken. Ideal for families, retirees, asia-based professionals.
Choose Philippines if: You prioritize english widely spoken and very low cost of living. Ideal for retirees, budget nomads, english-speaking asia.
Not Sure Which is Right for You?
Take our free eligibility assessment to see which tax residency program fits your situation.