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Malaysia Taxes for US Expats: What to Know

Understanding Malaysia taxes for US expats is crucial for compliance. Malaysia taxation system for residents on locally sourced income, while the U.S. taxes worldwide income. Expats must navigate tax residency, deductions, and reporting obligations in both countries.

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U.S. Expat Tax Deadline

15th June

Expat Tax Deadline

For U.S. expats, the automatic tax filing extension deadline is June 16th in 2025. If more time is needed, filing Form 4868 before this date extends the deadline to October 15th. The FBAR must also be submitted by October 15th. Certain special cases may qualify for an additional extension until December 15th.

Malaysia

Understanding Tax for Expats in Malaysia

Malaysia taxes for US expats depend on residency. Residents pay progressive rates on local income, while non-residents face a flat tax. Expats may claim exemptions and deductions under Malaysia’s taxation system and reduce U.S. taxes via credits.

Tax Requirements

Tax Residency in Malaysia

Staying in Malaysia for 182+ days per year qualifies you as a tax resident, taxed progressively.

Non-Resident Tax in Malaysia

Expats staying less than 182 days pay a flat 30% tax on Malaysian-sourced income.

Taxable Income for Expats

Only Malaysia-sourced income is taxable; foreign income is typically not taxed unless remitted.

Income Tax Rates

Progressive rates range from 0% to 30% for tax residents.

U.S. Federal Tax Return (Form 1040)

US expats in Malaysia must still file U.S. taxes, reporting global income.

Foreign Tax Credit (FTC)

Expats can claim a credit for tax for foreigners in Malaysia paid, reducing U.S. tax obligations.

Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE)

Qualifying expats may exclude up to $120,000 in foreign-earned income from U.S. taxation.

Tax Clearance for Expats in Malaysia

Before leaving Malaysia, expats must obtain tax clearance from the Malaysian Inland Revenue Board (LHDN).

Social Security & EPF Contributions

Expats may contribute to Malaysia’s Employees Provident Fund (EPF) but can withdraw when leaving.

Key Tax Insights

Tax Facts for Expats in Malaysia

Expats must comply with Malaysia taxes for US expats while meeting U.S. tax obligations.

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Tax Residency Matters

Expats staying 182+ days annually qualify for lower, progressive tax rates.

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Foreign Income Rules

Malaysia does not tax foreign income unless remitted, benefiting expats in Malaysia.

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Mandatory Tax Clearance

Leaving Malaysia? You must apply for tax clearance for expats in Malaysia.

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    FAQs

    We Have All Your Queries Covered

    Have questions about your U.S. expat state taxes? We’re here to help. Below are answers to some common queries we encounter from expats around the world.

    Do US expats in Malaysia pay taxes in the U.S.?

    Yes, Malaysia taxes for US expats do not exempt them from U.S. tax filing. Expats must report worldwide income to the IRS.

    Non-resident tax Malaysia is a flat 30% on Malaysian-sourced income, while tax residents pay progressive rates.

    Yes, if earning income in Malaysia. Expats must file a return by April 30th (paper) or May 15th (e-filing).

    No, Malaysia does not tax U.S. Social Security benefits, but they may still be taxable in the U.S.

    Expats leaving Malaysia must apply for tax clearance to settle outstanding taxes before departure.

    Malaysia does not tax foreign investments unless remitted into the country.

    Still have questions? Contact us today to get expert guidance on all your U.S. expat state taxes.

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