Moving Checklist

Moving to Sabah—whether from Peninsular Malaysia or overseas—requires planning across housing, utilities, banking, and healthcare. This checklist breaks down the essential tasks before arrival, during your first week, and in your first month.

Before You Move

Complete these tasks 4–8 weeks before your arrival:

• Research housing: Browse rental sites (PropertyGuru, iProperty, Facebook groups) and shortlist areas. Decide on location: Kota Kinabalu city center, Likas, Sembulan, or suburbs like Menggatal.
• Arrange accommodation for the first week: Book a short-term rental, Airbnb, or hotel near your workplace/chosen area.
• Confirm job arrangements: If relocating for work, ensure employment contract is finalized and work permits (if needed) are in process.
• Visa & immigration (expats): Apply for MM2H, work permit, or other long-term visa. Processing takes 4–12 weeks.
• Legalize documents: If bringing originals (degree, birth certificate), get them apostilled at your home country's relevant authority.
• Arrange movers: If shipping belongings, contact logistics providers (e.g., Crown Relocation, Santa Fe Relocation).
• Notify banks & utilities: Inform your current banks and utility providers in your home state of your move date.

First Week Essentials

Your first week should focus on immediate necessities: communication, identification, and banking. See the table below for timeline and estimated costs.

Housing & Utilities

Finding & Securing a Rental

Rental deposits in Sabah typically range from RM500–RM2,500 per month depending on location and property type. Popular sites include PropertyGuru, iProperty, and local Facebook groups (e.g., "Kota Kinabalu Rentals").

• Deposit: Usually 1–2 months' rent. Clarify with the landlord if it is refundable.
• Rental agreement: Always get a written agreement. This serves as proof of address for utilities and banking.
• Viewing: If possible, video call or hire a local property agent (usually 1 month's commission) to inspect on your behalf.

Utilities Setup

Transport & Driving

Driving License

If you have a Malaysian driving license from Peninsular Malaysia, you can drive in Sabah. However, for long-term residency, convert it to a Sabah license at the JPJ office (RM50–100, allows 1–2 weeks processing).

Vehicle Registration

If bringing a car from Peninsular Malaysia, register it with JPJ Sabah. You'll need the vehicle's original documents, proof of ownership, MyKad, and payment. Registration costs RM100–300 depending on vehicle value.

Grab & Local Transport

Grab (ride-hailing) is widely available in Kota Kinabalu and growing towns like Sandakan and Tawau. Typical fares within KK are RM5–15. Buses are cheaper (RM2–5) but less frequent. Many locals prefer Grab for convenience.

Banking & Finance

Opening a Bank Account

Major banks in Sabah include Maybank, CIMB, Public Bank, RHB, and OCBC. Each has branches in Kota Kinabalu and larger towns.

• Required documents: Valid passport, proof of address (rental agreement), initial deposit (RM250–1,000).
• Foreigners: Must visit a branch in person. Some banks (e.g., CIMB) allow partial online applications but require in-branch verification.
• Timeframe: Account opening takes 1–3 business days after document submission.
• No introducer needed for most accounts, but Public Bank may request an existing customer to introduce you. This can be arranged with bank staff.

Money Transfer & Remittance

Once your bank account is open, you can transfer funds easily via online banking, Wise, or local remittance services. Wise offers competitive exchange rates for international transfers.

Healthcare

Health Insurance

While not mandatory, comprehensive health insurance is strongly recommended. Available from providers like AXA, Prudential, CIMB Aviva, and local insurers. Monthly premiums range from RM100–500 depending on age and coverage.

Register with a Clinic

• Government clinics: Low-cost (RM5–20 per visit), longer wait times. Good for routine check-ups and chronic disease management.
• Private clinics: Higher cost (RM50–200 per visit) but faster service. Popular in Kota Kinabalu.
• Dental care: Budget RM100–300 for routine cleanings and RM300+ for treatments at private dental clinics.

For Expats & MM2H

MM2H Visa (Malaysia My Second Home)

MM2H is a renewable long-term residence visa ideal for retirees and remote workers. 2025 requirements:

• Property purchase: Compulsory within 1 year of MM2H approval (recommended within 9 months).
• Presence requirement: Applicants under 50 must be in Malaysia 90 days per year (cumulative).
• Dependents: Spouse, unmarried children (up to 34), disabled children (no age limit), and parents may apply.

Work Permits

If employed in Sabah, your employer typically handles the work permit application. Processing takes 2–8 weeks. Expats must have a valid work permit to be employed; violations result in fines and deportation risk.

Apostille & Document Legalization

If bringing original documents (degrees, marriage certificates), obtain an apostille at your home country's relevant authority (e.g., Secretary of State for US documents). Malaysia recognizes apostilles under the 1961 Hague Convention. Cost varies by country (typically USD 10–50).

Setup Costs Overview

Estimated one-time setup costs for relocating to Sabah (first month). Actual costs depend on housing choice, utilities, and personal needs.

Frequently Asked Questions