travel_explore Malaysia Arrival Card (MDAC)

Most foreigners who are going to Malaysia need to complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) within 3 days before the arrival date.

The card in electronic form was introduced on 1 January 2024 and is treated as a mandatory condition for those visiting Malaysia.

The MDAC is necessary to enhance safety and improve control at borders. Besides, it replaces old paper forms, so the process is now faster and more convenient.

Travelers need to provide personal information (name, date of birth, etc.) and travel details, such as the departure date.

After arrival in Malaysia, you need to show the card, a visa (if necessary), and a passport at the immigration counter.

NOTE: Malaysia Digital Arrival Card is not a visa. If your nationality is not on the visa-free list, besides an MDAC and a passport, you also need an appropriate permit.

What is the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card?

The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is a mandatory form that must be filled in within 3 days before arrival by foreign nationals going to Malaysia.

As it is an online card, the whole process is done electronically, which is very convenient.

The MDAC helps Malaysian immigration authorities process arrivals more efficiently and reduces waiting times at the border.

Previously, travelers needed to complete a physical form, which delayed their entry into the country. Now, the process is much quicker.

Who Must Have a Malaysia Digital Arrival Card?

Almost all foreign nationals who plan to go to Malaysia must complete the digital card.

The only exceptions for MDAC include the following:

• Citizens from Singapore
• Holders of diplomatic and official passports
• Long-term pass holders or Malaysian permanent residents
• Those with a General Certificate of Identity (GCI) from Brunei Darussalam
• Brunei Malaysia Frequent Traveler Facility holders
• Holders of Thailand Border Pass
• Those with an Indonesia cross-border travel document (PLB)

If you don’t meet the requirements for the MDAC exemption, you must have a Malaysia Digital Arrival Card before the journey.

What Do I Need for the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card?

The requirements for completing MDAC are minimal, as you mainly share only basic details.

Foreign citizens need the following to submit the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card:

• A valid passport
• Basic personal and travel information
• Accommodation details in Malaysia
• Contact data

The process is straightforward and can be completed online within a few minutes.

What Information Do I Need to Share in MDAC?

Among the information that must be shared in the Malaysian Digital Arrival Card are:

• Name
• Passport number
• Nationality
• Date of birth
• Date of passport expiry
• Email address
• Country
• Gender
• Mobile number
• Date of arrival and departure
• Mode of travel
• Flight/vessel/transportation number
• Accommodation
• Address (in Malaysia)
• Last port of embarkation before Malaysia

The form contains basic personal and travel information. Check all the details twice to avoid mistakes that can lead to rejection and delays.

How to Get the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card?

Since the process is conducted online, it is straightforward to complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card.

Travelers only need to have access to the internet and documents, such as a passport, to provide the required information. The process consists of:

1. Visiting the official website at https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main.
2. Filling in the form with accurate information, such as a name and passport number.
3. Checking if all the data is correct to avoid rejection.
4. Sending the completed form for approval.
5. Checking the provided email for the PIN.
6. Going to the check registration information panel.
7. Downloading and printing out the confirmed MDAC.

Remember that the MDAC must be submitted within 3 days before arrival in Malaysia.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card?
  The MDAC is an online form that foreign nationals must complete within 3 days before arriving in Malaysia. It replaces the previous physical arrival card and streamlines entry procedures.
• Who needs to complete the MDAC?
  Almost all foreign travelers entering Malaysia are required to submit the MDAC. However, there are some exceptions, such as being citizens of Singapore.
• When should I submit the digital card to Malaysia?
  The form must be submitted online within 3 days prior to your arrival in Malaysia.
• Can I complete the MDAC upon arrival in Malaysia?
  The MDAC must be completed and confirmed before a trip. Travelers will present the confirmed card at immigration upon arrival.
• What information is required for the MDAC?
  Foreigners need to provide basic personal and travel details, accommodation information, and contact information.
• Do I need a visa to enter Malaysia if I complete the MDAC?
  The MDAC is not a visa. Travelers who require a visa must obtain it separately before travel, in addition to completing the MDAC.
• How will I receive confirmation of my MDAC submission?
  After submitting the MDAC online, you will receive a confirmation message or email with a unique reference number.
• What are the benefits of a digital card to Malaysia?
  MDAC speeds up the immigration process, reduces waiting times, ensures accurate traveler information, and improves overall efficiency at Malaysian entry points.

Conclusion

The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card simplifies the entry process for travelers, as it is completed online.

Most foreign nationals must have an MDAC to cross the Malaysian border, besides a visa (if necessary) and a passport.

All visitors to Malaysia must comply with the rules and regulations of entry to Malaysia for a smooth experience.

For more information, it’s advisable to check the official website of the Immigration Department of Malaysia.