Malaysia Digital Arrival Card
Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is a recently introduced immigration form that is compulsory for all foreigners who wish to travel to Malaysia.
The main idea for introducing the MDAC form was to digitalize Malaysian immigration services.
The Malaysian Digital Arrival Card should be submitted within 3 days before the planned arrival date in Malaysia. To complete the MDAC application, a traveler just needs to follow a few simple steps, including filling out a short online form, covering the processing fee, and receiving the MDAC confirmation via email.
To ensure a smooth application process, travelers should prepare all travel details beforehand. Also, it will be essential to have access to a working electronic device, a stable Internet connection, valid means of online payment, and an active email address.
Important: The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card is not the same as the Malaysia eVisa. Travelers coming from non-visa-exempt countries will need to obtain both a relevant visa and submit the MDAC form.
Who must complete the Malaysian Digital Arrival Card
Starting as of January 1st, 2024, all foreign travelers arriving in Malaysia must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card 3 days before their arrival. This requirement doesn't apply to the following:
- Singaporean citizens
- Holders of diplomatic and official passport
- Malaysian Permanent Residents and Long Term-Pass holders
- Holders of General Certificate of Identity (GCI) Brunei Darussalam
- Holders of Brunei Malaysia Frequent Traveller Facility
- Holders of Thailand Border Pass
- Holders of Indonesia Cross-Border Travel Document (PLB)
- Transiting passengers not seeking immigration clearance
When to complete the MDAC
The online application for the Malaysian Digital Arrival Card must be submitted within 3 days prior to the intended arrival date. All travelers should take into consideration the day of travel to complete the card on time.
For example, if your arrival in Malaysia is planned for December 27th, you can start the procedure from 25th December, not earlier.
Do note that submitting the MDAC application is possible earlier, but it will be processed closer to your arrival date.
How to submit the Malaysia Arrival Card
To submit the Malaysia Arrival Card online, an applicant simply needs to follow these simple steps:
- Fill out the online form: enter all standard personal details, passport data, travel-related information, etc.
- Cover the service fee: choose one of the preferred methods of online payment and pay the fee.
- Check your email: shortly after you cover the fee, make sure to refresh your email inbox.
A confirmation of the submitted MDAC will arrive straight into your email inbox. You can print it out and/or save its digital copy on your smartphone. When entering Malaysia, immigration authorities may ask you to present the MDAC receipt.
Requirements to meet to submit the MDAC
Foreigners who need to submit the MDAC online should prepare the following:
- a passport that will remain valid for at least 6 months from the date of the intended arrival in Malaysia
- a valid means of online payment
- an active and frequently used email address
- a working electronic device with a stable Internet connection
Moreover, travelers will be asked to provide some essential information, including:
- personal data
- contact information
- travel-related details
On arrival, every traveler should present the following documents:
- a valid passport
- a confirmation of MDAC
FAQ
What is the recently introduced Malaysian Digital Arrival Card?
The Malaysian Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is an electronic form that travelers arriving in Malaysia must complete within 3 working days prior to arrival. There are only some exceptions when a traveler doesn't need to submit the MDAC form.
Is the MDAC equivalent to a visa to Malaysia?
No. The MDAC and Malaysian visa are totally different documents. In many cases, you may need to submit the application both for the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card and a visa (if not visa-exempt).
How can I complete the Malaysian Digital Arrival Card?
The MDAC online application should take only a couple of minutes. Prepare any working electronic device and your valid passport and complete a short online form. Next, cover the fee and receive the MDAC confirmation sent to your email inbox.
Who must submit the Malaysia Arrival Card?
Completing the Malaysia Arrival Card is mandatory for all international travelers. The only exceptions apply to Singaporean citizens, diplomatic and official passport holders, Malaysian PR and Long Term-Pass holders, and a few more groups of travelers.
How long does the Malaysia electronic health card remain valid?
The Malaysian electronic declaration covers only one single trip. A separate application must be completed any time you plan to visit Malaysia.
Why should I complete a digital declaration prior to my trip to Malaysia?
The aim of the implementation of the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card is to improve and digitalize Malaysian immigration services. Also, the Malaysian authorities wish to liberalize the vis policy and, at the same time, attract more and more foreign travelers to the country.
When do I need to complete the MDAC?
The MDAC must be submitted within 3 days prior to the scheduled arrival in Malaysia. You can submit your application earlier, but do note that it will be processed closer to your travel date.
Are there any coronavirus restrictions in Malaysia?
COVID-19 restrictions are subject to constant and rapid changes. Nevertheless, at the moment, Malaysia welcomes all travelers regardless of the coronavirus vaccination status. Pre-departure and post-arrival tests aren't necessary either.
