Processing Time
Within hours
Service Fee
USD 35
Submit Within
72 hours before arrival
Validity
Single entry only
What is Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)?
The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card, commonly known as MDAC, is an electronic pre-arrival registration system implemented by the Immigration Department of Malaysia. Launched on January 1, 2024, this digital platform has completely replaced the traditional paper-based arrival and departure cards that travelers previously filled out upon entering the country.
The MDAC serves as an official border management tool designed to enhance national security protocols while simultaneously streamlining the immigration clearance process for international visitors. By digitizing the arrival declaration process, Malaysian authorities can now pre-screen travelers before they reach immigration counters, significantly reducing waiting times and improving the overall entry experience.
This mandatory online declaration collects essential information about incoming travelers, including personal details, passport information, travel itinerary, accommodation arrangements, and the purpose of visit. Once submitted and approved, the MDAC is electronically linked to your passport, allowing immigration officers to retrieve your declaration instantly when you present your travel document at any Malaysian entry point.
Key Features of MDAC
- 100% digital system - no paper forms required
- Mandatory for all foreign visitors
- Quick online processing within hours
- Electronically linked to your passport
- Valid for single entry only
- Email confirmation provided
Who Needs to Complete MDAC?
The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card is mandatory for virtually all foreign nationals entering Malaysia, regardless of their nationality, visa status, or purpose of visit. Whether you are arriving for a short holiday, business meeting, educational program, medical treatment, or employment, you must complete the MDAC before your arrival.
All Foreign Tourists
Visitors for tourism and leisure activities
Business Travelers
Foreign nationals attending meetings or conferences
Transit Passengers
Those passing through Malaysian immigration
Students and Professionals
Foreign students and working professionals
All Visa Holders
eVisa, VOA, and all other visa categories
Each traveler must submit an individual MDAC application. Group or family applications are not permitted under any circumstances.
Children, regardless of age, must have their own separate MDAC submission. Parents or guardians can complete the application on behalf of minors.
If you are uncertain about whether you need to complete the MDAC, it is strongly recommended to submit one anyway. The application process is straightforward and ensures you will not encounter any issues at Malaysian immigration checkpoints.
Exempted Travelers
While the MDAC is mandatory for most foreign visitors, certain categories of travelers are exempted from this requirement. If you fall into any of the following categories, you do not need to complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card.
Categories Exempted from MDAC:
MDAC Application Requirements
Before starting your MDAC application, ensure you have all the necessary information and documents ready. Having everything prepared in advance will help you complete the submission quickly and avoid errors that could delay your approval.
• Full passport number
• Country and place of issuance
• Date of expiry (minimum 6 months validity for air travel, 3 months for land entry)
• Passport type (ordinary, official, diplomatic)
• Full name (exactly as it appears in passport)
• Date of birth
• Nationality
• Gender
• Valid email address (for confirmation)
• Mobile phone number with country code
• Emergency contact information
• Exact arrival date in Malaysia
• Flight number or vessel name
• Mode of transport (air, land, sea)
• Intended departure date
• Hotel or accommodation name
• Complete address in Malaysia
• City and state
• Contact telephone number
• Electronic device (smartphone, laptop, tablet)
• Stable internet connection
• Ability to receive email confirmations
• Online payment capability
MDAC Application Process
The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card application process has been designed to be straightforward and user-friendly. Most travelers can complete the entire submission in approximately 5 to 10 minutes. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth application experience.
Access the MDAC Portal
Navigate to the official MDAC application portal. Select your nationality and verify that you are required to complete the arrival card for your travel category.
Enter Personal and Passport Details
Fill in your personal information and passport details exactly as they appear in your travel document. Double-check all spellings and dates before proceeding.
Provide Travel and Accommodation Information
Enter your arrival date, flight details, entry point, and accommodation address in Malaysia. Include accurate contact information for your place of stay.
Review and Submit
Carefully review all entered information for accuracy. Once submitted, you cannot edit or modify your MDAC. If errors are found after submission, you will need to complete a new application.
Receive Confirmation
After successful submission, you will receive a confirmation email with your MDAC reference number. Keep this email accessible during your journey as a backup, although printing is not required.
MDAC Fees and Charges
The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card application involves a service fee to cover processing, verification, and professional assistance throughout the submission process. Understanding the fee structure will help you prepare accordingly.
MDAC Service Fee
USD 35
Per person, per application
Payment can be made through various online payment methods including major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), debit cards, and selected digital payment platforms. All transactions are processed through secure payment gateways to protect your financial information.
Important Guidelines and Tips
To ensure a hassle-free MDAC submission and smooth entry into Malaysia, please keep the following important guidelines in mind throughout your application and travel process.
Submit your MDAC no earlier than 3 days (72 hours) before your intended arrival date. Applications submitted earlier may not be properly processed by the system.
While same-day applications are accepted, we strongly recommend submitting at least 24 hours before departure to account for any unexpected delays.
Each MDAC is valid for a single entry into Malaysia only. If you plan to leave and re-enter the country during your trip, you will need to complete a new MDAC application for each subsequent entry.
Once your MDAC application has been submitted, you cannot edit, modify, or cancel it. If you discover any errors after submission, you must complete an entirely new application with the correct information.
Your approved MDAC is electronically linked to your passport. While printing is not mandatory, having a digital copy saved on your smartphone or a printed backup is recommended for peace of mind.
Entry Not Guaranteed
While completing the MDAC is mandatory for entry into Malaysia, it does not automatically guarantee admission into the country. Immigration officers at the entry point retain full authority to grant or deny entry based on their assessment of your:
- Valid passport and supporting travel documents
- Stated purpose of visit and relevant documentation
- Sufficient financial means to support your stay
- Confirmed onward or return travel arrangements
- Overall compliance with Malaysian immigration requirements
Entry Points in Malaysia
Malaysia has numerous international entry points where travelers can present their MDAC and passport for immigration clearance. These include major international airports, land border crossings, and seaports throughout the country.
• Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA)
• KLIA2 (Low-cost carrier terminal)
• Penang International Airport
• Langkawi International Airport
• Kota Kinabalu International Airport
• Kuching International Airport
• Senai International Airport (Johor)
• Sultan Iskandar CIQ (Johor-Singapore)
• Bangunan Sultan Abu Bakar
• Padang Besar (Malaysia-Thailand)
• Bukit Kayu Hitam
• Rantau Panjang
• Pengkalan Kubor
• Port Klang
• Penang Port
• Langkawi Ferry Terminal
• Kuah Jetty
• Stulang Laut Ferry Terminal
• Kota Kinabalu Port
First-time visitors to Malaysia must proceed to the Immigration Manual Counter for initial passport enrollment and biometric verification. Subsequent visits may qualify for faster processing through automated clearance gates, depending on your nationality and travel history.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I submit my MDAC application?
Your MDAC must be submitted within 3 days (72 hours) before your arrival in Malaysia. While same-day applications are possible, we recommend applying at least 24 hours in advance to ensure you have ample time to address any issues that may arise.
Can I submit one MDAC for my entire family?
No, each traveler must have an individual MDAC submission. This includes all children, regardless of age. Parents or guardians may complete the application on behalf of minors, but separate submissions are mandatory for each person.
What happens if I make a mistake on my MDAC?
Unfortunately, submitted MDAC applications cannot be edited, modified, or canceled. If you discover an error after submission, you will need to complete a new application with the correct information. This is why we emphasize careful review before final submission.
Do I need to print my MDAC confirmation?
Printing is not required as your MDAC is electronically linked to your passport. Immigration officers can retrieve your information digitally. However, keeping a digital copy on your smartphone or having a printed backup is recommended as a precaution.
How long does MDAC approval take?
MDAC applications are typically processed within a few hours, with many travelers receiving confirmation on the same day. For peace of mind, we recommend submitting your application at least 24 hours before your planned departure.
Is my personal information secure?
Yes, all personal data submitted through the MDAC system is handled in accordance with Malaysian data protection regulations. Your information is used exclusively for immigration processing purposes and is never shared, sold, or used for any other purposes.
What if my travel plans change after submitting MDAC?
If your arrival date or other details change significantly after submission, you should complete a new MDAC application with the updated information. Minor changes typically do not require a new submission, but significant alterations to your travel itinerary warrant a fresh application.