Entry Requirements to Malaysia
- Submit the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) within 3 days before arrival
- Passport with at least 6 months of validity and visa (if required)
- No more Covid-19 restrictions
Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)
The Immigration Department of Malaysia made an announcement that the digital arrival card would be compulsory for all foreign nationals entering the country.
To ensure there is no congestion at the international entry points, the Home Minister of Malaysia said on 5th December – These categories of travellers are exempted from submitting the MDAC:
- Singaporeans
- Malaysian permanent residents and Malaysia long-term pass holders, including Employment Pass (EP) and MM2H (Malaysia My 2nd Home) pass holders
- Those with Brunei common identification certificates and Brunei Malaysia Frequent Traveller Facility, holders of Thai border passes and Indonesian Cross-Border passes
- Diplomatic passport holders
Effective Date
A grace period is in effect until 31st December 2023. Travellers can still fill out the digital card once they get to Malaysia, so flexibility is given.
From 1st January 2023, it will be compulsory to do so, within three days before arrival.
How Does MDAC Work?
- Travelers are required to input personal information such as their name, nationality, passport details on the MDAC website.
Register here: https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main?registerMain
Fill in the details truthfully and to your best ability. The objective of the arrival card to to obtain information about incoming travellers entering Malaysia. If there is a confusion, choose the most suitable answer. |
- Select the “Date of Arrival” – within 3 days before arrival. You cannot fill this form earlier as you will not be able to select the date
- “Date of Departure” is the date you leave Malaysia
- Accommodation of Stay – Select: Hotel, Residence or Others
- Address in Malaysia: Where you will be staying when you are in the country for the Immigration Department of Malaysia to keep track of foreign visitors’ whereabouts.
If you are not staying overnight – you can enter the address of a shop that you are visiting for example.
- Submit the form.
- The Digital Arrival Card will be sent to your email immediately after submission. Save or print a copy.
- Travellers have to present their the completed digital card and passports and to the immigration officer on duty upon arrival.
Why MDAC?
The introduction of the digital card is a security measure. The information provided on the card will offer crucial details about the travelers’ whereabouts. It’s not a new concept; other countries are also adopting similar practices.
MDAC FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
DO I HAVE TO PAY FOR SUBMITTING THE MDAC?
No. It’s free.
WHEN SHOULD I SUBMIT THE FORM?
You can start filling up the MDAC form within 3 days before your scheduled arrival. If arrival is on the 5th, then you can submit it on the 3rd, 4th or the 5th.
DO I HAVE TO SUBMIT MDAC ON EVERY VISIT TO MALAYSIA?
Yes, on every entry to the country.
DO CHILDREN HAVE TO SUBMIT THE MDAC?
Yes, every traveller has to complete the MDAC, including children.
IS THERE A GROUP SUBMISSION OPTION?
Currently NO.
DO I HAVE TO FILL OUT MDAC IF I AM TRANSITING IN MALAYSIA?
You don’t have to submit the MDAC if you are not clearing immigration. However you do need to submit it if you are transiting and clearing immigration (for example if you need to get your luggage).
DO I HAVE TO FILL OUT MDAC IF I AM NOT USING THE E-GATE?
Yes