Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC): Registration, Benefits, Who Needs It, and FAQs

Traveling to Malaysia is an exciting experience, with its diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities. However, as a traveler, one of the most crucial steps before entering the country is completing the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC).

The Malaysia Digital Foreign Card (MDAC) is required by the Immigration Department of Malaysia from foreign nationals before they arrive in Malaysia.  Designed to streamline the immigration process, the MDAC is an essential part of Malaysia’s modernized travel system.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card—from what it is to how to register, including helpful tips to ensure a smooth travel experience.

What is the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)?

Malaysia’s Visa Liberalization Plan includes introducing a new online pre-arrival form called the MDAC (Malaysia Digital Arrival Card).

The majority of foreign visitors to Malaysia will have to finish the MDAC before they arrive in the nation as of January 1, 2024. This online form aims to improve the overall travel experience and expedite the entrance process. Until December 31, 2023, a grace period allows foreign visitors to fill out the form when they arrive at Malaysia’s international entry gateways. But as of January 1, 2024, they have to fill out the paperwork before they can come. This system is particularly convenient for travelers arriving by flight/vessel, as it allows them to pre-submit their travel details and personal information online. The MDAC is accessible via a mobile app, making it easy to complete the process before your journey.

Key Features of the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card

• Paperless Convenience: Eliminates the need for physical arrival cards.
• Quick Registration Process: Submitting details online is straightforward and saves time at immigration counters.
• Environmentally Friendly: Reduces paper waste, contributing to a greener Malaysia.
• Enhanced Security: Digital submissions help improve data accuracy and reduce errors.
• Real-Time Verification: Immigration officers can quickly verify details, speeding up clearance times.

Why is the MDAC Important for Travelers?

Traveling to Malaysia requires compliance with immigration regulations, and completing the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card – MDAC ensures that your entry process is seamless. Here’s why it’s a must:

1. Mandatory Requirement: All travelers entering Malaysia are required to complete the MDAC, regardless of the purpose of travel.
2. Streamlined Entry: Pre-submitting your details allows immigration officers to process your entry quickly, reducing wait times at the airport or port.
3. Legal Compliance: Failing to complete the MDAC could lead to delays or complications at the immigration checkpoint.

Who Needs to Complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card?

The MDAC is required for all non-Malaysian travelers entering the country via flight/vessel. This includes:

• Tourists
• Business Travelers
• Students
• Transit Passengers (depending on the duration of stay)

Malaysian citizens and permanent residents do not need to complete the MDAC.

Who is not required to submit an MDAC?

The MDAC rule does not apply to every traveler. Some types of travelers are not required to complete the MDAC. Among these exclusions are:

Singaporean citizens: as of January 1, 2024, Singaporean citizens are exempt from completing the MDAC.

1. Official and Diplomatic Passport Holders
2. Malaysia Long-Term Pass Holders and Permanent Residents
3. Identity Certificate General (GCI) Holders of Brunei Darussalam
4. Brunei, Malaysia Holders of Frequent Traveler Facilities in Thailand Indonesian Border Pass Holders Holders of Cross-Border Travel Documents (PLB)

You are exempt from completing the MDAC if you fit into any of these exemption categories. It’s crucial to confirm that you fulfill the exemption requirements, nevertheless. 

Malaysia Digital Arrival Card Registration: A Step-by-Step Guide

It is essential for travelers who are not excluded from MDAC submission to comprehend the submission procedure. The following is a detailed tutorial for completing the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card:

Step 1: Go to the website of the Immigration Department

Go to the Malaysia Immigration Department’s official website to start the MDAC filing process.

Step 2: Fill out the MDAC application

Check the MDAC Registration form and correctly complete it. Several facts, such as your passport information, travel schedule, and personal information, will be required. Before submitting the form, make sure you have verified all the information.

Step 3: Submit the MDAC

Once the form is filled out, you can submit it via the official website. The MDAC filing process is free of cost.

Step 4: Maintain a record

You should save a screenshot of the confirmation page or, the confirmation email as a record of your MDAC submission, if available.

Step 5: Keep the due date in mind

Travelers must finish the MDAC before landing in Malaysia as of January 1, 2024. After this date, the grace period that allows submission upon arrival will end. To prevent any issues, make sure you submit the form ahead of time.

Tips for a Smooth MDAC Registration

1. Register Early: Complete your registration at least three days before your arrival to avoid last-minute issues.
2. Ensure Accuracy: Double-check details like your passport number and travel dates.
3. Internet Connection: Use a stable internet connection to prevent disruptions during the submission process.
4. Have Documents Ready: Keep a digital copy of your passport and visa for easy upload.
5. Save Confirmation: Print or save the MDAC confirmation to your mobile device for quick access at immigration checkpoints.

Malaysia Digital Arrival Card Flight / Vessel Travelers

The MDAC is particularly beneficial for those arriving in Malaysia by flight/vessel, as it allows for better coordination between airlines, ports, and immigration authorities. By pre-submitting your travel details, you help ensure smoother processing upon arrival.

For Flight Travelers

• Provide your flight number and arrival terminal during registration.
• Ensure your name matches the details on your flight booking and passport.

For Vessel Travelers

• Include details of your vessel, such as ship name and port of departure.
• Confirm your arrival date and time with the ship operator.

Benefits of the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)

The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card MDAC offers several advantages for both travelers and immigration authorities:

For Travelers

• Faster immigration clearance
• Reduced paperwork and hassle
• A more streamlined travel experience

For Authorities

• Enhanced border security
• Accurate data collection
• Improved efficiency at entry points. 

Potential Issues and How to Avoid Them

1. Delayed Submissions: Register early to avoid technical glitches or missed deadlines.

2. Incomplete Documentation: Ensure all required documents are scanned and ready for upload.

3. Confirmation Lost: Keep multiple copies of your MDAC confirmation, both digital and printed.

How Can I Use MDAC upon arrival in Malaysia?

It’s crucial to know what to do when you get to Malaysia after submitting your Malaysia Digital Arrival Card successfully and organizing your vacation. The steps to follow are as follows:

Step 1. Show your current passport: Make sure your passport is still valid when you arrive in Malaysia. Every traveler needs to have a current passport. Passports must be valid for at least three months for those entering through land checkpoints and for at least six months for those arriving at Malaysian airports.

Step 2. Show your confirmation from MDAC: At the immigration counter, show your MDAC confirmation for verification, either digitally or in print. For a quicker admission process, if you qualify, use the automated (e-gate) protocol. 

Step 3. If qualified, use the Autogate (E-Gate) System: Malaysia’s automatic entry system, called the autogate, is available to foreign business and social travelers from ten countries, including Australia, Brunei, Germany, Japan, Korea, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, the United States, and the United Kingdom. To qualify, you must be a traveler from one of the above nations and possess:

1. Three days before arrival, the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) was submitted.
2. enrolled an e-passport biometric (fingerprint) at the counter

Please take note that if you are a first-time autogate user, you will need to present your passport at a manual immigration desk when you arrive. Before using the autogate during your departure, you must complete this step. If you return to Malaysia, you can use the autogate to enter and exit the country.

Concluding Thoughts

The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is a critical step for travelers entering Malaysia, offering convenience, speed, and accuracy in the immigration process. By completing the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card registration ahead of time, you can avoid unnecessary delays and focus on enjoying everything this beautiful country has to offer.

Whether you’re arriving by flight or vessel, the MDAC ensures your entry is smooth and hassle-free. Don’t forget to prepare early, double-check your information, and carry your confirmation to make the most of this streamlined system.

Get ready to explore Malaysia with peace of mind—start your Malaysia Digital Arrival Card – MDAC process today!

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