Malaysia Arrival Card Guide: How to Complete Your Declaration

In today’s fast-changing travel landscape, keeping up with the latest entry requirements is more important than ever—especially if you're planning a trip to Malaysia. One of the key updates travelers should be aware of is the MDAC (Malaysia Digital Arrival Card).

As Malaysians, we’ve seen how international travel rules can shift quickly, and MDAC is part of Malaysia’s efforts to streamline border entry procedures. Whether you're welcoming guests from abroad or planning to host international clients, it helps to understand how MDAC works, who needs to fill it in, and what travelers should expect upon arrival.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about MDAC—from who is exempt, to how to submit the form, and what travellers need to do when they arrive in Malaysia.

What is MDAC (Malaysia Digital Arrival Card)?

The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is an online pre-arrival form introduced under Malaysia’s Visa Liberalisation Plan.

Effective from 1 January 2024, most foreign travellers entering Malaysia are required to complete the MDAC before arriving in the country. This measure is intended to streamline the immigration process and improve the overall travel experience.

📌 Note: A grace period was in place until 31 December 2023, during which travellers were allowed to fill in the form upon arrival. However, from 1 January 2024 onwards, travellers must submit the MDAC before their arrival in Malaysia.

Who is Exempted from MDAC Submission?

Not all travellers are required to submit the MDAC. The following categories are exempted from this requirement:

• Citizens of Singapore – exempted from MDAC as of 1 January 2024
• Holders of Diplomatic and Official Passports
• Malaysian Permanent Residents and Long-Term Pass Holders
• Holders of the General Certificate of Identity (GCI) from Brunei Darussalam
• Holders of the Brunei–Malaysia Frequent Traveller Facility
• Thailand Border Pass Holders
• Holders of the Indonesia Cross-Border Travel Document (PLB)

If you fall under any of these exemption categories, you are not required to complete the MDAC. However, it is important to ensure that you meet the criteria for exemption before travelling to Malaysia.

5 Steps of MDAC submission process

Source: imigresen-online.imi.gov.my

For travellers who are not exempt from MDAC submission, it's crucial to understand the submission process. Here's a step-by-step guide to filling out the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card:

Step 1: Visit the Immigration Department's website

To initiate the MDAC submission, visit the official website of the Malaysia Immigration Department.

Step 2: Complete the MDAC form

Once on the website, locate the MDAC form and fill it out accurately. You'll need to provide various details, including your personal information, travel itinerary, and passport details. Be sure to double-check all the information before submitting the form.

Step 3: Submit the MDAC

After completing the form, submit it through the official website. There is no fee associated with MDAC submission.

Step 4: Keep a record

It's advisable to keep a record of your MDAC submission, either by taking a screenshot of the confirmation page or saving the confirmation email, if provided.

Step 5: Note the submission deadline

Starting from January 1, 2024, travellers must complete the MDAC before arriving in Malaysia. The grace period allowing submission upon arrival will no longer be available after this date. Ensure you submit the form in advance to avoid any complications.

How to use MDAC upon arrival in Malaysia?

Source: MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS, MALAYSIA official

Once you've successfully submitted the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) and are planning your trip to Malaysia, it's important to know what to expect upon arrival. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Present Your Valid Passport

Upon arrival in Malaysia, make sure you have a valid passport with you. All travellers are required to hold a valid passport.

• For those arriving at Malaysian airports, your passport must be valid for at least six months.
• For those entering through land checkpoints, your passport should be valid for at least three months.

Step 2: Show Your MDAC Confirmation

You will need to present your MDAC confirmation, either in printed form or digitally on your phone, for validation at the immigration counter. If you're eligible, you can proceed to use the autogate (e-gate) system for faster immigration clearance.

Step 3: Utilise the Autogate (E-Gate) System (If Eligible)

Foreign business and social visitors from 10 selected countries—Australia, Brunei, Germany, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, the United States, and the United Kingdom—are allowed to use Malaysia's automated entry system, known as the autogate.

To be eligible, you must:

• Be a passport holder from one of the above 10 countries
• Have submitted your MDAC at least 3 days before arrival
• Hold a valid e-Passport
• Have completed biometric (fingerprint) enrolment at the immigration counter

📌 Note for first-time autogate users:
If this is your first time using the autogate, you will need to verify your passport manually at the immigration counter upon arrival. This is a one-time step that allows you to use the autogate system during your departure and for all future trips to Malaysia.

MDAC: Malaysia Digital Arrival Card – Final Thoughts

In conclusion, staying informed about the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is crucial for anyone planning to visit our country. By understanding who is exempted, how to complete the submission, and what to do upon arrival, travellers can ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry into Malaysia.

With this comprehensive guide, visiting Malaysia has never been more straightforward. We hope this helps you or your guests prepare with confidence.

Selamat datang ke Malaysia — and safe travels!