Navigating international travel rules can be tricky, especially with all the changes these days. One important regulation to keep in mind if you’re planning a trip to Malaysia is the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card, or MDAC. This guide breaks down everything Filipino travelers need to know about the MDAC—from who needs to fill it out and who’s exempt, to how to submit the form and what to expect when you arrive in Malaysia. Let’s make your journey smoother with the right info up front.
What is MDAC (Malaysia Digital Arrival Card)?
The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is a new online form you’ll need to fill out before traveling to Malaysia. It’s part of the country’s Visa Liberalization Plan and aims to make the entry process faster and easier for everyone.
Starting January 1, 2024, most foreign visitors—including travelers from the Philippines—will be required to complete the MDAC before arriving in Malaysia. While there was a grace period until December 31, 2023, where travelers could still do it upon arrival, this is no longer allowed in the new year. So if you’re flying to Malaysia, make sure to submit your MDAC online ahead of time to avoid any delays or issues at immigration.
Who is exempted from MDAC submission?
Not all travellers are subject to the MDAC requirement. Certain categories of travellers are exempt from filling out the MDAC. These exemptions include:
- Citizens of Singapore: Citizens of Singapore are not required to complete the MDAC as of 1 January 2024.
- Diplomatic and Official Passport Holders
- Malaysia Permanent Residents and Long-Term Pass Holders
- General Certificate of Identity (GCI) Brunei Darussalam Holders
- Brunei Malaysia Frequent Traveler Facility Holders
- Thailand Border Pass Holders
- Indonesia Cross-Border Travel Document (PLB) Holders
If you fall within any of these exemption categories, you do not need to complete the MDAC. However, it's essential to ensure you meet the exemption criteria.
5 Easy Steps to Submit Your MDAC Before Flying to Malaysia
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.
Recommended Malaysia eSIMs
30033 booked
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 and are planning your trip to Malaysia, it's essential to be aware of what comes next upon arrival. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Present your valid passport
Upon arrival in Malaysia, ensure you have a valid passport. All travellers must have a valid passport. For arrivals at Malaysian airports, passports should be valid for at least six months, while those entering through land checkpoints need passports valid for at least three months.
Step 2: Show your MDAC confirmation
Present your MDAC confirmation, either in print or digital form, for validation at the immigration counter.
If you're eligible, follow the autogate (e-gate) procedure for a faster entry process.
Step 3: Utilise the Autogate (E-Gate) System (if eligible)
Foreign business and social traveller from 10 countries (such as Australia, Brunei, Germany, Japan, Korea, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, United States and United Kingdom), have the option to use Malaysia's automated entry system, known as the autogate. To be eligible, you need to be a visitor from the mentioned countries and have:
- Submitted Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) 3 days before arrival
- Enrolled a biometric (fingerprint) at the counter
- e-Passport
Note for first-time autogate users, it's necessary to verify your passport at a manual immigration counter upon arrival. This step is mandatory before utilising the autogate during your departure. For subsequent visit to Malaysia, you can immediately use the autogate to enter and exit the country.
MDAC: Malaysia Digital Arrival Card conclusion
Staying informed about the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is key to a smooth and hassle-free trip. By understanding who’s exempt, how to submit the form, and what to do after, you’ll be well-prepared for your journey to Malaysia.
With this easy-to-follow guide, traveling to Malaysia has never been simpler. Don’t forget to complete your MDAC before you go—and enjoy a safe, stress-free adventure ahead. Safe travels, kabayan!