MDAC Malaysia: Your Essential Guide to the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card

Travel rules can be confusing, especially when they change. If you’re going to Malaysia, one key requirement to remember is the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC). This quick guide covers who needs it, who is exempt, how to fill it out, and what to expect so your arrival is smooth and stress-free.

What is MDAC (Malaysia Digital Arrival Card)?

Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs Malaysia

The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is an online form that most foreign travelers, including Filipinos, must complete before entering Malaysia. Starting 1 January 2024, it must be submitted within 3 days (72 hours) before arrival, and submission upon arrival is not allowed.

Key things to remember:

• It is free of charge
• It does not replace a visa
• You must still meet passport validity and entry requirements
• Completing it early helps you avoid delays at immigration

Who is exempted from MDAC submission?

Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs Malaysia

Not all travelers are required to submit the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card. The following groups are exempt from MDAC submission:

• Citizens of Singapore
• Diplomatic and Official Passport holders
• Malaysia Permanent Residents
• Malaysia Long-Term Pass holders
• General Certificate of Identity (GCI) holders from Brunei Darussalam
• Brunei–Malaysia Frequent Traveler Facility holders
• Thailand Border Pass holders
• Indonesia Cross-Border Travel Document (PLB) holders

Exempted travelers must still meet Malaysia’s entry requirements, including passport validity and permitted length of stay.

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 official MDAC website

Go to the Malaysia Immigration Department’s MDAC page.

Step 2: Fill out the MDAC form

Enter your personal information, passport details, and travel dates. Make sure all information is accurate before submitting.

Step 3: Submit the form online

There is no fee to submit the MDAC.

Step 4: Keep a copy of your confirmation

You may take a screenshot of the confirmation page or keep the email confirmation.

Step 5: Submit within 3 days before arrival

• Starting 1 January 2024, MDAC must be completed within 3 days (72 hours) before you arrive in Malaysia.
• Submission earlier than 3 days is not accepted, and submission upon arrival is no longer allowed.

How to use MDAC upon arrival in Malaysia?

Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs Malaysia

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 passport

Your passport must have at least 6 months validity when entering Malaysia through both airports and land borders.

Step 2: Show your MDAC confirmation

You may present it digitally or as a printed copy at the immigration counter.

Step 3: Use the Autogate (if eligible)

Malaysia allows autogate entry only for travelers from 10 eligible countries:

Australia, Brunei, Germany, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, United States, and United Kingdom.

To use the autogate, travelers must have:

• Submitted MDAC 3 days before arrival
• An e-passport
• Completed fingerprint registration at a manual counter (first visit only)

Note for Filipinos: Travelers holding Philippine passports are not eligible to use Malaysia’s autogate at this time and must proceed through the manual immigration counter.

Before You Travel to Malaysia

The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is required for most foreign travelers entering Malaysia, including Filipinos. Make sure to submit it within 3 days (72 hours) before arrival and keep the confirmation ready. You still need to meet standard entry requirements like valid passport and allowed stay. Completing it early helps you pass immigration faster and avoid delays.