Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) guide for foreigners visiting Malaysia

Most foreign travellers entering Malaysia must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) within three days before arrival, unless they qualify for an exemption. The registration is free and can be completed online through the official Malaysian Immigration Department portal. 

The last thing you want after a long flight is to discover you’ve missed an important entry requirement. Completing your MDAC before departure can help you avoid unnecessary delays at immigration. You can also find the official registration website through Travel Docs in TNG eWallet, making it easier to prepare your arrival documents before heading to Malaysia. 

What is the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)? 

The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is an online registration system introduced by the Immigration Department of Malaysia for foreign visitors entering the country. It allows travellers to submit important arrival information digitally, including their passport details, travel dates, transportation information and accommodation in Malaysia.For example, if you’re flying into Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) for a holiday, you’ll need to provide information about your arrival and where you’ll be staying. The purpose of MDAC is to support immigration processing by collecting travellers’ arrival information before they reach the Malaysian border. However, MDAC is not a visa. Completing the form does not automatically grant permission to enter Malaysia or replace any visa that may be required for your nationality. Travellers must still meet the relevant immigration requirements, and entry remains subject to immigration clearance. 

Who needs the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card and who is exempt? 

Most foreign visitors entering Malaysia must complete the MDAC, including tourists and short-term business visitors, unless they fall under an exemption category. The requirement can apply whether you’re entering Malaysia by air, land or sea. However, certain travellers are exempt based on nationality, immigration status or recognised travel documents.

For example, a foreign tourist arriving in Malaysia for a week-long holiday would generally need to complete the MDAC unless an exemption applies. Meanwhile, Singapore citizens and Malaysian permanent residents are among the recognised exemption categories. Other published exemptions include holders of Brunei General Certificates of Identity, travellers using the Brunei-Malaysia Frequent Traveller Facility, Thailand Border Pass holders and Indonesia Cross-Border Travel Document (PLB) holders. If you’re already living in Malaysia under a long-term immigration pass, check whether your specific pass qualifies for an exemption. 

Visa-free entry does not automatically mean MDAC exemption. A traveller may be allowed to visit Malaysia without a visa but still need to complete the arrival card. For the latest requirements, refer to the Immigration Department of Malaysia’s MDAC information. 

When should you submit your MDAC? 

The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card must be submitted within three days before your arrival in Malaysia, including the date of submission. This means you should complete the form shortly before travelling rather than several weeks in advance. For example, if you’re arriving in Kuala Lumpur on 10 December, you can normally submit your MDAC on 8, 9 or 10 December. 

These examples illustrate the official three-day registration rule. Although same-day registration may fall within the permitted period, it’s better to complete the form before heading to the airport or border checkpoint. This gives you time to check your details and avoids relying on airport Wi-Fi or mobile data at the last minute. If you leave Malaysia and return for another visit, you should generally complete a new MDAC for the new entry unless an exemption applies.

How to complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card online 

You can access the official Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) registration website through Travel Docs in TNG eWallet. This allows you to find the correct government portal and complete your arrival declaration before travelling to Malaysia.

Step 1. Search for Travel Docs in TNG eWallet

Open TNG eWallet and type Travel Docs into the app’s search bar.

Select Travel Docs from the search results to view available travel document information for different destinations.

Step 2. Select Malaysia and choose e-Arrival Card

Under the available destinations, select Malaysia.

You’ll see the travel documents required for entering Malaysia, including the e-Arrival Card and visa information.

Tap Apply under e-Arrival Card to access the official Malaysia Digital Arrival Card registration portal.

Step 3. Fill in and submit your MDAC

On the official Immigration Department of Malaysia website, select Register and complete the required information.

You’ll need to provide your personal and passport details, arrival and departure dates, transportation information and accommodation address in Malaysia.

Check that all information matches your passport and travel bookings before submitting the form.

Remember to complete your MDAC within three days before arrival in Malaysia, unless you’re exempt from the requirement.

Once submitted, keep your registration confirmation accessible in case it’s requested during immigration clearance.

What information do you need for MDAC registration? 

Before opening the registration form, it’s worth gathering the details you’ll need. If you’ve already booked your flights and accommodation, most of the information should be available in your travel confirmations. 

For example, if you’re spending three nights in Kuala Lumpur before travelling to Penang, make sure the accommodation information you enter follows the official form’s requirements. If your travel arrangements change after registration, check the official portal or contact immigration for the appropriate way to update or resubmit your details. 

Is the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card free? 

Yes, the official Malaysia Digital Arrival Card registration is free. You do not need to pay an MDAC processing fee when submitting the form through the government’s official portal. This is important because some unofficial websites may imitate government registration services and charge travellers for assistance. Before entering your passport information, check that you’re using the official Immigration Department website at imigresen-online.imi.gov.my. The MDAC itself is free, but that doesn’t mean every travel document is free. Depending on your nationality and purpose of visit, you may still need to pay applicable visa fees or other legitimate travel-related charges. 

MDAC vs Malaysia visa and what travellers should know 

One common source of confusion is the difference between the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card and a Malaysia visa. Although both relate to entering Malaysia, they serve different purposes. 

For example, someone travelling to Malaysia under a visa-free arrangement may still need to complete the MDAC. Meanwhile, a traveller who requires a Malaysia visa may also need to submit an MDAC before arrival.Neither document guarantees entry. Immigration officers may still assess whether you meet the applicable requirements. If you’re unsure whether you need a visa, check the official Malaysia visa portal before making your travel arrangements. 

What happens after submitting your MDAC? 

Once you’ve submitted your MDAC, you can continue preparing for your journey. Keep your passport, travel documents and registration confirmation accessible, especially when approaching immigration clearance. When you arrive in Malaysia, follow the instructions at your entry point and present the documents requested by immigration officers. Depending on your nationality, travel documents and the facilities available, you may be directed to a manual immigration counter or an eligible automated clearance facility. 

Can you use Malaysia’s automated immigration gates? 

Some foreign travellers may qualify for automated immigration clearance. However, eligibility depends on nationality, travel documents, immigration requirements and the facilities available at the entry point. Completing the MDAC does not automatically mean you can use an autogate. If you’re planning to use automated clearance, check the latest official immigration guidance before travelling. 

Common MDAC mistakes to avoid before flying 

Most MDAC issues are easier to prevent before departure than to resolve after arriving in Malaysia. 

Registering too early 

The MDAC registration window is limited to three days, including the submission date. If you try to complete the form several weeks before travelling, your arrival date may fall outside the permitted period. Wait until your trip enters the registration window. 

Entering incorrect passport information 

Your MDAC details should match your passport. Before submitting, double-check your full name, passport number, nationality and passport expiry date. 

Using an unofficial MDAC website 

Avoid unfamiliar websites requesting payment for MDAC registration. Use the official Immigration Department portal and verify the website address before entering sensitive information. 

Assuming visa-free entry means MDAC exemption 

Visa-free entry and MDAC exemption are separate matters. Even if you don’t need a visa to visit Malaysia, you may still need to complete the arrival card. 

Forgetting to save your confirmation 

Save your registration confirmation before departure. This can be useful if you need to access the information while travelling or if your mobile internet connection is temporarily unavailable. 

Get ready for your first few days in Malaysia 

Once your MDAC and other entry requirements are sorted, you can turn your attention to the experiences waiting for you in Malaysia. Whether you’re planning to explore Kuala Lumpur’s shopping districts, enjoy Penang’s food scene or spend a few days by the beach, a little preparation can make your arrival more convenient. 

Arrange transport from the airport 

If you’re landing at KLIA, consider how you’ll travel to your accommodation. Depending on your destination and arrival time, you may choose airport rail services, taxis, ride-hailing or pre-arranged transfers. Checking the available options before departure can be particularly useful if you’re arriving late at night. 

Prepare your payment options 

Malaysia offers plenty of opportunities to explore local markets, restaurants, shopping centres and attractions. For eligible international visitors, TNG eWallet provides a digital payment option at participating merchants. Registration, identity verification and reload methods depend on the visitor’s eligibility and the applicable product requirements. Before relying on a digital wallet, check whether your nationality and travel circumstances are supported. 

Discover places to eat and explore 

One of the best parts of visiting Malaysia is discovering its food and local experiences. You might be searching for nasi lemak in Kuala Lumpur, char kuey teow in Penang or a café near your hotel. If you’re eligible to use TNG eWallet, Near Me can help you discover nearby restaurants and participating dining deals. It’s a useful way to explore options around your location while deciding where to go next.

Complete your MDAC before your Malaysia adventure 

The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card is an important part of preparing for a trip to Malaysia. Most foreign travellers must submit it within three days before arrival, unless they qualify for an exemption. Before departure, check your passport details, confirm whether you need a visa and complete your MDAC registration through the official Immigration Department portal. 

You can also check arrival card and visa information through Travel in TNG eWallet by selecting Malaysia under Travel Docs. This can help you identify the travel documents to prepare before your journey. Once your entry requirements are sorted, you can focus on what you’ve been looking forward to, whether that’s exploring Kuala Lumpur, enjoying Malaysia’s famous food or discovering somewhere new. 

FAQs

Is Malaysia Digital Arrival Card mandatory for foreigners? 

Most foreign travellers entering Malaysia must complete MDAC unless they qualify for an exemption. Requirements depend on nationality, immigration status and recognised travel documents. 

Do children need to submit MDAC? 

Children who are foreign visitors may also be subject to MDAC requirements unless an exemption applies. Parents or guardians should check the official guidance and ensure the required details are submitted for each traveller. 

Do I need MDAC if I am only transiting through Malaysia? 

If you remain within the international transit area without entering Malaysia through immigration, MDAC registration may not be required. If you pass through immigration to enter Malaysia, check whether the requirement applies. 

Can I submit MDAC at the airport? 

The permitted registration period includes the arrival date, but it’s better to complete the form before departure to avoid last-minute connectivity or registration issues. 

Is MDAC the same as a visa? 

No. MDAC is an arrival registration, while a visa is a separate entry requirement for travellers who need one. Neither automatically guarantees admission into Malaysia.