The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is a free, mandatory online pre-arrival form required by all foreign visitors entering Malaysia. It replaced the old paper disembarkation card and has been compulsory since 1 January 2024. You register at the official Malaysian Immigration portal, receive a QR code by email, and present it on arrival – the entire process takes under 5 minutes and costs nothing.
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What Is the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)?
MDAC stands for Malaysia Digital Arrival Card. It is Malaysia’s digital replacement for the paper landing card that passengers used to complete on board aircraft before landing. The card is issued by Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia (JIM) – the Malaysian Immigration Department – as part of the government’s Visa Liberalisation Plan.
MDAC is not a visa. It is a pre-arrival data registration that all foreign nationals must complete before entering Malaysia, regardless of whether they need a visa or not. Once submitted, the system instantly generates a QR code that serves as your arrival confirmation at Malaysian immigration checkpoints.
Key Facts About MDAC
- Cost: RM 0 – completely free
- Mandatory since: 1 January 2024
- Official portal: imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main
- Submission window: Within 3 days before your arrival date
- Result: QR code sent to your email instantly
- Valid for: All entry points – air, sea, and land
- Per trip: One MDAC per entry – not reusable
Who Needs to Apply for MDAC?
Almost all foreign nationals entering Malaysia must complete the MDAC. There are only a few official exemptions:
- Singapore citizens (fully exempt at all entry points)
- Diplomatic and official passport holders
- Malaysian Permanent Residents (MyPR card holders)
- Employment Pass, Student Pass, and MM2H pass holders on re-entry
- Brunei GCI and BMFTP card holders at designated crossings
- Thailand and Indonesia border pass holders at designated land crossings
If you are a tourist from the US, UK, Australia, EU, Canada, India, China, or virtually any other country, you need to complete the MDAC before arriving in Malaysia.
How to Apply for MDAC – Step by Step
- Visit the official portal: Go to imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main. Disable any VPN before accessing – VPNs commonly block this portal.
- Create an account or log in: First-time visitors register with their email address. Returning travelers log into their existing account.
- Fill in the form: Enter your passport number, full name, nationality, flight number, arrival date, entry point (KLIA, KLIA2, etc.), purpose of visit, and accommodation address.
- Submit the form: Review all details carefully and submit. Do not submit earlier than 3 days before your arrival.
- Save your QR code: You will receive a confirmation email with your MDAC QR code. Screenshot it or save the PDF. Present it at immigration or scan it at the KLIA autogate.
MDAC Key Rules Every Traveler Must Know
- 3-day window: Submit MDAC within 3 calendar days before your Malaysia arrival date – not earlier.
- One per person: Each traveler, including infants and children, must have their own MDAC. No family or group submissions exist.
- Per trip: MDAC is single-use. Submit a new MDAC for every entry into Malaysia, even if you have visited before.
- Free of charge: The official MDAC at imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main is 100% free. Any website charging money for MDAC is a scam.
- Airlines check it: Many airlines verify your MDAC QR code at check-in under the Advance Passenger Information system. Have it ready.
MDAC vs Malaysia Visa – What Is the Difference?
These are two completely separate requirements. The MDAC is a free pre-arrival data form that everyone must complete. A Malaysian visa is an entry authorization that only certain nationalities require.
- US, UK, EU, Australian citizens: Only need MDAC (90-day visa-free entry)
- Indian, Pakistani, Nigerian citizens: Need BOTH a valid Malaysian visa AND the MDAC
- Singapore citizens: Need NEITHER (fully exempt from both MDAC and visa)
MDAC Scam Warning
Dozens of unofficial websites charge fees ranging from USD 10 to USD 80 for a service that the Malaysian government provides for free. The only legitimate MDAC portal is operated by Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia at a URL ending in .gov.my. Any other domain is unofficial. If you paid for MDAC processing, contact your bank to dispute the charge.
Is MDAC really free?
Yes, 100% free. The official Malaysia Digital Arrival Card registration at imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main has no fees whatsoever. Any website or agent charging money for MDAC is an unofficial third party and not affiliated with the Malaysian government.
When should I submit my MDAC?
Submit your MDAC within 3 calendar days before your scheduled arrival date in Malaysia. You cannot submit earlier than 3 days in advance. Same-day submission is technically allowed, but submitting as soon as your window opens is strongly recommended to avoid last-minute issues.
Do I need MDAC if I have a Malaysian visa?
Yes. MDAC and a Malaysian visa are two separate requirements. Having a valid visa does not exempt you from completing the MDAC. You must fulfill both requirements before arriving in Malaysia.
Do children need MDAC?
Yes. All foreign nationals, including infants and children of any age, must have their own individual MDAC. A parent or guardian completes the form using the child’s passport details. Each child receives a separate QR code.
What happens if I arrive without MDAC?
Airlines may deny boarding if you cannot show your MDAC QR code at check-in. At Malaysian immigration, you may face extended processing, secondary screening, or denial of entry. There is no on-arrival MDAC desk at Malaysian airports.
