Do you know that until the end of 2026, Indian passport holders can travel to Malaysia for up to 30 days without a visa? However, when visiting Malaysia from India, you need to apply for a Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC). It is an online form that you need to fill online before visiting the country.
Malaysia introduced this digital arrival card system to make it simpler and quicker for tourists to enter the country. Applying for the MDAC ensures a smooth arrival in the country without any delay and helps in avoiding any legal issues. Want to know more about this card and how you can apply for it? Read the blog and get your answers.
What Is the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)?
The Government of Malaysia introduced the Malaysia arrival card on 1st December 2023, and every traveler must fill out this form from 1st January 2024. MDAC is an online application form that you need to fill out before traveling to Malaysia. Filling out this form is mandatory for all foreign travellers, including Indian residents, foreign citizens, and Malaysian citizens. This card replaces the old paper Malaysia arrival card. It further speeds up the application process and improves border security.
Note:- Also, know that a Malaysia Digital Arrival Card and a Malaysia visa for Indians are two different things. Currently, Indian passport holders do not need to apply for a Malaysian visa; however, they must complete the MDAC form online before entering the country. It is a mandatory requirement of the country that every foreign traveler must fulfill, regardless of their country of origin.
Who Does Not Need to Apply for MDAC?
When applying for MDAC Malaysia, it is vital to know who does not need to apply for the card. While many travelers are required to fill out the MDAC form online, some do not have to. Moving further, the exceptions are as follows:
- Singapore citizens
- Official and diplomatic passport holders
- Permanent residents and long-term passport holders in Malaysia
- Border pass holders issued by Thailand
- Indonesian cross-border travel document (PLB) holders
- Holders of the Bruneian General Certificate of Identity (GCI)
- Brunei-Malaysia Frequent Travel Facility participants
If you belong to any of the categories mentioned above, then you do not need to apply for MDAC Malaysia online. However, if you are not part of any of these, then you should fill out the form online before you visit Malaysia.
How to Complete the MDAC: An Easy Guide
Above, we talked about why filling out the MDAC form online is essential for all travelers. Moving ahead, now we will know how to fill out this form online.
Step 1: Go to the Official MDAC Portal
To apply for the Malaysia Arrival Card, first you need to visit the official MDAC website of the Malaysia Immigration Department.
Step 2: Fill Out the Personal Information
Fill out the requested details in the form, such as your full name, passport number, nationality, and contact information. Additionally, ensure that your passport is valid for a minimum of six months beyond your planned stay in the country.
Step 3: Mention the Travel Information
In the form, you also need to provide your travel information that includes your flight details, arrival and departure dates, and your stay duration in the country. Along with these details, you also need to provide your accommodation details, such as your hotel name and address, where you will stay in Malaysia.
Step 4: Submit the Form
Once you have mentioned all the required information in the form, cross-verify it and submit the form online.
Step 5: Get Confirmation
On successful submission of your Malaysia Digital Arrival Card form online, you will receive a confirmation email with a unique PIN at your provided email ID.
Step 6: Check Status
To check your application status, including whether you are registered, visit the MDAC website and enter your passport number, PIN, and nationality.
Step 7: Download the MDAC
Once you receive the MDAC form online, download the file and keep it with you to show upon your arrival in the country.
When Should You Submit the MDAC?
You should submit the MDAC form online three days before you enter Malaysia. For example, if you enter the country on 12 August, then the earliest you can fill out this form is 8 August, and the last date to fill out this form is 11 August. Submitting this form within the specified timeline ensures that your information is processed promptly and is ready for you upon arrival in the country.
Is There a Fee for MDAC?
No, there is no fee to apply for MDAC. The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is completely free of cost. The only aim of the Malaysian government in introducing this digital system is to provide a smoother entry for travelers into the country.
So, beware of the fraudulent/ unofficial websites of third-party services that ask a Malaysia Digital Arrival Card fee to apply for the card. Additionally, it is advisable to check the official MDAC website to get the latest information and avoid scams or fraud.
What Happens If You Don't Complete the MDAC?
If you do not submit the MDAC online while traveling to Malaysia, you will have to wait longer at the immigration center. Additionally, the government may also not allow you to enter the country. To avoid these kinds of circumstances, it is vital to apply for the card before entering the country. Through this card, you can enter the country without any problems.
Difference Between MDAC and Malaysia Visa
MDAC is a form that you fill out online before your trip to Malaysia. On the other hand, a Malaysian visa is a stamp that allows one to stay and live in the country for an extended period. If you are planning a short trip to Malaysia, then there is no need to apply for a visa; however, you need to fill out the MDAC form online. Moving further, let's get a quick overview of MDAC vs. the Malaysia visa.
| Basis |
MDAC |
Malaysia Visa |
| Who needs it |
Travellers, whether Indian residents or citizens of other countries, who are visiting Malaysia. |
Individuals who are not eligible for visa-free entry or who plan to stay longer in Malaysia. |
| How to get it |
Filling and submitting the MDAC form online using the official MDAC website. |
Applying for a visa online through a consulate or an authorized visa agent. |
| Cost |
MDAC is free |
Depending on the visa type and stay duration in the country |
| Indian passport holders |
Need to fill out the form 3 days before the trip. |
A visa is required if the stay exceeds 30 days. |
Things to Consider for Travelers Before Applying for MDAC
This section of the blog consists of some tips that help your trip to Malaysia go smoothly. Considering them will help you travel to the country confidently and have a great time during your journey.
- Plan Ahead: Within three days before you arrive in Malaysia, fill out the MDAC form.
- Use the MDAC Portal: To avoid any fraud or scam, use the MDAC portal to fill out and submit the MDAC form online.
- Keep Confirmation Handy: Have a printed or digital copy of your Malaysia Digital Arrival Card form by your side to provide it at the immigration center upon your arrival in the country.
- Check for Updates: Before planning a trip to Malaysia, it is advisable to check the latest immigration rules on the official immigration site of the country.
By considering these tips, you will surely have a memorable experience in the country. So, get ready for a smooth journey to Malaysia, filled with beautiful sights and traditional customs, without any issues.
Conclusion
Lastly, if you are traveling from India or any other country to Malaysia, you first need to fill out the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online. To ensure a smooth trip and avoid any issues, it is vital to fill out and submit the form on time. This blog was all about the MDAC arrival card. I hope that after reading this, you will have all the information about the MDAC card and understand why it is essential to have it with you during your trip to Malaysia. Furthermore, if you plan to stay longer than 30 days in Malaysia, consider applying for a visa through Visament to avoid the lengthy process and ensure the timely issuance of your visa.