Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC): what changed and when
The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is now a mandatory pre-arrival step for most international visitors. Mandatory Requirement: Starting 1 January 2025, all foreign citizens traveling to Malaysia must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) three (3) days before arrival.
The MDAC replaces paper arrival forms with a short online submission. It is free, takes only a few minutes, and is handled directly by the Immigration Department of Malaysia — not by your ticket provider.
Who needs to submit an MDAC
The requirement applies to foreign nationals arriving in Malaysia, regardless of how you enter: by air, by land, or by sea. If you are crossing into Malaysia on a ferry, bus, minivan or private transfer, the same rule applies as for a flight arrival.
Exemptions
The following travelers are NOT required to complete the MDAC:
- Citizens of Singapore
- Diplomatic and Official Passport holders
- Malaysian Permanent Residents and Long Term-Pass holders
- General Certificate of Identity (GCI) holders – Brunei Darussalam
- Brunei-Malaysia Frequent Traveller Facility holders
- Thailand Border Pass holders
- Indonesia Cross-Border Travel Document (PLB) holders
If you are not on this list, assume you need an MDAC. An exemption is tied to your document or status, not to the route you book.
Where to Submit the MDAC
Submit the MDAC through the official link: https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main
Have your passport, travel dates and accommodation details ready before you start. Submit it within the three-day window before arrival, and keep your confirmation saved offline or printed in case you have no signal at the border.
For Enquiries
- Online Enquiry System (SPO): https://eapp.imi.gov.my
- Immigration Department of Malaysia Official Portal: https://www.imi.gov.my
What this means for your trip
Complete the MDAC before you set off. Border officers may ask for it on arrival, and an incomplete submission can slow you down at immigration — particularly at busy sea and land crossings where everyone clears at the same time.
The MDAC is separate from any visa or entry permission you may need, and it does not replace one. It also does not affect your ticket: booking conditions, check-in times and boarding rules are set by the operator you travel with, so check your confirmation email for those details.
Travelling as a group or family? Each traveller needs their own MDAC submission, including children with their own passports.
Book your journey to Malaysia
Once your MDAC is submitted, you can plan the travel itself. Browse ferry, bus and transfer services to Malaysia to compare departure times and operators on your chosen route, then complete your booking online.
Search availability for your travel dates and book your seat in a few clicks.
