Malaysia: Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC), not a visa

The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is a free, mandatory online arrival form for nearly all foreign visitors to Malaysia, run by the Immigration Department of Malaysia. It has been required since 1 January 2024 and is separate from any visa.

Who needs it

Almost all foreign visitors, including those entering visa-free, on visa on arrival, or with an e-visa. Some groups are exempt, including diplomatic passport holders, Malaysian permanent residents, and a few specific cross-border pass holders.

Key facts

• Submit within 3 days before your arrival date.
• It is entirely free and takes about 10 minutes.
• You'll need your completed MDAC, alongside your passport, at immigration clearance on arrival.

Watch out for

Several official guides stress there is only one legitimate MDAC website; look for the imigresen-online.imi.gov.my domain specifically rather than a similar-looking imitation.

Before you pay

Check that the address matches the link above, confirm the amount on the portal, and never pay a site that adds a large service fee. Our guide to spotting fake visa websites explains the warning signs, and the FAQ covers common questions.

This page is a summary for general information and can go out of date, and exemptions depend on your own nationality, so always confirm on the official portal. See our disclaimer.