If you’re traveling from India to Malaysia, it’s important to know about the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC). Think of it as an online form that you must complete before your trip. Indian passport holders can visit Malaysia visa-free for up to 30 days, and this policy is valid until the end of 2026. However, filling out the MDAC form is still mandatory. Malaysia introduced this system to make it easier and faster for tourists to enter the country. Completing the MDAC ensures a smooth arrival and helps you avoid any legal issues.
What is the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card(MDAC)?
MDAC is an online form you must fill out before arriving in Malaysia. This rule applies to everyone who isn’t Malaysian, including Indian residents. It’s just like the old paper forms, but now it’s online to speed up the process and enhance border security. Keep in mind, the MDAC isn’t the same as a visa, but it’s still required for entry into Malaysia.
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Who is Exempt from MDAC Submission?
Knowing who is exempt from filling out the MDAC form is important. While most travelers have to fill out this form, some don’t have to. These exceptions include:
- Citizens of Singapore.
- Diplomatic and official passport holders.
- Malaysian permanent residents and long-term pass holders.
- Holders of the Bruneian General Certificate of Identity (GCI).
- Participants in the Brunei-Malaysia Frequent Travel Facility.
- Holders of border passes issued by Thailand.
- Holders of Indonesian cross-border travel documents (PLB).
If you fall into one of these categories, you don’t have to fill out this form. But if you don’t meet any of these criteria, then you must.
When Should You Submit the MDAC?
You must complete this form no earlier than three days before you arrive in Malaysia. For example, if you land there on 30th May, the earliest you can complete this form is 27th May, with the last date for filling this form being 29th May. Filling it out within this period will ensure your information is processed and ready when you arrive.
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How to Complete the MDAC: An Easy Guide
We have discussed why submitting your MDAC form before you arrive in Malaysia is essential. But now, we will learn how to fill it out.
Step 1: Visit the Official MDAC Portal:
The first step includes visiting the Malaysian immigration Department’s official MDAC website.
Step 2: Fill in Personal Details
Provide details like your full name, nationality, passport number, and contact information. Ensure your passport is valid for six months beyond your intended stay.
Step 3: Enter Travel Information
You must also provide travel information, including your flight details, date of arrival, and departure. With these, you must also give your accommodation address in Malaysia.
Step 4: Submit the Form
Verify each detail you filled in to ensure it’s correct before submitting your form.
Step 5: Receive Confirmation
Once your form is submitted, you will receive a confirmation email with a unique PIN.
Step 6: Check Status
Visit the MDAC website and check if you are registered by typing details like your passport number, nationality, and PIN you received.
Step 7: Download the MDAC
Once done, download the MDAC PDF file and keep it ready with you to show it upon arrival.
Is there a Fee for MDAC?
No, the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is completely free of charge. The Malaysian government provides this service at no cost to facilitate smoother entry for travelers.
Beware of unofficial/Fraudulent websites or third-party services that claim to process the MDAC for a fee. It’s advised to always use the real MDAC website from the Malaysian government to avoid getting scammed by fraudsters.
What Happens if You Don’t Complete the MDAC?
You will have to wait longer at the immigration center, or the government may not even let you in if you don’t fill out the MDAC. That is why it is vital to fill out this form before you arrive there. Doing this will help you enter Malaysia without any issues.
MDAC vs. Malaysia Visa – What’s the Difference?
MDAC is an online form that you must fill out before your trip. Visa, on the other hand, is a permission stamp for more extended stays. Most tourists don’t need a visa for short stays. But you still need to fill out the MDAC form. Knowing the difference between the two helps.
| Feature | MDAC | Malaysia Visa |
| Who Needs It? | Most people are from other countries. | People who are not eligible for visa-free entry or staying longer |
| How to Get It? | Online submission via the official portal | Online (eVisa) or through an authorized agent or consulate |
| Cost | MDAC is free. | Varies depending on visa type. |
| Indian Passport Holders | Required for every trip to Malaysia (within 3 days before arrival) | You only need a visa if you stay more than 30 days. |
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Tips for Indian Travelers
This section includes some important tips that will make your journey smooth. Following them will allow you to travel confidently and have a great time exploring Malaysia.
- Plan Ahead: Fill out the MDAC form within three days before you arrive there.
- Use the Official Portal: To avoid being scammed, submit your form through the official MDAC website.
- Keep Confirmation Handy: Have a digital or printed copy of your MDAC confirmation ready to present at the immigration center.
- Check for Updates: Check the latest immigration rules before traveling to Malaysia.
Following these tips will help you have a memorable experience. So get ready for an epic journey across traditional customs and beautiful sights without a problem.
Conclusion
You must fill out the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) before traveling from India to Malaysia. It’s important to do it on time to ensure that everything goes well during the trip. It’s still compulsory to fill out a MDAC form to enter into Malaysia even though you don’t need a visa to stay in Malaysia for 30 days.
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