MDAC transit or entry: what travellers should know

Overview

MDAC Transit or Entry: What Travellers Should Know The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is a mandatory document for most foreign visitors entering Malaysia. Whether you're transiting through the country or entering for tourism, business, or other purposes, understanding MDAC requirements is essential for a smooth journey.

MDAC Requirements for Transit vs. Entry

The key difference between transit and entry determines whether you need to complete the MDAC:

• Transit passengers who remain airside (not passing through immigration) typically don't need MDAC
• Entry passengers who clear Malaysian immigration must complete MDAC
• Transit passengers entering Malaysia (even briefly) must complete MDAC

When Transit Requires MDAC

You'll need to complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card if your transit involves:

• Leaving the airport transit area
• Clearing immigration for any reason
• Spending time in Malaysia before your connecting flight
• Changing airports in Malaysia

Completing the MDAC for Malaysia Entry

For travellers entering Malaysia, these are the current MDAC requirements:

Submission Timeline

The MDAC must be submitted within 3 days before your arrival in Malaysia. Earlier submissions aren't accepted by the system.

Required Information

When completing your MDAC, you'll need to provide:

• Passport details
• Travel itinerary
• Malaysian accommodation details
• Health declaration information

Our Independent MDAC Application Service

We provide an independent application service for the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card at entrymalaysia.com. Our service costs $15 per traveller and includes:

We are not affiliated with any government and our service is completely optional. You may always apply directly through the official Malaysia Digital Arrival Card portal at no cost.

• Form preparation assistance
• Error checking before submission
• Submission directly to the official system

Children and Family Applications

Each traveller, including infants and children, requires their own MDAC submission. Our service can assist with family applications.

Frequent Travellers to Malaysia

The MDAC must be completed for each entry into Malaysia, even if you visit frequently. There is no long-term or multiple-entry MDAC.

Cruise Ship Passengers

Those arriving by cruise ship must complete the MDAC if disembarking in Malaysia, just like air passengers.

FAQ: MDAC Transit or Entry

1. Do I need MDAC if I have a connecting flight but won't leave the airport?

Typically no, unless you need to clear immigration for any reason. Check with your airline about specific transit procedures.

2. How long does MDAC approval take?

Processing times vary. We cannot guarantee approval times as these are determined by Malaysian immigration authorities.

3. Can I complete MDAC after arriving in Malaysia?

No, the MDAC must be completed before arrival. Some airlines may deny boarding without it for eligible travellers.

MDAC Is Not a Visa

The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card is separate from visa requirements. Check if you need a Malaysian visa based on your nationality.

Accuracy Is Crucial

Errors in your MDAC application may lead to delays or entry refusal. Our service includes error checking for peace of mind.

Documentation Requirements

Have these ready during travel:

• Printed or digital MDAC confirmation
• Passport with at least 6 months validity
• Proof of onward travel (if required)

Transit Passengers: When to Complete MDAC

To determine if you need MDAC for your transit:

Airport Transit Without Immigration Clearance

If you're simply changing planes within the international zone and not entering Malaysia, MDAC is typically not required.

Overnight Transits or Airport Changes

Any transit requiring you to enter Malaysia (even just to stay at an airport hotel) means you must complete MDAC.

Special Transit Programs

Some airports offer transit programs that may have different requirements. Always verify with your airline.

Using Our MDAC Application Service

Our $15 per traveller service simplifies the MDAC process:

Remember that you can always apply directly through the official portal if you prefer not to use our independent service.

• Step-by-step guidance through the application
• Expert review of your information before submission
• Direct submission to the official Malaysia immigration system
• Email confirmation of your submission

What to Expect Next

After submitting your MDAC (whether through our service or directly):

• Save your confirmation electronically
• Check your email for updates
• Have documents ready for immigration inspection

Travelling Without MDAC

Attempting to enter Malaysia without completing MDAC when required may result in:

• Delays at immigration
• Denied boarding by your airline
• Potential entry refusal

Final Tips for MDAC Transit or Entry

To ensure smooth travels to or through Malaysia:

Our independent service at entrymalaysia.com provides convenient MDAC application assistance for $15 per traveller, but remember you can always apply directly through the official government portal at no cost.

• Complete MDAC within the 3-day window before arrival
• Double-check all information before submission
• Keep digital and printed copies of your confirmation
• Verify if your transit requires immigration clearance
• Check if visa requirements apply to your nationality