Malaysia, home to Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, and Penang, is now even easier to visit. According to the latest regulations, Indian nationals can travel to Malaysia without a visa until December 31, 2026, for stays of up to 30 days, provided they complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) before arrival.

This new digital system aims to streamline your immigration process, making it faster, more efficient, and more secure, so there will be no more paper forms! Simply register within three days before your arrival and enjoy a hassle-free start to your Malaysian adventure.

You can apply for your MDAC with Atlys!

What is the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card?

The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is an electronic travel document required by the Malaysian Immigration authorities. It acts as a pre-arrival declaration, collecting essential information from travellers before they enter Malaysia.

The MDAC is not a visa but a mandatory submission for all foreign visitors, including tourists, business travellers, and others arriving by air, land, or sea. This digital form helps streamline the immigration process and enhances border security by allowing Malaysian authorities to process entry information in advance.

Is the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card required for entry into Malaysia?

​Yes, as of December 2024, the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is a mandatory requirement for all foreign travellers entering Malaysia. MDAC is valid for all travels to Malaysia up to 30 days.​ 

Requirements for the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)

When you're preparing to visit Malaysia, filling out the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is a crucial step for Indian travellers. This form isn’t just a formality. MDAC is the Malaysian government’s way of streamlining arrivals and ensuring border control runs smoothly. Here’s a checklist of the details you’ll need to have ready before submitting your MDAC:

1. Personal Information

You’ll be asked to fill in your full name, nationality, gender, date of birth, and contact details (like your email address or phone number). Make sure everything matches your passport exactly. Any mismatch can lead to complications at immigration.

2. Valid Passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Malaysia. If it’s close to expiring, renew it before you make travel plans. Your passport details will be linked to the MDAC, so accuracy is key.

3. Return or Onward Ticket

You’ll need to provide details of your return or onward journey to show that you don’t intend to overstay. Immigration officers may ask to see your confirmed return flight during inspection, so keep that handy as well.

4. Travel Itinerary

This includes your dates of travel, the places you plan to visit, and ideally, your accommodation details. A well-structured itinerary reflects preparation and helps support your reason for travel, especially if you're applying for a visa alongside.

5. Proof of Sufficient Funds 

Though you don’t need to upload bank statements in the MDAC itself, you must declare that you have enough financial means to cover your stay in Malaysia. Immigration officers may request supporting documents, such as bank statements, credit cards, or proof of employment, upon arrival.

6. Purpose of Visit

You’ll need to state the purpose of your visit—whether it’s tourism, business, visiting friends or relatives, or any other reason. Choose the category that best describes your travel intent. Being honest and clear here helps avoid unnecessary scrutiny at immigration.

How to apply for the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card?

• Step 1: Open your Atlys app or website to start your MDAC application.

• Step 2: Use your phone camera to take a selfie or upload an existing one.

• Step 3: Upload the necessary documents. You’ll need three things: the front page of your passport, a confirmed flight ticket, and hotel details. With Atlys, you can upload everything using your phone and finish the application in 5 minutes.

• Step 4: Review your application. Check all the details and make any necessary corrections.

• Step 5: Pay the fee and complete the payment process through Atlys.

After you have applied, you can check your MDAC status on Atlys's "My Profile" section. The general wait time is  24 to 36 hours, and you will receive your MDAC directly on your Atlys profile.

What is the processing time and validity of the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card?

Processing Time

The MDAC must be completed online within 72 hours before you arrive in Malaysia. Once submitted, you will receive a confirmation, which you must present upon arrival. It's advisable to complete the MDAC well in advance of your departure to avoid any last-minute issues.​

Validity

The MDAC is valid for a single entry into Malaysia and is digitally linked to your passport information. It replaces the paper-based arrival form and must be presented at immigration checkpoints upon arrival.

Note: The MDAC is separate from visa requirements; travellers must still obtain a visa if staying for longer than 30 days. 

What happens if you don’t submit the MDAC?

If you don’t submit the MDAC, you will be denied entry at immigration checkpoints. Also, expect delays or additional questioning if the MDAC is incomplete or missing. Moreover, airlines sometimes request proof of MDAC submission before boarding.

Important things to know about MDAC (Malaysia Digital Arrival Card)

If you're an Indian passport holder planning a trip to Malaysia, here's something you must not miss: filling out the MDAC (Malaysia Digital Arrival Card). This is a mandatory step before you land in the country, and missing it could mean unnecessary delays at immigration. Here's what you need to keep in mind:

• It’s mandatory for all Indian travellers: Regardless of whether you're going for a short holiday, a business trip, or to visit friends, the MDAC needs to be submitted online.

• Submit it within 3 days before you arrive in Malaysia: Don’t fill it out too early. For example, if you're landing on the 10th, you should fill it anytime between the 7th and 9th. It takes just a few minutes, but you must do it within this window.

• It's valid for one-time use only: Think of it as a single-entry digital arrival slip. If you're exiting and re-entering Malaysia during your trip, you’ll need to fill out a fresh MDAC before each new entry.

• You must show it at immigration: Alongside your passport and visa (if applicable), you’ll be asked to show proof of your MDAC submission at the immigration counter. It’s best to carry a screenshot or printout for easy access.

The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is now an essential part of the travel process to Malaysia in 2025. Completing it correctly ensures a faster and smoother entry through immigration, allowing you to begin your Malaysian adventure without any hassle.