This article is based on information as of June 18, 2024. Policies and content may change, so please ensure you obtain the latest official information if you are planning to travel.
Malaysia’s Arrival Card Has Been Digital Since January 2024: MDAC (Malaysia Digital Arrival Card)
I entered Malaysia on June 18, 2024. Having visited Malaysia last year, I assumed there would be no changes and neglected to research beforehand. When I queued up at immigration, the officer asked if I had completed any procedures. Unsure what they meant, I scanned a QR code provided by the officer and learned that the arrival card, which used to be filled out on paper, is now a digital declaration.
The Malaysian Immigration Department announced on December 1, 2023, that it would be mandatory for international travelers arriving at Malaysian airports to register for the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC). However, the following individuals are exempt: (1) Permanent residents (2) Malaysia Automated Clearance System (MACS) holders. Please refer to future announcements from the Malaysian Immigration Department regarding other exemptions, including those holding long-term stay visas.
MDAC registration requires travelers to input their name, date of birth, passport information, email address, mobile phone number, arrival and departure dates, and other details via a dedicated website. Registration is possible up to three days before arrival.
MDAC Official Website: https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main
Furthermore, if you register for MDAC for the first time and provide your fingerprints upon entry, Japanese nationals can use automated gates for subsequent entries and exits. However, if you wish to have an entry/exit stamp in your passport, please use the manned counter. (Source: Embassy of Japan in Malaysia)
Input Fields
The information to be entered is the same as what was previously filled out on paper. Follow the on-screen instructions (in English) to input the following:
- Name (as per passport)
- Passport number
- Nationality
- Date of birth
- Gender (Male/Female)
- Passport expiration date
- Email address
- Confirm email address
- Country/Region code (Japan is 81)
- Mobile phone number (omit the leading 0)
- Confirm country/region code (enter the same as 9)
- Confirm mobile phone number (enter the same as 10)
- Date of entry into Malaysia
- Mode of entry (select AIR for flight)
- Date of departure from Malaysia
- Last port of embarkation
- Flight number
- Type of accommodation (e.g., Hotel)
- Hotel name, address
- Hotel postal code
- City
- State
After entering all details, click “SUBMIT,” and a confirmation will be sent to your registered email address.
Procedure
- Target: All foreign nationals
- Registration Start: From the 3rd day including the date of entry
References:
- Malaysia Tourism Board: https://www.tourismmalaysia.or.jp/news/news_2023120401.html
- MDAC Official Website: https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main
Conclusion
This time, because I had entered Malaysia just a year ago, I mistakenly assumed there would be no changes and neglected to gather information, which caused delays in my immigration process. Even for familiar countries, systems and procedures can change. Always make an effort to obtain the latest information.
