MDAC Requirements Explained – Land vs Air Entry to Malaysia Compared
If you are planning a trip to Malaysia, understanding the MDAC requirements is a must. Since the start of 2024, Malaysia has made the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) mandatory for almost all foreign travelers. Whether you are entering the country by air or by land, you need to submit this digital form within a specific time frame. But are the requirements the same for land and air crossings? Let’s break down everything you need to know in this complete comparison guide.
What Is the MDAC?
The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card is an online form that travelers must submit before entering Malaysia. It is not a visa, but it is required for immigration clearance. All travelers (except a few exempted categories) must complete the form within 72 hours (3 days) before their arrival.
While the overall purpose of the MDAC is the same, the experience and documentation can slightly differ depending on whether you’re arriving by plane or crossing through a land border.
Common MDAC Requirements for All Travelers
No matter how you arrive in Malaysia, here are the standard MDAC requirements:
- Must be submitted within 72 hours of entering the country
- Requires your passport details, travel date, and place of arrival
- You must present either a printed copy or digital confirmation at immigration
- A valid passport is required. 6 months for air arrivals, 3 months for land
- MDAC does not replace a visa if you are from a country that needs one
These rules apply equally to air, land, and sea entries unless you fall under one of the exempt categories (like Singaporeans, diplomats, or long-term pass holders).
Entering Malaysia by Air – MDAC Process
Air travelers have a slightly different experience with MDAC, especially at international airports like KLIA or Penang International.
Key Points:
- You must complete the MDAC no earlier than 3 days before your flight.
- A valid passport with at least 6 months remaining is required.
- Autogate facilities are available for eligible nationalities (e.g., UK, Australia, Japan).
- First-time visitors must clear immigration manually but can register for autogate use for future trips.
- Immigration officials will scan your passport and MDAC details before granting entry.
If you’re flying in, the process is generally more streamlined but still requires attention to detail, especially with document validity and timing.
Entering Malaysia by Land – MDAC Process
Land crossings are common for travelers from Thailand, Singapore, and even Indonesia. The MDAC process is still required, but the conditions vary slightly.
Key Points:
- MDAC must also be submitted within 3 days of arrival.
- The passport validity requirement is at least 3 months, unlike air entry, which needs 6 months.
- Autogate systems are not available at most land crossings; manual immigration checks are used.
- Queues may be shorter, but the documentation must still be perfect to avoid delays.
- Even frequent cross-border travelers must show updated MDAC confirmation each time.
Land crossings can seem easier due to familiarity and less congestion, but do not let that fool you into thinking MDAC is not required, it absolutely is.
Land vs. Air—Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Land Entry | Air Entry |
|---|---|---|
| MDAC Required | Yes | Yes |
| Submission Time | Within 72 hours | Within 72 hours |
| Passport Validity | Minimum 3 months | Minimum 6 months |
| Autogate Use | Not available | Available for select travelers |
| Immigration Method | Manual only | Manual or Autogate |
| Visa Needed (if required) | Yes | Yes |
Who Is Exempt from MDAC?
The following travelers do not need to submit the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card:
- Citizens of Singapore
- Holders of diplomatic or official passports
- Permanent residents or long-term pass holders of Malaysia
- Border pass holders from Thailand or Indonesia
- Those with frequent traveler permits (e.g., Brunei-Malaysia frequent crossers)
If you do not fall into one of these categories, it is essential to complete and carry your MDAC confirmation.
MDAC Requirements – Quick Checklist
To make things simple, here’s a quick checklist for all travelers:
- Submit MDAC within 72 hours before arrival
- Carry a printed or digital MDAC confirmation
- Ensure your passport meets the validity requirement (3 or 6 months)
- Know your entry point: land or air
- Use the correct form and avoid unofficial websites
FAQs About MDAC Requirements
Conclusion
Understanding the MDAC requirements based on your travel route—land vs air—can save you time and stress at the border. Whether you’re taking a short flight or crossing by road, the key is preparation. Submit your MDAC on time, double-check your documents, and make sure you’re ready with all required confirmations.
