Malaysia Digital Arrival Card Validity | MDAC Validity

The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is a mandatory online document for travelers visiting Malaysia. As a digital pre-arrival declaration, it facilitates smooth entry procedures and ensures compliance with immigration regulations. This article focuses on the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card or MDAC validity, a critical aspect for foreign visitors planning their trips.

What Is the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card Validity Period?

The validity of the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card is limited and specific. It is valid for a single entry into Malaysia, and travelers must adhere to the following rules:

Submission Window: The MDAC must be submitted within three days prior to your arrival in Malaysia. This includes the day of submission, meaning travelers cannot submit the form earlier than three days before their arrival date.
Overall Validity: Once submitted, the MDAC is valid for up to 30 days in Malaysia, allowing travelers to stay within this timeframe.
Single Entry: Each MDAC submission is valid for only one entry into Malaysia. If you leave the country and plan to re-enter, a new MDAC must be completed for the subsequent visit.

For example, if your arrival date is January 10, you should submit the MDAC on January 8, 9, or 10 to ensure compliance.

How to Check the Validity of the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card?

Verifying the validity of your MDAC is essential to ensure a hassle-free travel experience. Here’s how you can check:

1. Confirm Submission Status

Log in to the official MDAC portal or app where you submitted your application.
Verify that your form is marked as submitted and approved.

2. Check the Submission Date

Note the date you submitted the MDAC.
Ensure your planned entry into Malaysia falls within three days from the submission date.

3. Verify the 30-Day Period

Ensure your stay in Malaysia does not exceed the 30-day validity period granted by the MDAC.
Contact Malaysian Immigration Support.

4. Contact Malaysian Immigration Support

If you are unsure about the validity or encounter issues, contact the Malaysian Immigration Department or visit their official website for assistance.

Who Needs to Submit a New MDAC?

Since the MDAC is valid for a single entry only, the following scenarios require travelers to submit a new card:

Re-Entry After Exit: If you leave Malaysia and plan to return, you must complete a new MDAC form before re-entering.
Multiple Destinations: Travelers visiting other countries during their trip and returning to Malaysia need a fresh submission for each entry.
Extended Travel Plans: If your plans change and your arrival date shifts beyond the three-day submission window, a new MDAC will be necessary.

Why Is the Submission Window Limited?

The three-day submission window ensures that the information provided by travelers remains accurate and up-to-date. Immigration authorities rely on the MDAC to verify essential details such as travel dates, personal identification, and health status. Submitting the card too early could result in outdated information, potentially causing complications upon arrival.

FAQs About

The MDAC is valid for a single entry into Malaysia and expires three days from the date of submission. If you need to re-enter Malaysia, you must obtain a new MDAC. The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is valid for up to 30 days of stay in Malaysia. It must be submitted within three days before arrival.

No, the MDAC and a Malaysian visa are separate documents. If you are not from a visa-exempted country, you must obtain a visa to Malaysia in addition to the MDAC and present both documents at the entry point.

No, each MDAC submission is valid for only one entry into Malaysia. If you leave the country and plan to re-enter, a new MDAC must be completed for each subsequent visit.

Conclusion

The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) plays a vital role in ensuring smooth and efficient entry into Malaysia. Its validity for a single entry and up to 30 days of stay requires travelers to carefully plan their submissions within the designated three-day window before arrival. While not a substitute for a visa, the MDAC complements other travel documents and simplifies immigration formalities. By understanding the rules, adhering to timelines, and staying updated with official guidelines, travelers can enjoy a seamless entry process and focus on experiencing all that Malaysia has to offer. Prepare in advance and make your journey stress-free.