Malaysia Travel Insurance & Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) – What Every Traveler Should Know in 2025
If Malaysia is your next travel destination, whether it’s a family trip, a business visit, or a relaxing vacation, there are two must-have essentials you should prepare ahead of time: Malaysia Travel Insurance and the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC). While these aren’t the same, they work hand in hand to make your journey smoother and stress-free. One protects your finances and health, and the other ensures your entry into the country goes without delays.
Why Travel Insurance for Malaysia Is a Must
While MDAC gets you into Malaysia, travel insurance keeps you protected once you’re there. It covers unexpected incidents such as:
- Medical emergencies or hospitalization
- Trip cancellations or delays
- Lost or stolen luggage
- Flight disruptions
- Accidental injuries
Malaysia offers excellent medical facilities, but treatment costs for foreigners can be expensive. Without travel insurance, you could end up paying large amounts out of pocket.
Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for Malaysia?
As of 2025, travel insurance is not mandatory to enter Malaysia. However, it is highly recommended, especially for tourists, business travelers, and students. In case of sudden illness or accidents, having insurance can save you from massive financial stress.
Understanding the (MDAC)
The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is a mandatory online form rolled out by the Malaysian government to simplify the entry process for international visitors. Introduced in 2024, this digital card must be filled out and submitted at least 72 hours before your arrival in Malaysia.
It requires basic but important details such as your passport information, flight schedule, and accommodation plans. Skipping the MDAC can cause delays at immigration, or worse—refusal to enter the country. Thankfully, the process is completely free, takes only a few minutes online, and ensures faster clearance at checkpoints upon arrival.
Eligibility Criteria for MDAC and Travel Insurance
Who Needs to Submit the MDAC?
You must submit the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card if you:
- Are a foreign national visiting Malaysia (including from India, Pakistan, Philippines, Bangladesh, South Africa, etc.)
- Are entering Malaysia by air, sea, or land
- Do not hold permanent residency or long-term Malaysian visa
Exemptions include:
- Malaysian citizens
- Permanent residents
- Long-term pass holders
Who Should Get Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance is recommended for all international travelers, especially if you:
- Are aged between 18 and 70 years
- Have pre-existing medical conditions (check if covered)
- Are traveling with family, children, or elderly companions
- Are visiting for more than 3 days
Many insurance providers offer special packages for Malaysian trips, covering everything from emergency evacuation to daily hospital allowances.
Required Documents
Before starting the application, make sure you have the following:
For MDAC:
For Travel Insurance:
How to Apply for MDAC and Travel Insurance
How to Submit the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card
- Visit the official MDAC portal (search “Malaysia Digital Arrival Card official”).
- Click on “Register” and create an account.
- Fill in your personal details, passport number, travel dates, and purpose.
- Upload any required supporting documents if prompted.
- Submit the form at least 72 hours before your arrival.
- Download or screenshot the confirmation to show at immigration.
How to Buy Travel Insurance for Malaysia
- Compare policies from trusted providers (like AXA, Allianz, or local platforms).
- Choose coverage that includes medical expenses, cancellations, and lost baggage.
- Fill in your travel details and make payment online.
- Receive your policy document and emergency contact numbers via email.
- Carry a digital or printed copy while traveling.
The Link Between Travel Insurance MDAC
Although the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card doesn’t currently require proof of travel insurance, many travelers are finding it wise to include insurance details when preparing their trip documents. Why?
Here are a few reasons:
1. Entry Requirements May Evolve
Immigration policies often change, especially in response to public health risks. Countries like Thailand and Singapore have, at times, required proof of insurance. Malaysia may follow suit. Having a valid insurance policy and mentioning it in your MDAC submission can strengthen your travel profile and reduce risk during immigration checks.
2. Better Prepared for Health Declarations
The MDAC is also used to declare your health status, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. If you fall sick before or during your trip, having insurance makes it easier to get treated locally—and mentioning your coverage can make officers more comfortable allowing your entry.
3. Covers Emergencies That May Affect MDAC Timing
Imagine you plan to submit your MDAC 3 days in advance but fall ill or face an emergency. Travel insurance can cover your changed plans, missed flights, or even help with rescheduling your trip without losing your money. This can be a lifesaver when timing your MDAC submission.
Real-Life Scenarios Where Both Help
Let’s say you’re a tourist from India traveling to Malaysia. You fill out your MDAC on time and reach Kuala Lumpur. But after landing, your baggage gets lost. Without insurance, you’re left stranded. But with the right travel insurance, you can claim compensation, buy essentials, and continue your trip stress-free.
Or consider a traveler from South Africa who falls sick just two days before travel. Thanks to their insurance, they cancel the trip, reschedule flights, and get refunded for prepaid bookings—all while adjusting their MDAC accordingly.
Travel Insurance Smart Companion to Your MDAC
Here’s a quick comparison showing how Travel Insurance and the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card complement each other:
| Feature | Malaysia Digital Arrival Card | Travel Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Immigration pre-approval | Emergency protection |
| Mandatory | Yes (for most travelers) | Not mandatory but highly recommended |
| Submission | Online, 3 days before arrival | Buy online anytime before departure |
| Cost | Free | Varies by provider and coverage |
| Use Case | Faster immigration entry | Medical, cancellations, baggage issues |
Tips for a Safe and Smooth Trip
- Apply for MDAC early to avoid last-minute issues.
- Always buy travel insurance, even if it’s not mandatory—it’s peace of mind.
- Keep both documents accessible on your phone during check-in and immigration.
- Check the latest updates on the official Malaysia immigration website before your trip.
- If you’re traveling with family or elderly members, ensure their coverage is comprehensive.
FAQs
Conclusion
In today’s digital travel environment, having your Malaysia Digital Arrival Card and valid travel insurance is more than just a checklist—it’s your passport to a safe, smooth, and enjoyable journey.
Don’t risk your health, money, or time. Take a few minutes to complete your MDAC and secure a travel insurance policy that fits your needs. You’ll thank yourself when you travel with confidence, knowing you’re protected from every angle.
