MDAC requirements 2026

Last updated: June 2026

The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is a mandatory online pre-arrival registration for most foreign travelers heading to Malaysia. Before you start the form in 2026, it pays to have everything in one place so you can complete it accurately in a single sitting. This guide walks through exactly what is required.

A valid passport

Your passport is the foundation of the MDAC. Enter your details exactly as they appear on the document — your full name, passport number, nationality, and dates — because mismatches between your MDAC and your passport can cause questions at the border. Make sure your passport has enough remaining validity for your trip; many destinations expect a comfortable buffer beyond your travel dates.

Your travel details

You will declare how and when you are arriving. Have your flight number, vehicle, or vessel details ready, along with your arrival and departure dates and your mode of entry — air, land, or sea. Because the MDAC should be submitted close to your travel date, keep these details final before you file. If your plans shift, you may need to update or resubmit so the record matches your actual journey.

Where you will stay

The form asks for the address where you will be staying in Malaysia. A hotel booking, a rental confirmation, or the address of friends or family all work — the point is that immigration can see where to reach you during your visit. Having your accommodation booking on hand makes this quick to complete.

Supporting documents to keep ready

While not every field requires an upload, you should travel with documents an officer might request:

• Proof of onward or return travel.
• Confirmation of your accommodation.
• Evidence of sufficient funds for your stay.

Who needs to complete it

As a general rule, foreign nationals must complete the MDAC, while Malaysian citizens and permanent residents are typically exempt. Requirements can be revised by the authorities, and some nationalities or traveler categories may be treated differently, so confirm the current rules for your passport before you travel. Not sure how this differs from a visa? See our guide on MDAC vs visa. And for the right moment to file, read how early to submit the MDAC.

Accuracy is the real requirement

Beyond the documents themselves, the single most important requirement is accuracy. Double-check names, numbers, and dates before submitting. If you would rather have your details reviewed and the submission handled for you, our assisted service does exactly that — though you can always complete the MDAC yourself for free on the official government portal.