While the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is a mandatory requirement for most travelers entering Malaysia, certain categories of individuals are exempt from this requirement.
On this page, you'll find detailed information about who is exempt from the MDAC requirement, including Malaysian citizens, long-term pass holders, and special cases.
Malaysian citizens returning to Malaysia are exempt from the MDAC requirement. They can enter the country using their Malaysian passport without completing the digital arrival card.
Required Document: Valid Malaysian passport
Holders of valid long-term passes are exempt from the MDAC requirement. This includes:
Required Document: Valid pass and passport
Individuals traveling on diplomatic or official passports for official business may be exempt from the MDAC requirement. This includes:
Required Document: Diplomatic/official passport and relevant documentation
Passengers who remain in the international transit area of Malaysian airports and do not pass through immigration control are exempt from the MDAC requirement.
If you plan to leave the transit area for any reason, even for a short period, you will need to complete the MDAC before your journey.
Unlike some countries, Malaysia does not provide exemptions based on age. All foreign visitors, regardless of age, require an MDAC if they do not fall into one of the exempt categories listed above.
Children traveling with parents should have their own MDAC, which can be completed by a parent or guardian on their behalf.
Even newborns and infants require an MDAC if they are not Malaysian citizens or holders of a long-term pass.
Residents of border areas between Malaysia and neighboring countries may have special arrangements:
Individuals with valid border passes who cross the border regularly for work, business, or social visits may be exempt from the MDAC requirement under specific conditions.
Border residents should verify their status with local immigration authorities, as exemptions may vary by location and specific bilateral agreements.
In certain emergency or special situations, exemptions may be granted on a case-by-case basis:
Patients being transported to Malaysia for emergency medical treatment may be granted exemptions in certain circumstances.
Individuals entering Malaysia for humanitarian reasons during disasters or emergencies may be exempt in specific situations.
These exemptions require prior approval from Malaysian immigration authorities and are not automatically granted.
If you believe you may be exempt from the MDAC requirement, it's important to verify your status before travel. Here's how:
Reach out to the nearest Malaysian embassy or consulate in your country to confirm your exemption status.
Visit the official Immigration Department of Malaysia website for the most up-to-date information on exemptions.
Airlines often have access to current immigration requirements and can provide guidance on your specific situation.
If you believe you are exempt from the MDAC requirement, prepare the following documentation to present at immigration:
If you're unsure about your exemption status or cannot obtain clear confirmation, it's safer to complete the MDAC before your journey to avoid any issues upon arrival in Malaysia.
Remember that immigration policies can change, and it's always better to be prepared with all necessary documentation.
Answer the following questions to determine if you are exempt from the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card requirement:
If you're still unsure about your exemption status or have specific questions about the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card requirement, our support team is here to help.
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