Who Needs the Malaysia MDAC? Exemptions, Children & Johor Crossings
Most foreign nationals entering Malaysia need a Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC), including children. A specific list of travellers is exempt.
Who this is for: anyone unsure whether they — or their family — need an MDAC.
Open the official MDAC form →imigresen-online.imi.gov.my · Immigration Department of Malaysia · FreeKeep this page open in another tab if you get stuck on a field.
Do I need an MDAC? Quick check
| You are | MDAC needed? |
|---|---|
| Tourist or business visitor on a foreign passport | Yes |
| Children and infants (foreign) | Yes — each one, submitted by a parent |
| Foreigner living in Singapore crossing to Johor | Yes |
| Singapore citizen | No |
| Malaysian citizen or permanent resident | No |
| Diplomatic or official passport holder | No |
| Brunei Certificate of Identity holder; Brunei–Malaysia Frequent Traveller Facility user | No |
| Thai border pass holder; Indonesian cross-border pass (PLB) holder | No |
Crossing from Singapore to Johor Bahru
The MDAC applies at land checkpoints too, including the Causeway (BSI) and Second Link (KSAB). Singapore citizens are exempt, but foreigners — including work pass holders and tourists heading north from Singapore — need an MDAC for each entry, submitted within 3 days before crossing.
Families
Every foreign traveller needs their own MDAC, including children and infants. A parent or guardian submits for them.
Frequently asked questions
Do Singapore citizens need an MDAC?
No. Singapore citizens are exempt.
Do foreigners living in Singapore need an MDAC to cross to Johor Bahru?
Yes, unless they're exempt — for example, Singapore citizens. Foreign residents of Singapore, such as work pass holders, generally need an MDAC for each entry.
Do Malaysian permanent residents need an MDAC?
No. Malaysian citizens and permanent residents are exempt.
Do babies need an MDAC?
Yes. Every foreign traveller, including infants, needs their own MDAC submitted by a parent or guardian.
Do diplomats need an MDAC?
No. Diplomatic and official passport holders are exempt.
Official sources
- Malaysia Digital Arrival Card — official portal (imigresen-online.imi.gov.my)
- Immigration Department of Malaysia