eVisa vs MDAC: Complete Comparison
Understand the differences between Malaysia eVisa and Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) to plan your travel properly.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | eVisa | MDAC |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Travel authorization to enter Malaysia | Mandatory immigration arrival declaration |
| Required For | Citizens of visa-required countries only | ALL travelers entering Malaysia |
| Processing Time | Standard: 4-6 days | Express: 2-3 hours | 24-48 hours (most cases) |
| Cost | USD 95 - USD 150 | USD 35 |
| Validity | 90 days from approval | 90 days from submission |
| Documentation | Passport, photo, employment details, travel purpose | Passport, accommodation details, travel dates |
| Approval Rate | 92-95% | 98%+ |
| Appeal Possible |
Do You Need eVisa, MDAC, or Both?
You need: MDAC ONLY
Citizens of countries with visa-exempt agreements with Malaysia (including UK, USA, Australia, Canada) do not need eVisa but must complete MDAC before arrival.
Check visa-exempt countries →You need: BOTH eVisa AND MDAC
Citizens of countries requiring visa approval (including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nigeria) must apply for eVisa first, then complete MDAC.
Learn about eVisa →Processing Timeline Comparison
Day 1-2: Application
Submit eVisa application with documents
Day 2-6: Processing
Standard processing (2-3 hours for express)
Day 6: Approval
Receive eVisa approval email
Day 1: Application
Submit MDAC with passport details
Day 1-2: Processing
Quick processing (usually under 24 hours)
Day 2: Approval
Receive MDAC approval confirmation
Documentation Requirements
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- Recent passport-sized photo
- Employment details
- Purpose of visit
- Sponsorship details (if applicable)
- Contact information
- Valid passport
- Passport photo (digital)
- Travel dates
- Accommodation address
- Contact information
- Flight details (optional)
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my eVisa is approved but MDAC is rejected?
This is extremely rare. If it happens, you can usually appeal or resubmit MDAC with corrections. Contact our support team immediately.
Can I apply for eVisa and MDAC at the same time?
Yes! You can apply for both simultaneously, but we recommend getting eVisa approval first to ensure accurate details on MDAC.
What if I don't submit MDAC before arrival?
You MUST submit MDAC before arrival. You cannot complete it upon landing at the airport. Plan ahead and apply 1-7 days before travel.
Are children required to have both eVisa and MDAC?
Yes. Each child, including infants, needs both documents if their nationality requires a visa. Visa-exempt children only need MDAC.