Malaysia Digital Arrival Card vs. Singapore SG Arrival Card

Just imagine standing in the midst of a crowd at Malaysian Airport, with bags on your shoulder and stress in your mind, scrolling through your mobile to get a Malaysia Digital Arrival Card. You don't want to be stuck in such a situation and that’s why you should plan your travel without forgetting your travel insurance and government permit cards. 

Malaysia Digital Arrival card and Singapore SG arrival card are both like cousins but with a few major differences. Getting confused between the two can easily ruin your holidays and you would be stuck in the middle of your trip if you don’t plan well enough. 

What is Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)

This is a pre-registered document needed by the Malaysian government. It is used to travel your arrival declaration, stay, and other information. All foreigners should Complete and submit this on the official government website MDAC. 

This has become mandatory from January 2024 and you should fill this 3 days before your expected arrival. If it’s older than that then it won’t be applicable. In case you don’t want to get stuck, do make your travel card as Malaysia has completely stopped the paper cards and you won’t be getting an offline immigration in Malaysia. 

Who is exempted from filling MDAC

• Singaporean citizens are exempted from filling this form. 

• People who hold Diplomatic or Official passports can also enter freely. 

• Permanent residents of Malaysia or people who have a long term pass of Malaysia are also free to enter. 

• Holders of GCI (General certificate of identity) from brunie darrusalam. 

• People who have a Thailand border pass are also exempted.

• Holders of PLB( Indonesia cross border travel document) can also freely enter Malaysia. 

What is the Singapore SG Arrival Card (SGAC)

SGAC or Singapore SG arrival card is very similar to MDAC in terms of workings and their digital application process. This one is issued by the Singaporean government as a health/ arrival declaration card. Every short term visitor to Singapore must have this especially if your means of travel is Water or Air. 

Filling out SGAC is very simple to fill and important for a smooth travelling across Singapore borders. This was introduced to make immigration process more efficient while easily having digital records of every entry. Even with a singapore visa this card is essential for every foreign visitor. Each and every visitors must have this card unless:

• They are permanent residents of Singapore or have Singapore residency. 

• They hold a long term pass of Singapore. 

• They are travelling through woodlands and Tuas Checkpoints with these Documents

• They have to transfer from Singapore airport. 

What is the core difference between MDAC and SGAC?

As we have learnt that both are digital arrival declaration cards this means that they are very similar. They also have some slight differences which you should know about like:

Exemptions 

• MDAC: Malaysia has far more exceptions and for Singapore residents they have complete exemption. So MDAC is more lenient and focused on arrival declaration for security reasons. 

• SGAC: Singapore is more strict and has very few exemptions. They exempt Singapore residents only when they travel from land areas like woodland and Tusa checkpoints. SGAC also has a health form declaration which is focused on disease containment. 

Issuing Authority

• MDAC: This is authorised and administered by Immigration department of Malaysia. 

• SGAC: This is issued by Immigration and Checkpoints Authority which sees through most of the border security related issues of Singapore. 

Information Collected

• MDAC: This card only collects arrival information of the visitor and basic medical details. 

• SGAC: In this form with arrival information you also have to mention the health declarations. 

How to Fill SGAC or MDAC in simple and easy steps?

You can easily get both the cards from official government websites by following these simple steps. 

Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)

• Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
  Head straight to the official website LINK and open the MDAC section to begin your application.
   

• Step 2: Enter Passport & Travel Details
  Carefully fill in your passport number, personal details, and expected arrival date in Malaysia.
   

• Step 3: Review Before Submission
  Double-check every detail because even a small mistake can create trouble at immigration.
   

• Step 4: Submit the Form Online
  Once everything looks correct, submit your MDAC form digitally.
   

• Step 5: Save Your Acknowledgement
  You will receive a PIN or confirmation slip. Download and save this PDF on your phone for smooth airport clearance.

Singapore SG Arrival Card (SGAC)

• Step 1: Install the MyICA Mobile App
  Download the official MyICA App, which saves your profile and makes future submissions super easy.
   

• Step 2: Choose Individual Submission
  Open the app and select “Individual Submission” to start your SGAC process.
   

• Step 3: Fill in Travel & Passport Information
  Add your passport details, travel dates, and arrival information correctly.
   

• Step 4: Complete the Health Declaration
  This is mandatory and focuses on your current health status.
   

• Step 5: Submit & Keep Digital Proof
  Review, submit, and keep the digital confirmation ready for a smooth entry into Singapore

Important Travel Rules That Can Save You at Immigration

Even after filling the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) or Singapore SG Arrival Card, many travelers still face issues at immigration because of small technical details they never knew mattered before reaching the counter. These are the things you should always double check:

• Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date, or your entry can be denied even with a valid MDAC or SGAC.

• The name on your arrival card must exactly match your passport, including middle names and spelling.

• If you make a mistake after submission, you cannot edit the same form—you must submit a fresh application.

• Airlines may refuse boarding if your MDAC or SGAC is not traceable in their system during check-in.

• Using VPNs or blocked networks can sometimes prevent successful submission on government portals.

• Submitting incorrect flight numbers or accommodation details can trigger extra questioning at immigration.

• False health declarations on SGAC can lead to fines, quarantine, or blacklisting under Singapore laws.

These technical details may feel small, but they decide how smooth or stressful your entry will be. Getting these right keeps you moving forward instead of stuck explaining yourself at the counter.

Final Thoughts

Travel today is easier, faster, and more digital than ever but it still rewards the traveler who plans with attention. Completing your Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) and Singapore SG Arrival Card (SGAC) on time is one of those small steps that quietly make that difference. When these essentials are taken care of in advance, your journey begins with calm instead of chaos.

Of course, smooth travel is never just about crossing borders. Delays, lost baggage, or unexpected medical needs can arise when you least expect them. This is why many seasoned travelers choose to safeguard their trips with dependable support like Niva Bupa International Travel Insurance not as a formality, but as part of responsible travel planning.

With the right documents in place and the right protection by your side, you’re free to focus on what truly matters: experiencing the journey, not managing the stress.

FAQs

1. How to get a Malaysia Digital Arrival Card?

You can get your Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) by applying online through the official Malaysian immigration website. Follow the steps written in our Article. 

2. Do I need a digital arrival card for Malaysia?

Yes, the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card is mandatory for most international travelers unless you fall under an exemption category.

3. Is MDAC required for Indians?

Yes, Indian passport holders are required to submit MDAC before arriving in Malaysia for short-term visits.

4. Can I print out my MDAC confirmation?

Yes, you can print it. While it is digital, having a printed or saved copy is helpful during immigration checks.

5. Is a Singapore Arrival Card still required?

Yes, the Singapore SG Arrival Card is still required for most foreign travelers, even if you already hold a visa. 

6. Do Indians need a Singapore Arrival Card?

Yes, Indian travelers must submit the SG Arrival Card before entering Singapore by air or sea.

7. How do I get a SG Arrival Card?

You can apply through the MyICA Mobile App or the official ICA website by submitting your passport, travel, and health details.

8. Where can I download a SG Arrival Card?

There is no downloadable form. The SG Arrival Card is submitted digitally, and your confirmation is stored electronically.