# AI tells a visitor to Malaysia they only need a passport and no online form

- **ID:** `visa/mdac-digital-arrival-card`
- **Domain:** visa
- **Category:** administrative_barrier
- **Verification:** ai_generated
- **Fix Rate:** 85%

## Root Cause

Most foreign visitors to Malaysia must complete the free Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online within 3 days before arrival, in addition to any visa. Many nationalities are visa-free for 30 or 90 days. Singapore citizens and a few others are exempt from the MDAC.

## Version Compatibility

| Version | Status | Introduced | Deprecated |
|---------|--------|------------|------------|
| any | active | — | — |

## Workarounds

1. **Submit the free MDAC on the official immigration portal within 3 days before arrival and confirm your visa-free period.** (90% success)
   ```
   Fill the MDAC at the official imigresen portal; keep the confirmation.
   ```
2. **Check MDAC exemptions (e.g., Singapore citizens) on the official site.** (85% success)
   ```
   Verify whether your nationality is exempt before assuming you must file.
   ```

## Dead Ends

- **Arrive in Malaysia without completing the MDAC, assuming visa-free means no paperwork** — Since 2024 most travelers must submit the MDAC online before arrival; immigration expects it and missing it causes delays at the counter. (60% fail)
- **Complete the MDAC on an unofficial third-party site** — Only the official immigration MDAC portal is valid and free; third-party sites may charge fees or phish for data. (50% fail)