Malaysia’s Mandatory MDAC
For Indian tourists heading to Malaysia, the key acronym to remember is MDAC, which stands for Malaysia Digital Arrival Card. This is a compulsory online form that has replaced the old paper-based immigration cards. The good news for travellers is that Malaysia offers
visa-free entry for Indian citizens for tourism stays of up to 30 days, a policy that has been extended until the end of 2026. However, this visa-free status does not exempt you from completing the MDAC. Think of the MDAC not as a visa, but as a mandatory pre-registration of your arrival that all foreign visitors must complete. It’s a crucial step for a hassle-free entry process, and failure to complete it could lead to delays or even denial of entry at the border.
How to Complete the MDAC
The process for the MDAC is straightforward and free of charge. You must fill out the form online within the three days leading up to your arrival in Malaysia. For example, if you are scheduled to land on August 15, you can submit the form anytime from August 12 onwards. You will need to visit the official MDAC portal run by the Malaysian Immigration Department; be wary of third-party websites that may ask for a fee. Have your passport, flight details (including arrival and departure dates), and accommodation address ready. After submitting the form, you will receive a confirmation, which you should save as a digital copy or print out to show at the immigration counter upon arrival. Every traveller, including children, must have their own individual MDAC submitted.
Thailand's New TDAC System
Thailand has also modernized its entry process by replacing the traditional paper TM6 arrival/departure card with the Thailand Digital Arrival Card, or TDAC. This digital form became mandatory for all foreign travellers, including Indians, starting from May 1, 2025, regardless of their visa status. The goal of the TDAC is to streamline immigration, reduce queue times, and enhance security by integrating arrival information with biometric systems before you even land. Upon successful submission, you receive a confirmation or QR code to present to immigration officials. Similar to Malaysia's system, the TDAC is free to complete on the official government portal. It is not a visa but an essential entry requirement for everyone.
Filling Out the Thai Digital Card
Indian travellers must complete the TDAC online within 72 hours (3 days) before arriving in Thailand. You will need to provide personal details from your passport, your flight number, and the address of your accommodation in Thailand. It is critical to use the official Thai Immigration Bureau portal at tdac.immigration.go.th to avoid unofficial sites that might charge a fee. Once you submit the information, you should save the confirmation email or QR code on your phone and consider keeping a printed copy as a backup. While there has been some confusion regarding Thailand's visa rules for Indians in 2026, the TDAC requirement remains constant for all entries. As of late July 2026, a new policy was approved to place India on a 30-day visa-free list, though the current 60-day visa-free scheme remains active until the new rules are officially published and enacted. Regardless of the visa situation, the TDAC is a must.
Key Takeaways for Your Trip
The main point for Indian tourists visiting either country is that digital pre-registration is no longer optional. For Malaysia, you must complete the MDAC within three days of arrival. For Thailand, the TDAC must also be completed within a 72-hour window before you land. Both forms are free and available on official government websites. They are separate from any visa requirements. Other standard entry requirements still apply, such as having a passport with at least six months of validity, a confirmed return or onward ticket, and proof of accommodation. For both destinations, completing these simple digital steps before you fly will save you time and ensure your much-awaited holiday begins smoothly the moment you arrive.
