MDAC Requirements for Foreign Workers
Foreign workers planning to work in Malaysia must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) before arrival, in addition to obtaining proper work permits and employment visas. The MDAC is mandatory for all foreign nationals entering Malaysia, regardless of employment status or work authorization.
Workers should submit their MDAC with accurate employment information while ensuring compliance with Malaysian labor laws and immigration requirements.
Worker Entry Essentials
- MDAC required for all foreign workers
- Submit MDAC up to 3 days before arrival
- Work permit/visa required separately
- Prepare employment documentation
Work Permit vs. MDAC Requirements
Understanding Both Requirements
Foreign workers need both valid work authorization and MDAC for entry to Malaysia. These serve different purposes in the immigration and employment process.
Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)
- Digital pre-arrival registration form
- Required for all foreign nationals
- Free government service
- Valid for single entry
- Submitted before each arrival
Work Permit/Employment Pass
- Official authorization for employment
- Obtained through employers or agencies
- Involves application fees and processing
- Valid for employment duration
- Allows multiple entries (if specified)
Learn more about the differences in our MDAC vs Visa guide.
Types of Foreign Workers
Different categories of foreign workers may have varying visa requirements, but all must complete the MDAC before arrival in Malaysia.
Worker Categories
- Skilled professionals: Engineers, IT specialists, managers
- Semi-skilled workers: Technicians, supervisors, operators
- General workers: Manufacturing, construction, agriculture
- Domestic workers: Household assistants, caregivers
- Plantation workers: Agricultural and palm oil sectors
- Service workers: Hospitality, retail, food service
MDAC Application for Workers
Ready to Start Your Worker MDAC Application?
Complete your Malaysia Digital Arrival Card application with accurate employment information for smooth entry to Malaysia.
Required Information
Foreign workers must provide accurate information when completing the MDAC form:
Personal Information
- Full name (as per passport)
- Passport number and expiry date
- Date of birth and nationality
- Contact information (email, phone)
Travel Details
- Arrival and departure dates
- Flight information
- Accommodation details
- Purpose of visit (employment/work)
Employment-Specific Considerations
- Purpose of visit: Select "employment" or "work"
- Accommodation: Employer-provided or private
- Duration: Initial employment period
- Employer contact: Company details
Follow our step-by-step application guide for detailed instructions.
Supporting Documents for Worker Entry
While MDAC submission requires basic information, foreign workers should prepare comprehensive documentation for immigration verification.
Essential Employment Documents
- Work permit/employment pass: Valid work authorization
- Employment contract: Signed agreement with employer
- Job offer letter: Official employment offer
- Company registration: Employer business license
- Medical examination: Health clearance certificate
- Educational certificates: Qualification documents
Additional Documentation
- Skills certification or training records
- Previous employment references
- Insurance coverage documents
- Accommodation arrangements
Employer Responsibilities
Pre-Arrival Support
Malaysian employers have responsibilities in supporting foreign workers with entry procedures:
Employer Duties
- Assist with work permit applications
- Provide MDAC guidance and information
- Arrange accommodation and transportation
- Prepare employment documentation
- Coordinate arrival logistics
- Ensure compliance with labor laws
Group Worker Coordination
Employers bringing multiple foreign workers should coordinate MDAC submissions for efficient processing.
Group Management Tips
- Designate HR coordinator for MDAC guidance
- Collect worker passport information
- Provide MDAC submission timeline
- Maintain confirmation records
- Prepare group arrival documentation
Learn more about group applications for worker teams.
Arrival Procedures for Workers
Foreign workers should be prepared for specific questions and document verification at Malaysian immigration checkpoints.
Immigration Interview Preparation
- Employment purpose: Clearly state work objectives
- Employer details: Provide company information
- Work duration: Specify employment period
- Accommodation: Confirm housing arrangements
- Skills and qualifications: Explain work capabilities
Common Worker Questions
- What type of work will you do in Malaysia?
- Which company will you work for?
- How long is your employment contract?
- Where will you live during employment?
- Do you have the required skills for this job?
Worker Categories and Requirements
Apply for Your Worker MDAC Today
Regardless of your worker category, all foreign workers need MDAC. Start your application process now for smooth entry to Malaysia.
Skilled Workers
Professional and skilled workers typically require employment passes and have specific documentation requirements.
Requirements
- Employment Pass (EP) or Professional Visit Pass
- University degree or professional qualifications
- Minimum salary requirements
- Skills assessment documentation
- Professional references
Common Sectors
- Information Technology
- Engineering and Manufacturing
- Healthcare and Medical
- Finance and Banking
- Education and Training
General Workers
Semi-skilled and general workers typically require temporary employment passes with different documentation.
Requirements
- Temporary Employment Pass (TEP)
- Medical examination clearance
- Skills training certificates
- Employer sponsorship
- Security clearance (if required)
Common Sectors
- Construction and Infrastructure
- Manufacturing and Assembly
- Agriculture and Plantation
- Services and Hospitality
- Domestic and Care Services
Renewal and Re-entry Procedures
Foreign workers with ongoing employment in Malaysia must understand renewal and re-entry requirements.
Work Permit Renewal
- Timing: Apply before current permit expires
- Documentation: Updated employment contracts and medical exams
- Employer involvement: Company must support renewal
- Processing time: Allow sufficient time for approval
Re-entry Requirements
- Submit new MDAC for each return to Malaysia
- Ensure work permit remains valid
- Maintain employment status with sponsor
- Prepare updated documentation
Understand multiple entry requirements for returning workers.
Worker Rights and Protections
Legal Protections
Foreign workers in Malaysia are protected by labor laws and regulations:
- Fair wages and working conditions
- Safe workplace environments
- Proper accommodation standards
- Medical care and insurance
- Rest days and leave entitlements
- Protection from exploitation
Support Resources
- Ministry of Human Resources
- Department of Labour
- Embassy and consular services
- Worker advocacy organizations
- Legal aid services
- Emergency hotlines
For MDAC-related support, visit our customer support section.
Related Information
Ready to Apply for Your Worker MDAC?
You have all the information needed for your employment in Malaysia. Start your MDAC application now for a smooth work experience.