Entering Sabah & Sarawak in 2026: Documents, Procedures & Do’s & Don’ts

Sabah and Sarawak—Malaysia’s two beautiful states on the island of Borneo—offer spectacular nature, rich culture, and off-the-beaten-path adventure. But for many foreign travelers (and even some Malaysians), entering these states involves more than just a regular Malaysian visa or passport stamp. In 2026, it is crucial to understand the correct procedures, required documents, and key rules to avoid immigration headaches and ensure a seamless trip.

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1. Key Entry Documents for Sabah & Sarawak

Depending on your nationality, purpose of travel, and the duration of stay, the type of document you need to enter Sabah or Sarawak may vary. Here are the most common documents and permits required:

• Passport / Travel Document: All foreign visitors need a valid passport or internationally recognized travel document. The passport should generally have at least six months’ validity.
• Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC): As of 2024 onward, most foreign arrivals are required to complete the MDAC (also known as IMM.26) online before arrival.
• Visa (if required): Some foreign nationals need a visa to enter Malaysia, depending on their country of origin.
• Restricted Travel Document (RTD) or Dokumen Gantian Perjalanan: For certain travelers, especially those making internal travel within Malaysia (for example, from West Malaysia to Sabah or Sarawak), a special travel document is needed.
• Section 66 Exemption Endorsement: Under Malaysia’s Immigration Act, some individuals (especially Malaysian citizens) must get a Section 66 endorsement on their passport or RTD for unrestricted travel in Sabah.

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2. Entry Procedures & Immigration Process

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what to do when entering Sabah or Sarawak in 2026:

1. Pre-Travel Preparation: Apply for your visa (if needed) well in advance. Fill out the MDAC online no more than 3 days before your arrival.
2. Arrival at Port of Entry: Whether flying into Kota Kinabalu (Sabah), Kuching, or Miri (Sarawak), present your passport (or RTD), and any visa or endorsement. Immigration officers will check your MDAC.
3. Customs Declaration: When entering Sabah/Sarawak, you must declare your belongings. Malaysian customs rules apply.
4. Internal Travel (“Inter-State”) Control: Although Sabah and Sarawak enforce immigration control, the same Passports Act and Immigration Act generally apply across the states.
5. Exit Procedures: When leaving Sabah or Sarawak, make sure your stay pass (visitor or social) is valid. If you overstayed, be aware that immigration may refuse exit without the proper exit stamps or permits.

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3. Dos & Don’ts When Entering Sabah & Sarawak

Do’s

• Do complete MDAC correctly: Make sure your Malaysia Digital Arrival Card is submitted before landing. This helps speed up immigration clearance.
• Do bring correct documents: Have your passport, visa (if needed), RTD or other travel permits ready for immigration checks.
• Do check your permitted stay duration: Make sure your visitor pass or entry stamp covers the full length of your trip.
• Do declare your items at customs: If you’re bringing in cash, electronics, or other goods, prepare for verbal declaration on arrival.
• Do respect local immigration rules: Unlike some interstate travel in other countries, Sabah and Sarawak have their own immigration checkpoints. Always comply with the local officers.

Don’ts

• Don’t assume no visa is needed: Even if you hold a Malaysian visa for Peninsular Malaysia, check if your nationality or visa type covers entry to East Malaysia (Sabah/Sarawak).
• Don’t forget MDAC: Missing or incorrect MDAC submission may delay your immigration.
• Don’t overstay your pass: Overstaying may result in fines or barred entry in the future. According to first-hand reports, even a one-day overstay can have consequences. (See anecdotal experiences from travelers.)
• Don’t ignore Section 66 rules: For certain Malaysians traveling to or from Sabah, the Section 66 exemption is required. Without it, you may be blocked from re-entry properly.
• Don’t rely on incorrect or outdated information: Immigration policies may change. Always check the latest on the Malaysian Immigration Department or Sabah Immigration websites.

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4. Common Scenarios & Special Notes

Tourists from abroad: As a foreign national, once you clear Malaysian immigration and MDAC at your first entry point, you may be allowed to travel to Sabah or Sarawak with the same visa (if your visa type allows it). However, always double-check with the Malaysian mission in your country or the immigration website.

Internal Malaysian travelers: If you are a Malaysian citizen from Peninsular Malaysia, you may need a “Document In Lieu of Internal Travel Document” (IMM.116) when traveling into Sabah or Sarawak.

Exemption endorsement (Section 66): This is relevant mostly for some Malaysians working or residing in Sabah. Without this endorsement on your passport, exit or re-entry could be problematic.

Special pass holders: Some long-term visitors or workers may need a Social Visit Pass (IMM.114) or other permits, depending on their visa status and purpose of stay.

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5. Why This Matters for Foreign Travelers (High Value Tips)

Understanding the correct entry rules for Sabah and Sarawak is not just bureaucratic nitty-gritty — it can significantly impact your budget, travel flow, and experience. Poor planning may lead to denied entry, unexpected delays, or even forced exit procedures.

Key advantages of following the rules:

• Saves money: Avoid fines or extended stays that would cost extra.
• Saves time: Proper documentation expedites immigration clearance.
• Improves safety: Being legally processed means you enjoy local support and protection.
• Better trip planning: Knowing your pass duration helps you schedule your day-trips, island tours, and internal flights more confidently.

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Immigration, Documents & Best Practices

Entering Sabah and Sarawak in 2026 comes with its own set of immigration rules, documents, and best practices. As a foreign traveler, your smoothest journey begins with the right preparation: valid travel document, completed MDAC, visa (if required), and an understanding of what’s required at internal checkpoints.

By following the dos and avoiding the don’ts, you can travel to Borneo’s spectacular wilderness, culture-rich towns, and unique landscapes legally and confidently. Always verify the latest entry requirements before your trip—immigration policies can change, but a well-informed traveler stays ahead.

If you found this guide helpful, check out our other Malaysia travel resources for 2026, including visa guides, transport tips, and itinerary ideas.