Malta

Maltese identity card photo (35×45 mm)

Required size: 35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in). Your photo is processed on your device.

The issuing authority doesn't publish one photo size for this document, so the studio uses the size most often asked for. Check the current rules with the authority or organisation that issues it before you apply.

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Upload a portrait from your phone or take one with your camera.

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Photo requirements

  • Size: 35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in)
  • Head size: not set by the authority
  • Background: White
  • Privacy: Processed on your device; the photo is not uploaded

Background

Put an accepted colour behind you. This happens on your device.

Download or print

Download a single photo, or a sheet with several copies to print at a photo kiosk.

💡 Printing tip

Save the sheet to your phone or a USB drive and order it at a photo kiosk as a standard 4×6-inch print.

Choose an ordinary photo print, not the passport photo service.

Official specification

Official nameKarta tal-Identità
How you hand it inDigital upload
Photo size35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in)
Head height (chin to top of head)Not set by the authority
BackgroundWhite
GlassesTake them off, unless you can’t for medical reasons
Head coveringOnly for religious or medical reasons, with the face fully visible
ExpressionNeutral, mouth closed, eyes open

Maltese Identity Card Photo Guide

Learn what you need for a Maltese identity card photo, also known as a Karta tal-Identità. Check the usual sizes and rules before you apply.

How the Maltese Identity Card Photo Works

Identità takes your identity-card photo during the biometrics process[1]. You cannot submit your own photo for the card[1].

Identità takes the photo during biometrics, so you do not need to prepare a photo for the card[1].

Official Size and Measurements

Identità takes the identity-card photo during the biometrics process; the cited sources do not specify photo dimensions[1].

Identità takes the photo in person; the cited source does not specify photo dimensions[1].

Glasses and Vision Correction

Identità advises applicants to remove glasses. Exceptional use is allowed after a declaration[1].

Identità advises applicants to remove glasses; exceptional use is allowed after a declaration[1].

Headwear and Personal Appearance

Headwear is permitted for religious or medical reasons only[2].

Headwear is permitted for religious or medical reasons only[2].

First-Time Applications and Printed Documents

The paperwork you need can change based on your personal history with the agency. A recommender-signed passport-size print is listed for certain first-time applications[2]. Applicants who already hold a residence card may not need this recommender signature[2].

Check the Identità checklist for your application to confirm which documents and signatures you need[2].

Before You Go

Check your appointment details and review the document checklist on the official Identità website before you leave home[1][2]. Make sure you have all required identification papers, current cards, and any required signatures ready in a folder.

Review your appointment details before you go.

Preparing Practice Photos with the Tool Above

Identità takes the identity-card photo in person[1].

A practice crop cannot replace the photo Identità takes for the card[1].

Common Reasons Photos Are Refused

Identità takes the identity-card photo during the biometrics process[1].

The cited source says Identità takes the photo during biometrics[1]. It does not list photo-refusal reasons.

Frequently asked questions

Can I bring my own photo for my Maltese identity card?

No, the photo is captured by Identità staff during the biometrics process at their office[1][2].

What size is normally used if I want to practice?

Identità takes the photo during biometrics; the cited sources do not specify dimensions for an applicant-provided identity-card photo[1].

Can I wear glasses in the photo?

The guidelines advise removing glasses, and exceptional use is only allowed after a formal declaration[1].

Is headwear allowed?

Headwear is permitted for religious or medical reasons only[2].

Do I need any printed photos for a first-time application?

A recommender-signed passport-size print is listed for certain first-time applications, though residence card holders may not need it[2].