Requirements for Your Maltese Passport Photo
Get the right details for your Maltese passport photo, whether you visit the office in person or submit a printed copy. Follow these official rules to avoid delays and make your application move forward.
Official Size and Photo Capture Process
The standard official photo size is 35 × 45 mm (about 1.38 × 1.77 inches)[1]. The Passport Office takes the photo in person for most applicants. Some applicants, including children under 14 and people who do not hold a valid Maltese e-ID card because they live abroad, must submit printed photos[2]. Check which route applies before preparing a photo.
The supplied guidance does not specify a head-height measurement. If two photos are required, they must be identical[2]. Check the instructions for your application type before printing[2].
Background and Lighting Standards
Submitted passport photos must have a plain white background[2]. The Passport Office takes the photo in person for most applicants[1][2].
When you take a photo at home for cases that allow printed submissions, face a bright window for even natural light. Keep the camera at your eye level about one to one and a half meters away from your face to prevent distortion. Avoid using a harsh flash that creates dark shadows on the white background or shiny spots on your skin. Turning off the flash and relying on soft daylight often produces a much cleaner result.
Facial Expression, Glasses, and Headwear
The photo guidance calls for a neutral expression, with the mouth closed and eyes open[2].
The guidance says not to wear dark glasses; it allows tinted glasses only when medically needed and supported by a medical certificate. Head coverings require approval, which may be given for religious, medical, or cultural reasons[2]. The face must not be obscured[2].
Rules for Children and Minors
Children under 6 do not attend for photo capture; their photo is submitted for scanning[1]. Children under 14 must submit photos[2].
Children under 14 submit printed photos measuring 30 × 40 mm (about 1.18 × 1.58 inches)[2].
Preparing and Printing Your Photo Sheet
If your application requires printed photos, prepare and print them according to the Passport Office instructions[2].
Always inspect your printed sheet in good light before you submit it to the office. Check that the colors look natural and the white background remains bright and clear. If the photo looks blurry, too dark, or has a tinted background, take a new picture and crop it again to meet the official standards.
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused
The guidance says submitted photos should have uniform lighting without shadows, a neutral expression, and a closed mouth[2]. Photos that do not meet the requirements may make the application incomplete or lead it to be turned down[2].
The guidance says the eyes must be clearly visible, without hair covering them, and gives conditions for glasses[2].
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear glasses in my Maltese passport photo?
The guidance says not to wear dark glasses. Tinted glasses are allowed only when medically needed and supported by a medical certificate[2].