Malaysia Passport, Visa, and ID Photo Guide
Preparing correct photos for Malaysian official documents is simple when you follow the exact rules for each specific pass or card. You can use the tool above to crop your images to the right dimensions.
Malaysian Document Photos Overview
Malaysia requires specific photo sizes for different official applications. You need to know which size matches your exact document before you start editing.
The documents covered in this guide include the Malaysian passport photo, Malaysian child passport photo (under four), and Malaysian national identity card photo[1][2]. Other documents include the Malaysian learner driving licence photo, Malaysian visitor eVISA photo, and Malaysian student pass photo[3][4][5]. You also need correct photos for the Malaysian employment pass application photo, Malaysian temporary employment pass photo, and Malaysian long-term social visit pass photo[6][7][8].
The site also covers the Malaysian residence pass and permanent-resident identity card[9][10]. Photo dimensions, head placement, and submission details depend on the document.
Passport and Child Passport Requirements
For an adult Malaysian passport, the Immigration Department takes the photo at the passport division using live capture. It does not ask applicants to submit a printed or digital photo[1].
For children under four, the department asks for one printed 35×50 mm photo. It says the face must measure 25–30 mm[1].
Identity Cards and Driving Licences
National identity cards have different specifications compared to passports. The Malaysian national identity card photo measures 35x45 mm and is submitted digitally, while the head height is not set by the authority[2].
For the Malaysian permanent resident identity card photo, the size is also 35x45 mm, submitted digitally, with head height not set and noted as a common size with no single official size[10]. Meanwhile, the Malaysian learner driving licence photo requires a smaller 25x32 mm printed format, where the head height is not set[3].
Always verify whether your specific card or licence requires a digital upload or a physical print.
Visas and Student Passes
Applying to visit or study in the country involves distinct photo standards. The Malaysian visitor eVISA photo measures 35x50 mm, submitted digitally, with no set head height requirement[4].
If you apply to study, the Malaysian student pass photo requires a 35x50 mm printed format with head height not set[5].
Employment Passes
Employment applications have strict rules regarding dimensions and head placement. The Malaysian employment pass application photo measures 35x50 mm, requiring a head height of 30 to 35 mm, and can be submitted in both printed and digital formats[6].
On the other hand, the Malaysian temporary employment pass photo is 35x50 mm printed, with head height not set and categorized as a common size with no single official size[7].
Visit and Residence Passes
Long-term stays require specific passes with their own photo dimensions. The Malaysian long-term social visit pass photo measures 35x50 mm printed, with head height not set as it is a common size with no single official size[8].
Similarly, the Malaysian residence pass photo measures 35x50 mm printed, with head height not set, also listed as a common size with no single official size[9].
Practical Tips for Your Photo
Take your photo facing a bright window to get even lighting on your face. Ask a friend to take the picture instead of holding the camera yourself.
Keep the camera at eye level about one to one and a half meters away from you. Check that your expression is neutral and your eyes are open before you finish.
You can print your final cropped photo sheet as an ordinary 4x6-inch photo at any print kiosk.
Frequently asked questions
What size is a Malaysian passport photo?
The official size is 35x50 mm with a head height of 25 to 30 mm[1].
Can I submit digital photos for a MyKad identity card?
Yes, the Malaysian national identity card photo is submitted digitally at 35x45 mm[2].
What are the photo rules for children under four in Malaysia?
Child passports require a 35x50 mm printed photo with a head height of 25 to 30 mm[1].
Do all Malaysian documents have a single official head height?
No, many documents like the Malaysian visitor eVISA photo have no set head height requirement[4].
Where can I print my photo sheet?
You can print your final image as an ordinary 4x6-inch photo at a local print kiosk.