Malta Passport Photo (30×40mm) Requirements and Size Guide
Everything you need to know about the alternative 30×40mm Malta passport photo format, including exact dimensions, background color, pose rules, and how to take a compliant photo at home.
Note: This is an alternative format. The standard EU/Schengen passport photo size of 35×45mm is also accepted for Malta passport applications and is the more commonly used format. The 30×40mm format is listed as an alternative on the Identita Malta website. If unsure, we recommend using the standard 35×45mm format.
Malta Passport Photo Specifications (30×40mm)
Requirement
Specification
Country
Malta
Document Type
Passport
Photo Size
30 × 40 mm (3.0 × 4.0 cm)
Resolution (DPI)
600
Head Size
70–80% of the photo
Space Above Head
2–4 mm from top of head to photo edge
Background Color
Plain white
Printable
Yes — on matte or glossy photo-quality paper
Digital Photo Size
709 × 945 pixels (at 600 DPI)
Photo Paper Type
Matte or glossy photo paper
Color
Color only (black and white not accepted)
Recency
Taken within the last 6 months
Quantity Required
2 identical photos
Standards
ICAO biometric standards (alternative format)
Malta Passport Photo Size Diagram
Key measurements: This alternative format photo must be 30×40mm. Your head should occupy 70–80% of the photo, with 2–4mm of space above the head. The proportions are the same as the standard format — only the overall size differs.
Don't worry about getting the perfect photo. Upload any photo taken at home, and our AI-powered tool will automatically crop to the correct 30×40mm size, remove and replace the background with white, adjust the head size, and ensure your photo meets all official requirements.
Detailed Malta Passport Photo Requirements
Malta, as an EU and Schengen member state, follows ICAO biometric standards for passport photos. The Maltese Identity Management Agency (Identita) lists the 30×40mm format as an accepted alternative. Below is a comprehensive guide to ensure your photo is accepted.
Photo Basics
Your photo must be in color — black and white photos are not accepted
Must be a recent photo, taken within the last 6 months
The photo must be clear and in focus, with no blurriness or pixelation
No filters or editing — do not apply social media filters or digitally alter your appearance
Must reflect your current appearance
Must comply with ICAO biometric standards for facial recognition
Size and Dimensions
Photo size: exactly 30 × 40 mm (alternative format)
Your head should occupy 70–80% of the photo
There should be 2–4 mm of space between the top of your head and the upper edge
Printed on matte or glossy photo-quality paper
No white border around the photo
Pose and Expression
Face the camera directly — your head must not be tilted or turned
Maintain a neutral facial expression
Both eyes must be open and clearly visible
Keep your mouth closed
Ensure your face is fully visible from chin to forehead, and ear to ear
Background
Use a plain white background
No patterns, textures, or objects visible behind you
No shadows on your face or behind your head
Sufficient contrast between your face and the background
Glasses
Glasses are not recommended for Malta passport photos. If you must wear them, the frames must not obscure any part of your eyes and lenses must be completely clear with no glare or reflections. Sunglasses and tinted lenses are strictly not permitted.
Head Coverings and Hats
No hats or head coverings are allowed, unless worn for religious reasons
If worn for religious reasons, your full face must still be visible from chin to forehead
No headphones, earbuds, or wireless hands-free devices
Clothing
Wear normal everyday clothing
Do not wear uniforms, except religious clothing worn daily
Avoid wearing white or very light-colored tops that may blend with the white background
Children and Baby Photos
The child must be the only person in the photo — no parent's hands or arms visible
The child's eyes must be open and visible
No toys, pacifiers, or other objects visible in the photo
A plain white sheet may be used as a background for babies
The photo must show the child's full face from chin to top of head
You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant Malta passport photo at home using your smartphone.
1
Use a Smartphone or Digital Camera
Any modern smartphone camera is more than capable. Make sure the lens is clean and the camera is set to the highest resolution. Place your phone on a tripod or ask someone to take the photo for you.
2
Find Good Lighting
Stand facing a window with natural daylight for the best even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight which creates harsh shadows.
Tip: Don't worry if your background isn't perfectly white. Our AI tool will automatically remove and replace the background with white.
3
Dress Appropriately
Wear normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and white tops that blend with the background. Make sure your hair does not cover your eyes.
4
Pose Correctly
Stand about 1.5 meters from the camera with your head facing directly forward. Keep shoulders relaxed and head level.
5
Maintain a Neutral Expression
Keep your face relaxed with a neutral expression. Both eyes must be open and mouth closed. No shadows on your face.
Good and Bad Examples
Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable passport photos
Frequently Asked Questions
What size is this alternative Malta passport photo?
This is the alternative 30×40mm format with a white background, also accepted for Malta passport applications. The standard 35×45mm format is also accepted and may be more widely recognized.
What background color is required?
The background must be plain white. No patterns, objects, shadows, or other people should be visible. If you don't have a white wall, our tool will automatically replace your background with white.
Can I take my Malta passport photo with my phone?
Yes! Upload it to PassportPhoto.help and our AI will automatically crop, resize, remove the background, and ensure it meets all official requirements.
How many passport photos do I need?
You need 2 identical passport photos for a Malta passport application.
How recent must my Malta passport photo be?
Your passport photo must have been taken within the last 6 months and reflect your current appearance.
Can I wear glasses?
Glasses are not recommended. If you must wear them, frames must not obscure your eyes and lenses must be clear with no glare or reflections. Sunglasses and tinted lenses are not permitted.
Is 30×40mm or 35×45mm the standard Malta passport photo size?
The 30×40mm is an alternative format listed on the Identita Malta website. The standard 35×45mm EU/Schengen format is also accepted and is the more commonly used size. Both formats comply with ICAO biometric standards.
