Everything you need to know about Malta visa photo requirements (Schengen standard), including exact dimensions, background color, pose rules, and how to take a compliant photo at home. Malta is a Schengen member state and follows standard Schengen visa photo specifications.
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Country | Malta |
| Document Type | Visa (Schengen) |
| Photo Size | 35 × 45 mm (3.5 × 4.5 cm) |
| Resolution (DPI) | 600 |
| Head Size | 70–80% of the photo (32–36 mm from chin to crown) |
| Space Above Head | 3–5 mm from top of head to photo edge |
| Background Color | Plain white or light grey |
| Printable | Yes — on matte or glossy photo-quality paper |
| Digital Photo Size | 827 × 1063 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 | Schengen visa photo standards / ICAO biometric |
Malta is a Schengen member state and follows standard Schengen visa photo specifications. The Central Visa Unit in Malta processes visa applications in accordance with EU regulations. Below is a comprehensive guide to ensure your photo is accepted.
Glasses are not recommended for Malta visa 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.
You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant Malta visa photo at home using your smartphone.
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.

Stand facing a window with natural daylight for the best even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight which creates harsh shadows.

Wear normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and white tops that blend with the background. Make sure your hair does not cover your eyes.

Stand about 1.5 meters from the camera with your head facing directly forward. Keep shoulders relaxed and head level.

Keep your face relaxed with a neutral expression. Both eyes must be open and mouth closed. No shadows on your face.


Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable visa photos
A Malta visa photo (Schengen standard) must be 35×45mm with a white or light grey background. The head should occupy 70–80% of the photo, measuring approximately 32–36mm from chin to crown.
The background should be plain white or light grey, as per Schengen visa photo standards. No patterns, objects, shadows, or other people should be visible. If you don't have a suitable background, our tool will automatically replace it with white.
Yes! Upload it to Passport Size Photo and our AI will automatically crop, resize, remove the background, and ensure it meets all Schengen visa photo requirements.
You need 2 identical photos for a Malta Schengen visa application.
Your visa photo must have been taken within the last 6 months and reflect your current appearance.
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.
Yes. Malta follows the standard Schengen visa photo requirements: 35×45mm, white or light grey background, head occupying 70–80% of the photo. These requirements are the same across all Schengen member states.
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