Everything you need to know about Malaysia passport photo requirements, including exact dimensions, background color, pose rules, and how to take a compliant photo at home.
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Country | Malaysia |
| Document Type | Malaysian International Passport (Pasport Antarabangsa Malaysia) |
| Photo Size | 35 × 50 mm (3.5 × 5.0 cm) |
| Resolution (DPI) | 600 |
| Head Size | 25–30 mm from chin to crown (50–70% of photo) |
| Background Color | Plain white (domestic) / Blue (some embassies abroad) |
| Printable | Yes — on matte photo-quality paper |
| Digital Photo Size | 1050 × 1500 pixels (official requirement) |
| Photo Paper Type | Matte (glossy not recommended) |
| Color | Color only (black and white not accepted) |
| Recency | Taken within the last 6 months |
| Quantity Required | 2–3 identical photos |
The Immigration Department of Malaysia (Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia) has specific requirements for passport photos. Below is a comprehensive guide.
Glasses are NOT allowed in Malaysian passport photos. This applies to all applicants regardless of prescription. Sunglasses and tinted lenses are strictly prohibited.
Source: Immigration Department of Malaysia — Malaysian International Passport
White background is the standard for passport applications submitted inside Malaysia (JPN offices) — plain, uniform white with no shadows or patterns.
Blue background is requested by some Malaysian embassies and consulates abroad — always check with your accepting office before printing.
Not sure which one applies to you? Make one photo with our passport size photo maker and download both background versions — the size (35×50 mm) and head position stay exactly the same.
Any modern smartphone camera works. Clean the lens, use highest resolution. Use a tripod or ask someone to help.
Stand facing a window with natural daylight. Avoid direct sunlight.
Wear normal clothing. Avoid white tops. Muslim women may wear dark-colored hijab.
Stand about 1.5 meters from the camera. Head facing directly forward, shoulders relaxed.
Neutral expression, both eyes open, mouth closed. No glasses.
Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable passport photos
A Malaysia passport photo must be 35×50mm with a white background. The head should measure 25–30mm from chin to crown, occupying 50–70% of the photo.
Plain white background for domestic applications in Malaysia. Some Malaysian embassies abroad may accept blue background — check with your specific embassy.
Yes! Upload it to Passport Size Photo and our AI will crop, resize, remove the background, and ensure compliance.
No. Glasses are not allowed in Malaysian passport photos, regardless of prescription. Sunglasses and tinted lenses are also prohibited.
Yes, hijab is allowed for Muslim applicants. The hijab must be dark-colored (black, dark blue, or dark brown) and should not cover the forehead, eyebrows, or any part of the face.
Typically 2–3 identical photos are required for a Malaysian passport application.
Taken within the last 6 months, reflecting your current appearance.
Other Malaysia documents:
Popular photo requirements:
