Country guide · 🇲🇾 Malaysia · Last verified: June 2026

Malaysia Passport Photo Requirements

Malaysia Passport photos need a 35×50 mm image on a white or light blue background, a neutral face with both eyes open, and a shot taken within the last 6 months. It is used for passport applications and renewals, where the issuing office checks head size and background before the file is accepted. Cross-checked against imi.gov.my.

Written by the PixID.studio compliance team · June 2026

Verified against imi.gov.my, June 2026. Each requirement is automatically checked when you create your photo with PixID.

Size

35×50 mm

Background

White or light blue

Expression

Neutral

Ears

Both visible

Head covering

Religious only

Recency

≤ 6 months

Resolution

300 DPI

Glasses

Not allowed

Medical exception only

Photos required

2 identical

Note: Malaysia Passport requires a light blue background option — unusual among passport documents.

Background and lighting

The background must be white or light blue, uniform and completely shadow-free. Requirements:

Uniform colour — no gradients, patterns, or textures
No shadows cast on the background or on the face
Evenly lit — no dark spots or bright patches
No other people or objects visible in the frame

Avoid wearing clothing that matches the background colour, as it can blend in and cause rejection.

Expression and appearance

Expression: Neutral. Mouth closed, no smiling.
Eyes: both open, looking directly at the camera. No red-eye or glare.
Ears: Both visible must be visible.
Glasses: not permitted. Sunglasses and tinted lenses always prohibited.
Head covering: Religious only. Full face must be visible with no shadows.
Hair: must not cover the eyes or obscure facial features.
Clothing: everyday attire. Uniforms not permitted.

Common rejection reasons

Wrong background — must be white or light blue. Any deviation causes rejection.
Glasses — not permitted unless medically documented.
Shadows — on the face or background from poor lighting.
Head size incorrect — face must fill 70–80% of the frame.
Non-neutral expression — smile, raised eyebrows, or open mouth.
Photo too old — must be taken within the last 6 months.
Low resolution or blur — minimum 300 DPI for print submissions.
Digital retouching — beauty filters or skin smoothing cause rejection.

Verified against imi.gov.my · All checks automated

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Frequently asked questions

What are the Malaysia Passport photo requirements?

Malaysia Passport photos must be 35×50 mm, background white or light blue. Neutral expression, both eyes open. Photo taken within the last 6 months. Min 300 DPI. Source: imi.gov.my.

What size is a Malaysia Passport photo?

The required size is 35×50 mm. The face should occupy 70–80% of the photo area with both ears visible and a neutral expression.

What background is required for a Malaysia Passport photo?

The background must be white or light blue, uniform and shadow-free. No patterns, textures, or objects.

Can I wear glasses in a Malaysia Passport photo?

No. Glasses are generally not permitted. Prescription glasses may be allowed with a medical certificate — check imi.gov.my.

How recent must a Malaysia Passport photo be?

The photo must have been taken within the last 6 months and reflect your current appearance.

Can I create a Malaysia Passport photo online?

Yes. PixID creates compliant Malaysia Passport photos: select your document, upload a photo, and get a ready-to-use file in minutes. $4.99, free redo if size, background, or head ratio fails (per Terms).