Malta Schengen visa photo requirements
Malta uses the shared Schengen photo standard — 35 × 45 mm, ICAO biometric framing, plain light background. This page covers the photo standard plus how Malta consulates handle Schengen visa applications: where to apply, processing times, fees and consulate-level handling.
Quick answer
35 × 45 mm photo · VFS Global in major markets; Italian representation in markets without a Maltese post · €90
Prepare a 35 × 45 mm biometric photo on a plain light background. Apply through Identity Malta + VFS Global. Standard fee €90, €45 for children 6–12. Processing time 15 calendar days. Last reviewed .
Application route
| Issuing authority | Identity Malta + VFS Global |
|---|---|
| Visa application centre | VFS Global in major markets; Italian representation in markets without a Maltese post |
| Processing time | 15 calendar days; longer for first-time applicants |
| Standard fee | €90 |
| Reduced fee | €45 for children 6–12 |
| Application languages | English, Maltese |
| Official portal | Malta short-stay visa portal ↗ |
Photo specification
Schengen 35 × 45 mm. Identity Malta applies the shared Schengen photo standard for short-stay visa applications.
| Size | 35 × 45 mm |
|---|---|
| Head height | 70–80% of frame height (32–36 mm chin-to-crown) |
| Background | plain light grey or off-white, even illumination |
| Pose | Front-facing, head level, both ears typically visible |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible |
| Glasses | Strongly discouraged; remove for the shot. See full rules → |
| Head covering | Religious coverings allowed when facial features remain fully visible |
| Age of photo | Taken within the last 6 months |
Malta consulate handling
Malta uses Italian representation in many regions. The representing consulate may request two physical printed photos even where Malta itself accepts the digital file.
Malta national document photos
Frequently asked questions about Malta Schengen visa photos
What size is the Malta Schengen visa photo?
35 × 45 mm. Malta uses the shared Schengen biometric photo standard — the same as every other Schengen state. The head must occupy 70–80% of the frame height with a plain light background.
Where do I apply for a Malta Schengen visa?
Apply through the Identity Malta + VFS Global. Malta uses Italian representation in many regions. The representing consulate may request two physical printed photos even where Malta itself accepts the digital file.
How long does Malta take to process a Schengen visa?
15 calendar days; longer for first-time applicants. First-time applicants and applications submitted during peak travel seasons tend to fall toward the upper end of this window.
What does the Malta Schengen visa cost?
Standard fee €90, €45 for children 6–12. Some markets add a VAC service fee on top of the consular fee paid to VFS Global in major markets; Italian representation in markets without a Maltese post.
Can I wear glasses in a Malta Schengen visa photo?
Malta follows the shared Schengen baseline: glasses are strongly discouraged because of glare and frame-related rejection risk. The safest choice at every consulate is to remove glasses before the shot.
Compare other Schengen countries
Prepare your Malta Schengen visa photo
Upload a portrait — Anfas.Pro crops it to the 35 × 45 mm Schengen biometric frame and checks the background automatically.