Effective 1 July 2026, the Photo Validation feature was activated for all eVISA applications under the VDR (Visa with Reference) category submitted through the MyVISA – Portal.

For background, an eVISA under the VDR category must be applied for online by an applicant in their country of residence after approval of a long-term Malaysian pass (e.g., Employment Pass (EP), Professional Visit Pass (PVP), Dependent Pass (DP), Residence Pass-Talent (RP-T), etc.). The applicant will then enter Malaysia using the eVISA for pass endorsement.

When applying for an eVISA under this category, all photographs uploaded through the MyVISA – Portal will undergo an automated validation process to ensure compliance with the Malaysia Visa Photo Specifications, including the following requirements:

1. Must be on white or blue background
2. The background must be plain and uniform, with no gradients, patterns, textures, objects, shadows, or reflections.
3. Must be front facing (full face view), eyes open and mouth closed
4. Shoulders must be visible
5. No shadows on face
6. No spectacles
7. Hats or head coverings that obscure the hair or hairline are not permitted, unless worn daily for religious purposes.

Any photograph that fails the validation process must be referred to the VDR Issuing Office.

Please note that, despite the photo specifications above, our team has observed that the photo requirement for pass submissions through the MDEC portal has recently changed from a blue background to a white background. This is notwithstanding that both blue and white backgrounds remain acceptable for eVISA photo validation. We will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as they become available.

If you have any questions regarding the impact of this change on your workforce planning or Employment Pass applications, please contact the T&S APAC Team.