Passport Photos: The Surprising Struggles of a Local Influencer
Are you planning to renew your passport soon? You might want to pay attention to Maddy Breteche Lo’s recent experience! The Malaysian-French actress and local influencer recently shared her passport renewal journey, and it’s quite the tale.
Keeping It Simple: No Makeup, Please!
When it comes to passport photos, many people opt to dress up. After all, these photos can stick with you for years. However, Maddy decided to go for a minimal, no-makeup look when she renewed her Malaysian passport. In a TikTok video posted on October 31, she showcased her bare-faced style, cheekily stating, “This is my make-up.”
But there’s a reason for her stripped-back appearance. Malaysian immigration officials are known to be quite strict about makeup in passport photos. Maddy even recalled a previous visit where she was warned about her eyelash extensions being too dramatic. “They just looked at me. They didn’t say anything. They were just silent,” she shared, holding a pair of scissors in her hands.
Contact Lenses: A New Challenge
Maddy faced yet another hurdle during her passport renewal. This time, she wore contact lenses due to her high myopia of about 1,200 degrees. Despite the strict rules, she was adamant about keeping them on. “I can’t remove my contact lenses,” she explained. Luckily, she managed to complete the renewal process in just 30 minutes, exclaiming, “This is unusual, okay, Malaysia!”
What Do the Rules Say?
Curious about the regulations? The Immigration Department of Malaysia has specific guidelines for passport photos. Here’s a quick rundown:
– **No Glasses or Eyewear**: Applicants cannot wear glasses in their photos.
– **Dress Code**: Dark clothing covering the shoulders and chest is required.
– **Makeup Restrictions**: Makeup is generally not allowed, which includes eyelash extensions and potentially contact lenses.
If you’re looking to take your own passport-sized photo, here are some simple steps to follow:
1. **Choose a Plain Background**: A white or light-coloured wall works best.
2. **Dress Appropriately**: Wear dark clothing that meets the guidelines.
3. **Lighting is Key**: Ensure your face is well-lit without harsh shadows.
4. **No Accessories**: Remove any glasses, hats, or other accessories.
For more details on passport photo requirements, check out the official guidelines from the Immigration Department of Malaysia.
Final Thoughts
Maddy Breteche Lo’s experience highlights the often-overlooked challenges of renewing a passport. Whether it’s about the makeup rules or the strict dress code, it’s clear that getting that perfect passport photo requires a bit of effort. So, the next time you’re preparing for your passport photo, remember Maddy’s story and be ready for anything!