Canadian Passport & Visa Photo Requirements
Understanding Canadian passport photo requirements doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're applying for a passport, Canada PR card, or visa, we'll guide you through the official IRCC specifications to ensure your photos meet all standards. Let's make sure your application process goes smoothly.
Make Your Canadian Passport PhotoEssential Canadian Photo Requirements
Correct Canadian passport photo
Canadian passport photos must adhere to strict Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) standards. These requirements ensure your photo clearly represents your current appearance and works effectively with both digital and physical identification systems.
Your Canadian passport photo must be taken within the last six months to accurately represent your current appearance. For most applications, you'll need two identical, unaltered, professional-quality color photos. While digital photos are accepted for online applications, they must meet the same strict standards as printed photographs.
Photo Measurements
Canadian passport photo dimensions must be precise:
💡 Important: Unlike some countries, Canada requires specific millimeter measurements. When getting photos taken professionally, always specify they're for a Canadian passport or PR card to ensure correct sizing.
Canadian photo size guide
Background Requirements - Pure White Only
✓ Perfect white background
Canadian passport photo background requirements are very specific and differ from many other countries:
The background must be pure white, not off-white or light grey. This requirement is strictly enforced by IRCC to ensure optimal processing of identification documents.
The background must be uniformly lit with no shadows, patterns, or visible textures. Even slight variations in background lighting can lead to rejection.
There must be clear contrast between your hair, clothing, and the white background. Dark-colored, plain clothing is recommended to achieve this contrast.
⚠️ Note: Unlike some countries that accept light grey or off-white backgrounds, Canada specifically requires a pure white background. This is particularly important for biometric processing and digital applications.
Personal Appearance Requirements
Correct pose and expression
Maintain a neutral expression with mouth closed - a natural, relaxed face without smiling
Look directly at the camera with eyes fully visible and open - both ears should be visible
Face must be positioned in the center with shoulders square to the camera
Religious head coverings are permitted but must not cast shadows on the face or cover any facial features
Prescription glasses must not reflect light or obscure eyes. Tinted lenses are not permitted unless medically required
No hair across the eyes or face - facial features must be clearly visible from bottom of chin to top of forehead
Professional Photo Quality Standards
Quality standards example
Print Quality
Photos must be printed on high-quality, glossy photo paper. Matte finish is not acceptable. The paper must be smooth and show no signs of printer pixels or dot patterns.
Image Clarity
The image must be in sharp focus with clear contrast. Fine details of the face, including facial features and hair, must be clearly defined with no pixelation.
Lighting Standards
Lighting must be uniform with no shadows on the face or behind the head. Natural skin tones must be preserved with no overexposure or underexposure.
Photo Condition
Photos must be original prints with no signs of damage, creases, or marks. Digital alterations or retouching of any kind are strictly prohibited.
Guarantor Requirements
A unique aspect of Canadian passport photos is the guarantor requirement. Your guarantor must:
- Sign and date the back of one photo
- Write "I certify this to be a true likeness of (name of applicant)" on the back
- Must have known you personally for at least two years
Need a Perfect Canadian Passport Photo?
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Digital Format
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Printed Photos
- Professional lab-quality glossy prints
- Space for guarantor signature included
- Exact 50mm x 70mm sizing
Guaranteed to meet all IRCC requirements or your money back!
This guide is designed to help you understand and meet Canadian passport and visa photo requirements. While we ensure compliance with current IRCC standards, final acceptance is at the discretion of passport and visa officers. For the most up-to-date official requirements, please visit the Government of Canada website .