Canada Passport Photo Requirements
Updated for 2026. Based on IRCC passport photo guidelines.
Photo specifications
| Print size | 50 x 70 mm (2 x 2¾ inches) |
| Digital size | 591 x 827 pixels |
| Resolution | 300 DPI |
| Background | Plain white or light-coloured |
| File format | JPEG |
| File size | 200 KB – 5 MB |
| Head height | 31 – 36 mm (chin to crown) |
Rules
- Expression: Neutral, mouth closed. No smiling.
- Glasses: Prescription glasses allowed if eyes are clearly visible with no glare. Sunglasses and tinted lenses not allowed.
- Eyes: Both eyes must be open and clearly visible.
- Ears: Not required to be visible. Hair may cover ears.
- Head coverings: Not allowed unless for religious or medical reasons. Face must be fully visible.
- Background: Plain white or light-coloured. No patterns, shadows, or other people.
- Lighting: Even, no shadows on face or background.
- Recency: Taken within the last 12 months (6 months for children under 16).
- Size: Canada uses 50x70mm — larger than the ICAO standard used by most countries.
Common rejection reasons
- Shadows on face or background
- Photo dimensions incorrect (not 50x70mm)
- Glare on glasses obscuring eyes
- Head tilted or not facing camera directly
- Photo is overexposed or too dark
Official sources
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