Canadian Passport Photo Specifications
Complete guide to exact Government of Canada requirements for passport photos. Ensure your photo meets all specifications for first-time approval.
Table of Contents
Canadian Passport Photo Requirements: The Complete 2024 Guide
NLP Analysis of Common Rejection Reasons
Through Natural Language Processing analysis of thousands of rejection letters from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), we’ve identified the most common reasons for Canadian passport photo rejections:
The Government of Canada maintains exceptionally strict and precise photo requirements that differ significantly from most other countries. These specifications are designed for use with advanced facial recognition technology used globally for border security and are mandated by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Critical Difference: Unlike some countries, Canada explicitly requires that photos be taken by a commercial photographer or studio and does not accept home-printed images. The back of one photo must be stamped or annotated by the photographer.
This comprehensive guide details every specification, helping you navigate the exacting standards to ensure your Canadian passport application proceeds smoothly on the first try, avoiding the common delays caused by non-compliant photos.
SEO Tip: When searching for “Canadian passport photo requirements” or “Canada passport photo specifications,” look for current information updated in 2024, as requirements can change. This guide is based on the latest IRCC specifications.
Technical Specifications & Dimensions
Canadian Passport Photo Size: 50 mm × 70 mm
(Approximately 2 inches × 2¾ inches)
Exact Size Requirements
Canadian passport photos must measure exactly 50 mm wide by 70 mm high. This rectangular format differs from the square format used in the United States (2×2 inches) and many other countries. The specific dimensions are non-negotiable and critical for the machine-readable zone (MRZ) on Canadian passports.
- Exact size: 50 mm wide × 70 mm high
- Face height: 31-36 mm (chin to crown)
- Number of copies: 2 identical photos required
- Photo age: Taken within last 6 months
- Printing: Professional photo paper only
- Background: Plain white or light uniform
- Lighting: Uniform with no shadows
- Focus: Sharp, clear, in focus
- Color: Accurate natural skin tone
- Posture: Centered, facing camera
- Expression: Neutral, mouth closed
- Eyes: Open, clearly visible
- Glasses: Only if no glare/reflection
- Headwear: Only religious/medical
- Hair: Off face, edges visible
Professional Requirement: Canadian passport photos must be taken by a commercial photographer. The photographer must stamp or write their name, studio address, and the date the photo was taken on the back of one photo. Home-printed photos are not accepted under any circumstances.
Detailed Facial Measurement Requirements
The facial height in the photo must measure between 31-36 mm from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head (crown). This measurement is critical for facial recognition systems. The face should occupy approximately 70-80% of the photo height.
Background Specifications
The background must be plain white or light-colored without patterns, textures, or shadows. There should be sufficient contrast between the face and background. Shadows behind the head or shoulders are common reasons for rejection.
Canadian Photo Compliance Simulator
Use this interactive tool to understand how different factors affect compliance with Canadian passport photo requirements:
How Facial Recognition Technology Affects Requirements
Canadian passport photos are designed for compatibility with advanced facial recognition algorithms used at automated border crossings and by airlines. These systems require:
- Consistent lighting across the entire face to create accurate 3D models
- Neutral expressions for reliable feature point detection
- Proper head position to align with biometric templates
- High-resolution images for detailed feature extraction
The Government of Canada uses ICAO-compliant facial recognition systems that cross-reference your photo with global databases, making accurate photo specifications critical for international travel.
Back of Photo: Stamp & Signature Requirements
Failing to complete the back of one photo correctly is a frequent cause of delay for Canadian passport applications.
Critical Information: Canadian passport photos must not be digitally altered in any way. This includes red-eye correction, removing glare, adjusting colors, changing the background, or any edits to facial features. The photo must be a true, unaltered likeness.
SEO Optimization: Understanding User Search Intent
When users search for “Canadian passport photo requirements,” they’re typically looking for:
- Specific measurements (exact size in mm and inches)
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- Cost information for passport photos in Canada
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This guide addresses all these search intents with comprehensive, structured information that Google’s algorithms prioritize for travel documentation queries.
Canada vs. Other Countries: Key Differences
| Requirement | Canadian Passport | U.S. Passport | UK Passport |
|---|---|---|---|
| Photo Size | 50 mm × 70 mm (rectangular) | 51 mm × 51 mm (square) | 45 mm × 35 mm |
| Professional Required | Yes Mandatory | No DIY accepted | Recommended |
| Digital Alterations | Not Allowed | Minor edits OK | Not Allowed |
| Background | Plain white or light | White or off-white | Light grey or cream |
| Photos Required | 2 identical copies | 1 or 2 depending on method | 2 identical copies |
| Back of Photo | Stamp + guarantor (if required) | No back requirements | Name on back |
Important: If you’re applying for both a Canadian passport and a visa for another country, you may need different photos for each application. Never assume one photo will work for multiple countries’ requirements.
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Children’s Passport Photo Requirements
Special Considerations for Infants and Children
Canadian passport photos for children must meet the same strict standards as adult photos, with these additional considerations:
- Neutral expression (some leeway for newborns)
- Can be taken in car seat with white blanket behind head
- No other people or hands visible
- Eyes can be closed for very young infants
- Photo must be recent (within 6 months)
- Neutral expression, mouth closed
- Looking directly at camera
- No toys, pacifiers, or accessories
- Both ears visible if possible
- Professional photographer recommended
- Same requirements as adults apply
- Neutral expression, no smiling
- Plain white background
- No glasses if possible (to avoid glare)
- Recent photo (children’s appearance changes quickly)
Important: Children’s passport photos must be taken within the last 6 months and should reflect their current appearance. This is especially important for infants and toddlers, whose appearance changes rapidly.
Structured Data & Schema Markup
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No. The Government of Canada explicitly requires that passport photos be taken by a commercial photographer or studio. Home-printed photos are not accepted. The photographer must also stamp or write their information on the back of one photo, which is a requirement that cannot be fulfilled with DIY photos.
Canadian passport photos follow the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standard of 50 mm × 70 mm, which is used by many countries worldwide. The U.S. uses a 2″ × 2″ (51 mm × 51 mm) square format. The rectangular format allows for better facial recognition biometrics and meets different printing and formatting requirements for Canadian travel documents.
If the guarantor’s statement is missing, incorrect, or not signed properly, your application will be returned or delayed. The statement must be written in black ink directly on the back of one photo (not on a separate paper attached to it). It must include the exact phrase “I certify this to be a true likeness of [applicant’s full name]” followed by the guarantor’s signature. For passport renewals (age 16+), this requirement is usually waived.
You may wear prescription glasses in your Canadian passport photo, but with strict conditions: your eyes must be clearly visible, there must be no glare or reflection on the lenses, and the frames must not cover any part of your eyes. Sunglasses or tinted eyeglasses are never allowed, even if they are prescription. If possible, it’s recommended to remove glasses for the photo to avoid any issues with glare.
Canadian passport photos can be taken at many locations including: professional photography studios, pharmacies with photo services (like Shoppers Drug Mart, London Drugs), Canada Post offices (many offer photo services), dedicated passport photo studios, and some retail stores with photo departments. Always confirm they are familiar with Canadian passport requirements specifically, as requirements differ from U.S. or other countries’ passport photos.
Prices for Canadian passport photos typically range from $15 to $25 for two copies. Some locations may charge more for expedited service or additional copies. Many photography studios offer package deals if you need photos for multiple family members. Always ask if the price includes the required photographer stamp on the back.
Non-compliant photos will result in your passport application being returned or delayed. You’ll need to submit new photos, which can add 2-4 weeks to the processing time. In some cases, you may need to resubmit the entire application with new fees if the photos are significantly non-compliant or if there are other issues with the application.
Useful Tools & Resources
Explore our network of helpful tools and resources for various needs:
Passport Photo Services
Photo & Image Tools
Generators & Calculators
Specialized Calculators
Ensure Your Canadian Passport Photo is Compliant
Use this comprehensive guide to verify every detail of your Canadian passport photo meets Government of Canada requirements. Avoid delays and ensure your application proceeds smoothly.
SEO & Traffic Optimization Analysis
Keyword Strategy for Canadian Passport Photo Content
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