Canada Passport Photo Requirements – Size, Quality, and Guidelines
If you’re applying for a Canadian passport, following the official passport photo requirements is essential to avoid delays or rejections. Below is a comprehensive guide covering all the key aspects, including size, quality, background, facial expression, and attire regulations to ensure your photo meets Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) standards.
1. Passport Photo Size and Dimensions
The most important requirement for a Canadian passport photo is its official size. The photo must be 50 mm x 70 mm (2 inches x 2.75 inches) to comply with Canadian government regulations. Additionally:
- The photo should be printed on high-quality photographic paper, free from any scratches, stains, or creases.
- The back of the photo must have the photographer’s stamp, including the studio’s name, address, and the date the photo was taken.
- You must submit two identical photos along with your application.
Failing to meet these requirements could result in your application being rejected, causing delays in processing.
2. Image Quality and Resolution
A high-resolution and sharp passport photo is mandatory. The image must be:
- Crystal clear, without any blurriness, pixelation, or motion blur.
- Taken in proper lighting conditions, ensuring no overexposure or underexposure.
- Free from digital enhancements, meaning no retouching, filters, or color modifications are allowed.
To avoid rejection, avoid editing or modifying the image, and ensure that the final print is of professional quality.
3. Background and Lighting
The background of your passport photo must be plain, solid white, and free from any textures, shadows, or patterns. To achieve this:
- Have your photo taken at a professional studio that specializes in passport photos.
- Ensure the lighting is even, preventing harsh shadows on your face or the background.
- The photo should be well-lit, making your facial features clearly visible without glare or reflections.
Lighting is a critical factor in passport photo approval, so choosing a professional studio with proper lighting equipment and a high-quality backdrop is highly recommended.
4. Facial Expression, Head Position, and Eye Contact
To meet Canadian passport photo regulations, you must maintain a neutral facial expression with no smiling, frowning, or exaggerated expressions. The correct positioning includes:
- Face directly aligned with the camera, with no tilting or turning.
- Eyes fully open, looking straight at the lens.
- A relaxed and natural expression, without any raised eyebrows, squinting, or smiling.
A passport photo that does not meet these strict biometric standards could be rejected, delaying your passport application process.
5. Clothing, Accessories, and Head Coverings
Follow these rules to ensure full visibility of your facial features:
- Remove glasses, even if they are prescription, to prevent glare or reflections.
- Avoid hats, headbands, or accessories unless worn for religious or medical reasons.
- If you wear a hijab or another religious head covering, make sure it does not cast shadows on your face. Your entire face, from chin to forehead, must remain visible.
For best results, wear plain, neutral-colored clothing to keep the focus on your face.
Final Tip: Where to Take a Passport Photo in Canada?
To ensure your passport photo meets all Canadian requirements, visit a government-approved photo studio or a professional passport photo service. These studios use specialized lighting, proper backdrops, and high-resolution cameras to capture passport photos that comply with IRCC standards.
By following these passport photo guidelines, you can avoid unnecessary delays and ensure smooth passport processing.