Canada Passport Photo Requirements
Based on IRCC official guidance. We'll refuse applications if photos don't meet the rules.
| Specification | Official requirement |
|---|---|
| Print size | 50 × 70 mm (2 × 2¾ inches) |
| Head height | 31–36 mm (chin to crown) |
| Quantity | 2 identical unaltered prints |
| Background | Plain white or light-coloured |
Always confirm the latest rules on the official government site before you submit.
Cream or textured walls, wrong head size after a selfie, and beauty filters cause most delays.
- Canadian passport prints are 50×70 mm with head height 31–36 mm—US 2×2 squares will not pass.
- IRCC expects professional-quality prints; soft, low-contrast home prints are risky.
- Submit two identical unaltered photos taken within the last six months.
- Keep the background plain white or light with no shadows behind the head or shoulders.
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Can I print my own passport photo at home?
Will a home-printed photo be accepted?
What size should I print?
What are the exact Canada passport photo dimensions?
50×70 mm prints with head height 31–36 mm from chin to crown. Submit two identical unaltered copies.
Is a US 2×2 inch photo acceptable?
No. US squares are the wrong size and aspect ratio for Canadian passport prints.
Must the photo be taken by a commercial photographer?
IRCC emphasises professional print quality. Many people crop carefully then print at a photo lab to meet that standard.
What causes most refusals?
Wrong size, head height outside 31–36 mm, shadows, soft focus, digital alterations, or smiling.
Can babies use a supporting hand?
No. Supporting hands and toys must not appear. Use a plain sheet and crop so only the child is visible.
How recent must photos be?
Within the last six months and matching how you look today.
- • 2 identical, unaltered printed photos
- • Size: 50 mm × 70 mm (2 × 2¾ inches)
- • Head height: 31–36 mm from chin to crown
- • Taken within the last 6 months
- • Plain white or light-coloured background
- • Clear, sharp, uniform lighting; no shadows or glare
- • Show natural skin tone; no alterations of any kind
- • Taken by a commercial photographer; professionally printed
- • Neutral expression; eyes open, mouth closed, looking straight
- • Headwear allowed for religious/medical reasons; eyes visible
Reference: IRCC acceptable examples (thumbnails not to scale)