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Canada Passport Photo Requirements 2026

Complete guide to canada passport photo specifications, size, background, and compliance rules. Updated 2026-01-12.

Canadian passport photos must be 50x70mm with a white or light-coloured background, making them notably larger than the standard used in most countries. Since 2023, glasses are no longer permitted, and the face must measure between 31mm and 36mm from chin to crown of the head. For online submissions, photos should be 600x840 pixels at 300 DPI in JPEG format, with file sizes between 100 KB and 15 MB. These specifications are governed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), which also requires that printed photos be stamped and signed by a commercial photographer. SnapID produces IRCC-compliant photos instantly, backed by our 100% acceptance guarantee.

Photo Specifications

Photo Size	50mm x 70mm
Pixel Dimensions	600 x 840 pixels
Resolution	300 DPI
Background Colour	White or light-coloured
Head Size	56-69% of frame height
File Format	JPEG
File Size	100 KB - 15 MB
Document Type	Passport

Photo Requirements

Facial Expression

Neutral expression with mouth closed

Glasses

Not allowed since 2023

Head Covering

Not allowed unless worn daily for religious reasons

Additional Requirements

Photo must be taken by a commercial photographer
Photographer must stamp and sign the back of printed photos
Face must measure between 31mm and 36mm from chin to crown
No digital alterations to facial features allowed
Photo must be taken within the last 12 months
Both ears should be visible if possible

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Frequently Asked Questions

What size should my Canada Passport photo be?▾

Your Canada Passport photo must be 50mm wide by 70mm tall. For digital submissions, the recommended resolution is 600x840 pixels at 300 DPI.

What background colour is required for a Canada Passport photo?▾

The required background colour for Canada Passport photos is white or light-coloured. The background must be plain and uniform with no patterns, textures, or shadows.

Can I wear glasses in my Canada Passport photo?▾

Not allowed since 2023. If you normally wear prescription glasses, it is generally safest to remove them for the photo to avoid any issues with glare or reflections that could cause rejection.

Can I smile in my Canada Passport photo?▾

No. The requirement is: neutral expression with mouth closed. A neutral, relaxed expression with your mouth closed is required for government compliance.

How recent does my Canada Passport photo need to be?▾

Most countries, including Canada, require that your photo be taken within the last 6 months and accurately reflect your current appearance. If your appearance has changed significantly, you should take a new photo.

Last updated

2026-01-12

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